Zákynthos is a Greek island in the Ionian Sea, famous for its natural beauty, cultural heritage, and lively atmosphere. Zákynthos is one of the most popular destinations in Greece, attracting thousands of visitors every year.

What is Zákynthos Known For?

Zákynthos is famous for many things, such as:

  • Its Shipwreck Beach and Blue Caves. These are two of the most stunning and photographed attractions of Zákynthos, located on the north-west coast of the island. Shipwreck Beach, also known as Navagio Beach, is a secluded cove that is accessible only by boat. It has a white sandy beach, turquoise water, and a rusty shipwreck that was washed ashore in 1980. Blue Caves are a series of natural caves that are carved into the cliffs by the sea. They have a blue color that reflects the light and the water. They can be explored by boat or by swimming.
  • Its Caretta Caretta turtles and Marine Park. These are two of the most important and endangered species that live in Zákynthos, located on the south-east coast of the island. Caretta Caretta turtles, also known as loggerhead turtles, are large sea turtles that nest on the sandy beaches of Zákynthos, especially on Laganas Bay. They are protected by the National Marine Park of Zákynthos, which was established in 1999. The Marine Park also hosts other rare animals and plants, such as monk seals, dolphins, sea daffodils, and orchids.
  • Its Venetian architecture and culture. Zákynthos has a rich and diverse history and culture that reflects its influences from various civilizations and periods. Zákynthos was ruled by the Venetians from 1484 to 1797, who left behind impressive buildings, monuments, and fortifications that blend with the local style. Some of the most notable ones are: the Castle of Zante, which overlooks the town and the harbor; the St. Mark’s Square, which was the center of social and political life; and the Solomos Square, which houses the Museum of Byzantine Art and the Church of St. Nicholas.

Famous Drinks in Zákynthos

Zákynthos has a delicious and varied cuisine that reflects its Mediterranean climate and traditions. Along with its food, Zákynthos also has some famous drinks that are worth trying. Some of them are:

  • Verdea: This is a traditional white wine made from local grape varieties such as Goustolidi, Pavlos, Robola, and Skiadopoulo. It has a greenish color and a dry taste. It is usually served chilled in large glasses or carafes with food or snacks.
  • Tentura: This is a liqueur made from cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and citrus fruits that are soaked in alcohol and sugar. It has a dark brown color and a sweet and spicy taste. It can be drunk plain or mixed with water or ice. It is usually served in small glasses or shots after a meal or as a welcome drink.
  • Coffee: Zákynthos has a strong coffee culture that is similar to other parts of Greece and Turkey. The most common coffee drink is Greek coffee (also known as Turkish coffee), which is made from finely ground coffee beans that are boiled with water and sugar in a small pot called briki. It has a thick layer of foam on top and a layer of sediment at the bottom. It is usually served in small cups with a glass of water and a sweet treat.
  • Tea: Zákynthos also has a variety of herbal teas that are made from plants that grow on the island or in the nearby mountains. Some of the most common herbs used for tea are: sage (faskomilo), thyme (thimari), oregano (rigani), mint (dyosmos), chamomile (hamomili), linden (tilio), rosemary (dendrolivano), lavender (lavanta), lemon balm (melissa), mountain tea (tsai tou vounou), and dittany (diktamo). These teas have various health benefits and soothing effects.

Famous Sports in Zákynthos

Zákynthos is an ideal place for sports lovers, as it offers many opportunities for fun and adventure on land and sea. Some of the most popular sports in Zákynthos are:

  • Water sports: Zákynthos has many beaches and bays that are perfect for water sports such as jet skiing, parasailing, windsurfing, kite surfing, scuba diving, snorkeling, sailing, kayaking, stand up paddle boarding, and fishing. You can rent equipment or join tours to explore the coast and the nearby islands.
  • Hiking: Zákynthos has many trails and paths that lead to scenic spots and hidden gems on the island. You can hike to the peaks of the mountains, the depths of the valleys, the entrances of the caves, or the outskirts of the villages, enjoying the nature and the history of the island. Some of the best hiking routes in Zákynthos are: Keri Lighthouse, which offers a panoramic view of the sea and the sunset; Marathonisi Island, which is a small and uninhabited island that hosts Caretta Caretta turtles; Vrachionas Mountain, which is the highest mountain on the island with a pine forest and a monastery; and Askos Stone Park, which is a natural park with stone sculptures and animals.
  • Cycling: Zákynthos is also a great place for cycling, as it has many roads and tracks that offer different levels of difficulty and scenery. You can cycle around the coast, the plains, the hills, or the fields, admiring the landscape and the culture of the island. You can also join tours or events to see more of the island or meet new people. Some of the best cycling routes in Zákynthos are: Zante Town-Alikes-Alykanas-Volimes, which follows the north-east coast of the island; Zante Town-Keri-Limni Keriou, which passes through the south-west coast and the countryside; and Zante Town-Laganas-Kalamaki-Agios Sostis, which explores the south-east part of the island.

Famous Streets in Zákynthos

Zákynthos has many streets that are worth exploring for their charm, atmosphere, and history. Some of them are:

  • Alexandrou Roma Street: This is the main shopping street in Zante Town, the capital and main town of the island. It is a pedestrian street that runs from Solomos Square to St. Mark’s Square. It has many shops, cafes, restaurants, and hotels. It also has some historical buildings such as the Museum of Solomos and Kalvos, the Church of St. Dionysios, and the National Bank.
  • Lithostroto Street: This is one of the most picturesque streets in Zante Town, located in the old town. It is a narrow and cobblestone street that runs parallel to Alexandrou Roma Street. It has many traditional houses with balconies and windows that display local products such as honey, wine, cheese, and olive oil. It also has some churches such as St. Nicholas of Molos and St. Catherine.
  • Laganas Street: This is one of the most lively and popular streets in Laganas, a resort town and a party hotspot in southern Zákynthos. It is a long and busy street that runs along Laganas Beach. It has many bars, clubs, pubs, and restaurants that offer music, drinks, and fun until dawn. Some of the most famous venues are: Rescue Club, Waikiki Club, Cherry Bay Club, and Medousa Bar.
  • Lindos Street: This is one of the most scenic streets in Keri, a village and a fishing port in western Zákynthos. It is a steep and winding street that leads from Keri Village to Keri Lighthouse. It has many stone houses with gardens and flowers that create a rustic atmosphere. It also has some taverns and bars that offer traditional food and music.

 

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