Detailed map of Zakynthos in Russian. O. Zakynthos on a map of Greece

Highlights

By the standards of numerous Greek archipelagos, Zakynthos island is quite large - 405 km², and its coastline, broken by bays and capes, is measured at 123 km, and almost the entire coast is open for access to the sea. A flowering valley lies between wooded mountain spurs, and at the foot of the rocky shores, sea waves have carefully polished and crushed stones to wash attractive pebble and sand beaches for tourists.

The air of the island, which the Venetians called the “Levant's Flower”, is filled with the heady aromas of the sea breeze, coniferous forests, juniper bushes and spicy herbs, fruits of citrus trees and vines growing in abundance here. The island still preserves the aristocratic spirit of the Renaissance and Enlightenment, when eminent musicians, poets, painters lived and worked here.

Zakynthos, repeatedly subjected to earthquakes, cannot boast of numerous historical sights, but its fantastic beauty of the landscape, fortunately, was not subject to the natural elements. Many corners of the island are protected. They attract travelers with the opportunity to be alone with nature, and those who like secular resort life, Zakynthos offers to spend time in any of its many modern resorts. Here tourists are met by comfortable hotels, entertainment centers, cozy taverns and respectable restaurants, night clubs and discos. On the island you can go scuba diving, horseback riding, play tennis and golf, make a lot of discoveries by going on excursion tours by land and by sea.

History and culture of Zakynthos

The historical name of the island is associated with the name of the son of King Dardan, the ruler of Arcadia. According to Greek myths, the royal offspring of Zakynthos landed on this land lost in the sea and founded the city here. This legendary character is deeply respected by the locals. Zakynthos, thoughtfully sitting on a stone with a snake in his hand, is depicted on the green banner of the island, which flutters in all public buildings, along with the striped blue and white national flag of Greece. The motto of the islanders is inscribed on the banner: "Freedom needs virtue and courage." These words belong to the brilliant poet and public figure, aristocrat and patriot Dionisios Solomos, one of the creators of the modern Greek literary language, who lived and worked on the island in the first half of the 19th century.

Homer described the beauty of the island "drowning in emerald forests" in his epic "Iliad" by Homer, where you can also find Zakynthos in the lists of Greek policies that sent ships with their brave warriors to the walls of Troy. Since ancient times, the inhabitants of Zakynthos were famous for their musical, poetic, visual talents. The Greeks believed that they were patronized by Apollo himself and all his nine muses.

The cultural layer of Zakynthos has its own characteristics. The colorful local mentality is largely formed under the influence of the Romans, Byzantines, and Normans, who at different times owned this blessed island. The Venetians who owned Zakynthos for three centuries left the most striking mark here. Until now, the Italian name of the island - Zante - is used in European travel guides along with the Greek name - Zakynthos.

Art flourished here in the 17th century, when, after the Ottomans conquered Crete, the best masters of the late Renaissance era moved to Zakynthos from there. Here an original trend in fine art was born, which received world recognition and was designated by art critics as Zakynthian painting. Only here you can hear the Zakynthian cantades - ballads performed to the accompaniment of sweet-sounding mandolins. Until now, in Zakynthos, men in love, quite in the Venetian manner, perform serenades for their chosen ones. But, of course, in Greek, and with noticeable national differences in melody.

The reign of the Venetians ended at the end of the 18th century, when Napoleon’s troops captured the island. During the Mediterranean campaign against France, the Russian fleet under the command of Admiral Fedor Ushakov approached the shores of Zakynthos and knocked out the French garrison from the island. Soon, the Ionian Islands proclaimed the first Greek state formation for many centuries - the Republic of the Seven Islands (1800-1815), which was under the auspices of the Russian Empire.

After the end of the Napoleonic Wars, Zakynthos was included in the protectorate of the British crown as part of the Ionian Republic proclaimed on the archipelago. The island of Zakynthos, along with the other six Ionian Islands, returned to the bosom of reborn Hellas only in 1864, having survived more than two millennia of foreign rule.

The island has been subjected to earthquakes more than once; therefore, the constructions of Greek antiquity were practically not preserved here. In its recent history, the cataclysm of 1953 was especially powerful, which turned many wonderful structures into ruins. Significant monuments were restored, but a significant part of historical architectural masterpieces irrevocably disappeared.

Nature and climate

Zakynthos tops the ten most green islands of Greece, its picturesque mountainous terrain is covered with dense vegetation. At the same time, strangely enough, there is not a single river on the island. The secret of the abundance of greenery is in a porous rock that can accumulate moisture, so there are many natural artesian sources that feed fertile soil. Aquifers are saturated with beneficial minerals. It is interesting that in ancient times there was a mineral lake on the island, the bottom of which was strewn with natural bitumen. This substance was exported to Athens for the waterproof treatment of the hulls of the ancient Greek fleet.

The ecological situation in Zakynthos is impeccable. There are no industrial enterprises. Exceptions are the edible olive oil factory and distillery. However, these industries do not have a harmful effect on the environment.

Zakynthos Island has a temperate Mediterranean climate. The impartial meteorologists of the European Union recognized the local climatic conditions as the mildest in all of Greece - both among the continental regions and in various island parts of the country. In winter, it is warm on Zakynthos Island: in January, the daytime is usually around +11 ... + 15 ° С, at night the thermometer is unlikely to show less than +5 ° С. This is a period of rains and thunderstorms. Frost here is a rarity, and snow is perceived as a natural phenomenon.

Already in late April and early May, the island begins to receive guests. The air warms up in the daytime to +22 ... + 25 ° С, and coastal waters - up to +18 ... + 20 ° С. In the summer, Zakynthos is quite comfortable: daytime air temperature fluctuates around +30 ° С. The tourist season lasts here through October inclusive.

