Where to stay in Zakynthos: area guide and 13 reviewed accommodations

Zakynthos is the third largest of the Ionian Islands and one of the few that manages to be simultaneously cosmopolitan and tranquil, depending on where you unpack your bags. The decision of where to stay in Zakynthos is practically the most crucial one for your trip: the island spans 410 square kilometres, and distances from one end to the other can exceed an hour’s drive.

In this guide, we break down each accommodation area, providing real distances from the port and airport, a profile of each location, and seasonal prices. We also recommend thirteen accommodations that we have thoroughly checked on Booking.com.

Zakynthos at a glance: what you need to know before booking

Zakynthos, or Zante as the Venetians called it, has approximately 40,000 inhabitants and two entirely different faces. The western side is rugged, with sheer limestone cliffs plunging into the Ionian Sea and almost no settlements. The eastern and southern sides are flat, featuring long sandy beaches, olive groves, vineyards, and all of the island’s accommodations.

Zakynthos Town was rebuilt after the 1953 earthquake and retains the arches of Solomos Square, the church of Saint Dionysios, and the Venetian castle on Bochali Hill. It is the port, the administrative centre, and the best base if you’re seeking everyday life and not just a beach holiday.

Navagio (Shipwreck Beach), the most photographed beach in Greece, is located in the northwest and is accessible only by boat from Porto Vromi or Agios Nikolaos. The viewing platform above the beach has been repeatedly closed for safety reasons, so it’s worth checking the status before planning your visit.

To the south, Laganas Bay is a National Marine Park and a nesting area for the Caretta caretta sea turtle. Restrictions apply to night-time access to parts of the beaches, sun umbrellas, and boat speeds, which makes Kalamaki and Laganas quieter than their reputation might suggest.

“Dionysios Solomos” Airport is 6 km from the town and receives charter flights throughout the summer. The port is connected to Kyllini in an hour and a half, with many daily routes in July and August, while Alykanas is seasonally connected to Kefalonia.

In terms of cost, Zakynthos is one of the more affordable larger islands. In June and September, you can find good four-star hotels from €90 to €140 per night. In July and August, the same categories go for €150 to €250, while the boutique resorts in Vasilikos and Tragaki start from €300 during peak season.

Which area to stay in

Zakynthos Town: for amenities, food, and convenience

The town is the choice for anyone travelling without a car or seeking daily life, tavernas with live music, shopping, and a stroll along the waterfront. You’ll be right next to the port, have the central KTEL bus station for all villages, and can reach Bochali for panoramic views in fifteen minutes. The town’s beach isn't its strongest point, but Kryoneri and Planos are just a few kilometres away.

Tsilivi and Planos: the most balanced base

Five kilometres north of the town, Tsilivi boasts a large sandy beach with shallow waters, organised facilities, supermarkets, and restaurants to suit all tastes. This is the area we most frequently recommend for families and couples who want a beach without being cut off from the town.

Kalamaki and Laganas: close to the airport and the long sandy beaches

Kalamaki is three kilometres from the airport and has a three-kilometre sandy beach that connects with Laganas. It is distinctly quieter than Laganas, with medium-sized hotels and family-run tavernas. Laganas is the island's most touristy part, with vibrant nightlife on the main street and very good prices.

Vasilikos and Porto Zoro: for tranquility and beautiful beaches

The Vasilikos peninsula, in the southeast, features the best beaches for swimming: Porto Zoro, Banana, Gerakas. It's green, sparsely populated, and entirely dependent on a car, but it rewards visitors with peace and clear waters.

Alykes and Alykanas: northern, family-friendly, and affordable

Eighteen kilometres north of the town, Alykes has a long sandy beach, shallow waters, water sports, and the small harbour from which boats depart for the Blue Caves and Navagio. Prices here are among the best on the island.

Tragaki and Akrotiri: for luxury with a view

On the hills above the eastern coast are the island's most luxurious resorts, offering views of the Ionian Sea and Kefalonia. A car is necessary, but they provide a level of service rarely found elsewhere in Zakynthos.

13 accommodations we recommend in Zakynthos

All of the accommodations below were selected based on guest ratings, location relative to the beach and amenities, and value for money. Prices are indicative for a double room during mid-season.

1. Lesante Cape Resort & Villas
A luxurious resort in Akrotiri with private pools, villas, and exceptional gastronomy, part of The Leading Hotels of the World.

• Area: Akrotiri
• Average cost: €480 per night

2. Lesante Blu Exclusive Beach Resort
An adults-only beachfront resort in Tragaki, featuring suites with private pools and direct access to a pebble beach.

