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Planning a trip to Zakynthos? Well, you’ve come to the right place!
Zakynthos is hands down one of the most breathtaking Greek islands. With its white sand beaches and electric blue waters, it’s the perfect place to take a vacation. We’ve been lucky enough to enjoy several unforgettable visits to Zakynthos, and now we’re here to help you do the same!
Whether you want to swim with sea turtles, craft your own Greek pottery, or explore scenic caves, this blog has all of the need-to-know info about the best activities Zakynthos has to offer. So whatever your travel style, keep on reading to plan your perfect trip to the crown jewel of the Greek islands.
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did in Zakynthos was this full-day tour to Navagio Beach and the Blue Caves! It includes a glass-bottom boat ride, shipwrecks, hot springs, and stunning views.
This area can be tough to explore alone, so we were SO glad we booked this tour!
- Don't Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
- Things to do in Zakynthos, Greece
- 1. Spot sea turtles and visit Marathonisi and Keri Caves
- 2. Visit the famous Navagio Beach, Blue Caves, and shipwreck
- 3. Learn how to make traditional Greek pottery
- 4. Book a private speed boat to see the Blue Caves and shipwreck
- 5. Take a cooking class to make authentic Greek food
- 6. Visit the Navagio Shipwreck on a budget-friendly half-day tour
- Where to Stay in Zakynthos, Greece
- Thanks for reading!
- Why We Book Tours with Viator
- Don't Forget Travel Insurance!
Things to do in Zakynthos, Greece
1. Spot sea turtles and visit Marathonisi and Keri Caves
- Duration: 5 hours
- Time: 9 am or 12 pm
- Highlights: Spotting turtle nests in Kalamaki, glass bottom boat ride, touring the Keri Caves, visiting Cameo Island, Marathonisi, aka Turtle Island, and Aristeon Olive Press
- Inclusions: Transport, boat ticket to Marathonisi Island, bottled water, Cameo Island entrance fee, full insurance, professional captain, hotel pickup and drop-off in Zakynthos Town, local guide
- Rating: 4.2 stars (check 260+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
We loved exploring Zakynthos on this half-day tour! We got to see so much of the island, and the experience was seamless from start to finish.
Our guides were super friendly, and the captain was an absolute legend—cracking jokes, sharing local stories, and making the sailing portion just as fun as the scenery!
Our first stop was Cameo Island, which is straight out of a postcard. It’s actually known as “Wedding Island” because so many people choose to get married in this ultra-scenic spot. The wooden bridge with turquoise waters below would make the perfect spot for photos!
Next, we boarded a glass-bottom boat, and minutes later, we were lucky enough to spot a loggerhead turtle swimming beneath us. And as if that weren’t enough, once we reached Marathonisi, we got to go swimming in two stunning Blue Caves. These are so-called because the way that the sunlight reflects off of the rock formations paints the walls blue. It’s magical to see!
Then, we cruised along the coast to the Keri Caves, where we glided beneath the famous arch before enjoying another refreshing swimming session. To top it all off, we visited the Aristeon Olive Press, where we learned about Zakynthos’ centuries-old olive oil production. And, of course, we got to taste some, too. Yum!
This tour is the perfect introduction to Zakynthos, and we had a blast! Whether you’re short on time or just looking to get to know the island better, we can’t recommend it enough.
Reserve this tour here, and get FREE cancellation up to 24 hours before you go!
2. Visit the famous Navagio Beach, Blue Caves, and shipwreck
- Duration: 7 – 9 hours
- Time: Various departure times between 8 am and 12 pm
- Highlights: Exploring the Blue Caves in a glass-bottom boat, visiting Shipwreck Beach, Makris Gialos Beach, soaking in the hot springs at Xigia Beach, swimming inside Maravelia Cave, admiring the views at the Bochali Viewpoint
- Inclusions: Hotel pickup and drop-off, professional driver and guide, glass bottom speed boat tickets, photos, bottled water, all taxes and fees, small group or private tour (depending on option selected)
- Rating: 4.5 stars (check 970+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
This beach tour was hands down the highlight of our Zakynthos trip! We got to visit so many unforgettable places and truly saw the best of the island.
Our adventure began with a boat ride to the famous Navagio Beach, which is also known as “Shipwreck Beach.” We loved seeing the rusting shipwreck against the striking white cliffs and turquoise waters, and we even had time to swim in the crystal-clear water.
Next up, we cruised over to the island’s ethereal Blue Caves in a glass-bottom boat. You haven’t truly experienced the island until you’ve seen them up close!
We also made a quick photo stop at Makris Gialos Beach before heading to Xigia Beach. This spot is known for its sulfur-rich hot springs, and of course, we had to take a soak in them! It was basically a natural spa treatment, and it left our skin feeling super soft.
