Where to Stay in Zakynthos: The Ultimate Guide for Luxury Travellers
Zakynthos at a Glance
Before diving into the best areas to stay, let's get acquainted with the island's geography:
Size
At just over 30km long and 20km wide, Zakynthos is compact enough to explore easily in a week.
Landscape
The island offers diverse landscapes, from dramatic white cliffs and emerald wooded hills in the west to sandy beaches along the east coast.
Wildlife
Home to the National Marine Park, Zakynthos is famous for its loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta) that come to lay their eggs on protected beaches.
Transportation
Having a car is recommended to truly explore the island's treasures.
The Best Areas to Stay in Zakynthos
Northern Zakynthos: Unspoilt Beauty and Dramatic Landscapes
The northern part of Zakynthos remains largely unspoilt, offering a more authentic Greek experience away from the mass tourism found in the south. This region is characterised by its rugged, dramatic landscapes, olive groves, and traditional villages.Why Stay in North Zakynthos:
Access to the famous Blue Caves and viewpoints overlooking Navagio Beach (Shipwreck Beach)
Quieter, more traditional atmosphere
Spectacular coastal scenery
Crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkelling and swimming
Authentic Greek villages where time seems to stand still
Best Locations in North Zakynthos:
Agios Nikolaos
This charming harbour village offers a perfect base for exploring the northern reaches of the island. With a selection of tavernas, a minimarket, crystal-clear waters, and boat rentals, it provides everything you need for a relaxed Greek holiday.
From Agios Nikolaos, you can easily access the Blue Caves, a series of sea grottoes that shimmer with sapphire reflections, especially magical during morning light. It's also an excellent spot for diving and snorkelling enthusiasts.
Featured Villa: Ibid
Perched on a hillside overlooking the northeast coast, Ibid is a romantic one-bedroom retreat perfect for couples seeking seclusion and breathtaking views. Just a 5-minute drive from Agios Nikolaos, this stylish villa offers:Panoramic sea views over the northeast coast
A heatable pool (9.1m x 5.3m) with a stunning outlook
Charmingly styled luminous interiors featuring soft grey polished concrete and natural tones
A magnificent roof terrace perfect for sunset aperitifs and romantic dinners under the stars
A variety of outdoor spaces including the remains of a stone-built mill
Proximity to the Blue Caves (just 5 minutes away)
Southwestern Zakynthos: Dramatic Coastlines and Natural Beauty
The southwestern region of Zakynthos offers some of the most dramatic coastal scenery on the island, with towering white cliffs, lush green hillsides, and the protected waters of the National Marine Park.
Why Stay in Southwest Zakynthos:
Proximity to the National Marine Park and turtle-spotting opportunities
Dramatic coastal landscapes with white cliffs and emerald hills
Less developed than the southeast, offering more tranquility
Excellent swimming coves and scenic viewpoints
Charming traditional villages
Best Locations in Southwest Zakynthos:
Keri
This picturesque area at the southwestern tip of Zakynthos offers spectacular views, particularly at sunset. The village of Keri is within walking distance of tavernas, cafés, and a minimarket, while Limni Keriou down by the coast provides beach access, boat hire, and additional dining options.
Featured Villa: Savine
Savine sits in a breathtaking position overlooking the emerald wooded hills, white cliffs, and sparkling waters of southwestern Zakynthos. This contemporary four-bedroom villa accommodates up to eight guests and offers:An infinity pool with mesmerizing sea views
Bright, airy modern interiors with a calming white and grey palette
Panoramic terraces for lounging and dining
Just a 10-minute walk from Keri village with its tavernas, café, and minimarket
Easy access to the National Marine Park, home to the idyllic islet of Marathonissi and protected beaches where sea turtles nest
A serene and private atmosphere perfect for family gatherings or groups of friends
Agalas
Inland from the coast but offering spectacular views down to the sea, Agalas provides a peaceful retreat still within easy reach of beaches and amenities.
Featured Villa: Artelia
For those seeking the ultimate in luxury and service, Artelia near Agalas offers an extraordinary experience. This five-bedroom villa can accommodate up to ten guests and stands within its own private 250-acre estate, which includes vineyards, stables, and a manège featuring rare horse breeds, including the golden Akhal Teke from Turkmenistan.Artelia's highlights include:Full staff service including a cook who prepares breakfast and one other meal daily
A unique infinity pool with water jets and a hydro massage system, plus a separate children's pool
Spacious living areas both inside and out
Breathtaking views over the National Marine Park of Zakynthos
Stylish interiors combining contemporary design with traditional elements
An outdoor kitchen and dining area with a sunken firepit
The opportunity to visit the manège and see rare horse breeds
Southeastern Zakynthos: Beach Life and Amenities
The southeastern part of Zakynthos is the most developed, offering excellent beaches, a vibrant atmosphere, and plenty of amenities.
Why Stay in Southeast Zakynthos:
Beautiful sandy beaches with shallow waters ideal for families
Wide range of restaurants, bars, and shopping options
Lively atmosphere, particularly in the evenings
Good public transport connections
Proximity to Zakynthos Town and the airport
Best Locations in Southeast Zakynthos:
Laganas
Known for its lively atmosphere and 9km-long sandy beach, Laganas is a popular choice for those seeking vibrant nightlife. However, it's also part of the National Marine Park, with sections of the beach protected for sea turtle nesting.
