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Where to Stay in Zakynthos

Updated: December 9, 2025
Greece › Zakynthos Hotels
By Santorini Dave

My Favorite Hotels in Zakynthos

Hotel beach bar with sail awning and palm tree.

The fabulous Makai Beach Bar is nestled in a beautiful cove at family-friendly Alexandra Beach Resort & Spa, our favorite beach hotel on Zakynthos.

See Also
• Best Beaches on Zakynthos

Zakynthos, commonly referred to as Zante, is the third largest of the Ionian Islands and arguably the most geographically diverse. Known as the “Flower of the East” (Fior di Levante) by the Venetians, it is famous for its lush, green interior, dramatic white limestone cliffs, and the endangered Caretta Caretta sea turtles that nest on its southern shores.

The island offers two distinct experiences. The eastern and southern coasts are lined with organized, sandy beaches and calm shallow waters, making them perfect for families. The western coast is wild, rugged, and mountainous, offering some of the most spectacular sunset views in Greece. The island’s Blue Caves are a must-see; accessible only by boat, the water inside reflects a surreal, electric blue light. Small boat tours depart from the northern port of Agios Nikolaos (Skinari) or Makris Gialos beach.

Scenic white caves around the azure sea in Zakynthos, Greece

The Blue Caves of Zakynthos – also sometimes known as the Blue Caves of Volimes.

Zakynthos Town, the capital and main port, is a sophisticated city rebuilt in Venetian style after the 1953 earthquake. Solomos Square and Saint Markos Square are the social hubs, lined with cafes and museums (like the Byzantine Museum). The pedestrian-only Roma Street is excellent for shopping. It is the only place on the island that stays fully vibrant year-round and makes a great base for those who prefer city amenities over a beach resort vibe.

For beach holidays, the island is divided. Laganas is the loud, high-energy party capital, packed with clubs and young travelers. Neighboring Kalamaki is quieter and protected as a turtle nesting ground. Tsilivi (northeast) is the best all-rounder for families, offering a balance of great swimming, water sports, and restaurants without the extreme noise of Laganas. For pure nature and the best sand, the Vasilikos Peninsula in the southeast is unbeatable.

Important Update on Shipwreck Beach (Navagio): Access to the sand is currently prohibited due to landslide risk. You cannot walk on the beach. However, boat tours still sail into the bay for photos (keeping a safe distance), and the viewing platform on the cliffs above remains open for that iconic “Instagram” shot.

A man rides a bike along a pedestrianized shopping street on a Greek island

This pedestrianized Zante Town laneway brims with shops and tavernas, only a block from the town’s harborfront.

When to Go to Zakynthos

  • June to September is peak season. The weather is hot (30°C+), the sea is warm, and the island is busy.
  • Best for Swimming: Late June through September. The sea is warmest in September.
  • Shoulder Season: May and October are beautiful and cheaper. Note that in early May the sea can be brisk (19°C), and in late October, beach resorts begin to close down.

How to Get to Zakynthos

  • By Plane: Zakynthos Airport (ZTH) is busy. There are daily domestic flights from Athens (45 mins) and direct international charters from the UK, Italy, Germany, and Poland from May to October.
  • By Ferry from Mainland: Ferries depart from the port of Kyllini (on the Peloponnese peninsula), not from Athens/Piraeus. The crossing takes 1 hour. You must take a bus (KTEL) or drive 3.5 hours from Athens to reach Kyllini.
  • By Ferry from Islands: There is a seasonal ferry (May–Oct) connecting Zakynthos (Agios Nikolaos port) to Kefalonia (Pessada port).
We board a pedestrian ferry on a pier in Greece on a sunny day.

Here we’re boarding the Zakynthos ferry (Lefkada Palace Ferry) in the town of Sami on the island of Kefalonia. Lefkada Palace Ferry connects Zakynthos to Kefalonia and Corfu.