We ended the day by heading up Bochali Hill to enjoy panoramic views of the island. Watching the sun dip below the horizon from this spot was the perfect way to wrap up an already incredible day
This trip had the perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and sightseeing. The variety and pacing were spot on, and we’d do it again in a heartbeat! And we’re not the only ones who loved it—check out all of the glowing reviews here!
Book our favorite tour of Zakynthos here!
3. Learn how to make traditional Greek pottery
- Duration: 2.5 hours
- Time: 11 am
- Highlights: Learning the art of traditional Greek ceramics in Zakynthos, instruction from an expert potter, freedom to make anything you like, relaxing class in a studio surrounded by scenic olive trees and vineyards
- Inclusions: Ceramic workshop, professional instructor, clay, tools, all materials, firing in a kiln, your ceramic creation to keep, bottled water, tea, coffee
- Rating: 5 stars (check 240+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check prices here!
This ceramics class was definitely the most wholesome experience that we enjoyed in Zakynthos! The studio was tucked away in a quiet spot, surrounded by olive trees and vineyards, so we couldn’t have asked for a better setting. Meanwhile, our expert instructor, Dionysia, made us feel welcome right away with her infectious enthusiasm.
We began by browsing Dionysia’s exhibition shop, which helped us get a feel for traditional Greek pottery styles and inspiration for what we’d like to make.
Then, it was time to roll up our sleeves and get our hands dirty. Dionysia guided us through the basics of working with clay, and she really encouraged us to let our creativity flow. I decided to make a turtle, which is a symbol of Zakynthos, while Dan made a decorative bowl. I must say, the process was very relaxing and therapeutic!
After shaping our pieces, we left them out in the sun to dry. We didn’t take them home right away since Dionysia glazed and fired them for us, so we picked them up just before leaving the island. That’s why it’s a good idea to book this class early in your stay in Zakynthos!
This workshop is so much fun and truly delivers the ultimate souvenir! It was an awesome way to connect with Greek culture, and Dionysia was such a warm and gracious host. Whether you’re traveling solo, with a partner, or as a family, we highly recommend this experience.
Book this ceramic workshop here before it sells out!
4. Book a private speed boat to see the Blue Caves and shipwreck
- Duration: 4.5 hours
- Time: 8:30 am, 9 am, or 1:30 pm
- Highlights: Exploring Shipwreck Beach, touring the Blue Caves, snorkeling, swimming in caves
- Inclusions: Private boat ride, professional skipper and guide, sun canopy, fresh water shower, swimming ladder, snacks, bottled water, use of snorkeling equipment
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 60+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
If you want to explore Zakynthos like a VIP, this private speedboat tour is the way to do it! We loved being able to enjoy the day as just the two of us. It was the ideal way to get away from the crowds during the busy summer months and enjoy a quiet and peaceful day.
Our first stop was Navagio Beach, or “Shipwreck Beach”. If you google Zakynthos, this is the pristine beach with towering white cliffs that always pops up first. It’s iconic and a true must-visit. Besides, who wouldn’t want to check out a 40-year-old shipwreck? We had plenty of time to take photos and soak in its incredible beauty before climbing back on the boat and zipping off to explore the legendary Blue Caves.
As we glided through them, we kept on ooh-ing and aah-ing as the vivid blue water shimmered beneath us. Best of all, our skipper, Leo, took us to a few hidden spots where we could dive in and swim, far away from any other tourists. It’s experiences like this that make private tours very hard to beat!
This half-day tour was a dreamy blend of secluded beaches, peaceful coves, and snorkeling in insanely clear waters. But what made it even better was the privacy and exclusivity and how friendly and fun Leo was! If you’re looking for an extra special way to explore Zakynthos, you can’t go wrong with this speedboat tour.
Check details and book this private speedboat tour here!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
5. Take a cooking class to make authentic Greek food
- Duration: 4 hours
- Time: 10:30 am
- Highlights: Learning the secrets of traditional Greek cooking, making traditional dishes such as souvlaki and stiffado, enjoying a generous lunch with wine, small group class
- Inclusions: All ingredients and equipment, lunch, tea, coffee, bottled water
- Rating: 5 stars (check 140+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
I think we can all agree that Greek food is incredibly hard to beat, so why not learn how to make it the proper way while you’re in Zakynthos? We were super keen on a traditional food experience while we were on the island, and as soon as we found out that this cooking class takes place in an outdoor kitchen surrounded by olive trees, we were sold!
Our host, Alex, was not only an incredible chef but also a fantastic storyteller. He shared lots of insights into the island’s history and taught us how many of Greece’s treasured culinary traditions came to be. Then, it was time to get to work!
