Zakynthos
Food
Zakynthos, often referred to as Zante, is a beautiful Greek island known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant culture. When it comes to food, Zakynthos offers a variety of traditional dishes that showcase the island’s rich culinary heritage. One particular dish that stands out is called “Sofrito Zakynthino.”
Sofrito Zakynthino:
Ingredients:
- Veal (or beef) slices
- Garlic cloves
- White wine
- Vinegar
- Flour
- Olive oil
- Salt
- Pepper
- Bay leaves
Preparation:
Prepare the Meat: Cut the veal (or beef) into thin slices. Season them with salt and pepper, and lightly coat them with flour.
Sauté the Meat: Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic cloves to infuse the oil with flavor. Then, add the floured meat slices to the pan and sauté them until they are golden brown on both sides.
Deglaze with Wine and Vinegar: Once the meat is browned, deglaze the pan by pouring in a generous amount of white wine and vinegar. This step adds acidity and depth of flavor to the dish.
Simmer: Add bay leaves to the pan for aroma, then reduce the heat and let the meat simmer in the wine and vinegar mixture. Allow it to cook slowly until the meat is tender and infused with the flavors of the sauce. This may take around 30-40 minutes, depending on the thickness of the meat slices.
Serve: Once the meat is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly, remove the bay leaves, and transfer the Sofrito Zakynthino to a serving dish. Traditionally, it is served hot and accompanied by crusty bread or potatoes.
Additional Notes:
- The key to a successful Sofrito Zakynthino is to allow enough time for the meat to simmer gently in the flavorful sauce, ensuring it becomes tender and absorbs all the delicious flavors.
- While veal is commonly used in this dish, beef can also be substituted based on personal preference or availability.
- Some variations of Sofrito Zakynthino may include additional herbs and spices, such as oregano or thyme, to enhance the flavor profile further.
When visiting Zakynthos, trying Sofrito Zakynthino is a must for anyone looking to experience the authentic taste of the island’s cuisine.
Climate
Zakynthos, like many other Mediterranean destinations, experiences warm and sunny weather during the summer months. Here’s a breakdown of the climate, temperature, and weather you can expect during the summer on the island:
Climate: Zakynthos has a Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The island benefits from its location in the Ionian Sea, which moderates temperatures and keeps the climate relatively temperate year-round.
Settlements
Zakynthos, with its picturesque landscapes and charming villages, offers numerous settlements worth visiting. Here are some of the top settlements to explore on the island:
Zakynthos Town (Zante Town):
- The capital and largest town of Zakynthos.
- Home to historic buildings, museums, and vibrant squares.
- Must-see attractions include Solomos Square, St. Dionysios Church, and the Byzantine Museum.
Laganas:
- Located on the southern coast, known for its vibrant nightlife and long sandy beach.
- Popular among young travelers for its bars, clubs, and beach parties.
- Also a hub for water sports and boat tours to nearby attractions like Turtle Island and Keri Caves.
Tsilivi:
- A family-friendly resort town on the northeastern coast.
- Offers a range of accommodations, restaurants, and entertainment options.
- Features a beautiful Blue Flag beach with shallow waters, ideal for swimming and sunbathing.
Alykes and Alykanas:
- Two neighboring resorts on the northeastern coast, known for their relaxed atmosphere and sandy beaches.
- Perfect for families and couples seeking a peaceful holiday experience.
- Attractions include salt flats (alykes in Greek), horse riding excursions, and traditional tavernas serving local cuisine.
Keri Village (Limni Keriou):
- A charming traditional village located on the southwestern coast.
- Offers stunning views of the Ionian Sea and the nearby uninhabited island of Marathonisi.
- Visitors can explore narrow streets, visit local shops, and dine at seaside tavernas.
Volimes:
- Situated in the mountainous northwest of Zakynthos.
- Known for its traditional architecture, handicrafts, and local products such as honey and olive oil.
- Nearby attractions include the Blue Caves and Shipwreck Beach (Navagio Beach), accessible by boat from the port of Agios Nikolaos.
Anafonitria:
- A picturesque village located near the northwest coast.
