To visit Zakynthos, there are so many secrets that lie beneath the obvious beauties of the Ionian island of Zakynthos. Zakynthos is a Greek island that lies in the Ionian Sea. It’s the birthplace of Dionysios Solomos, the national poet of Greece, home to the endangered sea turtle Caretta- Caretta and known for the unique combination of the turquoise waters and the natural beauty.
*Important Notice: All pictures are authentic, with no filter applied* ENJOY!
I visited Zante- the Italian name of the island- last summer and whilst I am a huge fan of the Cyclades complex, I must admit that this Ionian island stole my heart, for very specific reasons- these eight (8) reasons I am going to narrate in this post, all based on my personal experience and point of view.
8 Reasons you should visit Zakynthos:
1. The unbeatable natural beauty. The green color of the trees is spread though Zakynthos, perfectly in harmony with the blue sea. This unique combination creates a lovely scenery, especially when you drive and you smell the scent of the trees.
2. The dazzling beaches with the turquoise waters. Gerakas, in approximately 18 km south of the town of Zakynthos, impresses with the sense of seclusion that creates. Moreover, I strongly suggest that you rent a boat from the little port of Agios Nikolaos and visit Keri and Blue Caves. The landscape is absolutely stunning. There are no words to describe the majesty of this part of the island.
3. Navagio, the iconic beach of Zakynthos, is as magnificent as it’s presented. Known as Shipwreck too, it’s truly imposing and magical if you look at it from above. The view is like a postcard. I suggest you reach it by car, by driving to the Anafonitria village, in order to admire the dominant landscape from above. Now, if you wish, you can reach it by boat as well from the nearby port of Agios Nikolaos. Bare in mind, though, that due to strong currencies, Navagio beach is wild and not easy to swim. Plus, it’s a touristy spot, so think about going there early at the morning to avoid the loads of crowds.
4. Venetians ruled the island from 1484 to 1797 and called it ‘Fioro di Levante’. Thus, you can see the strong architectural Venetian influences at the beautiful town. Walk around, get wonderfully lost at the alleys and visit the Venetian castle, situated on a hill overlooking the town.
5. Zante is the birthplace of Greece’s national poet, Dionysios Solomos and of Andreas Kalvos, one more great Greek poet. The island holds an important cultural heritage. There is a dedicated Museum to the poets, the Solomos and Kalvos Museum, which includes various manuscripts, books and other objects that belonged to Dionisios Solomos, Kalvos and other poets. It’s located at the Saint Marco square, at the town. [Museums visitors hours: Visitor hours: Every day from 9 am to 2 pm. Ticket Price: 4€ and 2€ for groups, free entrance for students- but please confirm before you go].
6. If you want to experience an inspiring view of the city, then Bochali village, one of the oldest villages of the island, is a must visit. It’s located just 2 km away from Zakynthos town, its ideal both morning and night and the natural beauty will totally refresh you.
7. The island is rich in spirituality as well. If you are interested in religion tourism, then you will find many cathedras to visit. The most known is Saint Dionysios, which is identical to the Saint Mark’s cathedral in Venice. Saint Dionysios was born on Zakynthos in 1546 and he is the patron saint of the island.
8. Lastly, there are many and various cultural events happening in Zakynthos island during June and the next months. The events include music concerts, theatre shows and others. Visit this page so that you are up to date.
Zakynthos or Zante of Fioro di Levante is a lovely island worth visiting. The intriguing water of the Ionian sea, the natural beauty, the impressive town, the cultural heritage. All these combine a perfect scenery for your summer vacation!
Enjoy ?