Exo Chora Day Trips: Top 5 Unforgettable Escapes

So, you’re planning a trip to Zakynthos and searching for something different, right? It’s almost a certainty that you have heard whispers about the gorgeous beaches and lively towns, yet there’s this desire for something more authentic, perhaps? A way to connect with the real heart of the island, that is? Well, have you thought about stepping away from the familiar and toward Exo Chora, like your gateway to a completely different Zakynthos vibe? Exo Chora is this village, really frozen in time, that offers glimpses into the island’s true culture, history, and well, scenic beauty.

We get it, you might want something special on your trip to Zakynthos, yet deciding where to begin with your plans, right? That is why, we’ve assembled this little guide to the top five day trips that, potentially, kick off right from Exo Chora. Think of it as, like your treasure map leading you away from common tourist paths and rather deeper into Zakynthos’ amazing gems. These aren’t the standard destinations. These trips are about diving into tradition, savoring real flavors, and enjoying Zakynthos’ landscape without all the noise. Grab your hat, fill your water bottle, and prepare to discover Exo Chora and what’s, arguably, hidden around it!

1. The Ancient Olive Tree: A Walk Through Time

So, if you find yourself wandering around Exo Chora, visiting the ancient olive tree is something you just need to do, in a way. You could say it is this, almost, legendary spot, really, because it is home to an olive tree that’s been standing there for more than 2,000 years! Think of all those stories that tree could tell, in short! It’s this natural monument that isn’t just old. It is seriously a symbol of the resilience and longevity, I guess, of Zakynthos. You see, the tree itself, with its gnarled trunk, you know, provides an opportunity to actually touch history and wonder about all the changes it has witnessed. Around the tree, too it’s almost a local market, with vendors providing olive oil products harvested right nearby. The whole experience, you could say it, really, is something special—walking amongst history and savoring locally-made treats.

What Makes It Special: The feeling that you get while you touch something that has lived centuries. You’re connecting with nature and past events simultaneously. It offers this sense of peace you can get far away from everything else.

Visitor Tip: Definitely visit early, so you beat the crowds, and make sure to sample, and perhaps buy, that locally pressed olive oil. They usually offer tastings!

Read our full review: Ancient Olive Tree Exo Chora Full Review and Details

2. Anafonitria Monastery: Spiritual Reflection

Right near Exo Chora, too it’s almost another place you ought to explore is Anafonitria Monastery. It’s very rich in history. Legend has it that Saint Dionysios, the protector saint of Zakynthos, you know, used to seek shelter here, basically. The monastery itself shows beautiful architecture and has this vibe of serene calmness. Take your time to admire the monastery bells and see that medieval watchtower. Now, remember, dress modestly if you wish to enter. Being there offers this great chance to enjoy the quieter, spiritual vibe of Zakynthos and see into its religious heritage. You get the chance to explore history in action when visiting.

What Makes It Special: Saint Dionysios’ past connects very well with the location, so that there are deeper insights than just the plain sight. The calm here can give you the opportunity to reflect as well.

Visitor Tip: Consider checking their visitation policies. Sometimes it is hard to go inside, yet the architecture is, arguably, breathtaking to see from the outside, so, right?

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3. Porto Vromi: Boat Trips to Hidden Beaches

You’ve come so far, that perhaps the idea of spending an unforgettable time in Zakynthos keeps getting stronger? Maybe you would enjoy that. From Exo Chora, a brief drive leads you to Porto Vromi, which provides amazing access to some incredible boat trips. Basically, from there, you can jump aboard a boat that visits famous locations like the Shipwreck Beach and the secluded caves all along the coastline. So, that deep blue water against that bright white sand—trust me, the scenery’s amazing. These boat excursions often include a couple of stops for a swim in those clear waters. Porto Vromi is this picturesque location offering you the chance to see some well known spots in Zakynthos.

What Makes It Special: It serves as the gateway for various exciting sites in Zakynthos. You can enjoy several sights and go swim in clear waters, at your pace.

Visitor Tip: Purchase tickets ahead during the summer peak season. Mornings, in a way, tend to be quieter, which offers much better pictures too.

Read our full review: Porto Vromi Boat Trip Full Review and Details

4. Exploring the Villages: Maries & Kiliomenos

Ready to explore more? You could take a scenic drive from Exo Chora through that picturesque Zakynthos terrain, possibly exploring little places like Maries and Kiliomenos. These are really remote communities that highlight conventional Zakynthian life. Maries, in short, is famous, really, since that’s where Mary Magdalene is thought to have taught the gospel. Kiliomenos, sitting high in that mountainside, too it’s almost giving amazing panoramic views and traditional rock constructions. Walking those old streets and meeting locals could really open your eyes up about the Zakynthos way of life. Don’t forget to try the coffee from any town local store! Experiencing Zakynthos goes beyond what travel books reveal and instead allows to interact in very unexpected ways.

What Makes It Special: It opens chances to peek in how traditional Zakynthos runs everyday, getting a different understanding, that is, than just tourist sights offer. Be open to explore!

Visitor Tip: These small mountain towns don’t offer the common options that tourist cities have, you know, so make sure you carry all necessities. Consider dressing nicely to meet people.

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5. Sunset at the Cross (Kampi): Breathtaking Views

Okay, picture this: Your day’s getting close to an end, you know, and you are heading to that cliffs near Kampi, particularly to the Cross, you know. Now, you’re not just seeing a sunset, you might be witnessing something spectacular in action! The area offers one of Zakynthos’ most unforgettable scenes when that sun sets into that Adriatic Sea. The Cross you see honors all those seamen who disappeared during war, adding in some historical meaning for that moment. Plan a late trip, secure your place early on, and simply take it all in as dusk colors shift from blazing oranges into those calming purples. Sunset viewing, with a story attached.

What Makes It Special: Viewing from here adds more charm from this historic place built onto Kampi’s rough terrain.

Visitor Tip: Ensure to arrive a bit early to find a good spot and perhaps bring something comfortable for the wait as temperatures can be variable there.

Read our full review: Sunset at Cross Kampi Full Review and Details