Enjoy 10% off our TUI Collection experiences. Simply access or create your myTUI account to get the code. Click here Valid until 31.10.24
Menu

Zante tickets and tours

29 Experiences
Sort by:
Northern Zante Cruise with Cape Skinari
Excursions & day trips

Northern Zante Cruise with Cape Skinari

This cruise around the northern tip of Zante serves up plenty of camera-friendly scenery and swim stops in hidden coves. You'll see stretches of the island's most mesmerising coastline, including the Blue Caves and Smuggler's Cove – that famous Greek postcard of the rusting cargo shipwreck on a pristine cliff-ringed beach. Chrissy, one of our expert local guides, says, ‘The sea around the Blue Caves seems to glow electric blue because the white limestone underwater reflects the sun through the azure water.' You'll get to catch Zante's top coastal draws in one relaxing boat trip. We'll scoot around Cape Skinari, famed for its lighthouse, cliffs, windmills and pastel-blue water. After about two hours at sea, we'll reach Smuggler's Cove and the onshore shipwreck. Back in the 80s, a ship carrying contraband cigarettes ran aground in this chalk-white, pebbly cove. Nowadays, in order to preserve the area, the beach itself is closed to visitors, however, you'll still get to snap up iconic pics of the rusty ship from the boat. Chrissy adds, ‘Zante's best-known beach is only accessible by boat and it's one of the most photographed spots in the whole of Greece. A crime gone wrong has left us with an unexpected treasure.'After a dip, you'll continue to the shimmering Blue Caves, where we'll pause for a photo stop. Carved into the cliffs, the sea-smoothed walls form arches over the dazzling blue waters. You'll have Greek snacks and drinks on board, followed by some time anchored at a secluded beach gem. We'll end the cruise on a high note with some entertainment – Greek dancing – as we bob back to shore.

free cancellation
Available in:

en 

Zante Sunset Cruise on a Traditional Greek Boat
Excursions & day trips

Zante Sunset Cruise on a Traditional Greek Boat

Watching the sun set over the Ionian Sea is one of those must-do Zante experiences. And this cruise in a traditional Greek caïque boat features a swim before the main event. Constantine, one of our expert local guides, says, ‘Even though I've seen it a thousand times, it's a moment that still gives me a frisson. It's magical, romantic and soulful – Mother Nature at her most creative, steering the sun to set between the Misithres Rocks. Utter bliss.'The scene is set the moment you board your boat. A wooden caïque evokes a sense of nostalgia and tradition. Fishermen in the eastern Mediterranean have used these boats since ancient times. A guide will be on board to give you the inside track on all things Zante. Sailing from Agios Sostis harbour in the south, you'll sail towards Marathonisi, a small islet known locally as Turtle Island. You'll captain will drop anchor offshore for an early-evening dip. See caves and, with luck, loggerhead turtles before cruising to the west coast to catch the sunset.And the spot where you'll see it is hard to beat. Near the Misithres Rocks, there's an amazing view of the sunset perfectly sinking beyond the horizon between the two formations. It makes for Insta-perfect snaps. The romantic atmosphere will accompany you back to port as you sail along to the sounds of waves lapping gently against the hull and live music while sipping on a sparkling wine.

free cancellation
Available in:

en 

Turtle Cruise of Marathonisi Island and Keri Peninsula
Excursions & day trips

Turtle Cruise of Marathonisi Island and Keri Peninsula

Loggerhead sea turtles have been residents of Zante's beaches for thousands of years, and with a bit of luck, you'll see them first-hand on this boat trip. Join an expert local guide for an educational day out at sea, passing by nesting sites, swimming in hidden bays and spending time in the village of Keri. Bianca, one of our guides, says, ‘In just one trip, you get to jump into clear waters, cruise along the Keri peninsula and, with luck, see turtles.'Available either in the morning from Zante harbour or the afternoon from Keri harbour, this half-day cruise is a real treat for all the family. You'll pass by the golden beaches of Vassilikos and Marathonisi, a pine-clad islet dubbed ‘Turtle Island'. The reason's simple – one of its beaches is a favourite turtle nesting site. Bianca, who's lived on Zante for more than 20 years, says of the scenery, ‘You can do this tour a thousand times and every day is different.' Be sure to keep a lookout for loggerheads, and you may even spot a wild dolphin or two.Plus, you'll sail along the Keri peninsula, cruising by its sea-plunging cliffs, caves and lighthouse before dropping anchor for a swim stop. In the small village of Keri, you can shop for souvenirs, relax in a typical taverna or hit the beach. What's more, a volunteer from local conservation group ARCHELON – the Sea Turtle Protection Society of Greece – will be on board to tell give you the lowdown on its work.