Zakynthos Town

The island's capital is also called Zakynthos, but locals unofficially call it Chora. This is a compact city, comfortably located on the slope of a wooded hill facing the sea. Start your walk from the main square of Solomos, from the monument to the poet.

When you first meet the miniature capital, you will notice that the streets of Zakynthos have some theatrical decorativeness. So it is, almost all the ancient buildings after the last major earthquake that occurred in 1953 were restored from ruins using modern materials. Among them are neighborhoods with medieval Venetian mansions lined with beige travertine and terracotta. They irretrievably lost the true spirit of antiquity, but, nevertheless, they successfully create a cozy aura of the Mediterranean. Fortunately, several old buildings stood in the city.

Be sure to visit the Byzantine Museum. Here are collected unique artifacts, archaeological finds, restored frescoes taken from the walls of monasteries and churches destroyed by earthquakes. About a thousand icons are represented (the oldest of them was painted in the XII century). The museum is open from 09:00 to 15:00, on Mondays it is closed. Entrance ticket - 8 €.

The tallest building in Zakynthos is the bell tower of the Orthodox Church of St. Dionysius. This church is located on the waterfront, a stone's throw from the port. Dionysius was a bishop on the island in the 16th century; he became famous for his good deeds and philanthropy. For several centuries, Dionysius has been considered the patron saint of Zakynthos. The cathedral houses a precious silver crayfish with the relics of a saint. Near her is always a pair of light shoes. Parishioners claim that over time, this shoe becomes worn out, and it has to be replaced because Dionysius walks around the island, continuing to help the righteous Christians. On August 24, the whole island celebrates the day of remembrance of its patron. An interesting museum of church utensils, vestments of priests, ancient church books, icons and paintings is opened at the cathedral. Entrance to the museum is paid - 2 €.

Once upon a time a mighty Venetian stronghold towered over the city. It was erected in the XV century, on the site of the destroyed ancient temples. Only some of its structures, the arch of the gate and part of the walls survived. The fortress is located at the very top of the hill. If you find the climb tiring, a taxi will throw you at the top for 3 €.

Those wishing to learn about the culture of the island should look into the Museum of the poet Solomos and the Museum of Fine Arts of the artists of the Ionian School of Painting. Both of them are located near the seaport of the city.

Resorts and beaches

Zakynthos resort life is concentrated on its east coast. The rating is headed by the most popular and expensive resort - Laganas. It is here that the most fashionable hotels, spa centers, the best restaurants and the largest night clubs are located. No less noisy and fun in the democratic resort of Argassi. Couples with children and lovers of a relaxing holiday are better off heading to Alikes, Tsilivi or Kalamaki, and the resort centers of Alikanas and Agios Nikolaos are waiting for fans of water sports.

There are many beaches on the coast of Zakynthos, often they smoothly pass one into another and stretch for kilometers. Entrance to most of them is free, you only need to pay for renting beach equipment. Many beaches are pebbled, barefoot walking on such a surface is not very convenient, especially when the pebbles are hot. It’s better to buy rubber slippers immediately upon arrival, they are sold for 6-7 € in all stores with beach accessories.

The cult place on the island is a charming coast in the azure bay of Navagio, strewn with sand and small marble pebbles, it is known as the Shipwreck beach. It has been called that since 1980, when the Panayiotis ship with a cargo of smuggled tobacco from Turkey ran aground, and then it was thrown by the waves on the coast. The rusty skeleton of a ship of unsuccessful smugglers lies in the middle of the beach to this day, attracting the attention of tourists, who often leave commemorative inscriptions on its board, corroded by corrosion.

The calm water in the waters of Navagio becomes an unreal sapphire color, and when the sea sweeps up the sand from the bottom, it acquires a milky blue hue. The beach is accessible only from the sea, although you can admire it from above, strolling along the edge of the steep cliffs surrounding it. At the top there are two viewing platforms, but there are a lot of people who want to get here, often you have to stand in line. Tourists from all over the island are delivered to the beach by boats, boats and even large vessels for 200-300 passengers. Only from the pier of the resort of Skinari, boats to Navagio Bay depart every quarter of an hour. From the capital you can sail here on a "pirate" sailboat.

A pandemonium begins at the beach in the middle of the day, so it is better to go to the bay in the early morning, and then, after enjoying a swim and taking great photos, dine in a local tavern with Greek cuisine and panoramic views of the bay.

Here you can sometimes see an amazing sight - fans of the wingsuit jump to the beach from a cliff in costumes-wings. After half a minute of desperate flight, base jumpers land to the thunder of applause of an amazed audience. For fans of extreme sports, there is another entertainment here: strong ropes hang between the rocks, you can swing on them and get a decent dose of adrenaline.

The two-kilometer sand spit of Laganas beach is a typical vacation spot on Zakynthos. It is crowded, but there is enough space for everyone under the sun. Excursion boats depart from the berth, hourly motor boats are offered for rent. In taverns and beach bars you can rent sunbeds (7 €), there are rental points for sports equipment. Music is heard everywhere, and hotels and restaurants are located nearby.

If you are looking for privacy, go through a eucalyptus grove, and a kilometer from the bustling Laganas, relax on the beach of Kalamaki, which is part of the national reserve. The dense sandy bottom is gently sloping, and coastal shallow waters have been chosen by sea turtles. They can often be seen under water.

