Best Hotels on Zakynthos: Where to Stay in Each Area 2026

You know the photo: a shipwrecked vessel on a beach of white limestone, turquoise water, towering cliffs all around. That is Navagio Beach on Zakynthos. And it really is as stunning as you think. But Zakynthos is more than that one image.

The island has mountains, olive groves, charming villages, and one of the most important nesting beaches for Caretta-Caretta sea turtles in Europe. Where you stay on Zakynthos determines what version of the island you experience. Here is an honest look at all the areas worth considering.

Which Area on Zakynthos Fits Your Trip?

• Zakynthos Town (Zante Town): historic center, best for culture and getting around
• Laganas: the most popular party spot, for younger travelers and beach club energy
• Argasi and Kalamaki: calm, family-friendly, with the turtle nesting beach nearby
• Tsilivi: family resort town in the north, no nightlife noise
• Alykes and Alykanas: relaxed north coast, good for couples and quiet family trips

Zakynthos Town: the Cultural Heart of the Island

The island’s capital was almost completely rebuilt after the 1953 earthquake but kept its Venetian character. The streetscape is elegant, the waterfront promenade is long and pleasant, and the Kastro up on the hill gives you a panoramic view across the whole bay.

Staying here means choosing a resort with real character over typical beach tourism. Getting around the rest of the island is straightforward, with buses and taxis easily available. Price range: 70-160 euros per night.

Hotel Palatino: modern hotel right in the town center, with sea views and a good location. From 95 euros. Diana Palace Hotel: well-reviewed mid-range hotel, family-friendly and close to the promenade. From 80 euros. Strada Marina Hotel: right on the harbor, historic feel, perfect starting point for boat tours. From 105 euros.

These and over 400 more hotels on Zakynthos are listed on Booking.com with map and neighborhood filter.

Laganas: Beach, Parties, and Lots of Activity

Laganas is the place everyone talks about and some people avoid. The beach is one of the longest on the island, with fine sand and shallow water. Great for swimming and families with young children. But in the evenings the place transforms: bars, clubs, and tourist restaurants dominate the scene.

One important note: Laganas borders the Natura 2000 protected zone for sea turtles. Rules here are strict, and nighttime beach access is restricted. Price range: 60-150 euros per night.

Caravel Hotel Zante: well-rated hotel with pool, quietly located despite the proximity to Laganas. From 90 euros. Blue Sea Hotel: right on the beach, simple standard, ideal for budget travelers. From 65 euros. Crystal Beach Hotel: a bit more comfort, with sea views, good for couples who want beach time and evening options. From 110 euros.

If you want to compare Zakynthos with other Greek islands or plan a broader island-hopping route, our Greek islands comparison helps you decide.

When Is the Best Time to Visit Zakynthos?

Mid-June to late September is the main season. The peak of the turtle nesting season runs from May to August. If you want to spot turtles on the beach (without disturbing them), guided tours with a marine biologist are available from late May onward.

July and August are the hottest and most expensive. Shipwreck Beach gets very crowded then. June or September are smarter: fewer crowds, similarly warm water, prices up to 30% lower. In October many businesses close, but the quiet is remarkable.

Argasi and Kalamaki: Turtles and Family Beaches

Argasi is southeast of the main town, Kalamaki sits right at the edge of the Laganas protected zone. Both are quieter than Laganas but still have decent beach and restaurant options. Kalamaki is one of the few beaches where you can officially (and responsibly) watch turtles in the evening.

Ideal for families and nature lovers. Price range: 70-160 euros per night.

Argasi Beach Hotel: right on the beach, with pool, traditional atmosphere, and good breakfast. From 80 euros. Ionian Star Hotel: modern hotel with sea views, good facilities for families. From 95 euros. Kalamaki Beach Hotel: quiet, right on the turtle beach, ideal for nature-focused travelers. From 85 euros.

The official Zakynthos tourism website has up-to-date information on protected zones, beach access rules, and excursion options.

Tsilivi: The Best Family Resort Town in the North

Tsilivi is north of the main town, set along a long shallow bay. There are many family hotels here, a wide beach with calm water, and a relaxed atmosphere. This is not a party destination. Evenings offer decent restaurants and a small waterfront strip.

Ideal for families with children and couples who want calm without isolation. Price range: 75-170 euros per night.

Sirios Hotel: comfortable family hotel with pool and kids’ club, right in Tsilivi. From 100 euros. Tsilivi Beach Hotel: directly on the beach, well-reviewed, with good childcare options. From 85 euros. Cosmopolitan Hotel: slightly larger, with entertainment program, for families who prefer not to organize everything themselves. From 120 euros.

If you plan to visit parts of mainland Greece as well, our guide to where to stay in Athens gives you useful tips for starting or ending your trip in the capital.

Alykes and Alykanas: Relaxed Northern Coast

Alykes and Alykanas are the most laid-back spots on Zakynthos. The beach is wide, the water shallow, and the atmosphere is pleasantly unpretentious. Many repeat visitors come here because it does not feel like a typical tourist resort.

Price range: 65-140 euros per night.

Helmi’s Zante Hotel: small, personal hotel with pool and direct beach access. From 75 euros. Alykes Beach Hotel: solid family hotel right on the beach, with children’s pool. From 85 euros. Zante Royal: a step up in comfort, with spa and good restaurant, for travelers who prioritize comfort over proximity to the beach. From 130 euros.

Where Should You Book in the End?

Booking.com is the most reliable platform for finding hotels on Zakynthos. The selection covers over 400 properties across the island. The neighborhood filter and map help you quickly see what is close to the beach and what is near the main town. Look for free cancellation when you book: on islands, weather and boat trip schedules can change plans on short notice.

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Save the shortlist in your Zercy Logbook so you have all options handy when booking.

Read more:

• Where to Stay in Athens: Neighborhoods and Hotels
• Greek Islands Comparison: Which Island Is Right for You?
• Best Time to Visit Greece: Month by Month

Frequently Asked Questions

Which area on Zakynthos is the quietest?

Alykes and Alykanas on the north coast are the calmest areas. No party noise, wide beaches, relaxed atmosphere. Ideal for couples and families who prioritize rest over entertainment.

When can you see sea turtles on Zakynthos?

The sea turtle nesting season runs from May to August. Guided viewing tours are available from late May, organized by the marine conservation group ARCHELON. The best window for sightings is June and July, always with a guide and strictly no flash photography.

How do you get to Zakynthos?

By plane directly to Zakynthos Airport (ZTH), with direct flights from Germany, Austria, and Switzerland during summer season. Alternatively, by ferry from Killini on the Peloponnese in about 1.5 hours. From Athens by bus and ferry in around 4.5 hours.

How does Zakynthos compare in cost to other Greek islands?

Zakynthos is more affordable than Mykonos or Santorini, but slightly more expensive than Crete. A mid-range hotel costs 80-130 euros per night in high season. Eating at local tavernas (not on the tourist beach strip) runs around 12-20 euros per person.