- Home to the historic Monastery of Anafonitria, where Saint Dionysios, the patron saint of Zakynthos, lived as a monk.
- Visitors can explore the monastery and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
These settlements offer a diverse range of experiences, from vibrant nightlife and seaside resorts to tranquil villages and natural wonders. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or outdoor activities, Zakynthos has something to offer for every traveler.
Nightlife
Zakynthos offers a vibrant nightlife scene with a variety of clubs, bars, and restaurants catering to tourists and locals alike. Here are some popular nightlife spots and dining options on the island:
Nightlife:
Laganas Strip:
- Laganas is known for its lively nightlife, particularly along the main strip.
- The strip is lined with bars, clubs, and late-night venues offering music, dancing, and entertainment until the early hours.
- Popular venues include Rescue Club, Cocktails & Dreams, and Linekers Bar.
Zakynthos Town:
- Zakynthos Town offers a diverse range of nightlife options, from trendy bars to cozy tavernas.
- Venues in the town center around Solomos Square and the waterfront area.
- Recommended spots include Havana Bar, Bohali Lounge Café Bar, and Sizzle Club.
Tsilivi Beach:
- Tsilivi also has a bustling nightlife scene, with beachfront bars and clubs offering cocktails, music, and beach parties.
- Visitors can enjoy drinks with a view of the sunset before heading to one of the beach clubs for dancing and entertainment.
Alykes and Alykanas:
- While quieter than Laganas, Alykes and Alykanas offer a more relaxed nightlife atmosphere.
- Visitors can find beachfront bars, tavernas with live music, and family-friendly entertainment options.
Dining:
Traditional Tavernas:
- Throughout Zakynthos, traditional tavernas serve authentic Greek cuisine and local specialties.
- Dishes to try include moussaka, souvlaki, fresh seafood, and Greek salads.
- Recommended tavernas include Toadfish Taverna in Laganas, The Olive Tree in Tsilivi, and Akrotiri Taverna in Zakynthos Town.
Seafood Restaurants:
- With its coastal location, Zakynthos is known for its fresh seafood.
- Seafood restaurants offer a variety of grilled fish, octopus, calamari, and seafood pasta dishes.
- Recommended seafood restaurants include Porto Limnionas Taverna and Nobelos Bio Restaurant in Vasilikos.
Fine Dining:
- For a more upscale dining experience, Zakynthos has several fine dining restaurants serving gourmet cuisine.
- These restaurants often feature creative dishes made with locally sourced ingredients.
- Notable options include Varres Restaurant in Zakynthos Town and Ambrosia Restaurant in Tsilivi.
Beachfront Cafés and Bars:
- Many beachfront cafés and bars also serve delicious food alongside refreshing drinks.
- Visitors can enjoy meals with a view of the sea and relax in a beachside setting.
- Recommended beachfront establishments include Barrage Beach Bar in Laganas and Bonanza Beach Bar in Alykanas.
Whether you’re looking to dance the night away, savor delicious Greek cuisine, or enjoy a sunset drink by the sea, Zakynthos offers a wide range of options to suit every taste and preference.
Islands
Zakynthos is situated in the Ionian Sea and is surrounded by several other beautiful islands. Some of the notable islands that surround Zakynthos include:
Kefalonia (Cephalonia):
- Kefalonia is the largest of the Ionian Islands and is located to the north of Zakynthos.
- Known for its stunning beaches, dramatic cliffs, and picturesque villages.
- Popular attractions include Myrtos Beach, Melissani Cave, and the village of Fiskardo.
Ithaca (Ithaki):
- Ithaca lies to the northeast of Zakynthos and is famous as the legendary home of Odysseus in Greek mythology.
- The island is characterized by its lush green landscapes, secluded beaches, and tranquil atmosphere.
- Visitors can explore archaeological sites, hiking trails, and charming villages such as Vathy and Kioni.
Corfu (Kerkyra):
- Corfu is located to the northwest of Zakynthos and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Ionian Islands.
- Known for its Venetian architecture, historic sites, and vibrant nightlife.
- Attractions include Corfu Town, Paleokastritsa Beach, and Achilleion Palace.
