Find ferry schedules, ticket prices for deck and cabins and immediate availaibility to the beautiful Ionian island of Zakynthos. Ferries to Zante depart from the Pelloponesian harbour, Kyllini, which is aproximately 73km away from Patras.

Destination Info for Zakynthos, Greece

Zakynthos, also known as Zante, is part of the Ionian Islands in Greece and boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the Mediterranean. Thousands of visitors travel to Zakynthos every year to bask in the sunlight and to dip their toes into the crystal clear waters on the sandy beaches. Another reason that people often travel to this island is because it is home to an endangered sea turtle, the Caretta-Caretta. These turtles are very interesting to observe during their reproductive cycle when they lay their eggs on the shore and wait for them to hatch and find their way back to sea. This species of turtle has only recently become endangered as tourism has grown in the region and disrupted their natural habitat.

Popular Attractions

Travelers to the island will probably spend most of their time exploring the natural wonders of the island. The beaches are undeniably a favorite place to see while on vacation to any of the Ionian Islands, and Zakynthos is no different. The picturesque villages also attract many visitors, as they can observe the unique Greek architectural style while exploring some of the lovely little shops carrying souvenirs and handcrafted ceramics. The city is well known for its outdoor activities, and island goers can trek along the forested region or participate in some water sports on the island.
Beaches

The beaches are undeniably a popular place to be on the island of Zakynthos. With the sun beaming, the long sandy beaches become the perfect place to rest, relax, and take in the warm sun on the island. One reason so many people choose to come to this particular island is because of the unspoiled beauty and the natural preservation that is uncharacteristic of many other areas of the country. The emerald waters in Zakynthos are nothing short of incredible, and people from all over travel to see the famous Navagio Beach, also known as Shipwreck beach. This beach is well known because in addition to the crystalline, turquoise waters and beautiful white sand, there are also remains from a wrecked ship emerging from the shoreline. Other popular beaches include Gerakas, Agios Nikolaos, Spanzia, Laganas, Porto Zoro, and Alykanas.

Shopping

Most of the area’s shopping is located in the center of the city, and people that shop on the island will find a lot of great stores on Alexander Street. There are local souvenir shops and high quality jewelry stores, boutiques and beach shops, as well as many other local stores that carry handmade goods and island delicacies.

Transportation

Although Zakynthos is not as developed as other islands, there are still many ways to travel on the island. Rental car is usually the preferred way to tour the island because travelers can choose exactly where they want to go and how long to stay there before moving on to somewhere else. Buses and taxis are also available for inland transportation.

Port Authority

The Port Authority of Zakynthos is responsible for 4 different ports on the island: Agios Nikolaos, Laganas, Maries, and Zakynthos. Travelers with questions about the port operations and procedures may contact the Ministry of Maritime Affairs, Islands and Halieutics, in Piraeus, Greece.