Kalamaki
Offering a more family-friendly alternative to Laganas but sharing the same beautiful sandy beach, Kalamaki provides a range of amenities in a more relaxed setting.
Argassi
Located close to Zakynthos Town, Argassi combines beach life with easy access to the island's capital, making it a convenient base for exploring.
Zakynthos Town: Cultural Hub and Historical Interest
The island's capital, also known as Chora, is worth considering for those interested in history and culture, or those who prefer a more urban setting with good connections to the rest of the island.
Why Stay in Zakynthos Town:
Historical interest with Venetian influences
Museums and cultural attractions
Vibrant shopping, dining, and café scene
Central location for exploring the island
Connection to the mainland via ferry
A few fascinating Venetian buildings survived the 1953 earthquake, and the town's museums, galleries, and lively atmosphere make it an attractive option for a day trip or a base for your holiday.
Exploring Beyond Your Base
One of the joys of staying in Zakynthos is how easily explorable the entire island is from any base. With a rental car, you're never more than an hour's drive from most attractions. Here are some must-visit locations regardless of where you choose to stay:
Navagio Beach (Shipwreck Beach)
Perhaps the most photographed beach in Greece, this stunning cove is only accessible by boat but can be viewed from clifftop viewpoints. It features dramatic white cliffs, turquoise waters, and the famous shipwreck that has lain on its sand since the early 1980s.
The Blue Caves
Located in the northern part of the island, these sea caves reflect the blue of the sea in a magical way, especially during morning light.
Porto Limnionas and Porto Roxa
These rocky coves on the west coast offer excellent snorkelling opportunities and tavernas with breathtaking views.
Traditional Villages
Explore villages like Volimes, Exo Chora (with its 16th-century houses, 17th-century church, and 2,000-year-old olive tree), and others that survived the 1953 earthquake relatively unscathed.
The National Marine Park
Take a boat trip to spot loggerhead turtles and visit Marathonissi islet, known as "Turtle Island" for its turtle-shaped outline.
Why Choose The Thinking Traveller for Your Zakynthos Stay
The Thinking Traveller, a certified B Corporation, offers an exclusive collection of the most desirable villas in Zakynthos and other Mediterranean destinations. What sets us apart:Exclusivity
Our properties, including Ibid, Savine, and Artelia, are available only through us
Local Knowledge
Our team provides insider tips and can arrange experiences beyond the ordinary
Exceptional Service
From pre-arrival planning to on-island support
Sustainability
As a B Corp, we're committed to using business as a force for good, balancing profit with purpose
Handpicked Portfolio
Each villa is personally selected for its quality, character, and location
When to Visit Zakynthos
Peak Season (July-August)
Warmest weather and busiest period with all amenities open
Shoulder Season (May-June, September-October)
Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds, and lower prices
Off Season (November-April)
Quieter, with many facilities closed, but peaceful and great for exploring nature
FAQ: Where to Stay in Zakynthos
Which part of Zakynthos is best for families?
For families, the eastern beaches like Kalamaki offer shallow waters and good amenities. Alternatively, a villa like Savine in the southwest provides privacy while still being close to beaches and villages.
Where should I stay in Zakynthos for nightlife?
Laganas is the main nightlife hub, though it may be too lively for some. Zakynthos Town offers a more sophisticated evening scene with restaurants and bars.
What's the most romantic place to stay in Zakynthos?
The northern part of the island, where villas like Ibid offer seclusion and spectacular views, is perfect for couples seeking romance away from the crowds.
Where should I stay in Zakynthos for beaches?
The southeast has the most accessible sandy beaches, while the west coast offers dramatic scenery and more secluded coves. The National Marine Park beaches in the south are ideal for wildlife enthusiasts.
Is Zakynthos good for a luxury holiday?
Absolutely. With exclusive villas like Artelia offering private estates, staff service, and exceptional amenities, Zakynthos can provide a truly luxurious experience.
How long do I need to explore Zakynthos?
While you could see the highlights in 3-4 days, a week allows for a more relaxed pace and the opportunity to discover hidden gems.
Is it better to stay in one place or move around Zakynthos?
Given the island's compact size, basing yourself in one location and exploring by car is usually more practical than changing accommodation.
Conclusion: Your Perfect Zakynthos Stay Awaits
Zakynthos offers an enticing blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and modern amenities that make it an ideal destination for discerning travellers. Whether you choose the unspoilt north, the dramatic southwest, or the lively southeast, the island promises an unforgettable Mediterranean experience.
Through The Thinking Traveller, you can access some of the most exclusive villas on the island, each offering a unique perspective on Zakynthian life and landscapes. From the romantic one-bedroom Ibid in the north to the fully staffed Artelia estate in the southwest, our handpicked properties ensure your accommodation becomes an integral part of your Zakynthos experience.As a certified B Corporation, we're committed not just to providing exceptional holiday experiences but also to making a positive impact on the communities and environments where we operate. By choosing The Thinking Traveller for your Zakynthos stay, you're supporting responsible tourism that values both people and place.
Ready to discover your perfect spot in Zakynthos? Contact our villa specialists today and begin planning your bespoke Greek island escape.Explore our full collection of villas in Zakynthos and take the first step toward your dream Mediterranean holiday.
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