Zakynthos Island is the third largest island in the Ionian Sea, part of the archipelago Ionian Islands located west of the Peloponnese and south of Corfu on the west coast.

Despite its size (the length of the island is 40 km, the width is 20 km), the area of ​​the island is about 400 km2, the topography of the island is very diverse. On east coast beautiful sandy beaches hidden in numerous bays attract many tourists, while West Side, more wild, mountainous, with many rocks and mountains (they are not very high, the highest peak is only about 750 m).

The island is home to about 40 thousand inhabitants, the island is known to tourists for its beautiful sandy beaches, hidden coves and the most famous place Nesting sites for loggerhead sea turtles. Loggerhead sea turtles are the symbol of Zakynthos, a species of turtle that has been laying eggs on the beaches in the southern part of the island for hundreds of years and is currently endangered. They are protected by the state, hence there are some restrictions on the beaches during certain periods of time (for example, at Gerakas beach there is a ban on swimming at night) to help protect them. Zakynthos Island together with the whole family!

Map of Zakynthos Island

When is the best time to go on holiday to the island of Zakynthos?

The best time to travel to Zakynthos is from June to mid-September. The warmest time is in July and August, the sea water is very warm. However, it is best to visit Zakynthos in May, June and September, avoiding the merciless scorching sun.

However, many tourists come to the island not only in summer, but also at Christmas, Easter and other holidays. There is a large selection of accommodation available in the city all year round. You can choose from a wide range of hotels of all categories, as well as studio apartments and private rooms, suitable for families on a low budget.

The capital of the island of Zakynthos is Zakynthos Town

City Zakynthos (Zakynthos) is the capital and The largest city on the island, it is located on the east coast and is a center of culture and trade, with about 11-12 thousand inhabitants; its port is the largest on the island. The city was completely destroyed by a strong earthquake in 1953, but it was soon rebuilt and today visitors can see a city with two faces: on the one hand the old medieval one, with impressive buildings and monuments, on the other hand the modern, rapidly developing city, with all the amenities , and services of a modern city.

Dionysios Solomos Square

The center of the city is Dionysius Solomos Square, whose name comes from the name of the author of the words of the Greek anthem, who was born in the city of Zakynthos. It is surrounded by trees and impressive buildings with arched windows, columns and arches. These buildings house the Town Hall, the National Bank, the Byzantine Museum, the National Library, as well as various administrative buildings. Here you can see a bust of the Italian poet Niccolo Ugo Foscolo and a statue of the national poet of Greece Dionysius Solomos.

Byzantine Museum

The Byzantine Museum was opened in 1960 and displays local utensils and tools, as well as frescoes, sculptures and statues from the Hellenistic and Byzantine periods, as well as a collection of 17th-century icons.

In 1953, a powerful earthquake occurred on the island, which destroyed many monuments. The museum has a model that allows you to see what the city looked like before the beginning of 1953.

At the edge of the square you will find old church St. Nicholas 17th century, Renaissance church with a Byzantine bell tower! This is the only Venetian building that was saved from the fire that broke out after the 1953 earthquake!

If you go west along the sidewalk from Dionysius Solomos Square, then 150 meters away you will see St. Mark's Square.

This is a historical square, its history is connected with the island's struggle for independence. On July 30, 1797, the island's population gathered here and overthrew Venetian rule. Here you can visit the Dionysius Solomos Museum, which houses the remains of the national poet of Greece and other famous natives of the island.

It is open every day from 9.00 to 14.00

The museum was established in 1959 in a newly renovated building, and opened to the public in 1966, under the direction of a private association of local residents. On the ground floor of the house there is a collection of manuscripts by Solomos and other poets, authors and performers; there is also an interesting and rich collection of portraits famous people islands. You will also see a significant library and furniture from the period of British rule on the island, as well large collection photographs.

The museum also has an interesting collection of 18th and 19th century paintings, sculpture, ceramics, metal and wood carvings.

Finally, the museum has an interesting digital library where you will find a very rich bibliography on local history.

The so-called Rouga Street (market) begins on the southwestern side of Piazza San Marco. This is the largest shopping street in the city. You can stroll along it and buy groceries or souvenirs. You can relax for a while in the numerous cafes on both sides of the street.