free cancellation
Available in:

en 

Smuggler's Cove Half-day Cruise with Panoramic Drive
Excursions & day trips

Smuggler's Cove Half-day Cruise with Panoramic Drive

Smuggler's Cove is a picture-postcard white pebble beach with a surprise – a shipwreck from an alleged smuggler who ran aground here in the early 80s. On this half-day boat trip, you'll cruise along the coast to see this famous spot, discover secret coves, swim and soak up the scenery. Kay, one of our expert local guides, says, ‘Smuggler's Cove is also known as Shipwreck Beach, or “Navagio” in Greek. It's only accessible by boat, and it's one of the most photographed places in the whole of Greece.'After pick-up, enjoy a scenic drive to Porto Vromi – it takes up to 90 minutes – and hop on a boat towards Smuggler's Cove. You'll have half an hour or so to take in the vistas from the deck before the imposing white cliffs appear, sheltering the cove and its famous wreck. The 200-metre-high cliffs curve and swoop down behind the beach, dwarfing the shipwreck. Kay says, ‘To preserve the natural beauty of the area, instead of disembarking at Smuggler's cove, we'll pause here to admire the scenery and take a few Insta-perfect snaps.'Next, your captain will drop anchor at a nearby bay, and you'll have time to swim in the dazzling waters surrounded by Zante's coastal landscapes. Then, as we cruise back towards Porto Vromi, your captain will take you to a white-pebbled beach, a place so secret it doesn't even show up on Google. Cool off with a swim stop here and hear the story of the 'Poseidon's Face' – a rock formation believed to depict Poseidon, God of the sea – before setting off for the final leg back to shore.

free cancellation
Available in:

en 

Excursion to Olympia Archeological Site from Zante
Excursions & day trips

Excursion to Olympia Archeological Site from Zante

The birthplace of the Olympic Games is just a short hop across the Ionian Sea on mainland Greece. Catch the ferry over from Zante and head to ancient Olympia for a journey through the centuries. You'll also visit the fascinating Archaeological Museum. Konstantina, one of our guides, says, ‘Olympia has been standing there for more than 2,500 years, still inspiring as a must-stop on the way to a personal Odyssey. To wander around its ruins and to feel the connection with the past is a special feeling.'After docking at Kyllini, we'll drive through the ‘garden of Greece' – fields of tomatoes, melons and cotton – to one of the most important sanctuaries of antiquity. Alongside a licenced Olympia guide and our own local expert, you'll discover where the Olympic Games began in the 8th century BC. See the remains of the stadium where 45,000 spectators cheered on their favourite athletes, including the finishing line and waterside gym. What's more, you'll share the use of an iPad to bring to life the ruins and see how they once looked.You'll also see the ruins of the Temple of Hera, where the Olympic flame was first lit, and of the Temple of Zeus. It was here that the statue of Zeus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, once stood. Afterwards, head to the superb Archaeological Museum to see its collection of statues and bronzes. Finally, head into Olympia town, where you'll have time for lunch and a poke around the souvenir shops.

free cancellation
Available in:

en 

Turtle Island Family Boat Cruise in Zante
Excursions & day trips

Turtle Island Family Boat Cruise in Zante

Surround yourself with the beauty of Ionian nature on this half-day cruise geared for children. You'll set sail for Marathonisi Island, anchoring up for swimming along the way, before gaining an insight into local conservation efforts. Kay, one of our guides, says, ‘We love to show everyone this beautiful place and maybe spot a turtle to understand why and how we protect our environment. It's a fun tour, which makes sustainability visible.'You'll cast off from Agios Sostis towards pine-clad Marathonisi Island in Laganas Bay. This uninhabited islet is nicknamed ‘Turtle Island' because its beaches are a favourite nesting site for loggerheads. Kids will love this one, too – there'll be activities aimed at teaching them more about turtle conservation. They'll also learn about respecting the island's environment, protecting it from litter.Next, you'll swing by the Oasis sea cave for a swim stop before heading closer to the island. We'll drop anchor once more for an extra dose of snorkelling. Remember to keep an eye on the water for signs of loggerhead turtles and dolphins. What's more, the boat has an integrated sewage drainage system, so nothing harms the sea.

free cancellation
Available in:

en 

Secret Zante Tour with Monastery, Blue Caves and Local Speciality Tastings
Excursions & day trips

Secret Zante Tour with Monastery, Blue Caves and Local Speciality Tastings

It's easy to see why the Venetians called Zante the ‘Flower of the East'. This exclusive tour takes in some of the island's prettiest villages and the remote Anafonitria monastery, too. And that's not all. There'll also be local wine and sweets to taste, plus a short boat trip to the Blue Caves – one of the deepest points in the Mediterranean.

