Zakynthos is an island in Greece in the Ionian Sea. This island was named after the son of the legendary Arcadian chief Dardanus. It is also known as ‘the Flower of the Levant’. This place suffered an earthquake in the year 1953 which destroyed most of its buildings. Olive oil, currants, grapes and citrus fruit are some principal agricultural products of this beautiful island. It is also considered as the island with a long music tradition. This island has many beautiful beaches and the Mediterranean turtle is also found around this island which is a very rare and threatened species. It is a very popular tourist destination.

When to visit Zakynthos, Greece

Spring and autumn are the best times to visit this island. Around this time, you will experience the sweetest temperature of the year. You can witness the beauty and elegance of this island. Swimming in the warm and crystalline waters, exploring the marvellous beaches and soaking under the sun, these will make you feel happy and awesome. You can also go for the water sports which take place at that time. There are various nightclubs, bars and restaurants to enjoy on the island.

What to know about Zakynthos, Greece

Currency

The currency used in Zakynthos is the Euro. Once you are travelling to this island, you’ll see it as a symbol for Euro used to show prices of different products.  ATMs are available across the island where you can use your credit and debit cards. As a result, it will be advantageous to exchange your currency at the exchange currency office or airport when visiting the island.

Transportation

The transport services available in Zakynthos are the best way to travel around the city and see the beauty of it.

Bus

Taxi

Ferries

Car hiring

Bike hiring

Climate

The Zakynthos is in the northern hemisphere. 78% of humidity is recorded in the month of May. From October to February, you will experience good days with the temperature between 20  January being the coldest month with the average temperature of 14. The average temperature in August rose to 30 which is the hottest month of the year. December is the wettest month of the year.

Language

Greek is the official and most widely spoken language in Zakynthos. The language will not create any issue on the island as half of the island’s population speaks English. German and Italian are other minor languages spoken by the native people.

Places of attractions in Zakynthos, Greece

Shipwreck Beach

This beach is also known as Navagio Beach. This beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. It is located on the north-west shore of the island. The limestone cliffs, crystalline blue water and white sand beach attract thousands of tourists every year. By standing on the cliff, the beautiful view of the beach can be seen that looks incredibly beautiful. This is a perfect location for clicking beautiful photographs with family and friends. Originally the beach was known as ‘Agios Georgios’. The water of the beach is so clear that you can see the surface from above. Many adventurous sports also take place on the beach such as base jumping which is a form of parachuting, in which you will get down from the top of the cliff.  Proper training is provided before doing this sport as it may be dangerous. It is a very unique and interesting way of getting down to the beach from the cliff. The sea is so clear that you can play in the water, make sand castles on the beach and even collect and bring some seashells back home with you. This is a beautiful and must visit beach.

The Byzantine Museum

The Byzantine Museum is the largest museum on the island. The earthquake of 1953 has majorly destroyed the buildings and the island of Zakynthos. This museum was built after this earthquake and after entering inside it, you will see how they have managed to capture how the island once was before the earthquake. In the hall area, you can see the images of the buildings and churches which were destroyed by the brutal earthquake. If you are someone who is interested in knowing the history, then this is the best opportunity to know exactly how things were back then. The museum has wood carvings, Byzantine icons, murals, paintings, impressive temples and shrines from the 15th, 16th and 17th century.  This place holds a lot of history about the town. 

Xygia Sulphur Beach

This is a very unique beach in Zakynthos. It has a very pungent smell but it’s beautiful nonetheless. The eggy smell is because of the large amount of sulphur in the water and it comes from the neighbouring caves. Around midday this beach looks quite beautiful when the sun is directly overhead. The beach has stones and pebbles all around. This sulphur water contains healing properties for those who are suffering from pain in legs and arthritis. It also helps to treat cellulite. You can also bath in this water as it is healthy for the skin and makes it smooth. But the next day, you will smell of sulphur. This place is very famous and attracts a lot of tourist every year.

Askos Stone Park

If you are an animal lover, then you must visit this place. This park is located in the north of the island. Thousands of animals here share the same area and live freely in their natural habitat. The park has many species of wild hawks and mammals. You can also witness other species of birds, insects, amphibians and other animals. There is a special guide book in the park which is available in 25 different languages. You can also take your children with you and let them watch the deer, raccoons, tortoise, donkey, pony, goats, chickens and peacocks in the park. There are guides who can explain everything about the park and make the tour easier. This is a nice place to visit.