Church of St. Dionysius

It is the symbol of Zakynthos and rises majestically over the southern side of the harbour! It is one of three buildings in the city that were not destroyed by the 1953 earthquake. It was built in 1925. IN churches can admire exquisite frescoes, and also kneel before the relic of the patron saint of the island, Dionysius (1547-1622), which is kept here.

150 m northwest of the monastery of St. Dionysius stands Church of the Virgin Mary Faneromeni, built in 1633. It was destroyed in the 1953 earthquake and was one of the most beautiful churches in Greece. It has been restored, maintaining its original appearance.

Zakynthos or Zakynthos is an island of poets, artists and musicians, the southernmost of the seven Ionian islands.

Here is the famous Navajo Bay, where a smuggler's ship lies on the sand; here huge Caretta Caretta turtles crawl onto the beaches; here olive groves alternate with orchards; here ancient secrets are hidden in mysterious grottoes and caves...

Cuisine of Zakynthos

The signature dish of the island of Zakynthos can be considered “sartsa” - beef with tomatoes, garlic and special sheep cheese “ladotiri”. Olive oil and all vegetables are local, fresh, straight from the garden. We recommend trying the hearty appetizer skordostubi - eggplants and tomatoes mixed with olive oil and garlic.

There are several cheese factories in Zakynthos where they make myzithra cheese - it tastes bland, so it is served with honey or sugar. Of course, you can easily order moussaka, souvlaki, and Greek salad - National cuisine held in high esteem here. To go with the coffee you drink here at any time of the day, we recommend ordering the local sweets mandolato (almond, honey and egg) or pastel (sesame, honey and almond).

Other resorts in Greece:

The island of Zakynthos has been known since prehistoric times; it was part of the Odyssean Kingdom. Homer calls it Wooded and considers it the first habitat of the son of the king of Phrygia Dardano - Zakynthos. As told in ancient myths, the ancient gods Apollo and Artemis walked around the island, fascinated by its beauty. Even in the distant past, thanks to its geographical location and a large supply of resin, the island experienced its political and commercial heyday. He took a neutral position in the war with the Persians, but fought on the side of the Athenians in the Peloponnesian War. Zakynthos has always had and maintains to this day a high level of culture. This is the birthplace of the national poet of Greece Dionysus Solomos, Ungo Foskolos, Xenopoulos. The influence of the Venetians, along with the Greek traditional way of life, served as the basis for the development of a special, sophisticated culture. All types of art developed rapidly on the island, so it is rightfully called the Florence of the East. Music runs in the blood of the island's inhabitants. The love for this type of art among the indigenous people has been noticed since ancient times, as evidenced by the worship of the islanders to the god of music Apollo. Already in the 15th century. under the influence of the Italians, theatrical art became widespread. In 1571, Aeschylus's play "The Persians" was staged for the first time. Today Zakynthos is one of the most important cultural centers Greece. Every year, concerts and other performance events are held on the island. Most of the island's 44 villages maintain their traditional way of life. Tourism is developing taking into account the interests of local residents, who are preventing the construction of huge complexes so as not to disturb the natural beauty of the island. Here you will find only medium and small hotel facilities, where all modern amenities will be offered to your service. Largest quantity holidaymakers in summer period falls on the town of Lagana, located 11 km. south of the city Zakynthos Flowering plains there alternate with olive groves, vineyards and endless beaches. The famous Caretta-Caretta sea turtles live off the coast of Lagana. Another area of ​​the island with developed tourism is Argassi, which is considered favorite place recreation for youth. Here you can spend your vacation fun and carefree. The Kalamaki area, located in the south of the island, is a quiet seaside corner with a wonderful sandy beach - a place where you can relax “soul and body”. The northeast of the island is represented by the village of Aliki, which attracts fans family tourism sandy beaches stretched along the entire coast and a shallow, safe sea. There are many opportunities for amateurs aquatic species sports. Near the village of Aliki there is a new rapidly developing center summer holiday Alikanas. 16 km. southwest of the island's capital is Vasilikos, a small village with lush vegetation and crystal clean water, flowering lands and gardens, sandy beaches. In the very south of the island is the tiny village of Keri Limni, which resembles Old city Zakynthos Built on top of a hill, surrounded by bright green slopes, with narrow streets and stone houses crowded together, it leaves a lasting impression. View of the Ionian Sea and " turtle island"Marathonisi, located opposite the village, stuns the imagination. The coastal waters of Limni Keri are rich in a variety of fish. Every sunset captivates everyone who has ever seen it in Kampi... From the heights of the hills, Zakynthos opens up from a new side: the villages are surrounded by greenery, among them - Volimes - the center of folk crafts, which is three settlements with old well-kept houses. From the very high point The island offers amazing views of the Ionian Sea all the way to Kefalonia! The islanders have a special attitude towards environmental protection, as evidenced by the vast territories of the island that have remained untouched and retained their pristine beauty, as well as the rare species of marine animals that have survived to this day and the crystal clearness of the coastal waters. The famous Mediterranean sea turtle Caretta-Caretta, which has lived for millions of years south coast Zakynthos feels completely safe and lays eggs on the sandy beaches of the island. In the southwestern bays of Zakynthos lives rare view black harbor seal Monachus-Monachus.