The Best Places to Stay on Zakynthos

Palm trees and sun loungers line a blue hotel pool on a sunny day.

One of two swimming pools at the luxurious Lesante Classic hotel, which also has a spa, children’s play room, and gym – and is 200 meters from Tsilivi Beach.

View from a hotel balcony to a ferry port and a pedestrian square in Greece.

View over Solomos Square from Phoenix Hotel in Zante Town. Solomos Square is a large pedestrian plaza facing the marina that commemorates Dionysios Solmos, the poet who wrote the national anthem of Greece. Surrounding Solomos Square is the Museum of Zakynthos, the Cultural Centre, City Hall, and Church of St. Nicholas on the quay.

Best Places on Zakynthos for…

  • Where to Stay on Zakynthos for First-Timers: Zakynthos Town (aka Zante town)
    With its central location, Zakynthos Town serves as an ideal base for exploring the island’s numerous attractions and beautiful beaches. It offers wonderful dining and shops, as well as a variety of good hotels, and its attractions include the Byzantine Museum and the Cultural Centre (historical museum). Some of the closest and best beaches to Zakynthos Town are Tsilivi Beach to the north, and Porto Zoro Beach to the south.

    Boats moored in a blue marina with a Greek church rising behind.

    On the ferry quay looking towards Zante Town.

  • Where to Stay on Zakynthos for Water Activities: Banana Beach, Saint Nikolas Beach (south island)
    Banana Beach and Saint Nicholas Beach are the best beaches for water sports: flyboard, bananas and tubes, water sofa rides, parasailing, waterskiing, wakeboarding, kayaking, and jet skiing. Complimentary shuttles are available twice per day to both beaches from Laganas, Kalamaki, and Argassi.
  • Where to Stay on Zakynthos for Families: Tsilivi
    Tsilivi is a village on Zakynthos’ east coast, 5 km north of the ferry port in Zakynthos town and 8 km from the airport. Families will appreciate its Blue Flag beach with sandy shores and water sports on offer (inflatable rides, kayak, SUPs, pedal boats, and windsurfing lessons). Beachside accommodations are well suited to families, try the wonderful Alexandra Beach Resort & Spa, featuring Family rooms with sea views that can sleep 4.

    In Tsilivi village, Families can enjoy numerous restaurants, tavernas, cafes, and mellow bars. There’s also a children’s water park with a lazy river. Mini-golf and bowling are nearby and less than a 5-minute drive.

  • Where to Stay on Zakynthos without a Car: Tsilivi or Laganas
    The public bus system on the island of Zakynthos can be irregular and unreliable, so getting around the island can be a challenge if you don’t have your own vehicle. Staying in the village of Tsilivi is a good option; it’s close to the port and offers lots of variety in accommodations and services, all the while retaining its Greek charm and beauty. Staying in the town of Laganas is a good option if you are seeking zippy nightlife, a long sandy beach, and free shuttles to two nearby beaches that are upbeat and action-packed.
Rooftop restaurant at a hotel, flying a Greek flag.

We really like the 4-star Strada Marina Hotel in Zakynthos Town. It has a lovely rooftop restaurant and pool, and is walkable to the ferry port.

8 Best Areas of Zakynthos for Tourists

1. Zakynthos Town

A woman and two children feed pigeons in a pedestrian square in Greece.

Zakynthos Town (Zante Town) is the capital and main hub of Zakynthos. It’s a bustling port city with a sizeable harbor and two quays on opposite ends of the harbor. The town boasts a lively and friendly atmosphere with a blend of modern amenities and historical sites, including the Byzantine Museum and the historic Cultural Centre.

Along the town’s harborfront, a charming 1.5 km waterfront promenade is lined with cafes, restaurants, shops, and hotels, offering stunning views of the Ionian Sea. Nearby beaches include Tsilivi and Argassi.

View through the window of a smiling woman serving customers in a colorful ice cream shop.

A charming ice cream shop in Zante Town.

