Where to Stay in Zakynthos (Zante)
Your guide to the best areas and accommodation types
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Best Areas to Stay
Each neighborhood has its own character. Find the one that matches your travel style.
The island's capital and main port offers a blend of Venetian architecture, local culture, and authentic Greek atmosphere. The town features museums, churches, and waterfront dining, with fewer beaches but excellent ferry connections. This is the most authentic area for experiencing local life beyond the tourist resorts.
- Most affordable accommodation on the island
- Year-round restaurants and services
- Easy access to public transportation and car rentals
- Authentic Greek atmosphere with local tavernas
- Limited beach access (requires short drive)
- Can be noisy near the port and main streets
The island's most famous resort town is known for its nightlife, long sandy beach, and party atmosphere. This is Zakynthos's entertainment hub with clubs, bars, and restaurants lining the main strip. The area attracts primarily young travelers seeking a lively holiday experience.
- Longest sandy beach on the island (9km)
- Extensive nightlife and entertainment options
- Wide range of accommodation at competitive prices
- Numerous restaurants and bars within walking distance
- Very loud and crowded during peak season
- Can feel overly commercialized
- Beach can be crowded with sunbeds
A well-developed family-friendly resort located on the northeast coast with a beautiful Blue Flag beach. Tsilivi offers a more relaxed atmosphere than Laganas while still providing plenty of amenities, restaurants, and water sports. The area has grown significantly but maintains a pleasant balance between development and charm.
- Excellent sandy beach with shallow waters
- Good selection of family-friendly hotels and resorts
- Close to Zakynthos Town (7km)
- Variety of restaurants from traditional to international
- Water sports and activities available
- Can be busy during peak season
- Main road can have traffic noise
A quieter alternative to neighboring Laganas, Kalamaki offers a more family-oriented atmosphere with a protected beach that's part of the National Marine Park. Development is more controlled here due to loggerhead turtle nesting sites. The resort maintains a peaceful vibe while still offering good facilities and dining options.
- Beautiful sandy beach with turtle nesting areas
- Quieter than Laganas but close enough for nightlife access
- Good selection of tavernas and restaurants
- Protected natural environment
- Beach restrictions during turtle nesting season (no umbrellas after sunset)
- Limited nightlife within the village itself
A scenic area in the southeast featuring multiple beautiful beaches including Porto Zoro, Banana Beach, and Gerakas. The peninsula is more spread out with accommodation scattered among pine forests and olive groves. This area appeals to those seeking a more natural setting with excellent beaches and a peaceful atmosphere.
- Access to multiple stunning beaches
- Lush green landscape with pine forests
- More secluded and peaceful atmosphere
- Part of the National Marine Park
- Excellent for nature walks and exploration
- Car rental essential due to spread-out nature
- Limited nightlife and evening entertainment
- Some beaches have limited facilities
Twin resorts on the northeast coast offering long sandy beaches and a more traditional Greek feel. These neighboring villages provide a relaxed atmosphere with good facilities but less intense development than southern resorts. The area is popular with families and couples seeking a peaceful beach holiday.
- Long sandy beaches with shallow waters
- Traditional village atmosphere
- Good value for money
- Beautiful mountain backdrop views
- Less crowded than major southern resorts
- Further from main attractions and Zakynthos Town
- Limited evening entertainment options
The closest resort to Zakynthos Town (just 4km away), Argassi offers a long pebble beach and a lively main street with bars and restaurants. The resort has developed significantly but maintains a more Greek character than some other areas. It's ideal for those wanting easy access to the capital while staying in a resort setting.
- Very close to Zakynthos Town and airport
- Good nightlife without Laganas-level intensity
- Wide range of accommodation options
- Regular bus service to town
- Pebble beach rather than sand
- Main road can be noisy
- Beach area can be narrow
Located in the island's southwest, Keri village sits on hillsides overlooking dramatic cliffs and the sea, while Limni Keri is the small port below. This area is quieter and more remote, offering stunning sunset views and access to the Keri Caves. It's perfect for those seeking an escape from busier resorts.