• Area: Tragaki
• Average cost: €420 per night

3. Olea All Suite Hotel
A modern all-suite hotel located between Tsilivi and Planos, featuring large pools, a spa, and suites suitable for families.

• Area: Tsilivi
• Average cost: €260 per night

4. Contessina Suites & Spa
Suites with private pools just a few minutes from Tsilivi beach, offering a peaceful environment and a delightful breakfast.

• Area: Tsilivi
• Average cost: €230 per night

5. Palatino Hotel
A classic hotel in Zakynthos Town, next to the waterfront and within walking distance of the port and Solomos Square.

• Area: Zakynthos Town
• Average cost: €120 per night

6. Strada Marina
A centrally located hotel on the town's waterfront with a rooftop pool and harbour views, ideal for a one or two-night stay.

• Area: Zakynthos Town
• Average cost: €110 per night

7. Bitzaro Grande Hotel
A large hotel in Kalamaki with swimming pools, a playground, and organised services, just three minutes from the beach.

• Area: Kalamaki
• Average cost: €170 per night

8. Mediterranean Beach Resort
A beachfront resort in Laganas Bay, featuring a large pool, spa, and direct access to the sandy beach.

• Area: Laganas
• Average cost: €200 per night

9. Zante Park Resort & Spa
A hotel with large pools and a spa in Laganas, offering excellent value for money for families.

• Area: Laganas
• Average cost: €150 per night

10. Marelen Hotel
A quiet hotel with a garden and pool in Kalamaki, offering friendly service and consistently high ratings.

• Area: Kalamaki
• Average cost: €140 per night

11. Letsos Hotel
A family-friendly hotel in Alykanas, a few minutes from the beach, with a pool and comfortable rooms at an affordable price.

• Area: Alykanas
• Average cost: €100 per night

12. Emerald Villas & Suites
Independent villas with private pools in Vasilikos, for families and groups seeking autonomy and tranquility.

• Area: Vasilikos
• Average cost: €350 per night

13. Zante Maris Suites
Adults-only suites in Tsilivi with views of the Ionian Sea, a tranquil environment, and a delightful breakfast.

• Area: Tsilivi
• Average cost: €240 per night

How much does accommodation in Zakynthos cost per season

In May and October, prices drop below €80 for good three-star hotels, with the sea already warm enough for swimming from mid-May. In June and September, prices range from €90 to €140, which offers the best balance of price and experience.

In July and August, demand from charter tourism pushes prices up to €150 to €250 for four-star hotels in Tsilivi and Kalamaki, while resorts in Tragaki and Akrotiri easily exceed €400. If you're aiming for these dates, booking five to six months in advance can make a 20 to 30 per cent difference.

Practical tips for your stay

• If you're not renting a car, opt for the town, Tsilivi, or Alykes, where there is regular public transport and amenities within walking distance.
• For Vasilikos and the western side, a car is essential; bus services become very infrequent in the afternoon.
• Navagio and the Blue Caves are more comfortably visited with a morning boat departure from Alykes or Agios Nikolaos.
• Restrictions apply in Laganas Bay due to the Caretta caretta; check if your hotel's beach has specific access hours.
• Many accommodations in Kalamaki are near the flight path; ask for a room at the back if noise bothers you.
• In Zakynthos Town, parking can be an issue in August; confirm if your hotel offers private parking.

Also read

See also our guides for Kefalonia, Lefkada, and Corfu.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best area to stay in Zakynthos?

Tsilivi for a balance of beach and amenities, Zakynthos Town for urban life without a car, Kalamaki for families close to the airport, and Vasilikos for tranquility and the best beaches.

Do I need a car in Zakynthos?

If you stay in Zakynthos Town, Tsilivi, or Alykes, you can manage with buses and boats. For Vasilikos, Keri, Porto Vromi, and the western side, a car is essential.

How far is the airport from the main accommodation areas?

From the airport to Kalamaki is 3 km, to Zakynthos Town 6 km, to Tsilivi 11 km, and to Alykes approximately 24 km.

When is the best time for a holiday in Zakynthos?

June and September combine warm seas, fewer crowds, and prices up to 40 per cent lower than in August.

Is Zakynthos suitable for families with children?

Yes. Tsilivi, Kalamaki, Alykes, and Porto Zoro have shallow waters and sand, while most hotels offer family rooms and children's pools.

How many days do I need for Zakynthos?

Five days are enough to visit the main beaches and take a cruise to Navagio. With seven days, you'll also have time for Keri, Vasilikos, and the mountainous interior with Volimes.