The Venetian Castle, built in the 15th century and perched atop Bohali Hill, 2 km from town, has a viewing platform and boasts fantastic views of Zante town and the Ionian Sea.

2. Tsilivi

Golden sand beach with people enjoying the water.

A family-friendly resort town amid lush olive groves, boasting a long Blue Flag beach with golden sand and shallow water. The town offers a relaxed atmosphere with quaint, authentic Greek tavernas and numerous international restaurants (Indian, Mexican, Chinese). Nearby is a water park, bowling, and mini-golf, making it an ideal destination for families.

3. Argasi

Two people ride a 4-wheeler down a street in a Greek beach town, lined with restaurants

A charming resort town situated 2.5 miles (4 kilometers) south of Zakynthos Town. Argassi is known for its vibrant atmosphere and nightlife, seaside hotels, sandy beach, and stunning views of both the Ionian Sea and Mount Skopos. Several rocky coves and platforms along the coast provide excellent spots for snorkeling and diving.

4. Laganas

Beach with rows of sunbeds on the sand and many colorful inflatable floats in the water.

Famous for its vibrant nightlife, Laganas is a popular and lively party town, and is the island’s largest beach resort. Laganas attracts a younger crowd and boasts miles of golden sand along Laganas Beach — a great spot for sunbathing. The beach area and town offer a range of accommodations from budget to luxury hotels, as well as beachside bars and tavernas.

Tourists aboard a wheeled sightseeing "train" on a sunny day.

The Laganas “Fun Train” offers sightseeing tours to Zakynthos Town and around the island.

Laganas is also close to Marathonisi Island, a popular nesting spot for endangered loggerhead (Caretta-caretta) turtles, and Laganas Beach is a great location to spot them; the area is now part of the National Marine Park and there are efforts to protect them. Pedal boats are available for rent, scuba diving and snorkeling are also permitted.

5. Akrotiri

Perched on a hillside overlooking the sea, Akrotiri is characterized by its lush vegetation, traditional stone houses, and narrow streets. The area is primarily residential and boasts a relaxed pace of life, making it an ideal retreat for travelers seeking tranquility and privacy while still being close to the island’s capital Zakynthos Town.

6. Kalamaki

Beach in Greece with golden sand and blue water.

Located on the southern coast, Kalamaki has a beautiful sandy beach with calm, shallow waters. Kalamaki Beach is in the National Marine Park, which protects the nesting areas of loggerhead turtles. The beach has some restrictions like no eateries or bars directly on the sand, and the beach closes from sunset until 7 am daily.

7. Vasilikos

Small Greek restaurant advertising olive oil products

Located on the southeastern tip of Zakynthos, Vasilikos is a picturesque village surrounded by lush greenery and perfect for those seeking tranquility and unspoiled natural beauty. Some of the island’s best beaches are on the Vasilikos Peninsula, such as Gerakas Beach, Agios Nikolaos Beach, and Blue-Flag Banana Beach.

8. Tragaki

A small, traditional village located on the northeastern coast of Zakynthos. Surrounded by lush olive groves and vineyards, Tragaki is set on a hillside with stunning views of the Ionian Sea and neighboring islands. Its narrow streets are lined with charming stone houses, made more charming by the warm hospitality of their inhabitants.

Pool terrace with palm trees and kiddie pool.

The pool terrace and restaurant at Windmill Bay Hotel in Argassi is not on the beach, but is perched seaside on the Ionian, with beautiful views.

The 13 Best Hotels in Zakynthos

1. Porto Zante Villas And Spa – Tragaki

Wooden and stone gates to a luxury villa complex in Greece.
Luxury, family-friendly beachfront villa resort with fantastic dining and wellness facilities. Villas sleep large groups or families of 5 to 12 guests and feature private heated pools; some offer fireplaces, kitchens, private beaches, or gardens. There are Greek/Mediterranean and Asian fusion restaurants both on site, as well as a renowned wellness spa offering a full menu of natural face and body treatments. The cutting-edge Technogym fitness center has personal trainers and hosts yoga and pilates programs – or enjoy complimentary access to the nearby clay-court tennis club. Great for families, with a kids’ club, playground, kids’ menu, babysitting services, and video gaming systems available. Exclusive location in a secluded bay with a private white-sand beach.

