The island is full of amazing places to stay, from luxury suites and villas to budget accommodation facilities. You can find all kinds of lodgings in and around its towns and villages.
For instance, Tsilivi is a famous tourist village with a lively nightlife and a fun water park. It also has a lovely beach.
Alykes
Known to many as the Alykes Beach resort, this large and sprawling village is among the most popular places to stay in Zakynthos for all sorts of reasons. Families, for example, are drawn here by the calm waters and fun activities geared to children of all ages.
The resort also attracts those seeking a bit of livelier nightlife than other quieter parts of the island, with a variety of bars, cafes and music venues that are a favourite with young visitors.
Accommodation in Alykes ranges from a good choice of self-catering apartments and villas to budget, mid-range and luxury hotels. One of the best options here is the Hotel Koukounaria, a family-friendly 4-star property set within three cream-coloured buildings surrounded by lush gardens. It’s close to the nearest beach and offers a kiddies’ pool, hot tub and two bars.
Other accommodation options to consider in Alykes include a gorgeous 3-bedroom villa called the Niova Villa, which has its own private swimming pool, and can sleep up to seven guests, as well as the 2-bedroom Casa Arokaria, which can comfortably accommodate up to twelve people. Both come with spacious terraces with sea and garden views and are perfect for families.
The coastal resort of Argassi is another good choice for families, with a wide choice of accommodation for all budgets, from studio apartments and villas to budget, mid-range, and luxury hotels. During the day, visitors can spend their time topping up their tans on the long stretch of sandy beach, while in the evenings they can enjoy long meals and drinks at international and local restaurants and bars.
Those seeking something a little different to the usual package holiday scene might want to consider a stay in mountainside Keri, sometimes called Zante. This charming village is home to less than 500 permanent residents and has narrow streets with traditional stone cottages, making it a true slice of Greek life away from the crowds. It has a tiny beach, and although it’s not the most picturesque of all Zakynthos beaches, the lack of commercialisation and scenic surroundings make it an attractive choice. A hire car is a must here, however, as the bus service is limited.
Alykanas
The northeastern resort of Alykanas is a popular choice for families. Its calm beach and array of fun activities make it ideal for young children, while its range of studio apartments and simple hotels offer affordable options. There are also a number of family run traditional taverns where you can enjoy local cuisine, while bars and cafes offer refreshing drinks and light snacks.
The best places to stay in Zakynthos can be found across the island, but you must consider your priorities when choosing an area for your holiday. Those looking for lively nighlife will be drawn to Laganas, the island’s primary party town. Its main street is lined with bars and clubs, while the long beach and watersports are perfect for relaxing in the sun or trying your hand at windsurfing and jet-skiing.
Families may prefer the calm beaches and relaxed atmosphere of Alykes or neighbouring Alykanas, while those who want to explore the historical and cultural highlights of the island should head to Zakynthos Town. This old-style capital city is home to the most comprehensive selection of accommodation on the island, and its central location makes it easy to walk to many of the island’s attractions, restaurants, bars, and shops.
While Zakynthos is a very large island, it is easy to reach most areas from the airport and main town by bus or taxi. Car rental is a popular option for visitors to the island, as it allows you to travel at your own pace and visit more remote areas of the island that would be difficult to access by public transport. Alternatively, there are also a number of shuttle buses that operate between the main towns and the airport. The island’s airport is located just under five miles from the main town of Zakynthos, making it convenient for those arriving by plane. The airport is well-equipped with facilities, including restaurants and bars where you can refresh yourself after your flight. In addition, the airport offers several car hire agencies for those who wish to rent a vehicle.
Agalas
Choosing the right place to stay on a holiday can be difficult. Luckily, Zakynthos Island has a variety of destinations for every type of vacationer. Whether you’re looking for a quiet beach or vibrant nightlife, there’s something for everyone on this beautiful island.
Located on the western coast of the island, Agalas is a charming mountain village surrounded by pine trees and olive groves. The village’s architecture is unique, with old stone houses and narrow streets. Its most notable landmark is the Cave of Damianos, a two-story cave filled with awe-inspiring stalactites and stalagmites. The area also features a number of windmills, wells, and the church of Saint Andrea.
Agios Nikolaos is a working port with less of a tourist focus than its neighbouring coastal towns. This makes it a great option for those seeking an authentic Greek holiday without the crowds. The town is home to a few restaurants, shops, and bars. It’s also an ideal place to stay if you want to explore the island by sea, as the town is situated near several beaches and water-sports.
Zakynthos Town is the transport hub of the island and home to the main bus terminal. It’s also one of the most walkable areas of the island, so it’s a good choice for travelers who don’t want to rent a car. It’s also home to a few of the island’s most popular clubs and restaurants. If you’re looking for a more lively experience, head to Laganas, the island’s primary party town.
If you’re traveling with family, you may prefer to stay in Alykes/Alykanas or Zakynthos Town. Both offer a wide range of accommodation options, from studios to luxury villas. There are even a few hotels that are perfect for families, such as the 3-star Hotel Koukounaria in Alykes. This hotel is a short walk from the beach and offers spacious rooms with stunning views of the coastline. It’s also equipped with a kids’ pool and a hot tub. Guests can also enjoy the hotel’s free breakfast and parking. It’s also a short drive from the airport.
Zakynthos Town
While the capital of the island is not a beach location, it is one of the best places to stay in Zakynthos because it has all the services and amenities that travelers need. It is also centrally located and serves as the main transport hub on the island. You can find a range of accommodation options in the town, from hostels and self-catering apartments to budget hotels and 5-star luxury hotels. There are also many restaurants, bars and cafes in the town that cater to all tastes. The nightlife in the town is lively, with a variety of pubs, disco bars and live music bars to choose from. There are also a number of clubs where you can party until the early hours.
The town is home to several museums, including the Post Byzantine Art Museum and Solomos Museum, as well as the Church of Saint Dionysios, the patron saint of the island. The area also has a few markets where you can shop for souvenirs and local products. You can also take part in one of the many excursions on offer from the town, such as trips to the famous shipwreck beach and the Blue Caves.
Zakynthos Town is also where most of the action takes place in terms of tourism, so there are plenty of shops, bars and restaurants to visit. If you’re looking for some relaxation, you can enjoy a day on one of the quieter beaches or spend time in the park and botanical gardens.
Families also have a lot to choose from in Zakynthos, thanks to the island’s calm beaches and fun activities for all ages. The village of Alykes is particularly popular with families, with its sheltered waters and plethora of family-friendly water sports. Alternatively, the town of Tsilivi is a good option for families with children.
There are a wide range of accommodation options for families in Zakynthos, from large villas to smaller guest houses and hostels. For example, the gorgeous Villa Alykes is a spacious and modern villa that can sleep up to 7 people. Another great option for families is Vafias Villa, a renovated country farmhouse high on the hills above Laganas that can sleep up to 16.