Geographical location

Zakynthos is an island in the southern Ionian Sea. Thanks to its geographical location (it is just an hour's ferry ride from the island of Kefalonia and the Peloponnese peninsula), guests of the island can visit other islands of the Ionian Sea, ancient Olympia, as well as the capital of Greece - Athens. The island is a natural and turtle reserve, and is rightfully considered the most romantic place in Greece. The endless sandy beaches of Zakynthos! In the northwestern part of the island are the famous Blue Caves.

Climate

The climate of the island of Zakynthos is soft continental, favorable for recreation throughout the year. In August it is dry and cool there, with temperatures reaching an average of +27 degrees Celsius.

Capital

The capital and port of the island, the city of Zakynthos, is located on the hills between ancient fortress and the sea. Buildings and mansions of the characteristic terracotta color, built in the traditional spirit with loggias and Venetian porticoes, are carefully preserved here. We advise you to definitely take a walk along the Strata Marina promenade, the famous Ruga, shopping center with its picturesque arches, lined with tiles central square St. Mark's, which is always very lively. The Bohalis district, located directly below the Fortress, will charm you with its narrow, quiet coffee shops and restaurants where you can listen to ancient music. A fortress rises above Bohalis, offering beautiful views of the modern city and the Ionian Sea.

How to get there

You will need only 1 hour to fly to the island from Athens airport. There are two flights every day. Zakynthos Airport is 6 km away. from the capital of the island (night flights are prohibited). If during your trip you use a rented car, you can use the services of ferries that will take you and your car to Zakynthos from the port of Kyllini, located on the Peloponnese peninsula, within an hour. In summer, ferries make up to 10 trips daily. In addition, you can use comfortable buses or trains with daily services from Athens all year round.

Zakynthos - beautiful island, a real jewel in the Greek crown of the islands. Its superb beaches, the unique Caretta-Caretta turtles, the incredible color of the sea water, ancient mansions from the Venetian era and the picturesque Navagio Bay, the symbol of the island, attract thousands of tourists every year.

Zakynthos belongs to the group of Ionian islands, it is located near the Peloponnese peninsula (9.5 nautical miles between them) and the island of Kefalonia is located 8.5 nautical miles away. More than 40 thousand people live on an area of ​​406 square meters.

The city of Zakynthos is the capital of the island. Thanks to old mansions in the Venetian style, decorated with elegant loggias, arched galleries, intricate patterns of paved roads, beautiful squares, it looks like Medieval city. Here you should definitely visit Bohali - the Venetian castle with its special atmosphere, as well as Strani Hill. It was here that Dionysios Solomos, the famous Greek poet, wrote the famous “Hymn to Freedom”.

The island is rich in various tourist places, popular with guests from all over the world, including the stunning Cape Laganas. However, in addition, there are numerous other locations worth visiting, without which the names “Flower of Levante” and “Southern Venice” would not have formed in relation to Zakynthos. Enjoying the exotic sandy beaches, picturesque rocky bays, go to see the Kerya lighthouse in the village of Keri, and Ano Gerakaki, from where you can see beautiful views to the surrounding area. The mountain settlements of Exo Chora, Orfonies, Volimes are hidden in rich pine thickets, but it is here that the tourist will see the national houses of the local residents and feel the charming atmosphere of life in small settlements.