Paxos and Antipaxos:
- Paxos and Antipaxos are located to the north of Zakynthos, near the coast of Corfu.
- Paxos is a small island known for its crystal-clear waters, charming villages, and olive groves.
- Antipaxos, located just south of Paxos, is famous for its beautiful sandy beaches and vineyards.
Kythira (Cythera):
- Kythira is situated to the southeast of Zakynthos, closer to the southern coast of the Peloponnese.
- Known for its natural beauty, including waterfalls, gorges, and secluded coves.
- The island also has a rich history and is dotted with ancient ruins and Byzantine churches.
These islands, along with Zakynthos, form part of the stunning Ionian archipelago, each offering its own unique attractions, landscapes, and cultural experiences. Visitors to Zakynthos often have the opportunity to explore these neighboring islands through organized boat tours or by taking ferries from the island’s ports.
Beaches
Zakynthos is renowned for its breathtaking beaches, each offering its own unique beauty and atmosphere. Here are some of the most popular beaches on the island, along with their locations and approximate costs for renting sunbeds:
Navagio Beach (Shipwreck Beach):
- Location: Located on the northwest coast of Zakynthos, accessible only by boat.
- Features the iconic shipwreck that lies on the beach, surrounded by towering cliffs and crystal-clear turquoise waters.
- Sunbeds are not available for rent on Navagio Beach due to its remote location and protected status as a natural landmark.
Laganas Beach:
- Location: Situated on the southern coast of Zakynthos, near the resort town of Laganas.
- One of the longest beaches on the island, known for its soft golden sand and shallow waters.
- Sunbed rental prices can vary depending on the section of the beach and the time of year, but expect to pay around €5 to €10 per pair of sunbeds and an umbrella for the day.
Tsilivi Beach:
- Location: Located on the northeastern coast of Zakynthos, near the resort town of Tsilivi.
- Offers a wide expanse of sandy beach with clear waters, ideal for swimming and water sports.
- Sunbed rental prices typically range from €5 to €10 per pair for the day.
Gerakas Beach:
- Location: Situated on the southeastern coast of Zakynthos, near the village of Vasilikos.
- Known for its natural beauty and protected status as a nesting site for loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta).
- Sunbed rental prices are similar to other beaches on the island, ranging from €5 to €10 per pair for the day.
Agios Nikolaos Beach:
- Location: Located on the northeastern coast of Zakynthos, near the port town of Agios Nikolaos.
- Offers a picturesque setting with clear waters and views of the neighboring island of Kefalonia.
- Sunbed rental prices are comparable to other beaches on the island, typically ranging from €5 to €10 per pair for the day.
Please note that the prices mentioned above are approximate and may vary depending on factors such as the time of year, demand, and specific beach operators. Additionally, many beaches on Zakynthos offer free areas where visitors can set up their towels and enjoy the sun and sea without renting sunbeds.
Accommodation
Zakynthos offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit various budgets, including hotels, guesthouses, apartments, and hostels. Here are some tips on finding affordable accommodation and information about hotels on Zakynthos:
Check here for more
Booking Websites:
- Utilize online booking platforms such as Booking.com, Airbnb, Expedia, and Hostelworld to search for accommodation options on Zakynthos.
- These platforms often offer a wide selection of properties at different price points, allowing you to compare prices and find the best deals.
Off-Peak Season:
- Consider visiting Zakynthos during the shoulder or off-peak seasons, typically from April to June and September to October.
- Accommodation prices are generally lower during these times, and you may be able to find discounted rates or special offers.
Budget Hotels and Guesthouses:
- Look for budget-friendly hotels, guesthouses, and family-run accommodations in areas such as Laganas, Tsilivi, Alykes, and Alykanas.
- These establishments often offer clean and comfortable rooms at affordable rates, particularly if you book in advance.
Hostels and Backpacker Accommodation:
- If you’re traveling on a tight budget, consider staying in a hostel or backpacker accommodation.
- Hostels typically offer dormitory-style rooms with shared facilities, making them a cost-effective option for solo travelers or those on a budget.
Local Recommendations:
- Take advantage of local recommendations and tips from fellow travelers or residents of Zakynthos.
