If you’re going on vacation to Zakynthos, you’re in luck. We really enjoyed this island with its splendid scenery and magnificent beaches. A very contrasting island, with coasts lined with sandy beaches, much appreciated by tourists, and a green, much wilder mountainous center.
However, Zakynthos is a very touristy island in summer, especially on the south and east coasts. Thousands of British tourists come here in search of sunshine. Fortunately, there are a few quiet spots on the island (especially in the west, north and center).
Obviously, accommodation in Zakynthos isn’t a problem, as there are plenty of quality hotels and accommodations across the island.
Wondering where the best place to stay in Zakynthos is? This is not an easy question to answer, as it depends on what you’re looking for. Here are our very personal recommendations and tips, drawn from our own experience.
Opting for an apartment or a hotel in Zakynthos-town: a practical choice
Staying in Zante-town (the island’s capital, located on the east coast) can be a practical choice for a short stay.
Honestly, the town isn’t terribly interesting as it was badly damaged by the 1953 earthquake before being rebuilt. As a result, virtually all the old buildings have been demolished. However, the city of Zakynthos is pleasant and offers a number of advantages:
- it is well served by public transport. Buses to Alykes, Laganas and Keri depart from Zakynthos – town.
- This is also where the ferries arrive, so sleeping in Zakynthos is particularly convenient if you don’t have a car.
- You’ll find plenty of places to eat and drink here. The city comes alive at nightfall and the atmosphere is pleasant.
- Finally, it’s a good starting point for exploring Zante. The location allows easy access to the whole island.
However, you should be aware that accommodation is not particularly cheap in Zante-city.
Our selection of accommodation in the city of Zakynthos
Among our many addresses, you can choose from the following:
- Diana Hotel: A hotel with no particular charm, but well placed and with a swimming pool.
- Palatino hotel: A hotel in a quiet area close to the city center
For other types of housing, we recommend, for example:
- Ninemia villa Zakinthos: for 7 people, clean, well-located, terrace with lovely view
- Eolia apartment: for 4 people, very well located with a magnificent view
There are also a number of pleasant hotels located near the sea, just a few kilometers from the town of Zakynthos:
- Filoxenia Hotel: located in Tsilivi, with two swimming pools and a children’s pool
- Balcony Boutique Hotel: in Tsilivi, lovely views and direct access to the beach
- Zante Maris Suites – For adults only, a 5-star hotel in Tsilivi for adults only
- Iakinthos, also in Tsilivi
- Venus Resort, 50 metres from Tsilivi beach
Sleeping in Zante in the south of the island: to be close to the beaches
The vast majority of hotels and vacation clubs are located in the south of Zakynthos, in the bay of Laganas, which alone accounts for half of the island’s tourist infrastructure.
Advantages of choosing to stay in the south of the island:
- you’ll find a wide range of hotels at all price points
- you’ll be close to some of Zakynthos’ most beautiful beaches
- there are many“services”: bars, restaurants, water sports, boat excursions, games rooms, various activities, etc.
The downside:
- It’s a very popular area for travelers, with its “mass tourism” atmosphere. In summer, you won’t be alone, to say the least. You’ll be sharing the place with a host of English tourists who have come here to bask in the sun and party. The streets are lined with pizzerias, slot machines, mini-golfs, souvenir stores and more.
You’ll find a wide choice of accommodation in Laganas Bay on the Booking website.
In particular, we spotted :
- Evylio Stone Houses: (2 pers.), by the sea in Agios Sostis
- NikLuDin Suites & Studios in Laganas, with swimming pool
- Eora bungalows: (sleeps 6) in Agios Sostis, with swimming pool
For a little more peace and quiet, opt for a hotel in Vasilikos, near Agios Nikolaos beach. It has a family atmosphere and a beautiful beach.
And for a truly authentic and peaceful stay in southern Zante (yes, it’s possible), we recommend the Lithies Farm Houses, agrotourism farm located in the heart of the National Marine Park.
Accommodation in the north or west of Zakynthos: a choice for lovers of tranquillity
While the south of Zakynthos is very touristy, the north and west of the island remain relatively peaceful. The central part of the island is also pleasantly wooded and mountainous. The atmosphere is calmer and more authentic.
- Personally, we chose to stay in Kypseli, north of Zante, in a simple but quiet hotel by the sea, with the added bonus of a small garden and a traditional taverna right next door. The hotel is called Stefania Apartments. We particularly appreciated the serenity of the place and the kindness of the owner. Please note, however, that this hotel is far from everything, so you’ll need to have a vehicle and be prepared to do a lot of driving to visit the island.
- Finally, we recommend Therianos Traditional Villas, agro-tourism farm in Kallithea: small, comfortable traditional houses surrounded by vineyards and olive groves.
The advantages of choosing accommodation to the north or west of Zante :
- these parts of the island are less touristy and therefore quieter and more authentic
- accommodation is generally less expensive than in Zakynthos city or in the Bay of Laganas
- you can still find “little lost corners“.
Disadvantages:
- car essential
- lots of driving to reach the island’s various points of interest
- few on-site options for dining or partying
Find out more about the island of Zakynthos
See also our articles :
- The 10 must-sees on Zakynthos: a comprehensive article on the best things to see and do on the island
- Practical information: how to get to Zante, how long to stay, how to get around, etc.
- Zakynthos’ most beautiful beaches
- Car, scooter or moto in Zante: how to rent ?
Laure M.
