Where to stay in Argassi: The best areas and 17 accommodations

Argassi is the largest and most organised tourist resort in Zakynthos, built around a long sandy bay in the southeast of the island, just a few minutes from Zakynthos Town. It combines an organised beach, vibrant nightlife, and easy access to the town centre, making it popular with both young people and families.

The area stretches for a considerable length along the bay, with accommodations ranging from large hotels with swimming pools to smaller apartments and studios in quieter spots away from the main road. The views of Laganas Bay and Gerakas Cape are among the main advantages of its location.

In this article, you will find a detailed breakdown of Argassi’s sub-areas, their advantages and disadvantages, as well as specific accommodation suggestions to help you confidently plan your stay.

What to see and do in Argassi

Argassi is approximately 4 km from Zakynthos Town, a distance covered in 8 to 10 minutes by car or by the local bus which runs several times a day in summer. Zakynthos Airport (Dionysios Solomos) is about 8 km further south, with the journey taking around 15 minutes, while Zakynthos Port, from where ferries depart for Kyllini on the Peloponnese, is approximately 5 km away.

The village probably took its name from an older family that lived in the area, and its history is closely linked to that of the island’s capital, as it formerly functioned as an agricultural settlement with vineyards and olive groves before evolving into a tourist destination from the 1980s onwards. Today, few traces of the old rural life remain visible, mainly around the Church of Agios Dionysios at the entrance to the settlement.

Argassi beach is sandy, with shallow waters for the most part and is organised with sunbeds, umbrellas, and water sports such as jet skis and parasailing. Further south, at Gerakas Cape, there is a smaller, quieter cove, while to the north the coast continues towards Porto Zoro, one of the island's most famous beaches, approximately 6 km away.

Regarding entertainment, Argassi has a dense network of bars, restaurants, and cafes along the main road, with a lively atmosphere on summer evenings, which differentiates it from quieter villages on the island. There are also tavernas serving traditional cuisine a little further from the beach, where you can try sartsopita, island cheese pie, fresh fish, and local olive oil.

Seasonality is pronounced, as the area operates mainly from April to October, peaking in July and August when accommodation prices rise significantly and many establishments book up early. In May, June, and September, prices are more affordable, and the sea remains warm enough for swimming, while in winter the majority of hotels and restaurants remain closed.

Getting around Argassi is easy on foot, as the main road concentrates most shops and restaurants over a length of approximately 2 km parallel to the coast. For excursions to the rest of the island, such as the Keri Caves or Navagio (Shipwreck Beach), a car or an organised tour is usually required, as distances exceed 40 km to the north.

Cape Skopos, south of Argassi, offers panoramic views of Laganas Bay and Marathonisi islet, known as Turtle Island for the loggerhead sea turtles, with boats departing from the area for daily observation trips. This area is part of the Zakynthos National Marine Park, with protection regulations primarily affecting the nesting beaches further south.

If you are travelling without a car, Argassi is one of the most convenient bases in Zakynthos, as its proximity to the town allows for easy travel by local bus or taxi for shopping, banks, and the port, which is not as easily the case in more remote resorts on the island.

Temperatures during the summer months usually hover around 30 to 32 degrees Celsius, with the sea breeze offering some relief in the afternoons, while the sea remains warm enough for swimming from mid-May to October. In summer, especially in July and August, humidity can be noticeable, which is worth considering if you plan hikes or day trips.

Car or scooter rental is widespread in Argassi, with several offices operating along the main road, which is useful if you intend to explore more remote parts of the island like Navagio or the mountain villages. Many hotels in the area also have swimming pools, an important feature for those who do not want to rely exclusively on the sea, especially on days with rough waves.

The best areas to stay in Argassi

Central Argassi

Central Argassi is located right on the beach and the main commercial street, with most hotels and apartments just a few minutes' walk from the sea.

It is the best choice for those who want everything within easy reach, from dining to nightlife, without needing a car for their daily needs.

Advantages:

• Direct access to the beach and main road
• Wide variety of restaurants and bars
• Easy transport to Zakynthos Town

Disadvantages:

• Quite busy and noisy in the evenings during summer
• Higher prices for sea-view accommodations

Recommended accommodations:

1. Argasi Beach Hotel
Hotel right on the beach with a pool and easy access to Argassi's main road.

• Average cost: approximately 95€ per night

2. Meridien Beach
Modern hotel by the sea, with comfortable rooms and good ratings for its location.

• Average cost: approximately 100€ per night

3. Contessa Hotel
Mid-sized hotel near the beach, popular with couples and families.

• Average cost: approximately 85€ per night

4. Katerina Palace
Hotel with a pool and good value for money, within walking distance of the beach.

• Average cost: approximately 90€ per night

5. Hotel Papillon
Small family-run hotel in the centre of Argassi, with simple but clean rooms.

• Average cost: approximately 70€ per night

Coastal front and northern Argassi

The northern part of Argassi, towards Porto Zoro, has a more relaxed character compared to the centre, with fewer bars and more family-friendly accommodations.

