Easily one of the most photographed and most popular Greek islands, Zante attracts over 2 million tourists each year. The photos alone make it easy to see why they would want to stay here. Spoiler alert, the photos do not disappoint! But, what is there to do? Here is your ultimate Zante Bucket List to help you plan and make the most of your trip.
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Navagio Beach / Shipwreck Beach
First up is the most photographed beach in Greece, Navagio Beach. Known as Shipwreck Beach, the wreckage of MV Panagiotis has been at the cove since October 1980. It’s only accessible by sea but tourists are no longer allowed on the beach any more. Boat trips will still take you to the sea nearby but not close enough to get to the beach due to the risk of landslides after a series of earthquakes. If you want photographs, head out by road and view it from above for the best perspective.
Spot some Turtles
Zante is home to the endangered loggerhead turtle. The nesting beaches are from Vasilikos to Laganas in the national park with turtle island in the middle. It’s easy to spot Turtle Island from the shores of Kalamaki and Laganas – it’s the island that looks like a large turtle! From May – October you can see the protected areas of the beaches with nests marked out.
There are lots of opportunities to buy turtle spotting boat trips from all resorts on the island. I don’t like seeing the boats all crowding a turtle – you can usually see a couple of boats huddled out on the coast, usually because there’s a turtle or 2 to be seen. I’ve spotted them when out on a pedalo from Kalamaki before. Be respectful and don’t touch. Just marvel at their beauty!
Blue Caves
You can find the Blue Caves on the island’s western side. It’s quite clear how they acquired their name once you get there. Stunning caves and arches and bright blue water. Again, it’s only accessible by sea. A great excuse to get out on the water and explore. If you are a diver, you’ll love exploring the caves… If you prefer a more chilled-out day and viewing the caves from your boat, you can do that too! Whatever you do, don’t miss it.
Go Snorkelling
All of these water-based attractions are popular because of the clear waters and marine life in Zante. Spend a few hours snorkelling in the area you’re staying in, explore the water and maybe you’ll be lucky enough to spot a turtle! This might be one of the easiest and cheapest things you can tick off your Zante bucket list!
Attend a Greek Night
Whichever resort you stay in, you can be sure there will be a restaurant hosting a Greek Night during your stay. Usually a lot of fun with lots of good food, music and Greek hospitality! We’ve stayed in Kalamaki 5 times now and always ensure we head down to Pandesia restaurant for one of the best Greek Nights on the island… Fire dancing, plate smashing, dancing around the tables, great food with flaming dishes coming out, lots of very good food and the staff are amazing. Go and expect it to be busy, during the summer it’s usually packed and booking via the Facebook page is recommended, but worth it!
Keri Lighthouse
If you are looking for a romantic meal with a view, look no further than the Keri lighthouse. The photos will be worthy of your Instagram grid! It’s clear from the views why lots of people put this one at the top of their Zante bucket list. Located 150m above the sea, the views are mesmerizing, and the chilled-out romantic atmosphere means this will be a meal you won’t forget in a hurry!
Cameo Island
Just off the Laganas coast is the stunning Cameo island. Another Instagram favourite, this place is pretty from all angles. Head across the wooden bridge to the island and onto the beach for a drink at the bar. The beach has white cloths hanging over it, making for some stunning photos. It’s a very popular venue for weddings, and it’s easy to see why.
Marathonisi Island / Turtle Island
As mentioned earlier, Turtle Island is a popular stop-off on turtle spotting tours. You can just do the island on its own though via a water taxi from Laganas – get the taxi right next to Cameo Island! Head over for the morning, do some snorkelling, sunbathing and grab some refreshments from the ice cream boat. A great excursion.
A Night in Laganas
If you like a good night out – look no further than Laganas! A mecca for young people, nights in Laganas get pretty lively. Head down the strip and find bars and clubs as far as the eye can see! maybe give this one a miss if you fancy a quiet one, if you want a wild one get this one ticked off the Zante bucket list pronto!
A trip over to Kefalonia
If you’ve got time to spare, head over to neighbouring Kefalonia. There are day trips available to take you over and explore. This is a full-day trip and the time spent in Kefalonia will vary depending on the sea conditions. If you would like to arrange a day or 2 extra you could book your Ferry from Zante town, the crossing takes approximately 3 hours. Head over to the Ferry Scanner site to pre-book.
Enjoy every minute
Last but certainly not least, enjoy your time, relax and refresh. For most of us, we don’t wake up on a beautiful island every day, make the most of it while you do! Let me know how many of these items you do tick off your Zante bucket list, I’d love to hear all about it.
Have a wonderful holiday!
Becky x
