Zakynthos Island, Greece

The most iconic sight on the island is Navagio Beach, also known as Shipwreck Beach. This stunning cove is only accessible by sea, and numerous boat tours are available, often combining the trip with a visit to the spectacular Blue Caves, which are famous for their dazzling turquoise water.

For a breathtaking panoramic view of Zakynthos Town and the harbor, a short trip up to Bochali Hill is a must. Here you can find the ruins of an old Venetian castle and enjoy a coffee at one of the scenic cafes. Another popular excursion is a boat trip to Marathonisi Island, or 'Turtle Island,' a protected nesting area for loggerhead turtles where you can swim in crystal-clear waters.

A popular nearby destination is the resort town of Laganas, located about 9 km (15-20 minute drive) south of the port. It is famous for its long sandy beach and is a key nesting area for the loggerhead sea turtle within the National Marine Park of Zakynthos.

For a more traditional experience, visit the mountain village of Keri, approximately 20 km (30-40 minute drive) away. This charming village offers spectacular panoramic views and a glimpse into old-world island life. The twin beach resorts of Alykes and Alykanas on the northeast coast, about 16 km away, are also great options for those seeking calm waters and family-friendly beaches.

The cruise port of Zakynthos is conveniently located directly in Zakynthos Town, the island's capital and main hub. Many cruise ships, especially larger ones, anchor in the bay and use tenders to bring passengers ashore to the main pier.

The town center, including the bustling Solomos Square and the main shopping street of Alexandrou Roma, is within a pleasant 15-20 minute walk along the scenic harbor promenade. The port's immediate vicinity has plenty of cafes, restaurants, and tour operators. While the town is walkable, you will need transportation like a taxi or a tour to explore attractions further afield.

The official currency used in Zakynthos is the Euro (€). While some tourist-focused establishments might accept other major currencies like the US Dollar in a pinch, you will receive a poor exchange rate, so using Euros is highly recommended.

ATMs are widely available throughout Zakynthos Town and other tourist areas, including near the port. Credit cards (Visa and Mastercard) are commonly accepted in most restaurants, hotels, and larger shops. However, it is always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller purchases at cafes, in markets, or for taxi fares.

Zakynthos is generally considered a very safe destination for tourists, with a low crime rate. The primary safety concerns are related to general travel precautions. Be mindful of your personal belongings in crowded tourist areas and on public transport to avoid petty theft.

When renting scooters or ATVs, which is a popular way to see the island, exercise extreme caution as roads can be narrow, winding, and busy. If swimming, be aware of boat traffic, especially around popular coves and caves. Exploring Zakynthos Town and nearby areas independently is safe, but guided boat tours are required and recommended for accessing offshore attractions like Shipwreck Beach and the Blue Caves.

Zakynthos enjoys a classic Mediterranean climate, making it an ideal cruise destination from spring through autumn. The main cruise season sees warm, sunny weather with very little rainfall, especially during the peak summer months of June through August when temperatures typically range from 25-32°C (77-90°F).

Spring and autumn (April-May and September-October) are slightly cooler and offer very pleasant conditions for sightseeing, with average temperatures between 15-22°C (60-72°F). For a summer visit, pack light clothing, swimwear, a sunhat, and strong sunscreen. For the shoulder seasons, it's wise to bring a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings or boat trips.

Several transportation options are available for exploring Zakynthos. Taxis are readily available at the cruise port for trips to nearby beaches or attractions; it's advisable to agree on the fare before starting your journey.

The island has a public bus system, KTEL, which connects Zakynthos Town to major resorts and villages across the island. The central bus station is located in Zakynthos Town, a short distance from the port area. For ultimate flexibility, car, scooter, and ATV rentals are popular, but be cautious on the island's winding roads. To visit marine sights like Navagio Beach, organized boat tours are essential and depart from various points, including the main harbor.

The best shopping can be found in Zakynthos Town, particularly along Alexandrou Roma Street, the main commercial road that runs parallel to the harbor. Here you will find a mix of fashion boutiques, jewelry stores, and shops selling local goods. The waterfront promenade is also lined with numerous souvenir and gift shops.

Look for local specialties such as 'mantolato' (a honey and almond nougat), high-quality local olive oil, and Verdea, a traditional white wine unique to the island. Handcrafted ceramics and leather goods also make excellent souvenirs. Prices are generally fixed in shops, and haggling is not a common practice.