The east coast of the island is an ideal choice for a family holiday. There are numerous beautiful beaches, covered with soft warm sand, blue sea ​​water crystal clear. Fresh greenery surrounding the area fills the air with aromas. There are various taverns nearby where you can relax with a delicious lunch and a glass of local wine.

The western lands, strewn with rocks, are different. Here you can enjoy the exquisite beauties of the island, but getting to the beaches is problematic. Those who managed to reach the sea should be careful in the water because of stones and broken rocks. So it will be dangerous to go here with children.

Gerakas is the beach of Zakynthos, which has become a real landmark of the island. Children will like it here, because this is where you can meet cute inhabitants - sea turtles. The animals come straight to people, so the kids will remember this trip forever. This place is also famous for clay sculptures created by the elements.

Laganas Beach has been declared a national park because it is home to the unique Caretta-Caretta turtles. To avoid harming animals, boat traffic is prohibited in the waters of the bay. It is worth noting that you will not be able to watch turtles around the clock: the beach closes half an hour before sunset.

Attractions Zakynthos

The first settlers in the capital of the island of Zakynthos appeared in ancient times. The major earthquake of the last century, which destroyed many buildings, still left many beautiful historical and cultural monuments, so tourists will be able to meet them while walking around the city.

The capital's Venetian mansions attract attention with their exquisite architecture, decorative elements, loggias and arches, as well as bright ocher walls. While walking around Zakynthos, it is worth visiting the 16th century Monastery of Agios Dionysius. It has been preserved almost in its original form. The monastery houses the relics of the patron saint of Zakynthos. According to local legends, Dionysius walks around the island at night.

The central square of Platia Solomou accommodates two attractions at once. There is a monument to Dionysius Solas, as well as the Church of St. Nicholas. In addition, on main square The city houses the Byzantine Museum, the collection of which includes unique monuments of Greek church painting, covering the period from antiquity to the end of the 19th century. Damascene, Doxaras, Dzanes, Koutouzis, Kallergis - the works of these masters are a striking example of the iconography of Zakynthos. The museum also houses sculptures from the Hellenistic period and the Byzantine era, which will be interesting for tourists to see.

St. Mark's Cathedral is located on the square of the same name, where you can also visit the museum of the poet D. Solomonos and other famous residents of Zakynthos. Walking along Filikon Street, the Church of St. George attracts attention. This famous monument architecture, which played an important role for the independence of the Greek state. “Filiki Eteria”, the secret club that organized the uprising of 1821, swore allegiance within the walls of this church.

On Bokhari Hill is located Venetian fortress. Once upon a time there stood the acropolis of Psofis, a structure of the era Ancient Greece. However, the Venetian rulers destroyed the building almost to the ground. The fortress was built over several centuries: the first stones were laid in the 12th century, and the final work was carried out only in 1646. The size of the fortress is not its only striking feature. The sophistication and laconicism of the details is truly amazing. For many years it was the central defensive point that saved the island from pirate raids, so the air is still saturated with military spirit. In addition to its historical importance, tourists will be interested in visiting the fortress for the incredible view of Zakynthos, which opens from the top of the hill.

You can feel the greatness of the sea element in Maritime Museum Milano, which is located in the village of Tsilivi. The exhibition contains comprehensive information about the centuries-old maritime events of the Greeks. The Verzaio Agricultural Museum will tell you about the life and customs of Greek farmers and reveal the secrets of the traditions of the island’s population. The tourist will be able to see household items, furniture, as well as handicrafts from Zakynthos craftsmen. The age of individual objects in the collection is 400 years. Another famous museum on the island is the natural history Helmis, the exhibition of which includes about 500 exhibits that reveal the special world of animals, plants of the island, and the unique species that live here.

A short distance from Zakynthos, in the mountains, is the Church of Our Lady of Anafonithria. This church monument is interesting for its history of appearance. Legends say that a local resident of the 15th century discovered an icon emitting rays of light in waves. On the site of this wonderful find, a church and a monastery were erected.

The 13th century Metamorfosi Sotiros monastery, which stands on the neighboring island of Stamfanio, was partially restored after a devastating earthquake in the 50s of the 20th century.