When the sun rises to its zenith, take a stroll to Crystal Beach along the coastal cliffs. Quartz crystals flash in crevices, shining like placers of diamonds. On the deserted shore there is only one tavern where you can have an inexpensive and tasty meal. At the tavern there is a shower and toilet, a rental of beach equipment (two sunbeds and an umbrella - 8 €). Canoe rental is also available here. Over the coastline, planes flying low fly to the airport, located a few kilometers to the north. They are so close that you can read the names of airlines, and use them to study world geography. By the way, night flights to the island have long been banned - the noise of aircraft engines scares turtles crawling out at night to lay eggs in a warm sand.

Another secluded beach you will find on the coast of a marine reserve south of the city of Zakynthos. He is called Daphne. Go there by car, scooter or bike, admiring the stunning beauty of the scenery. True, the path along a winding serpentine mountain road is not easy and even extreme. The reward for you will be the incredibly picturesque coastal strip, where olive trees grow right in the sand. The bottom on the beach is flat, the sea is usually calm. There are places where turtles lay their eggs, such zones are fenced by huts, and volunteer guardians are on duty near them. There is a children's playground on the beach, and a bar serving drinks and inexpensive fast food is open in the olive garden. Order any drink (a cup of coffee, lemonade), and take a sunbed for free. There are taverns where you can have a delicious lunch. Specialties are prepared from freshly caught fish and octopus.

In the neighborhood is the beach of Herakos, it is more spacious and affordable, but there are more vacationers here.

Entertainment

Each resort town of Zakynthos offers tourists its own entertainment program. For example, in Argasi (1 km from Zakynthos) is located one of the most popular nightclubs “Barrage”. The building with a dance stage and three bars is surrounded by a fragrant garden where olives grow interspersed with orange and tangerine trees. The garden has an outdoor music bar, tables are set under trees on stone terraces. The moderators of the fun here are DJs of world renown.

The resort town of Laganas is known for its Laganas Go-Karts karting center. Here are equipped with varying difficulty tracks for kart racing. There are tracks for children and beginners who are driving for the first time. And if you want to ride a horse and learn the basics of equestrian sports, go to Lucky Luke Horse Riding. Nearby is the Fantasy Mini Golf Golf Club. Here, your children will learn how to play this aristocratic game. For kids, there are specially made small clubs and other mini-equipment. It's funny to watch them play. Probably no quieter and more picturesque place for a relaxing family vacation on the island of Zakynthos. The club taverns offer a children's menu, delicious non-alcoholic cocktails.

A large amusement park Caretta Fun Park Center awaits you in the resort town of Kalamaki. The park is intended for family entertainment. There are carousels, water attractions, children's pools, playgrounds. Children enjoy riding a miniature train.

One of the favorite entertainment of tourists in Zakynthos is visiting water parks. The rates and operating mode of most of them are approximately the same. Admission for adults - from 18 €, for children from 2 to 12 years old - 10 €. Kids up to two years old are free. If you want to spend only a couple of hours here and save money, come to 14:30, from this hour at the box office there is a 50% discount. Security officers determine the sequence of descents from extreme attractions, preventing collisions in pools, they will tell you which slides and attractions are suitable for you in height, and for children - in age.

Six kilometers west of the city of Tsilivi, in the depths of the island, one of the largest water attraction complexes in Greece, the Water Village water park, has been built, its area exceeds 40,000 m². There are many water attractions, extreme giant slopes, slides for adults and children, relaxing pools and canals over the course. The park is surrounded by green trees and vines, flowering shrubs.

The excellent Splash Fun Tsilivi Waterpark is located in the resort town of Planos. There are many extreme pipelines and slides. After visiting such an attraction, it will be pleasant to relax on a soft rubber ring in the calm flow of the annular canal, lined with juniper and roses. Here, for a fee, you can visit the pool with peeling fish. A 20-minute session costs 8 €. During this time, the hardworking "fish-cosmetologists" just have time to gently nibble off the coarsened skin on the feet.

Excursions

For a general acquaintance with the beauties of the island in the very first days of rest, go to the Daily cruise. Such an informative trip is offered to tourists everywhere. On the ship, you will overtake Zakynthos in one day and get a complete picture of it. If you wish, book a sightseeing tour by taxi with a guide (40 € / hour). Jeep tours also offer to see the sights of the island and visit its most inaccessible corners.

One of the most popular excursions among tourists is a boat trip to the Blue Grottoes. It usually takes 5 hours and costs from 25 €. Pleasure boats often accompany dolphins, now and then jumping out of the waves and invariably causing delight among passengers. Blue Grottoes - one of the most wonderful places in the northern part of the island, they are created by the surf at the very tip of Cape Skinari, made of white limestone. Like the buttresses of a stone cathedral, the arch of the grottoes support a sheer cliff.

Locals will tell you that in the days when the Olympic gods ruled the world, beautiful Nereids lived in the Blue Caves. A little imagination - and you imagine how they dance against the backdrop of magical stone arches. In the afternoon, the Blue Caves are grandiose, and at sunset and early dawn they look absolutely fantastic. The water in them is really turquoise. An unusual color is created by the sun's rays, refracted in microscopic particles of minerals that mix with seawater from bottom sources. After bathing in the grottoes you will feel how the healing water refreshed the skin.

If the sea does not storm, tourists are given the opportunity to swim and explore the grottoes from the inside. In rough weather, the ship does not approach the shore. But you will see a miracle that "does not work" in calm. Among the arches there is a narrow invisible gap. When the breaking wave hits the rock with force, a high fountain hits from the crack.

It is interesting to go on a trip to Navagio Bay with several stops on the most beautiful beaches of the island. Cost - from 35 €. Other routes of your choice, including to the neighboring island of Kafalonia.