- Spectacular cliff-top views and sunsets
- Traditional village atmosphere in upper Keri
- Excellent tavernas with local character
- Boat trips to Keri Caves and Marathonisi Island
- Peaceful and unspoiled
- Limited beach access (small pebble beach)
- Remote location requires car rental
- Fewer accommodation options
Accommodation Types
From budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels, here's what's available.
Popular in Zakynthos, particularly in Tsilivi, Laganas, and Argassi. These properties offer meals, drinks, and entertainment included in the rate, ideal for families and those wanting budget certainty.
Best for: Families with children, groups, budget-conscious travelers wanting convenience
The most common accommodation type across the island, offering kitchenettes and flexibility. Quality varies from basic to modern, often family-run with pools and weekly maid service.
Best for: Independent travelers, families, longer stays, budget-conscious visitors
Growing category in Zakynthos, particularly in quieter areas and traditional villages. These smaller properties offer personalized service, stylish design, and often spectacular views.
Best for: Couples, honeymooners, travelers seeking unique experiences
Scattered across the island, especially in Vasilikos and hillside locations. Villas offer privacy, private pools, and full kitchens, perfect for groups or families wanting space.
Best for: Families, groups, special occasions, those seeking privacy
Found mainly in Zakynthos Town and traditional villages, these simple family-run properties offer basic rooms, often with shared facilities or minimal amenities.
Best for: Backpackers, budget travelers, short stays
High-end properties with direct beach access, spa facilities, multiple restaurants, and premium services. Concentrated in Vasilikos, Tsilivi, and select coastal areas.
Best for: Honeymooners, luxury travelers, special celebrations
Booking Tips
Insider advice to help you find the best accommodation.
July and August accommodations fill up quickly, especially in family-friendly areas like Tsilivi and Vasilikos. Book 4-6 months in advance for best selection and rates. Last-minute deals are rare during peak weeks, and you may find limited availability or inflated prices if waiting too long.
Zakynthos is larger than it appears, and distances between areas can take 30-45 minutes by car. If you want beach access without a car, choose accommodation within walking distance. For famous attractions like Navagio Beach and Blue Caves, you'll need to arrange boat trips regardless of where you stay, as they're only accessible by sea.
Not all 'beachfront' properties have direct beach access—some require crossing roads or walking distances. Additionally, confirm whether beaches are sandy or pebble, as this varies significantly. Properties in the National Marine Park areas have restrictions during turtle nesting season (May-October), including limited beach furniture and nighttime lighting.
Many accommodations charge extra for air conditioning (€5-10 per day), safes, and Wi-Fi. Breakfast quality varies enormously—some hotels offer extensive buffets while others provide minimal continental options. Always confirm what's included in your rate and read recent reviews about food quality if booking half-board or all-inclusive.
If staying outside main resort areas or in Vasilikos, Keri, or mountain villages, a rental car is essential. Some accommodations offer free parking while others in town centers charge. Book properties with confirmed parking if renting a car. Alternatively, stay in well-serviced resorts like Tsilivi or Laganas where local amenities are walkable.
The accommodation scene in Zakynthos changes rapidly, with properties upgrading or declining in quality. Focus on reviews from the past 12 months, particularly regarding cleanliness, noise levels, and whether photos accurately represent current conditions. Pay attention to comments about maintenance and management responsiveness.
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When to Book
Timing matters for both price and availability.
For July-August stays, book 4-6 months ahead (February-March). Prices are highest and availability limited, especially for popular family resorts and beachfront properties. Expect minimum stay requirements (often 7 nights) and strict cancellation policies.
May-June and September-early October offer better value and availability. Book 2-3 months ahead for good selection. Weather is excellent, beaches less crowded, and prices 20-30% lower than peak season. Many properties offer more flexible booking terms.
Late October through April sees most resort accommodations closed, though Zakynthos Town hotels remain open year-round. For winter visits, book 2-4 weeks ahead. Expect significantly reduced prices but limited restaurant and activity options. Ideal for budget travelers and those seeking authentic local experience.
The earlier you book, the better your selection and rates. Last-minute deals are uncommon in Zakynthos during summer. For specific properties or areas, booking 3-4 months ahead ensures availability. Consider flexible dates to compare prices across different weeks.
Good to Know
Local customs and practical information.