Discovering Zakynthos: A 5-Day Itinerary
Accommodation
We stayed at the Aqua Bay Suites (All-Inclusive) resort in Tsivili, Zakynthos. Our stay at the resort gave us access to the Tsivili water park, buffet resturaunts and pools on site.
Day One: Arrival
Our adventure began at Aqua Bay Suites, where we met with our friendly TUI rep to arrange a car rental. The process was incredibly smooth, and the car was delivered to our hotel the next morning. With everything settled, we set out to explore Zakynthos.
Morning and Afternoon:
We started our day by heading to a beach slightly further down from Tsivili, away from the usual crowds. The crystal-clear waters and serene atmosphere provided the perfect backdrop for relaxation. After soaking up the sun, we ventured into Zakynthos town. Strolling through charming streets lined with quaint shops, we indulged in some local shopping and enjoyed the vibrant atmosphere.
Evening: Back at the hotel, we hit the water park for a refreshing drink and a swim in the lazy river. After a quick shower, we dressed up for dinner in town. We dined at a lovely restaurant, Aliotiko Taverna, savoring Honey and Ouzo lamb and a mixed gyros platter. The flavors were simply divine. Our evening ended with more exploration of the city and a nightcap at the hotel bar.
Day Two: Turtle Island & Keri
With our car ready, we embarked on a day filled with discovery.
Morning
We drove to the picturesque Gerakas beach and enjoyed a delightful breakfast at a cozy cafe nestled in the mountains (Τρανακας Bakery). The incredible pastries and breads, combined with the panoramic views mountain made the morning unforgettable.
Back at the hotel, we joined an organized excursion to Turtle Island and Keri. The boat trip lasted five hours, during which we spotted turtles swimming in their natural habitat and had several opportunities to dive into the azure waters. Exploring the southern coast of Zakynthos from the boat was a highlight of our trip.
Evening
We docked around 5 pm, returned to the hotel for a sumptuous dinner, and then headed out for some fun. We enjoyed a round of mini golf and some drinks at Fantasy Mini Golf and arcade games provided a perfect end to an adventurous day.
Day Three
Our third day was the highlight of our trip- a comprehensive road trip around Zakynthos.
Our first stop, Sulfur Beach, mesmerised us with its unique sulphurous waters and dramatic cliffs. Next up, we headed to Xigia Beach, Just a short drive north, we relaxed in the natural spa waters of Xigia Beach, known for its therapeutic properties. St. Nicholas Port: Continuing northeast, we reached St. Nicholas Port. We took a boat tour to the Blue Caves, an absolute must-visit. The reflections of sunlight created a stunning blue hue inside the caves. For lunch, we dined at Sunset Michealis, enjoying souvlaki and fresh fish with a spectacular coastal view (€15-€25 per person).
Post-lunch, we headed south to Anafonitiris, a village steeped in history with its ancient church and traditional architecture. We were fortunate to spend some time at a serene monastery surrounded by olive groves, admiring its beautiful Byzantine architecture.
Our next stop was to the Aristeon Olive Oil Press where we were able to explore and learn about olive oil production and tasted some exquisite oils. The Orange and Chilli infused extra virgin olive oils were outstanding!
We ended our evening by returning to Aqua Bay Suites, where we were treated to a Greek-themed dinner. The evening ended with delightful traditional dishes and a peaceful night’s sleep.
Day Four
Our final day was a blend of relaxation and farewell. Morning: We spent the morning at the hotel’s water park, enjoying the slides and pools one last time. We packed up and prepared for our departure, reflecting on the wonderful memories made over the past few days. Boarding our flight back home, we felt a bittersweet mix of gratitude and longing for more time on this beautiful island.
Budget-Friendly Activities:
Zakynthos Town: Take a leisurely stroll through the vibrant streets, visit local shops, and enjoy a coffee at a cozy café (€3-€5 for a coffee).
Beach Day: Relax at Tsivili Beach or another nearby beach, perfect for a budget-friendly day out.
Tsivili Water Park: Spend the day at the hotel’s water park, included in the all-inclusive package.
Higher Priced Activities:
Boat Excursions: Private boat tours to Shipwreck Beach and the Blue Caves (€40-€60 per person).
Scuba Diving: Discover underwater caves and marine life with local dive operators (€70-€100 per dive).
Horse Riding: Enjoy a scenic beach ride at sunset (€50 per person).
Dining Recommendations:
Budget-Friendly Restaurants:
Taverna Akrotiri: Enjoy traditional Greek dishes with stunning views (€10-€20 per person).
Popeye’s Restaurant: Casual dining with a variety of Greek dishes (€10-€15 per person).
Benikos Greek Gourmet Taverna: Affordable and delicious meals (€10-€20 per person).
Higher Priced Restaurants:
Nobelos Bio Restaurant: Organic and gourmet dishes in a beautiful setting (€30-€50 per person).
Bassia: Fine dining experience with a modern twist on Greek cuisine (€40-€60 per person).
Alivizos Restaurant: A high-end dining spot offering seafood specialties (€35-€55 per person).
Tsivili vs. Laganas:
If you’re not interested in the party scene of Laganas, Tsivili is the perfect spot. It’s close enough to explore Laganas if you wish but distant enough to enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere. Tsivili offers a great balance of lively activities and peaceful retreats.
Summary
Zakynthos exceeded all our expectations with its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. From the seamless arrangements through TUI to the luxurious stay at Aqua Bay Suites, our trip was both relaxing and adventurous. Whether you’re seeking budget-friendly activities or looking to splurge on unforgettable experiences, Zakynthos offers something for everyone.
A special mention to the incredible staff at Aqua Bay Suites who went above and beyond to make our stay feel exceptional. Their hospitality and attention to detail truly enhanced our experience. If you’re considering a visit, don’t hesitate! Zakynthos is an island of paradise waiting to be explored. Our 5-day journey was filled with unforgettable moments, and we can’t wait to return.