Individual boat trips can be advised to rent a boat in Limni Keri. Unlike many other rental locations, boats here are not rented hourly, but for the whole day. It’s easy to navigate the sea, GPS systems are installed on the boats. At the beginning and at the end of the season a four-seater motor boat will cost 60 €, at the peak of the season (July-August) the cost of renting a motorboat increases to 80-90 €. It offers boats and more, designed for 6 passengers. The cost of their rental is 120-150 €. Please note that fuel is not included in the rental price. So filling the tank with gasoline is yours.

When traveling around the island, be sure to visit the Zakynthos National Marine Park. It is located on the coast of Laganas Bay, south of the island capital. The reserve park occupies almost the entire water area of \u200b\u200bthe bay, it includes the islands of Peluso and Marathonisi. Monachus seals and many rare representatives of the Mediterranean ichthyofauna live in the warm waters of the bay. But the main wards of the park's employees are the Mediterranean turtles Caretta-caretta. The park was established in 1999, since then, environmentalists have been able to significantly increase the population of these ancient animals that were on the verge of extinction. From May to August, sea turtles lay leathery eggs on the beaches. Volunteer patrols operate in the park, they enclose masonry and guard them until the hatched turtles go to sea. Such places are found in other parts of the island. On the beaches chosen by turtles to extend the genus, pristine nature reigns. It is forbidden to fish there, often there are no motorboats with water skiing and "bananas", scooters and other water activities, noisy sports are not welcome. However, other beach infrastructure is available - parking lots, sunbeds, umbrellas, toilets, taverns.

Nature lovers should also visit the Zakynthos Museum of Natural History, which presents all the island flora and fauna. The Askos Stone park is also interesting, where plants and animals from around the world are collected. Guides say that in Greece he has no analogues.

Historical sights

In the small mountain village of Echo Chora, located 25 km west of the island’s capital, one of the oldest trees in the world grows - a giant olive tree, whose age exceeds 2000 years. When Jesus Christ preached in Jerusalem, this olive was already two hundred years old. Amazingly, as if nothing had happened, the tree bears fruit annually. This is a must-have stop for tourist buses. Near the ancient olive, dine in the family tavern, try the specialty rabbit roast, taste stifado and drink delicious homemade wine. The portions are huge, the prices are low. Souvenirs are also sold here.

Far from the bustle of the resort, on the top of Mount Skopos (492 m above the sea), there is an abandoned medieval monastery of Panagia Skopiotissa. You can get to this attraction by rented car or taxi, as well as as part of a bus tour. Trained tourists come here on mountain bikes. You need to drive from the town of Argassi to the south, towards Vasilikos. After 2 km, behind the old stone bridge, turn right at the sign, then you will find a three-kilometer climb along a steep mountain road. Public transport does not go to the monastery. If you arrive on your own, ask a friendly caretaker (she is the mistress of the bar at the entrance) to open a temple for visiting the medieval frescoes of Byzantine writing. One of them - the image of the Mother of God - is considered miraculous. Nearby are the ruins of a ruined church and an established bell tower. The mountain offers wonderful views of the city of Zakynthos and the expanses of the Ionian Sea. In the west you can see the island of Kefalonia, and in the east - Peloponnese. The attendant does not charge money for entry, but she will be grateful for a small donation, and also for purchasing in her cafe a glass of orange fresh ice and a cup of frappe (1.5 €), which she prepares excellently.

On the way back to the coast, inspect the dilapidated Byzantine temple of St. Nicholas (there is a sign). Now restoration work is underway here.

Particular pacification reigns in the quiet monastery of Anaphonitria, built in the 15th century. This is the oldest of the existing monasteries in Zakynthos. Surprisingly, the earthquakes almost did not touch the stone buildings of the monastery - probably because St. Dionysius once lived here. When viewing the monastery, pay attention to the icons of the XIII-XVI centuries, hanging on the walls in the twilight of a small church. Photographing them is not allowed. In the courtyard, several nuns sell candles, crosses, home-made beads from colorful pebbles, consecrated icons. Goats graze serene beside them, and plump cats bask on the stones. At 13:30, tourists are no longer allowed in the monastery. Nearby there is a tavern, where very inexpensively serving wonderful monastic veal with red sauce and excellent wine.

Purchases

Throughout the summer season, Zakynthos markets are filled with fresh fruits and vegetables, delicious cheeses, olives, and seafood. Do not miss the opportunity to taste the healthy and delicious local dishes, some of which you may well bring home as souvenirs.

For tourists on the island there are specialized gift shops and delicacies. Here, your purchases will be packed in tin boxes that are colorful and convenient for transportation. A pair of bottles filled with Zakynthian olive oil or local wine, and a circle of sheep’s cheese will fit here perfectly.

Here you can buy the work of local craftsmen: decorative masks, painted ceramic dishes, clay crafts, original jewelry with semiprecious stones, paintings, embroidered tablecloths.

Handicrafts are also sold in stores at art studios, which are in every resort village of the island.

There are many clothing stores in Zankif where you can buy light, beautiful summer outfits made from natural fabrics and shoes. Popular are perfumes of local production, created on the basis of exclusively natural components.

Kitchen

The gastronomic world of Zakynthos is incredibly diverse and offers guests of the island both simple, hearty food and the most refined delicacies of Mediterranean cuisine. The grandees of the local cuisine are olive oil, tomatoes, lemons, garlic and Ladotiri sheep cheese. Another popular local cheese is misitra. It is brackish and fresh, and it is served, as a rule, with honey or sugar. On Zakynthos homemade bread and sweets are very tasty, in which honey and almonds are invariably present.