We started by preparing a traditional Greek salad and tzatziki, and then we learned how to make our own rice and herb-stuffed dolmades. Rolling out the delicate layers was tricky, but the challenge was worth it when I got to eat one of my favorite Greek food staples.
For the main course, we made stifado, a hearty and delicately spiced beef and onion casserole. It smelled so good while it was cooking, and it tasted even better when the time came for our small group to sit down in Alex’s shady garden and enjoy the feast we had created.
We left this class not only with new cooking skills but also a much deeper appreciation for Greek cuisine. Foodies, do not miss this one!
Check availability and book this top-rated cooking class here!
6. Visit the Navagio Shipwreck on a budget-friendly half-day tour
- Duration: 40 minutes to 4 hours
- Time: Departures every hour between 9 am and 5 pm
- Highlights: Visiting Shipwreck Beach, cruising along Zakynthos’ coastline, passing sea grottos and coves, stops for swimming and snorkeling, budget-friendly tour
- Inclusions: Boat cruise, use of snorkeling equipment, professional crew, restroom on board, free parking at meeting point
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 290+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
A sailing tour is a must while you’re in Zakynthos, and if you’re traveling on a budget, you don’t have to miss out! This half-day sightseeing tour is super affordable and still delivers an incredible experience.
The boat departed from Porto Vromi, and we glided down the coastline, admiring dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and gorgeous sea grottos along the way. The views were hard to beat, and the boat was comfortable and spacious.
We made stops to swim and snorkel at secluded spots and saw lots of colorful fish darting between the rocks beneath us. We also got to visit the famous Shipwreck Beach and learned about how MV Panagiotis ended up here back in the 1980s. It’s truly a surreal thing to see in person, and the rusting wreck contrasts beautifully with the bright white sand on the beach.
The ride back to Porto Vromi was just as magical, with more opportunities to admire the coastline and cool off with refreshing swim stops. The crew was super friendly, too, and we enjoyed the laid-back atmosphere on board.
This tour is unbeatable when it comes to value for money—we couldn’t believe how much we got for the price. It’s easy to see why travelers rave about it, and the hundreds of outstanding reviews here speak for themselves. If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience on a budget, this is the one to book!
Grab your spot on this tour here before it sells out!
Where to Stay in Zakynthos, Greece
Zakynthos is a stunning island with plenty of great places to stay, no matter your budget or travel style. Whether you’re after luxury, comfort, or something more affordable, there’s no shortage of incredible options.
To help make your decision easier, we’ve put together a list of the best places to stay in Zakynthos, so you can focus on soaking up the island’s breathtaking beaches, charming villages, and vibrant nightlife!
Luxury – $$$
Set in the charming town of Zakynthos, Pothos Suites offers a modern and stylish retreat in a prime location. This boutique accommodation features elegantly designed suites with contemporary decor, plush furnishings, and private balconies, creating the perfect space to relax. Guests can enjoy the outdoor terrace, unwind in the comfort of their suite, or explore the vibrant town center, just a short walk away.
Prices vary by season, typically starting at €225 per night. Book now on Booking.com!
Mid-range – $$
Phoenix Hotel is a great mid-range option in Zakynthos Town, offering a stylish and comfortable stay. A short walk from attractions, shops, and the waterfront, it’s an ideal base for exploring. The hotel features spacious rooms, many with balconies overlooking the square or harbor, plus an on-site Mediterranean restaurant. With its prime location and excellent service, this hotel is perfect for travelers seeking convenience and comfort.
Prices range from €100 to €150 per night. Check availability on Booking.com.
Budget – $
For a budget-friendly stay in Zakynthos Town, Dali is a fantastic choice! Overlooking the harbor, this comfortable hotel offers well-appointed rooms, some with sea-view balconies. Guests can start their day with breakfast on the terrace, enjoy the scenic surroundings, or explore nearby shops, restaurants, and cultural sites. With its central location, friendly service, and great amenities, Dali Hotel is a top pick for travelers seeking comfort without overspending.
Rooms start at around €60 per night. Check availability and book your stay on Booking.com.
For more options, see all of Zakynthos’s hotels listed here!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!
That’s our full guide on all the best things to do in Zakynthos! We had an incredible time exploring this beautiful island, and we know you will too. Whether you’re lounging on white sand beaches, swimming in sea caves, or learning the secrets of Greek cooking, Zakynthos is packed with unforgettable experiences.
If you’re planning more Greek island adventures, check out our other blogs about Greece! We’ve covered plenty of stunning destinations, and we’ve picked a few of our favorites below that might help with your trip. Happy travels!
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