About Zakynthos
Zakynthos, also known as Zante, is a Greek island in the Ionian Sea. It is the third largest of the Ionian Islands, with an area of 405.55 km2 (156.6 sq mi), and a coastline 123 km (76 mi) in length. In Greek mythology, the island was said to be named after Zacynthus, the son of the legendary Arcadian chief Dardanus.
Things to do in Zakynthos by type
11 tours, tickets and experiences across 3 categories. Pick a type to see what is available for your dates.
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Day Trips & Excursions 4 experiences Discover Zakynthos: Off Road by Closed Jeep -
Cruise & Water Tours 3 experiences Caretta-Caretta Turtle Trip -
Outdoor activities & Adventure 2 experiences Off Road Zakynthos Jeep Safari
- Over 6 hours 4
- Flexible 1
- 3-6 hours 1
- 1-3 hours 1
Top experiences in Zakynthos
Tours, tickets and experiences you can book with Destina Holidays, from 11 available.
See all things to do in Zakynthos
Best time to visit Zakynthos
Based on recent weather records, the most comfortable time to visit Zakynthos is May, when average daytime highs are around 78°F and rain falls on about 5 days a month.
Average daily low and high temperatures and days with at least 1 mm of rain, from recent weather records. Highlighted months are the most comfortable for sightseeing.
Know before you go
- Currency
- Euro (EUR)1 US dollar ≈ €0.89
- Language
- Greek
- Calling code
- +30
- Driving
- On the right
- Time zone
- Europe/AthensUTC+2
- Capital
- Athens
Upcoming public holidays in Greece
- Christmas DayΧριστούγεννα
- St. Stephen's DayΣύναξις Υπεραγίας Θεοτόκου Μαρίας
- New Year's DayΠρωτοχρονιά
- EpiphanyΘεοφάνεια
- Clean MondayΚαθαρά Δευτέρα
- AnnunciationΕυαγγελισμός της Θεοτόκου
Banks, offices and some attractions may close on public holidays, and flights and hotels often fill up early around them.
Getting to Zakynthos
These are the airports closest to central Zakynthos. Compare fares into each one, as a slightly longer transfer can sometimes mean a much cheaper flight.
- ZTH Zakynthos International Airport8 mi (13 km) from the city centre
- EFL Kefalonia International Airport26 mi (42 km) from the city centre
- PYR Andravida Air Base31 mi (49 km) from the city centre
Getting around Zakynthos
There are buses that go between the most crowded areas of the island. Ask around and there will be no pain in finding the bus stops. However, bus services on the island are rather infrequent and sometimes unreliable. Taxis, however, are not too expensive.
By car
The best way to get around is by rental car. There are literally dozens of rental agencies on the island besides the big ones. Preferably get a 4WD car, as some attractions are off the main roads. Beware of the condition of some of the roads. The smaller roads may well have pot holes and even the "better" roads are extremely slippery. Also beware of other drivers. If you assume everyone else on the road is out to get you and drive accordingly it's probably the best way of dealing with it.
By motorbike/scooters
Rental agencies abound. However, scooters may be somewhat painful to ride around the island, because it is very hilly, so get something with a little bit more power.
By bicycle
Cycling is a pleasant way of navigating the southern and central parts of the island, if somewhat impractical in the rougher, hillier terrain of the north. Bike hire is available in all but the smallest of resorts, costing around €4-8 per day, with discounts available for multi-day hire periods. A basket and a lock will usually be included but hire shops are very unlikely to rent helmets, so bring your own if required. Bike Ride Zakynthos offers tours of the island if you don't fancy doing it alone.
Zakynthos travel FAQ
When is the best time to visit Zakynthos?
Based on recent weather records, the most comfortable time to visit Zakynthos is May, when average daytime highs are around 78°F and rain falls on about 5 days a month.
What is the weather like in Zakynthos?
July is usually the warmest month in Zakynthos, with average highs of 96°F (36°C). February is the coolest, with average lows of 49°F (10°C). The wettest month is typically November, with about 213 mm of rain.
Which airport is closest to Zakynthos?
Zakynthos International Airport (ZTH) is the closest airport, about 8 miles (13 km) from the centre of Zakynthos. Other nearby airports include Kefalonia International Airport (EFL, 26 mi) and Andravida Air Base (PYR, 31 mi).
What currency is used in Zakynthos?
Zakynthos uses the Euro (EUR). At the latest exchange rate, 1 US dollar ≈ €0.89.
What time zone is Zakynthos in?
Zakynthos uses the Europe/Athens time zone (currently UTC+2). Remember to check for daylight saving changes when planning connecting flights.
How do I get around Zakynthos?
There are buses that go between the most crowded areas of the island. Ask around and there will be no pain in finding the bus stops. However, bus services on the island are rather infrequent and sometimes unreliable. Taxis, however, are not too expensive.
What are the top things to do in Zakynthos?
Popular experiences you can book in Zakynthos include European eSim Data Card. Destina Holidays offers 11 tours and activities here.
What kinds of tours and activities can I book in Zakynthos?
The most popular types of experiences in Zakynthos are day trips & excursions (4), cruise & water tours (3), outdoor activities & adventure (2) and travel services (1). Filter by type when you search to compare prices and availability for your dates.