Crown island dishes - “Sartsa” and “Skorostubsty”. The first is based on beef, tomatoes and cheese, and the second is a delicious mix of eggplant, tomato and garlic, generously seasoned with olive oil.

The island's traditional restaurants are family taverns. The best of them are in the mountains. You can spend more than one hour here, first observing how local chefs collect vegetables and fruits from which your dish will be created, and then slowly enjoy the taste of the freshest aromatic food. A hearty lunch or dinner (meat or fish dish, salad, cheese, freshly squeezed juice or beer) will cost from 20 € per person.

No less popular in Zakynthos are fish restaurants, which perfectly prepare dishes of perch, tuna, shrimp, crab and other generous seafood. Three-course meal accompanied by dry wine - from 30 € per person.

The island has dozens of restaurants with international cuisine. Many have great vegetarian options.

Where to stay

Most Zakynthos hotels are located on its east coast - where there are lively resort towns. The most popular categories among tourists are 3-4 "stars". In these hotels located on the first coastline, the cost of a double room is from 110 to 340 € per day. Accommodation in apartments or in one of the two-three-star hotels located on the second and third lines will cost from 30 to 100 €.

You can stay at Zankif in a five-star hotel. There are relatively few such hotels on the island, but in each there are wellness centers and spas. The rooms themselves are often equipped with separate spa baths, which, of course, increases the price of accommodation. For family holidays, luxury hotels provide separate cottages. Depending on the location, the number of services provided and the comfort of the room, the cost of living in such hotels starts from 150 € per day and can reach sky-high figures.

On the quieter southwestern coast of the island, accommodation prices are much lower. For example, renting an apartment (a modest but cozy 2-bed studio room) may well cost 20 € per day.

All inclusive in Zancif is not very widespread yet, but interesting and inexpensive options can be found.

Transport

If you are not met by hotel transport, then from Dionysios Solomos Airport, located 4 km from the capital of Zakynthos, you can only reach your destination by taxi. Taxis on the island are painted in a single color - silver metallic. In the parking lot posted trip rates. For four passengers with luggage, a trip from the airport to the city of Zakynthos will cost 13 €, to Agios Nikolaos - 42 €. There are taxi ranks in all tourist centers. You can also call a taxi by mobile phone.

Public transport in Zakynthos is well developed, and the roads comply with European safety standards. The capital is connected by bus with all cities of the island and attractions scattered throughout its territory. The fare is from 1.6 to 3.1 €. However, it’s not easy to understand bus schedules from a habit. Some villages have several flights a day, while others take two or three flights a week. Mark on the map the places you wish to visit on your own and consult with the guides of the host travel agency. They will tell you the bus route numbers, departure and arrival stations. It is also possible to purchase sightseeing trips on comfortable buses.

If you are inherent in the spirit of freedom, rent a car. You can rent a car directly at Zakynthos Airport or in the city. Here are the international car rental companies Hertz, Avis, Europcar and others. In large hotels, you can draw up documents for car rental at the reception. Officially required a European driver’s license. But you will not be refused if the driver’s license is national. Still need a passport and credit card. Please note that in Greece there is a restriction on driving by age. If you have not reached the age of 21, you will not be given a car. The same goes for travelers over 70 years old. Another nuance that complicates the movement around the island - road signs are written in Greek, very rarely they are accompanied by duplicate English text. So choose a car with GPS.

Rental price - 28-40 € / day, depending on the class of car. The all-wheel drive SUV will be ideal for the island’s mountain roads. Be careful while driving: on the streets of cities and on highways there are a lot of careless tourists on bicycles enthusiastically looking around, and young people on brisk scooters.

Rent a scooter will cost 10-12 € / day, bike - 3-5 € / day.

How to get there

Weekly charter flights to Zakynthos Island are organized from May to October from Moscow (3 hours 25 minutes) and St. Petersburg (4 hours). In the summer, tour operators offer flights to Zakynthos for tourists from Kazan, Rostov-on-Don, Chelyabinsk, Yekaterinburg, Kaliningrad and other cities.

But at any time of the year you can get to the resort island with transfers: fly a direct flight from Moscow to Athens, and then take a regular domestic flight from Athens to Zakynthos (from 50 €, the flight lasts 45 minutes). There are other options. For example, you can go from Athens by bus or train to the port of Killini, located on the Peloponnese peninsula. From there, sea ferries run to Zakynthos.

Greece is an amazing country that attracts tourists from all over the world. It is not only good to relax here, but there are a huge number of attractions that are worth a look. One of such places where a large number of travelers are directed is the island of Zakynthos, or as it is also called - Zakynthos.

Zakynthos Island (Greece) attracts tourists with its beauty, warm climate and historical places. But besides Zakynthos (Greece), there are a number of islands that you should get to know better. The article is the most noteworthy where you can go for a vacation.

About the resort islands of Greece

Speaking of Greece, it is worth saying that this is one of the few countries that has exactly to rest. There is a wonderful climate, wonderful nature and a large number of entertainment for the different tastes of vacationers.

Zakynthos Island

There are a huge number of Greek resort areas, so before you go there on vacation, it is worth considering the islands, attracting with their beauty.

Corfu is a quiet island, but despite this, vacationers are offered quite an expensive vacation. The cost is connected with the fact that most of the time in summer, a large number of tourist businessmen are flocked here. It is also proposed to spend holidays in cheaper hotels. In the north, it is better to relax with children. The entrance to the sea is shallow and a fairly large distance from the coast is not deep. It is better to come to the western part of the island to someone who likes to enjoy the indescribable beauty of nature. The beaches of the island are sheltered from the winds, as they are protected by bays.