Mycenaean burials are unique, their age exceeds 4 millennia. The graves at Campi are still of interest to scientists all over the world. They are located above sea ​​caves, and the artifacts found here became the most important historical discovery.

Cuisine of Zakynthos

Local dishes are an example of how Greek cuisine can boggle the mind. Traditional cooking methods and fresh ingredients make each dish a real feast of taste. The most important ingredient in local cuisine is, of course, olive oil. Tomatoes, lemons, aromatic garlic and various seasonings are also often used to imbue food with wonderful aromas.

Real local cuisine better to look further from iconic places islands. It is there that the taverns serve truly traditional dishes, albeit not as fast as in the center of the capital. Technologies are carefully preserved, and therefore small villages can surprise even gourmets with their cuisine.

Sarza is a must gastronomic journey according to Zakynthos. It contains beef, tomatoes, Ladotiri sheep cheese and garlic. Those who have experienced this taste will remember the impressions of this “trick” of the island for a long time. Skordostubi, consisting of tomatoes, eggplants, olive oil with the addition of garlic, has gained no less popularity. Like many Greek lands, there is excellent myzithra cheese. It can be fresh or salty, but the rule for its use is standard: add honey or sugar. True connoisseurs delicious dishes They recommend Zakynthian rabbit cooked in tomato sauce.

Tzatziki sauce is traditional in Greece and is also served in Zakynthos. Pay attention to the various pastries with fillings: tropitakia filled with feta or turopita, puff pastries with cheese, meat, spinach, and gyros. This local snack is very nutritious because it contains French fries, tomatoes, fresh herbs and a colorful sauce.

Order the Horiyatiki. And yes, they will bring you a classic Greek salad: this is the name it bears in its homeland. However, after trying it, you may not recognize the famous dish. Fresh products make the taste sparkle in a new way.

It is worth adding stifado to the list - this is veal cooked with onions and tomato sauce, as well as souvlaki. Papoutsakia, jovetsi - these words should complete the plans for this trip so that Greece remains in the heart forever. Those with a sweet tooth will not be left without pleasant dishes: mandolato will be a real discovery. A mixture of eggs, almonds, honey - nutritious and very tasty. Or, for example, pastel - it is similar to mandolato, only sesame is added instead of egg. Baklava, nougat, kurabye, various varieties of honey - lovers of sweets will be delighted.

Coffee lovers should not leave the island without trying Greek coffee. If you want to drink it with sugar, then order picro or be-metrio, and those who drink their coffee very sweet take glyco. The traditional ritual of drinking coffee is to drink this invigorating drink very slowly, so that the bottom is covered with aromatic sediment. Tea is not popular in Zakynthos. But there are a lot of different fresh juices here. Of course, it’s worth trying the local wine, which you won’t find anywhere else. The export of this drink is not accepted, so to enjoy it away from Zakynthos, bring a bottle as a souvenir. Tourists also like to order ouzo, aniseed vodka, or Metaxa cognac.

Features of Zakynthos

Be careful with gestures! Locals they are used very actively in communication, and each has a special meaning. Nodding your head here means denial, so at first you will have to get used to it. But if the Greeks accompany nodding with the clicking of their tongues, then this is a clear manifestation of skepticism.

It is customary here to shake hands at the first meeting, and further meetings begin with a kiss on both cheeks, and the gender of the interlocutor is unimportant. Get ready for raised voices - such an expressive manner is quite normal for Greek culture. If you decide to support the condemnation of Greece, be prepared for negative consequences. Local residents cannot stand such statements from foreigners.

More details

Attractions

Church of St. Dionysius

The patron saint of the island of Zakynthos is Saint Dionysius. In his honor, in the 20th century, a temple was erected on the site of a monastery destroyed by an earthquake. Today, the Church of St. Dionysius is the main Orthodox shrine of the island.

The strong walls of the sanctuary withstood the terrible earthquake of 1953. Its luxurious appearance and rich interior decoration impress guests of the country.

The temple, built in the Venetian style, stands on the main city embankment. Inside it are kept icons painted by the famous masters Koutouzis and Doxaras. The walls of the temple are decorated with magnificent paintings and frescoes.

