Zakynthos is the third largest and the southernmost of the Ionian Islands with an area of about 410 km² after Corfu and Cephalonia.
Zakynthos was dominated by the Venetians who called the island "Fior di Levante" (Flower of the East) for many centuries. The inhabitants lovingly call Zakynthos "Zante". In international tourism Zakynthos is known mainly as a swim paradise. In terms of numbers of visitors in the Ionian Sea, Zakynthos takes the second place after Corfu.
The endangered loggerhead turtle (Caretta caretta) uses the beaches in the south of the island as nesting area.
Cruise offers to the port Zakynthos, Ionic Islands / Greece
The capital of Zakynthos is located on the east coast amphitheatrically on a hill whose summit crowns the citadel built by the Venetians. It has many churches (including the Church of the Phaneromeni, the most beautiful church of the Ionian Islands and that of St. Dionysius).
The west coast is rocky and mostly badly accessible. Nevertheless, this part of the island offers a magnificent view. Mountains, rocks, forests and the sea. The bay with the shipwreck is located in the northern section, which can only be reached by ship. Further south are Porto Vromi, Kampi and Limnionas.
From the north to south, first Anafonitria, with the observation terrace, leads to the shipwreck and the monastery, Maries, Kilimeno and a few smaller villages. Here you can still find the original Greece. Olive groves, forest, old stone houses and farmers with their sheep.
To the very south of the island is the small mountain village of Keri, further up you reach the lighthouse. From there you have a fantastic view.
Which cruise lines and ships sail to Zakynthos, Ionic Islands?
AIDA Cruises, Costa Cruises, Crystal Cruises, Nicko Cruises, Oceania Cruises, P&O Cruises, Compagnie du Ponant, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Seabourn, SeaDream Yacht Club
In which country / island is Zakynthos, Ionic Islands located?