2. Cielo Luxury Villas – Akrotiri

Terrace and yard of a villa in Greece, with an olive tree shining in the afternoon sun.
Three immaculate and luxurious serviced villas set within a 100-year-old olive grove in a peaceful country-like setting. Fantastic for large families or multiple couples (can sleep 8). Villas are spacious, stylish, and modern, featuring 3 or 4 bedrooms, fully equipped kitchen, outdoor stone BBQ, and sea views. Each villa boasts its own private infinity pool. Traditional Greek breakfast is served to each villa daily, private chef and in-villa restaurant service is available. Located a 5-minute drive from Zakynthos Town and port, 15-minute drive from airport.

3. Lesante Classic – Tsilivi

Hotel swimming terrace with attached hot tub, surrounded by palm trees.
Excellent family-friendly 5-star hotel close to the beach with rooms and suites that are spacious, modern, and stylish; some can sleep a family of 5 and feature private outdoor hot tubs. Poolside dining and piano lounge bar. Marvelous pool deck with flowers and palm trees boasts two swimming pools and two hot tubs. Spa, gym, and children’s indoor play room. Buffet breakfast provided overlooking the pools. Blue flag Tsilivi Beach is a 5-minute walk away.

4. Meandros Boutique & Spa Hotel – Kalamaki

Round entrance of a hotel in Greece, with sky bar restaurant above
Adults-only hotel offers a nice swimming pool with a spa and wellness center situated in Kalamaki, 10-minute walk to Kalamaki Beach, and 4 km to the lively town of Lagana. Rooms and suites are spacious, sleep 2-3, and many have private pools or jacuzzis. All rooms are decorated with a Greek-themed wall mural, and daily buffet breakfast is provided. Onsite restaurant and pool bar. More tavernas are within a 5-10 minute walk. Kalamaki Beach is a turtle nesting beach and closes from sunset to 7 am daily. Located 6 km south of Zakynthos Town.

5. Poseidon Beach Hotel – Laganas

Hotel swim terrace with attached kiddie pool
Family-friendly all-inclusive beachside hotel with swimming pool, tot pool, and hot tub. Guest rooms are simple and modest with doubles that can sleep 4; connecting rooms, and self-catering rooms (with fully equipped kitchenette). Buffet breakfast, and pool snack bar onsite. A large number of sun loungers around the pool and also on the beach. Great location on Laganas Beach, and a 10-minute walk from the bars and clubs on Laganas strip. 7 km to Zakynthos airport.

6. Palatino Hotel – Zakynthos Town

View from a hotel balcony across a road to the blue Ionian Sea.
Set in a quieter Zante town location this modern hotel offers rooms and suites with hill, city, or sea views, all with private balcony. Onsite Mediterranean restaurant and café/cocktail bar, plus a complimentary breakfast buffet. Guests can access tennis courts and lessons at nearby Zakynthian Tennis Club. Good location away from the busy town center, but within walking distance of shops, restaurants, and bars and just a couple of minutes from the seafront. Hotel open year round.

7. Strada Marina – Zakynthos Town

View from a rooftop swimming pool to the blue Ionian Sea
Harborfront hotel convenient to shops, numerous eateries, Zakynthos Marina, and the ferry port is a 5-minute drive or 15-minute walk. Comfortable double rooms, and Family suites can sleep 4, many have great views out over the sea. Fabulous rooftop pool, viewing terrace with sweeping views, and a roof garden restaurant that serves Greek/Mediterranean cuisine, open from June to September. Daily breakfast buffet. Hotel is open year-round, except January.

