Zante Holidays guide – from maps and weather to the best attractions and restaurants – here’s what you need to know

At a glance

Zante is great for…

Photographers: The local area has some of the most breath-taking sights in Greece.

History lovers: Dig deeper into Greece’s heritage by visiting Olympia.

Nightlife: There are tonnes of bars and clubs to choose from.

Introducing Zante

The most southerly of Greece’s Ionian Islands, Zante, also known as Zakynthos, consists of the mountainous Northwest with its traditional villages, the fertile central region home to vineyards and olive groves, and the beach paradise of the Southeast. Holidays to Zante offer a great mix: from famous beaches and pumping nightlife to unforgettable views and the Caretta Caretta – an endangered sea turtle that is most at home in Zante. The area remains sunny throughout the year, even during the winter months.  So the ball is well and truly in your court on this Greek island escape.

Getting Around

You shouldn’t find it too troublesome to get around Zante, but don’t expect to rely on buses to transport you around the island as buses can be irregular and unreliable. Most visitors to Zante choose to explore the main resort on foot or get around via taxis, though there are infrequent buses connecting the main parts of the island. Taxis aren’t as expensive as they are back in the UK, meaning you can get around via this method without making too much of a dent in your budget.

If you wish to head off the beaten track without relying on buses or taxis, renting a car could be your best option. There are many reputable companies to choose from. It may be wise to rent a four-wheel-drive, as Zante does have a problem with potholes and slippery roads. The island’s modest size means you’ll probably struggle to get lost. There are many bi-lingual road signs, but some are only in Greek. You can also rent a motorbike or scooter, but make sure you won’t be invalidating your insurance policy by doing so. Cycling is another popular activity in the latter southern and central parts of Zante. Helmets can be hard to obtain, so it could be wise to bring your own with you.