A religious museum has been opened at the temple, which displays collections of books, paintings, jewelry and various church utensils.

The main value of the temple is the relics of St. Dionysius. The relics are kept in a silver shrine standing in the chapel. Thousands of pilgrims from all over the world, as well as ordinary tourists in need of help, come to visit the relics of the Saint.

Saint Dionysius is revered by the inhabitants of Zakynthos. The young man, originally from a noble Venetian family, left home and became a monk. Over the years of his life, the Saint performed many miracles. He was loved and respected. In the 18th century he was canonized.

The inhabitants of the island believe that the Saint still protects and protects them. Periodically, temple servants discover worn-out slippers of St. Dionysius and change them. Hence the inhabitants nicknamed the patron “the walking Saint.”

Monastery of Our Lady of Anathonitria

A popular and valuable attraction of Zakynthos is the Monastery of Our Lady of Anaphonitria. The construction of the monastery is associated with a miraculous event. Local residents in the 15th century discovered an icon of the Mother of God in a tree, which shimmered with a bright light. It felt like the icon was screaming. Residents without hesitation decided to build a chapel on an unusual place, which later turned into a monastery.

Now the monastery is not active, but is a historical and religious monument. The sanctuary building was not damaged by the powerful earthquake of 1953. The interior decoration has retained its beauty. ancient frescoes are of great value. Their age is more than 500 years. A particularly valuable artifact of the temple is the icon of the Blessed Virgin Mary, brought from Constantinople. Next to the catholicon there is a chapel built for defensive purposes.

The patron saint of the island, Saint Dionysius, spent the remaining years of his life in the monastery. His cell and personal belongings were preserved intact.

Not far from the sanctuary there is a small colorful village with white one-story houses. The village of Anaphonitria is a quiet, non-tourist place where you can take a break from the bustle of the city and stroll along quiet streets.

Askos Nature Reserve

Not far from the bay of Agios Nikolaos there is a fantastic natural monument - the Askos rock reserve. The attraction is the most popular among tourists with children on the island of Zakynthos. Stone Park opened in 2002.

The vast territory of the park is home to more than 45 species of animals. The variety of rare species of flora and fauna makes the reserve incredibly beautiful and picturesque.

Little visitors to the petting zoo can pet and feed the animals. The inhabitants of the park should be fed with special food provided by the staff.

The park is filled with a variety of ancient buildings, including stables and warehouses, swimming pools and water collection tanks. Many buildings are over 600 years old. Stone and wooden structures perfectly complement the style of the park and add a unique feature to it.

Visitors to the park, upon entering its territory, feel incredible emotions and complete harmony with nature.

With the help of the reserve map, translated into 25 languages, a walk through the park becomes convenient and comfortable.

Zakynthos Marine Reserve

The turtle island of Zakynthos is famous for its amazing flora and fauna. One of the rarest species found in Mediterranean waters are the Caretta Caretta turtles.

In 1999, the state opened a Marine Reserve in order to preserve the rare species of reptiles.

The huge territory of the reserve stretches in the waters of Zakynthos along the beaches of Laganas, Keri, Limni, Kalamaki and two small islands. The reserve is protected by the state and environmentalists; fishing in it is strictly prohibited.

Turtles crawl onto the deserted shore only in June and lay eggs.

You can see them at other times of the year at sea ​​trip along Laganas Bay, renting a yacht with a transparent bottom.

In addition to turtles, the reserve protects a rare species of monk seals. It is also home to dolphins, porcupines, iguanas and a variety of bird species.

The rarest and endangered species of fauna growing in the waters of the reserve include oceanic poseidonia.

Blue Caves of Zakynthos

Incredible a nice place, created by nature, is located on the island of Zakynthos. For many millennia sea ​​waves formed stone arches leading into the blue caves. Each cave has a unique shape and relief. They were called blue because of the clear light blue water that washed them.

The crystal clear waters of the grottoes are considered healing. They contain minerals and calcium, which have a beneficial effect on the skin.

According to legend, the natural landmark appeared from a magically colored stone thrown into the water by the Creator.

The impressive grottoes can only be reached from the sea. Excursion ships depart here. You can also rent a boat and head to the attraction yourself.

