Zakynthos Town

Ζάκυνθος

The principal settlement of Zakynthos island, rebuilt after the 1953 earthquake with neoclassical architecture and a charming waterfront. It serves as the gateway to the famous Loggerhead turtle beaches and Blue Caves that make Zakynthos a major Mediterranean destination.

Things to do

• Zakynthos Castle — Explore the Venetian fortress overlooking the town with panoramic views of the Ionian Sea and surrounding villages.
• Waterfront Promenade — Stroll along the elegant neoclassical waterfront lined with cafes, tavernas, and restored Venetian buildings perfect for sunset views.
• Solomos Museum — Visit the museum dedicated to Dionysios Solomos, the national poet who wrote the Greek national anthem, housed in a neoclassical building.
• St. Mark's Square — Relax in the town's main plaza surrounded by elegant arcades, the Venetian bell tower, and outdoor dining spots.
• Blue Caves boat tours — Take a guided boat tour from the harbor to the famous sea caves with luminous blue waters on the island's northern coast.
• Laganas Beach excursion — Visit the nearby loggerhead turtle nesting beach by car or organized tour, one of the Mediterranean's most important breeding grounds.

Food to try

• Pastitsada — A rich beef stew braised in tomato sauce and wine, served over fresh pasta, showcasing Venetian culinary influence on Zakynthos.
• Feta saganaki — Crispy fried cheese served warm with honey drizzle or lemon, a beloved appetizer found in every waterfront taverna.
• Stifado — A hearty stew of tender meat with pearl onions and red wine, a traditional Ionian islands dish perfect with local wine.
• Zante currants — Tiny sweet dried grapes native to Zakynthos, eaten as a snack or used in local pastries and desserts.
• Grilled octopus — Fresh octopus from local waters simply grilled with olive oil and lemon, best enjoyed at waterfront tavernas at sunset.
• Mandarins and citrus treats — Zakynthos produces exceptional mandarins and lemons; seek out local marmalades, spoon sweets, and fresh juices.

Local customs & good to know

• Siesta tradition — Many shops close between 2-5 PM for the afternoon siesta; plan activities accordingly and embrace the slower pace of Greek life.
• Evening volta — Join locals for the traditional evening stroll along the waterfront after sunset, when the town becomes a social gathering place.
• Turtle conservation respect — When visiting beaches or on boat tours, follow strict guidelines about not disturbing loggerhead turtles and nesting areas as locals take their protection seriously.
• Greek hospitality customs — Greeks value personal interaction; greet shopkeepers with 'Kalispéra' (good evening) and expect friendly conversation rather than rushed transactions.