Corfu Island

Kos is an ideal place for a healthy vacation. The water is clear. Large selection of tasty and wholesome food. On the island you can also relax actively. It is possible to rent bicycles. The beaches are both wild and well-groomed, so everyone will find a place for themselves where you can have a great time.

Crete - basically all the vacation spots for visitors to the tour focused in the north. Here you can sunbathe, swim, and, of course, look at the local historical sights that have survived to this day. If the holiday is with children, it is better to choose a more peaceful place and a hotel with a large territory. The calmest town of Chania.

Rhodes is a vacation spot for families. The nature is beautiful, the murmur of streams and hospitable hotels await everyone who wants to enjoy unforgettable views.

Halkidiki - divided into three regions: Athos (intended for recreation only by men), Sithonia and Kassandra. Sithonia is the most calm, as it is located at a certain distance from the center.

Halkidiki Island

You can get to the place of rest on a car rented directly at the airport.

O. Zakynthos on a map of Greece

Zakynthos stands out from other islands for its beauty. In addition, there is an amazing underwater world. The beach is 123 km long and the sea is clear and blue. The place is secluded, many who have been here talk about the ships with treasures that sank many centuries ago. Zakynthos on the map of Greece is also famous for its rich caves. Since 1999, the island and two small islands adjacent to it have been a nature reserve, since it is here that the dolphins' natural habitat zone is.

Washes the island of the Ionian Sea.

Note!   For Russian vacationers direct flights are organized in the direction Moscow - about. Zakynthos. There are also flights from St. Petersburg. If the arrival was, for example, to Athens, then you can use the internal flight. Forward flights fly from May to October.

The hotels on the island are beautiful, as a rule, they have 2 stars, but there are those who were able to compete for the quality of service. The capital of the island was rebuilt in 1953, as the previous city was destroyed by an earthquake. Vasilikos Peninsula is known for its beautiful beaches. Of particular note is the beach of Navaggio in Greece. Arriving here, you can truly appreciate the tranquility and beauty created by nature.

Note!Even Constantine talked about Greece, that this is one of the few islands on the whole earth, where the pristine beauty that people could not spoil has been preserved. In fact, the island offers a large number of leisure options, therefore, everyone who got here can find for themselves exactly the vacation that is most interesting.

Variety of holidays on the island

This is a wonderful corner, offering its customers a lot of entertainment for every taste. It smells of needles and grapes, as it does not smell anywhere. A variety of rich colors, beautiful beaches like nothing characterizes the country.

In ancient times it was called the “flower of the Levant”. The name was given to him by the Venetians back in the 15th century. And the heyday of the island falls precisely during the reign of this people.

Note!Huge turtles live on the territory - caretta. In the summer, they lay their eggs in the sand, and after 55 days small turtles are born.

The island is also interesting in that it has a huge amount of vegetation. Beautiful aromas of flowers, beautiful plants will especially appeal to those who came to see the natural beauty. There are no industrial facilities on the territory, due to which the air remains fresh.

In addition, there is excellent food at reasonable prices. Therefore, here you can not only relax, but also eat deliciously.

Levant flower

Weather and climate

The climate is temperate, Mediterranean. Summer is very hot, and winter is not cold. The average air temperature is 19 degrees with a plus sign. There are 295 sunny days in a year, so no one miscals with the choice of an island for relaxation. You can come at any time of the year.

Summer temperature rarely drops below +31 degrees. The warmest months are August and July. Despite the fact that the air temperature is high, it is almost not felt due to the rich vegetation.

Zakynthos beaches

Amazing Ionian Sea gave a lot of pleasure for tourists. The place is really magical, since there are a lot of places on the island where you can spend your holidays on the beaches. All beaches are crowded, especially in the summer. It is worth considering the beaches separately, so that you can choose a place for the greatest comfort.

One of the popular beaches is Navagio (second name Navajo). To a greater extent, Navajo is not a beach, but a whole bay. The main attraction of this place is the ship that sank here. Therefore, having arrived at this beach, you can take a guided tour and look at the place of the flooded ship. The coastline is very beautiful, for which it is very popular among vacationers.

Navagio Beach in Zakynthos

Before you go to this beach for relaxation, it is worth paying attention to several important points:

• no need to go on a tour before 13:00, since until that time all the bays are in the shade and will not be quite interesting;
• it is better to choose a short excursion, especially if the rest involves the presence of children;
• when renting a small boat, it is worth remembering that on the way back it will not be possible to land on the shore, so you will have to go swimming;
• the best time to visit from 15 to 17 hours - it will be interesting here, and the water itself will acquire an unusual shade.

Note!   There is no infrastructure on the beach, so you need to take everything you need with you.

Porto Limnionas Beach - the beach is protected by cliffs, so even if there is a storm at sea, it will be comfortable to relax. Water has an azure hue.

Important!   Porto Limnionas is not suitable for families with children, since there is no sand here, and there are huge stones around which tourists are located.

Laganas - the length is more than 5 kilometers, and it is the most unloaded place on the entire coast. Small enough sand around, so here it is comfortable to spend time with the children.

Gerakas - on the territory of a huge number of hotels, the price category is different. Around the beach are beautiful cliffs. Many who had to spend time here note that this place is the most attractive not only on the coast of Greece, but throughout Europe. There is complete silence, there is no infrastructure on the beach and all kinds of sports activities are prohibited.

Porto Limnionas Beach

Island Attractions

Where not to look, Greece is an amazing country. It has a huge number of attractions and interesting places that have survived to this day. They were created not only by man, but also by nature. An interesting place to see is the Blue Caves. The place is unique. The water is perfectly clear and has a pronounced blue color. You cannot reach the caves on foot, so all excursions are organized by water. Water is saturated with calcium. If you are lucky enough to get into the blue caves, then you can take equipment with you and look at the beautiful corals.