The best time to visit the snow-white caves is considered to be morning and evening, when the rays of the sun illuminate the rocks. You should not travel in stormy weather - it is dangerous.

Keri Caves

The Keri Caves are accessible only from the sea. You can go here on a rented boat or boat.

The mesmerizing blue caves and their crystal clear water enchant tourists. This place is ideal for scuba diving enthusiasts. In the clearest water you can see underwater inhabitants - turtles, fur seals, and a variety of colorful fish.

Wolmes

The mountain village of Volmes is located at an altitude of about 500 meters above the sky. This picturesque place is surrounded by picturesque forests, vineyards and olive groves. From here you have stunning views of the island, the coast, the Ionian Sea and Kefalonia.

The settlement is rich in its traditions and history. Wolmes was hit by the 1953 earthquake. Some ancient churches, houses and other buildings have retained their original appearance. One of these sacred monasteries is the Church of St. Paraskeva. It features magnificent wall paintings and ancient icons.

The locals are friendly and welcoming. Life in Volmes is quiet and leisurely. There are no noisy bars or night parties here. The atmosphere in the village is imbued with calmness and sincerity.

Volmes is famous for its lace, ceramics, handmade carpets and delicious honey, wine and homemade cheese.

Byzantine Museum in Zakynthos

The most interesting and popular museum in Zakynthos is the Byzantine Museum, opened in 1960 on Solomou Square.

The museum exposition describes in detail the history of the development of Christian culture in Zakynthos. The Byzantine period brought enormous contributions to the culture of Zakynthos. At this time, extensive construction of churches and monasteries began, and icon painting developed. The Byzantine era was reflected in the subsequent art of Zakynthos.

The museum's exhibits cover a wide period of time - from the Byzantine era until the 19th century. The rich collection consists of magnificent frescoes, ancient rare icons, and sculptures.

Of particular value are the carved iconostases of the 16th century and a fragment of the facade of the Church of St. Andrew of Volimsky.

On the ground floor there is a model of the city before the earthquake. A sculpture gallery and an art gallery are open.

The museum's exhibition is constantly updated. Cultural events are periodically held within its walls.

Navagio Bay

Navagio Bay or, in other words, Smugglers Bay, attracts tourists from all over the world. The main attraction of this place is a rusty ship that was wrecked during a strong storm in the 80s of the last century. The ship was carrying smuggled goods. During the crash, the crew managed to escape, and the ship remained a local treasure. Tourists who have visited the bay scratch memorable inscriptions on the ship.

Navagio Bay - beautiful place, which can only be reached from the sea. Inaccessible rocks fenced it off and protected it from the wind. You can admire the incredible landscape from observation deck located on a rock. Snow-white sand on the beach and azure water give the place a unique heavenly look.

Main attractions or what to see in Zakynthos.

On greek island Zakynthos, or as it is also called, Zakynthos, we have already vacationed three times and are going again this year. We have never seen a more cozy and comfortable holiday in Greece anywhere before. Of course, to each his own, but we really like the island of Zakynthos for its nature, climate, sea and beaches.

Morning in Zakynthos

The most important attraction and calling card not only of Zakynthos, but of all of Greece, is Navagio Bay (Navagio - translated from Greek means shipwreck). Her image is found on all tourist sites and postcards related to Greece. Navagio Bay itself can only be accessed by excursion boat or rented boat. Moreover, excursion boats do not enter the bay in stormy weather. There is a wonderful beach in the bay itself. white sand and on the shore lies a broken rusty ship with the inscription “Spartak is a champion!” This ship once carried smugglers here in a storm. If you just admire the views of the bay, you can do this from the observation deck, which is most conveniently accessible by rented car. The views are amazing. There are always a lot of photographers here and even in high season there is a queue of people interested.

Navagio Bay.

Sea near Navagio Bay

Natural and natural color of the sea

What we like. Firstly, there is the absence of constantly blowing winds, such as in Crete or Rhodes. Secondly, the presence of many cozy bays creates unique comfort for beach holiday. There are no long wide beaches with crowds of tourists and numerous rows of umbrellas and sun loungers. Thirdly, the presence of numerous attractions within walking distance of each other. Halkidiki, for example, has magnificent nature and amazing beautiful beaches, but you have to travel far away to see the sights.

