Making the most of Zakinthos
Use these notes to shape a realistic day ashore, then confirm any time-sensitive information for the date of your call.
Arriving at the port
Most ships will tender passengers ashore in the town centre.
The principal port at Zakynthos Town presents a classic Greek scene of white homes, fishing boats and tavernas.
Take a printable map with you.
Away from the harbour, activity centres on Platia Slomou, home to the Museum of Post-Byzantine Art (Open tue-sun, admission charge).
A sequence of earthquakes in 1953 nearly destroyed Zakynthos Island, levelling every historic building except three.
Getting around
Zante, the southernmost Ionian Island, has a varied landscape. Striking mountains characterise the largely uninhabited west, while fertile plains, picturesque coves and long sandy beaches fill the east. It is a beautiful island where many varieties of colourful flowers appear to bloom throughout the year. Zante won the hearts of the Venetians, who ruled for many years and called it ‘Flower of the East'.
Numerous boat trips visit the Blue Caves and the "Shipwreck".
Food and shopping
Town shops sell local wine, honey, jewellery, leather and pottery.
Money
The currency is the Euro.
Staying connected
Greek is spoken, and English is widely understood.
Opening Hours and
Public Services open Monday to Friday, 8.00am – 2.00pm. Retail Stores & Speciality Shops trade Monday to Friday, 9am – 1.30pm and again from 5pm – 9pm, plus Saturdays from 9am – 2pm. Supermarkets open Monday to Friday, 9am – 9pm, and Saturdays, 9am – 6pm. Most Tourist Shops and Convenience Stores have no official hours and usually trade from dawn until well after midnight during summer.