If you are interested in looking at the sights built by man, then you should definitely get to the temple of Dionysius. There is a huge bell tower that deserves attention from visitors. Inside, everything is very luxurious, so you can take a camera with you to capture everything.

Church of St. Dionysius

Since 1999, there has been a reserve on the territory that captures several beaches and islands. There are a large number of dolphins, as well as other animals that are worth seeing, especially if you are relaxing with children.

In addition to the fact that the island has a marine reserve, there is also a stone park, where there is simply an unearthly beauty. On its territory collected a large number of animals from all over the country. Huge reservoirs of water for keeping animals are in perfect harmony with the nature of the places.

And finally, you should definitely go to the monastery on the Strofad. In the XV century it was rebuilt and it began to look more like a palace or a castle. During the earthquake, he was badly damaged, but was later restored. At the moment, about 60 monks live in the monastery.

Transfiguration Monastery on the Strophades

One of the main tips that experienced tourists give is the need to visit as many places as possible when traveling to Greece. A large selection of attractions and beautiful nature allows you to choose what is most suitable for a vacation.

Arriving in Greece, you can enjoy the splendor of nature, local attractions, as well as the amazing beauty of buildings built in ancient times. Everyone who has ever had to enjoy the beauty of these places seek to visit them again.

Zakynthos Island   It stands out from the other islands of Greece due to its natural beauty and unique underwater world. Rocks and mountains in the west, hills and plains covered with dense forest, olive groves, 123 km of endless sandy white beaches, transparent blue sea, secluded coves and bays, underwater caves and sunken ships are an excellent place for relaxation and water entertainment.

Since 1999, Zakynthos Island and 2 small islands have been a marine nature park reserve. It is a natural habitat dolphins, seabirds, rare species of sea seals - monks (Monachus), snails and turtles caretta-caretta, porcupines, iguanas, etc.

Map of Zakynthos with cities and resorts.

Zakynthos Island - This is one of the 7 islands of Greece in the Ionian Sea. It is conveniently located 18 km from the coast of the Peloponnese and 15 km from about. Kefalonia. Direct flights from Moscow and St. Petersburg in the summer season from May to mid-October, as well as domestic flights (from Athens, Argostoli, Corfu) and regular ferry services make about. Zakynthos affordable and attractive for tourists.

Long sandy beaches, resort towns, villages and tourist complexes occupy mainly the northeastern and southeastern parts of the island. It is worth noting that the island does not lack hotels. Here a wide range of developed tourist infrastructure of hotels of various categories is presented: from 2 * and above, to specialized spa hotels.

Resorts and cities of Zakynthos Island.

The capital of Zakynthos Island is zakynthos city. This is a modern city, rebuilt after the 1953 earthquake. Zakynthos is the center of the cultural life of the Island, it constantly hosts music festivals and cultural programs. Sights of Zakynthos: Strata Marina; St. Mark's Square; Temple of St. Dionysius; Church of St. Nicholas; Museum of Byzantine Art; Maritime Museum.

To the east of the capital, only 4 km, is agrassi resort   - A developed tourism center with nightlife, hotels, shops, beaches, water activities, restaurants and clubs.

6 km west of Zakynthos is another dynamic tsilivi city. This is a beautiful resort with sandy beaches marked with the Blue Flag, with all kinds of water activities, attractions, olive groves and gardens in the area.

A little to the west (18 km from the capital) is resort town of Alikanas. This is the most developed, in terms of water sports, resort. All young people usually seek it here for entertainment, extreme and active recreation.

The most famous resorts of the island are located in the bay. Laganas.This is a resort Laganas and Kalamaki Village, which is 5-9 km from the capital of the island. Laganas Bay beaches   spread over 9 km. They partially relate to the national marine park: here the Caretta-Caretta turtles breed offspring (at night, access to the beach is closed for tourists).

Vasilikos Peninsulabeautiful sandy beaches, combined with small pebbles and with a convenient entry into the clear sea. The natural beauty of these places gives peace and tranquility, however, for active tourists there is also something to do. Some beaches are part of the National Marine Park Reserve and are periodically or partially closed. Vasilikos is represented by the beaches: Ionion, Gerakas   (Gerakas), Porto Romo, Porto Zoro, Banana, Daphne   (Dafni), Mavrantzi, Secania (Sekania) and Agios Nikolaos   (Agios Nikolaos).

Tours to Zakynthos Island in 2019 from Moscow and St. Petersburg

Tours to Zakynthos Island in Greece in the summer of 2019 are offered by the best tour operators in the Greek direction: Mouzenidis Travel (Mouzenidis Travel), Panteon (Pantheon), TUI. Choose the best package tour among the offers from all tour operators to Zakynthos Island with a direct flight from Moscow or St. Petersburg.
  Tours to Zakynthos Island in 2019 are made taking into account the departure:
from Moscow on Wednesdays and Saturdays from May 25 to October 5.
from St. Petersburg on Thursdays from May 30 to September 26.

Direct tickets from Moscow to Zakynthos

The cost of living in hotels on about. Zakynthos

Sights of Zakynthos island in Greece.

The underwater world around Zakynthos is very beautiful. The western part of the Island and the northern one in the area of \u200b\u200bCape Skinari are especially rich in natural attractions.

It is worth noting here: keri Caves, the largest Azure cave Kianoun, blue Caves.