A good choice for those who want peace and quiet but also the ability to reach the centre of Argassi with a short walk or by car.

Advantages:

• Quieter environment than the centre
• Close to beaches like Porto Zoro
• Good choice for families

Disadvantages:

• Further from the central bars
• Fewer restaurant options in the immediate area

Recommended accommodations:

6. Iliessa Beach
Seaside hotel with a pool, popular with families seeking tranquillity.

• Average cost: approximately 110€ per night

7. Porto Iliessa
Apartment complex with a pool, suitable for families and larger groups.

• Average cost: approximately 105€ per night

8. Gardelli Resort
Hotel with a garden and pool, more secluded from the noise of the centre.

• Average cost: approximately 98€ per night

9. Ionian Hill Hotel
Hotel on a small hill with bay views, quiet and away from the beach traffic.

• Average cost: approximately 88€ per night

Gerakas Cape and southern Argassi

The area around Gerakas Cape, at the southern tip of Argassi, has a calmer character with smaller accommodations and views towards Laganas Bay and Marathonisi.

Suitable for those looking for accommodation with less hustle and bustle, while still maintaining close access to Argassi's centre by car in just a few minutes.

Advantages:

• Quiet environment with bay views
• Close to boat trips to Marathonisi
• Less crowded beach

Disadvantages:

• Car needed for the central bars
• Fewer accommodation options compared to the centre

Recommended accommodations:

10. Cavo Suites
Sea-view suites, quiet location near Gerakas Cape.

• Average cost: approximately 115€ per night

11. Olea All Suite
Suite complex with a pool, suitable for couples who want more privacy.

• Average cost: approximately 120€ per night

12. Palmyra
Small accommodation with a simple layout, a good option for more budget-friendly stays at the southern end.

• Average cost: approximately 75€ per night

13. Meandros Boutique & Spa
Boutique hotel with a spa and pool, popular with couples seeking relaxation.

• Average cost: approximately 130€ per night

Inland apartments and studios

Inland Argassi, away from the beachfront, offers several apartments and studios at more affordable prices, suitable for those who don't mind a short walk to the sea.

Many of these feature a kitchen, which is useful for longer stays or for families who want to self-cater.

Advantages:

• More affordable prices than the beachfront
• Self-catering option with a kitchen
• Quiet accommodation away from the main road

Disadvantages:

• Walking or driving needed for the beach
• Fewer views compared to seaside accommodations

Recommended accommodations:

14. Maria Mare Apart-hotel
Apartments with kitchens, a good choice for families staying for several days.

• Average cost: approximately 80€ per night

15. Zante Luxury Apartment
Comfortable apartment with a modern layout, suitable for couples or small families.

• Average cost: approximately 90€ per night

16. Iniohos Zante Hotel & Suites
Suites with basic amenities, good value for money in the interior of the settlement.

• Average cost: approximately 70€ per night

17. Mary Elen Boutique Hotel
Small boutique accommodation with personal service, a few minutes from the beach.

• Average cost: approximately 85€ per night

18. Diana Palace Hotel Zakynthos
Hotel with a pool and family atmosphere, in a quiet part of Argassi.

• Average cost: approximately 95€ per night

Practical tips for your stay

• Book early for July and August. Argassi is one of Zakynthos's most popular resorts, and the best accommodations near the beach get booked up several months in advance.
• Choose the area based on how much noise you can tolerate. The centre has lively nightlife, while the northern and southern ends offer quieter nights.
• Consider if you need a car. If you want to visit Navagio (Shipwreck Beach) or the Keri Caves, you will need a car or an organised tour, as distances are significant.
• Try the local bus for the town. Getting to Zakynthos Town is easy and cheap by local bus, without needing to rent a car.
• Pay attention to the season for a quiet stay. May, June, and September have fewer crowds and more affordable prices, with the sea remaining warm enough.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far is Argassi from Zakynthos Town?

Approximately 4 km, an 8 to 10-minute drive or local bus ride.

Do I need a car to stay in Argassi?

Not necessarily for daily needs, but it is useful if you want to explore the rest of the island.

What is the best time to stay in Argassi?

From May to October, with July and August being the busiest months.

Is Argassi suitable for families with children?

Yes, the beach has shallow waters in many areas, and there are many family-friendly accommodations.

How far is the airport from Argassi?

Approximately 8 km, a journey of about 15 minutes by car or taxi.

Is there nightlife in Argassi?

Yes, the central part has several bars and cafes with activity late into the evening during summer.

The conclusion

Argassi is a complete choice for accommodation in Zakynthos, ideal for those who want an organised beach, easy access to the town, and a lively atmosphere in the evenings. The selection of the right sub-area mainly depends on how much peace and quiet you are looking for and how close you want to be to the centre.

With the accommodation suggestions you've seen above, you can organise your stay according to your budget and type of trip, whether it's for a family holiday or a romantic getaway for two.

See also our guides on where to stay in Imerovigli and where to stay in Kalamaki, Zakynthos.