Zakynthos Tours: Your Guide to the Top 5 Sightseeing Adventures
Zakynthos, that I know is one of the sun-kissed Ionian Islands, calls to visitors with her stunning beaches, legendary natural rock formations, and pretty, well, frankly awesome, landscapes. Getting the most from your trip means picking just the right tour, so I’ve pulled together five incredible sightseeing options that, you know, they showcase what makes Zakynthos so incredibly special, or at least it seems that way.
1. Shipwreck Beach (Navagio) Tour
It would almost be rude to chat about Zakynthos without mentioning Navagio Beach, is that right? More commonly called Shipwreck Beach. Picture this, it’s like the most incredible cove cradling powdery white sand and, just sitting there is the skeletal remains of a shipwreck, like it was meant to be there. Tours to Navagio frequently bundle in stops at the so-called mesmerizing Blue Caves, offering swim breaks in waters so incredibly turquoise, that it’s practically unbelievable, more or less.
What to Expect: Typically, these trips include hotel transfers, or at least they tend to, boat transport to Navagio and the Blue Caves, plus plenty of opportunities to swim and take photos, if that’s alright. Many tours operate in smaller boats for a, you know, just slightly more intimate experience and easier access to some really tighter spots in the caves. Depending on your tour choice, a yummy lunch might, you know, typically be included.
Why this is, in a way, an awesome Tour: Sure, it can get rather busy, however, visiting Shipwreck Beach is really like a quintessential Zakynthos experience. Seeing that wreck against the stark beach and swimming in those blue, blue waters makes the early start and sometimes crowds totally worthwhile, very, very worthwhile I think. Plus, a bunch of tour operators also weave in a stop at a local viewpoint from above, which, to be honest, really offers staggering views down onto the beach, doesn’t it?
Insider’s Tip: Try, you know, to go for an early morning tour. Seriously, that helps beat some of the crowds, which, to be honest, is pretty crucial during peak season. And don’t, just don’t forget a waterproof camera case. I swear that thing will keep your phone, you know, fully shielded from the sea spray, isn’t that great? Read our full review: Shipwreck Beach Tour Full Review and Details
2. Turtle Spotting Tour (Marathonisi Island)
Marathonisi, like that turtle-shaped island in Laganas Bay, I think it is the key nesting location for the gorgeous Caretta Caretta turtles. I swear it is one of my favorites, it almost focuses entirely on letting you experience these stunning sea creatures in their habitat, so lovely. Most excursions are crafted to respectfully view the turtles without disturbing them. Remember, it’s a real privilege to peek at these animals in nature, more or less.
What to Expect: Quite often, these tours involve a boat ride out to Marathonisi, where you could possibly observe turtles swimming or surfacing for air. Most include a stop at the caves around Keri and time for a swim stop at a turtle-protected beach, if that sounds right. There are quite a few tours, you know, that promise ‘turtle sightings’, however, seriously be conscious of which operators, in a way, respect the turtle conservation laws, that’s all I’m saying.
Why this is an awesome Tour: These are just, you know, a little great for any wildlife enthusiast, is that so? Getting to watch the Caretta Caretta turtles in the wild and learning, or rather hearing about conservation efforts is just remarkably fulfilling. And I thought relaxing on Marathonisi’s stunning beach, that too it’s almost pure bliss. It really is. Isn’t it a great combination?
Insider’s Tip: Pack a pair of binoculars, they say, for improved viewing of the turtles from the boat, isn’t it great? Pick a tour that guarantees it follows responsible wildlife watching guidelines and really, genuinely cares about those turtles, doesn’t that seem right? See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Turtle Spotting Tour)
3. Full-Day Island Tour
For anyone really looking to see as much of Zakynthos as physically possible in a day, or rather less, the Full-Day Island Tour might be a cracking option. These complete sightseeing trips, like they cart you around the key places, providing an actual snapshot of the island’s culture, landscape and so much history, I cannot keep up.
What to Expect: Expect, actually, stops at everything from the Venetian fort in Bohali, or the reputed panoramic viewpoints over Shipwreck Beach and other beauty spots such as olive press factory outlet in Lithakia, it does feel like it. The day often, really typically includes free time in villages like Kiliomeno where you get a sense of local life and tradition, not just tourist spots. So much to pack in for such a relatively short timeframe. I couldn’t do it all myself.