Three stone arches majestically rise above the emerald sea: swimming between them - breathtaking! Perhaps these are the most memorable species that can argue in beauty only with species Bays of navagio.

One of the most popular attractions on Zakynthos island.   Is the bay of Navagio, surrounded by sheer cliffs covered with greenery, with beautiful snow-white sandy beach (Navagio Beach)   and a shipwrecked ship in 1967. From the observation deck on the top of the cliff, a stunning view opens up, which is deservedly included in the 10 most beautiful places on earth. Navagio Bay is located on the western side of Zakynthos Island. To get to this heavenly secluded place is possible only from the sea.

Zakynthos Island is a great place for diving:

• Butterfly Cave - Papelon;
• Triumphal Arch;
• Blue caves;
• Carey Caves;
• Watching the Caretta-Caretta turtles, which annually sail and lay eggs on the beaches of Laganas and Gerakas. In mid-August, you can see how small turtles hatch from eggs and rush into the sea.

Sights of Zakynthos Island:

• Rich underwater world;
• Caves, bays and grottoes on the island of Zakynthos;
• Askos Park;
• Water Village Water Village in the village of Sarakinado;
• Horseback riding in Laganas;
• Cycling, walking, boat trips;
• National Marine Park (turtles caretta-caretta);
• Turtle Island - Marathonissi. Tours depart from Keri.
• Orchid Garden in Agios Nikolaos;
• Maritime Museum and Observatory in the resort of Tsilivi;
• The capital of the island is the city of Zakynthos;
• Ancient churches and ruins of a medieval fortress in the resort of Agrassi;
• Campi village, Mycenaean burial grounds;
• Kerion Village   with preserved mansions in the Venetian style.
• Island tour Kefalonia   with a visit drogarati Cave Caves.

Come to the island of Zakynthos, and you will see the majestic and serene beauty of the earth!

Detailed map of Zakynthos in Russian. Satellite map of Zakynthos in Greece. Where is the city of Zakynthos on the map:

Examine the schematic map or switch to the satellite map in the lower left corner. Schematic map   - a city plan with street names and house numbers in Russian. The schematic map shows the sights and tourist sites, the location of stations, shops, restaurants and shopping centers, a map of the city’s roads. Satellite map   allows you to view satellite photos of the city thanks to images from the Google Maps service.

You can zoom in on an online mapscaling it to streets and house numbers. To change the scale, use the “+” (zoom in) and “-” (zoom out) icons located in the lower right corner of the map. You can also zoom in or out on the map with the mouse wheel. The left mouse button zooms in on the map, and the right mouse button zooms out. You can move the interactive map in all directions with the mouse, grabbing the left mouse button on any place on the map.

Interactive map   It is a very convenient and modern guide for exploring the city, its areas and attractions, hotels, places of recreation and entertainment. An online map on a site can become an indispensable tool for you in your independent travel. Interactive map provided by Google Maps service.

Greece. The Ionian Sea and the archipelago. The southernmost of its seven islands is Zakynthos (Zakynthos), with an area of \u200b\u200b407 km2, located 300 km from Athens. The capital of the island is Zakynthos (Zante). The name comes from the name of the son of Phrygian king Dardan. The Smaragd Sea, white beaches, mountains covered with pine forests. Two mountain ranges separated by a valley. Homer called it "Ilies" - Forest. Venetians - “Flower of the Levant”. The coastline of the island with a length of 123 km is heavily indented. The eastern territories are sandy “beach” plains. Western - rocky coast. The highest point of Vrachionas (756 m). Mild Mediterranean climate. In a year - more than 300 sunny days.

On Zakynthos, more than 7.5 thousand plant species have taken root. The honey produced here is considered the best in Greece.
  Sea turtles, a carriage carriage, have chosen Lagana Bay for laying eggs and offspring. Since 1999 it is a national park. It consists of 14 km of beaches and dunes, framed by lush greenery and pine groves. Rare iguanas, porcupines, Monachus seals, dolphins and seabirds are permanent inhabitants of the marine reserve park.

Of the natural attractions of Zakynthos, the Blue Caves with the Cote d'Azur are unique. They are located on Cape Skinari. The grotto - rocky arches, "leaving" to the sea, a game of blue-silver reflections of sunlight reflected in the water. Symbols of Zakynthos are the queen of bays and Navagio beach and the vertical rock depicted on all postcards and calendars. Mycenaean burial places found in the village of Campi. And the 400-meter abysses of Schiza and Foki here are a unique natural creation.
  Historical monuments of the island: the old part of the capital Zakynthos: Cathedral of St. Mark; Church of St. Nicholas, St. George a collection of icons, murals and fragments of carved wooden altars (XII-XIII centuries) in the exposition of the Byzantine Museum, the belfry of the Church of St. Dionysius - the patron saint of the island. Interesting buildings are ocher-colored with Venetian porticoes. The once powerful Venetian fortress (XVII century) rises on the mountain. The gates and external walls of the bastion have been preserved. The Venetian tower and ancient churches with preserved frescoes (XII-XIII centuries) of the town of Volimes deserve attention.
  Zakynthos is also known for its cultural traditions as a venue for music and folklore festivals.
The main resorts of Zakynthos: Argasi, 4 km from the capital, is a large green valley with an endless beach and azure waters. Laganas - 10 km from Zakynthos - a significant island tourism center. Alikes is a mecca for lovers of water sports. Porto Zoro, Agios Nikolaos, Vasilikos. Shoal and coast of Tsilivis beach. It is good to relax with children. Alikes - element for windsurfing.
  You can get to Zakynthos by plane from Athens, or by charter from Europe. By bus from Athens, Thessaloniki, Patras to Killini and then by ferry.