- Locals may be able to provide insights into affordable accommodation options, including hidden gems and lesser-known guesthouses.
As for hotels on Zakynthos, the island boasts a wide selection of hotels ranging from budget-friendly to luxury resorts. Here are some popular areas known for their hotel accommodations:
- Zakynthos Town: The capital city offers a variety of hotels, including boutique hotels, budget-friendly options, and upscale accommodations.
- Laganas: Known for its vibrant nightlife and beachfront hotels catering to young travelers.
- Tsilivi: A family-friendly resort area with numerous hotels and all-inclusive resorts overlooking the beach.
- Kalamaki: Offers a range of hotels and accommodations close to the beach, suitable for families and couples.
When searching for accommodation, be sure to read reviews, compare prices, and consider the location and amenities that best suit your needs and budget. With careful planning and research, you can find affordable accommodation options that allow you to enjoy everything Zakynthos has to offer without breaking the bank.
What to visit
Zakynthos is blessed with stunning natural beauty, and there are several viewpoints on the island that offer breathtaking panoramic views of the landscape, coastline, and surrounding sea. Here are some viewpoints that you should consider visiting during your time on Zakynthos:
Bohali Hill:
- Located just above Zakynthos Town, Bohali Hill offers stunning panoramic views of the town, harbor, and surrounding countryside.
- Visitors can enjoy picturesque vistas of the Ionian Sea and the neighboring islands from this elevated vantage point.
- Don’t miss the chance to visit Bohali Castle, an iconic landmark perched atop the hill, which also offers fantastic views.
Keri Lighthouse (Faros Keri):
- Situated on the southwestern coast of Zakynthos near the village of Keri, the Keri Lighthouse provides sweeping views of the rugged coastline and the azure waters of the Ionian Sea.
- Visitors can climb up to the lighthouse for stunning sunset views and panoramic vistas of the coastline.
Shipwreck Viewpoint (Navagio Beach):
- While Navagio Beach itself is inaccessible by road, there are several viewpoints along the cliffs above the beach that offer stunning views of the shipwreck, the white sandy beach, and the turquoise waters.
- The most popular viewpoint is located at the edge of the cliffs near the Agios Georgios Monastery, offering a postcard-perfect view of the shipwreck against the backdrop of the dramatic cliffs and sea.
Gerakas Belvedere:
- Situated on the southeastern coast of Zakynthos near Gerakas Beach, the Gerakas Belvedere offers panoramic views of the sandy coastline and the surrounding landscape.
- Visitors can admire the natural beauty of the area and take in views of the protected nesting grounds of the loggerhead sea turtles.
Boat Tours:
- Consider taking a boat tour around the island to discover hidden caves, secluded beaches, and stunning viewpoints accessible only by sea.
- Boat tours often include stops at scenic spots such as the Blue Caves, where you can marvel at the crystal-clear waters and limestone cliffs.
These are just a few of the many viewpoints that offer spectacular views of Zakynthos’ natural beauty. Whether you’re seeking panoramic vistas, sunset views, or photo opportunities, be sure to visit these viewpoints to experience the island’s breathtaking landscapes from different perspectives
Temperature
Zakynthos, like many Mediterranean destinations, experiences warm summers and mild winters. Here’s a general overview of the temperature ranges you can expect:
Summer (June to August): During the summer months, temperatures in Zakynthos typically range from around 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F) or even higher. It’s common to have long periods of sunny and hot weather, with occasional heatwaves.
Spring (March to May): Spring brings mild temperatures to Zakynthos, with daytime highs ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). This season is characterized by blooming flowers and lush greenery.
Autumn (September to November): Autumn temperatures gradually cool down from the summer highs, with daytime temperatures averaging between 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). Rainfall may increase during this time, particularly in November.
Winter (December to February): Winter in Zakynthos is mild compared to many other European destinations. Daytime temperatures typically range from 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F), with cooler nights. While snow is rare, rainfall is more frequent during the winter months.
Keep in mind that these temperature ranges are approximate and can vary depending on specific weather patterns and the year. If you’re planning a trip to Zakynthos, it’s always a good idea to check the weather forecast closer to your travel dates for the most accurate information.