8. Diana Hotel – Zakynthos Town

Corner view of a small hotel in Greece, with rounded windows and Venetian-style balconies
Vintage hotel in central Zakynthos Town with a rooftop lounge and small outdoor pool (age 16+). Accommodation ranges from standard double and triple rooms, family rooms with two beds and two bathrooms, and single rooms—perfect for solo travelers. Great central location on the Venetian Square of St. Marcos next to the Catholic Church, steps to tavernas, shops, and museums. Hotel is open all year.

9. Alexandra Beach Resort & Spa – Tsilivi

View from above over a hotel swim terrace and private beach in Greece
Relaxed upscale all-inclusive resort with a beautiful beachside location and fantastic sea views, perfect for couples or families. Accommodation ranges from standard rooms and suites to swim-up rooms, and bungalows that sleep a family of four + baby cot. Restaurant, beach bar, and lounges offer a variety of tasty cuisine. The huge infinity pool overlooks the Ionian Sea, while the hotel’s spa offers an indoor pool, sauna, jacuzzi, hammam, and full menu of beauty and wellness treatments. Onsite fitness center and a mini-mart. 20-minute drive to airport, 3-minute drive to Tsilivi Water Park.

10. Windmill Bay Hotel – Argassi

Hotel with arched balconies rising above a blue sea-view pool deck
Chic modern rooms and suites in neutral colors with natural wood and wicker accents, some with hot tubs on the patio. Opt for upper floor rooms with private balconies and fabulous sea views. Beautiful pool with sun loungers, pool bar, and separate tots pool. Excellent restaurant for seaside dining is onsite. Breakfast provided and Nespresso coffee machines are in guest rooms. 5 km to Zakynthos Town, and 7 km to airport.

11. Ecoresort Hotel Zefyros – Agios Kyrikas

View from a hotel room terrace out to the pool deck, lined with sun loungers
Traditional hotel with basic rooms ranging from cozy Comfort rooms for 2 to two-bedroom Deluxe quadruple that sleep families of 5; most have private balconies or semi-private patios. Large outdoor pool and pool bar that serves salads and snacks. Breakfast included and buffet restaurant is open in the evenings, option for half board stays. Games room has pool table, foosball, and ping pong table. Peaceful and remote location surrounded by vineyards and olive groves. 15-minute drive from Zakynthos Town.

12. Bitzaro Boutique Hotel – Zakynthos Town

Glass-lined hotel breakfast room with chic grey banquette seating
Lovely new boutique hotel, an easy walk (350 m) to Agios Markos Square with charming tavernas, the harborfront, and Solomos Square. Guest rooms are modern, well appointed, and bathed in muted colors. Double and triple rooms feature town views, castle views, and sea views. Suites are extra spacious with 40 sqm with sea views, and can sleep 3. Cozy rooftop patio offers sun beds. Excellent breakfast included. 15-minute walk to ferry port in Zante Town. Open year-round.

13. Phoenix Hotel – Zakynthos Town

View over a hotel balcony flying a Greek flag to a pedestrian square lined with museums
Excellent central location in the town square and the heart of Zante Town near shops, tavernas, museums, and the ferry port. Hotel is modern and stylish; Junior suites and Superior rooms can sleep 3, Family rooms sleep 4. Top-floor superior rooms boast deluxe Coco-mat beds and sea views. Onsite café/restaurant includes bar seating, and outdoor patio on the historic and picturesque Solomos Square.

Summary: My Favorite Hotels in Zakynthos

My Favorite Zakynthos Hotels

About Santorini Dave

Santorini Dave in Athens, Greece Santorini Dave was started in 2011 when I posted a short guide to visiting Santorini with kids. Now, my site publishes regularly updated guides to Santorini, Naxos, Paros, Mykonos, Crete, Athens, and all of Greece.

Questions? Email me at dave@santorinidave.com.