Why this is in some respects, an awesome Tour: These tours are ideal if you are, you know, someone that’s short on time but keen on viewing as much of Zakynthos, or really something of Zakynthos, as you could squeeze in, I guess. Getting driven to different spots saves time and bother, or even, let’s be honest the hassle, I think of car rental, so no designated driver needed, result! Plus, a knowledgeable local guide gives an invaluable, truly fascinating introduction to the area and it’s back story. Is that a real bonus?
Insider’s Tip: Check, very carefully, what exactly is included, when booking – are entrance costs and, maybe, perhaps lunch part of it? Put on really comfortable shoes since you’re clearly doing to be on your feet rather lots. Do you know where the phrase, “all the gear, but no idea” comes from, well maybe if you need good trainers and don’t get them? Oh well! Read our full review: Zakynthos Island Tour Full Review and Details
4. Zakynthos Wine Tour
If you have an actual appreciation of fine wine or you simply think sinking a glass in the sunshine might just tick the box, then perhaps the Zakynthos Wine Tour is one worth mulling over. As Zakynthos gets increasingly noted for her amazing wineries, which are generating some truly remarkable wines, you could say taking this is an educational AND deeply fulfilling past time, couldn’t you?
What to Expect: They usually include visits to a couple of wineries, frequently, frequently family-run ventures with passionate people who really put some care into producing some delightful grape juice. Count on trying multiple locally created wines, getting info on the winemaking ways, also, and, so you know, soaking up the atmosphere between the vines, is what I call chilling, I tell you! Several tours also blend in sampling local fare, or possibly cheeses, breads or olive oils – yum!
Why this is so, an awesome Tour: You’ll like sampling delicious Zakynthos wines and learning the art of grape growing, which could be seen as deeply immersive and culturally unique? Plus, most wineries have really super scenery making them quite a nice spot, you see what I did there, get it…SPOT… Wine Tour? OK, moving on… I almost recommend a bit of retail therapy here and possibly grabbing one or two bottles, after all, who doesn’t want to remember this fondly, or perhaps fuzzily! Is it not great for wine connoisseurs?
Insider’s Tip: Ensure that there are safe, or preferably cheap, transport provisions in the works between wineries and/or your digs. It goes without even considering; definitely consume booze sensibly. Think, you know, wear sun protection as a good part of these excursions unfolds outside. You’re never too prepared for sunstroke, are you? See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Zakynthos Wine Tour)
5. Sunset Cruise
Is there one idyllic ending to your day sightseeing Zakynthos’? Oh yes there is! Jump aboard a cruise at Sunset. A lot of cruises sweep around the coast as sunlight gently dips in that dreamy sea – perfect to sit back with that wine from the vineyard (above!) and simply live in the moment (or be reminded by your partner) that life does not get much better than this right now. You lucky devil you!
What to Expect: Generally count on swimming at beauty spots only available by water as the vessel repositions you ideally so that you drink in that awesome setting sunlight. Lots of jaunts factor in open bars, canapés plus music for just an awesome chilled out feel. What’s best about it? Basically watching the sun dip below the waves over Zakynthos cannot be matched with anything back at your usual nine to five back home (unless you are reading this from your home near Zakynthos!) Is it really something else?
Why this is indeed, an awesome Tour: Well what can I say to make this more appealing? This really captures the absolute romance and relaxation that can be experienced in Zakynthos. Great opportunity here so why not make something very very memorable with someone special that I guarantee you won’t be ever be regretting? Doesn’t that sound perfect? Do something different and splash that cash!
Insider’s Tip: Well firstly, I do hate to state the blooming obvious but get your cameras completely charged before this since there is, obviously, so many great photo opportunities around you, so why scrimp there and regret later? You might want to check up on weather conditions beforehand. A decent jacket or windproof, particularly earlier in the season is very advisable, so ensure your comfort comes before fashion or perhaps getting cold. What about having your own comfort? Read our full review: Zakynthos Sunset Cruise Full Review and Details
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