Heres the ultimate guide to Zakynthos, the Ionian wonder famed for its picture-perfect Shipwreck Beach.
Most bars that give the island this name are limited to the southern beach town of Laganas.
So, you may want to avoid this part of the island altogether.
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Longing to lounge on Zakynthos' fine beaches?
Heres how to plan an unforgettable vacation on the island.
Organic materials such as bamboo, rattan, and oak grace the soothing indoor-outdoor living spaces that merge effortlessly.
Courtesy of Lesante Cape
Set aside plenty of time for spa treatments featuring Babor products.
Those lucky enough may catch a glimpse of a sea turtle.
Alternatively, rent a self-drive boat orhire a skippered motorboat.
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Produce is sourced from the owners organic farm, and fish are transported via wooden caique.
Prosilio
Located beside Solomos Square in Zakynthos Town,Prosiliois the islands definitive fine dining destination.
Talented young chef Kristy Karageorgou crafts whimsical dishes with distinctive Zakynthian ingredients that look almost too good to eat.
Courtesy of Nobelos
Its traditional but quirky.
The throw in of place where the owner will serve a wine they produced this year, said Kladis.
Kladis recommended visiting in early June or in September.
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How to Get There
The quickest way to reach Zakynthos is by plane.
Flights from Athens International Airport (Eleftherios Venizelos) to the island take about 60 minutes and operate daily.
Zakynthos features on cruise line itineraries, including those of Atlas Ocean Voyages, Norwegian, and Azamara.
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Start at Zakynthos port, where you’re able to see yachts in the harbor, Kandilas said.
Marvel at the grandeur of Agios Dionysios Church and its bell tower.
Dedicated to the islands patron saint, its Catholic architectural style contrasts with the Orthodox domed style.
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Then head to Solomos Square to view the statue of poet Dionysios Solomos, who composed Greeces national anthem.
On Agios Markos Square, visit themuseumdedicated to him and other eminent Zakynthians, Kandilas said.
Pore over portraits, photographs, and period furniture.
Also, head to the Venetian castle ruins atop Bohali Hill for panoramic sea views.
Northern Zakynthos
Kladis recommended venturing to the islands north by car or boat.
The beaches are rockier than in the south, and the waters are deep and blue.
Its just so calming and picturesque.
Vassilikos is home to some of the islands best beaches, according to Kandilas.
Sweeping Laganas Bay, a popular swim spot, forms part of the strictly-regulatedNational Marine Park of Zakynthos.
Closer to the town is the 16th-centuryDomeneghini Tower, which is closely associated with Greeces 1821 War of Independence.
Its safest to travel by car.
By Taxi: Between May and October,silver taxisoperate 24 hours a day on the island.
They may cost more if booked in advance or via a hotel.
There are fixed fares for numerous routes.
It costs around 15 euros to reach Zakynthos Town from the airport.