The next very famous and visited by many tourists attraction of Zakynthos (Zakynthos) is at Cape Skinari. Essentially, this is a system of grottoes, both on the shore and under water. They are located in the north of the island and can only be reached from the sea. To do this, it is most convenient to use an excursion boat or rent a motor boat yourself. By the way, this service is not expensive in Zakynthos. You will be given a boat with a motor and a filled tank. To be on the safe side, you will be given a cell phone so you can contact the landlord in case of unforeseen situations.

Blue Caves of Zakynthos Island

Zakynthos. Sea. Silence.

If you want to go to the Blue Caves on an excursion, then numerous travel agencies are at your service, including Russian speaking guides. The cost of such an excursion is on average 50 euros per person. The cost depends on the place from where you plan to sail. The closer to the town of Agios Nikolos and Cape Skinari, the cheaper. As a rule, on such excursions you will be allowed to swim and dive from a boat among these caves and grottoes. It’s all very interesting and romantic, especially in calm, non-stormy weather. There are full-day excursions around the island with swimming in many bays and mandatory swimming, fishing and lunch.

Zakynthos has a stunning sea, clean and warm.

All tourists flying to holiday on the island of Zakynthos certainly go to the capital of the island, the city of Zakynthos. There are many taverns, souvenir shops on the embankment and life in the city is simply in full swing. There is a port in Zakynthos from which you can sail on a catamaran excursion neighboring island Kefalonia. From anywhere on the island you can get to Zakynthos Town by bus or taxi. Buses run almost regularly, and taxis are not at all expensive.

The capital of the island of Zakynthos is the city of Zakynthos

Zakynthos town

Greek classic - frappe.

Interior of an ordinary Greek tavern

And this is what an unusual tavern in Zakynthos looks like in the city of Zakynthos

Embankment in Zakynthos town

Temple of St. Dionysius

Inside the Church of St. Dionysius.

Greeks are resting

In the city of Zakynthos is the most famous church of St. Dionysius on the island, where his miraculous relics rest. Thousands of tourists come here to worship them. The church itself is very beautiful.

Zakynthos has very interesting excursion, which is called “jeep safari”. You get into a small jeep and, with 6-8 people, go to sightseeing tour all over the island from mandatory visit main attractions, wineries, bays and swimming in them. The jeep safari route takes you through the island's mountains and includes a visit to one of the local taverns for a Greek-style lunch. The excursion is interesting, but perhaps not everyone will like it, because... You will have to drive in a jeep in the heat, over bumps, potholes and dusty mountain serpentines. I would even call this excursion extreme. But it is very beautiful and Zakynthos will appear before you from a completely different side.

In the mountains of Zakynthos on a jeep safari.

What else to see in Zakynthos?

Not far from the village of Laganas there is a small island of Marathonisi. There are cozy small coves with wild beaches among the rocks, where you can feel like a real Robinson. You can get to the island only on a rented motor boat or with some sea ​​excursion. Marathonisi also offers excellent snorkeling and diving.

Marathonisi Island. Reserve turtles carriage-carriage.

Wild beaches on the island of Marathonisi. You can only get here by motor boat yourself.

Classics of the genre. Zakynthos. In the evening, there is a queue to drink a glass of wine on these chairs.

Also in this village of Laganas there is a local living attraction - a huge sea turtle, whose name is Satyris and he is more than a hundred years old. This turtle periodically swims to the shore and at this time the real show begins. A crowd of tourists gathers. Some come here specifically from afar to look at the wonder and feed it from their hands. This is a unique attraction for children.

Turtle Satyris.

This is a different story. The island's territory is considered a nature reserve for them due to the fact that hundreds of "coach-carriage" sea turtles swim here to lay their eggs in the sand in the spring. In the fall, around the end of August or beginning of September, turtles begin to hatch from these eggs. This is also a unique sight in Zakynthos. Turtles are born early in the morning, before sunrise, and therefore crowds of tourists come to the beach at dawn with cameras to capture the birth of a new turtle life. After hatching, small turtles rush to the water and everyone is trying to catch this moment. After sunrise the show ends.

If you want to get to know Greece and its customs, culture, history better and at the same time have plenty of swimming and sunbathing, be sure to come to Zakynthos.