free cancellation
Available in:

en 

Zante Tour with Blue Caves Boat Trip and Wine Tasting
Excursions & day trips

Zante Tour with Blue Caves Boat Trip and Wine Tasting

Timeless villages, wow-factor views and a coastal classic. This small group tour offers a snapshot of Zante's best bits. And if that wasn't enough, you'll get to try local olive oil and wine. Bianca, one of our local guides, says, ‘You get to discover those hard-to-reach places that are a relic of the past – the Skinari windmills, the narrow lanes of Volimes. Even after all these years on the island, I still feel a frisson when I see them.' And to top it off, this tour has a later starting time, meaning you won't miss out on your beauty sleep.We kick off with a tour and tasting at a family-run winery in Kallipado. For generations, it has produced wines made from local grape varieties such as robola and Pavlos. Next is a drive up the east coast with a photo stop at a famous beach. At Cape Skinari, drop in for homemade apple pie and a hot drink at the lighthouse and take some snaps of windmills before hopping aboard a boat for a trip to the Blue Caves. These sea arches have been carved by waves into white cliffs over millennia. And weather permitting, you'll get to dive in for a swim.Back on dry land, you'll enjoy a scenic drive through villages like Volimes and Anafonitria , as we head to Exo Chora. Here, there'll be a stop for a photo of a 2,000-year-old olive tree and a visit to a local cosmetics factory to see how olive oil products are made using the island's own produce, before rounding off the tour with a meal in a local taverna. And if you're a TUI Blue guest, you'll head to an exclusive restaurant in Agalas. Amidst the backdrop of Insta-worthy landscapes, toast to the days adventures and taste the flavours of Greece with some snacks washed down with Ouzo.

free cancellation
Available in:

en 

Zante St Dennis Festival Experiences
Excursions & day trips

Zante St Dennis Festival Experiences

Street food, lively processions, fireworks and marching bands – the feast day of St Dennis is Zante's biggest event of the year. And you can enjoy the best views on this evening tour. See the procession of priests in their finest robes and then mingle with the locals in the festival bazaar. Maria, one of our local guides, says, ‘The celebration of our patron Saint Dennis – known as Dionysus locally – is the most important event in every Zakynthian's diary. A highlight of mine is seeing the town in all its festive finery as we weave through the bazaar.'To commemorate the island's patron saint, the whole of Zante comes out to celebrate on the 24th of August. You'll get to join in the festivities, heading into Zante town late afternoon. Take your spot in the crowd to watch the procession first, before a chance to mingle with the locals at the food stalls and bazaar. Maria says, ‘There'll be plenty of local delicacies on offer, including traditional sweet treats, roasted chestnuts, and my favourite – loukoumades – a typical Greek donut drenched in honey.'And for those who book the boat trip option, the best is yet to come. As the night starts to draw in, sip on a glass of wine and kick back while you cast out and cruise around the harbour. It's the ideal viewpoint for the fireworks display, so relax and enjoy front-row seats to the dazzling cityscape, wrapping up the evening's magic. Snap up those last pics before heading back to dry land, where the bus will be waiting to take you back to your hotel.

free cancellation
Available in:

en 

Captain Corelli's Kefalonia Tour
Excursions & day trips

Captain Corelli's Kefalonia Tour

Mystical mountains, verdant valleys, secluded coves and azure waters that glitter in the sunlight. Kefalonia is a beauty. Take the ferry across from Zante for the day and then hop on a coach for a tour of the island's most picturesque spots, including Melissani Cave and Myrtos Bay.Just north of Zante, Kefalonia is an island that's big on beauty. You'll cruise over, watching the mountains and cliffs rise high from the sea to Pessada harbour. Your first stop is Drogarati Cave, where you'll step inside a vast cavern and be dazzled by the numerous stalactites and stalagmites. We'll continue to Lake Melissani for a boat trip across this underground lagoon with aquamarine waters that glisten in the sun.Next, we'll head to the seaside village of Agia Efimia. Here, you'll have free time for lunch. In the afternoon, there's a photo stop at Myrtos Bay – a famous filming spot from Captain Corelli's Mandolin. Rounding off the trip is some free time in Argostoli, the island's capital.

free cancellation
Available in:

en 

Scuba Diving in St Nick's Beach
Activities

Scuba Diving in St Nick's Beach

The clear waters of Zante are perfect for scuba diving and if you'd like to get to grips with the basic skills, then St Nick's beach is a great place to learn. And if you've already been bitten by the dive bug and are an experienced diver then you're sure to want to do more dives.

free cancellation
Available in:

en 

St Nick's Beach Trip with Optional Banana Boat Ride
Activities

St Nick's Beach Trip with Optional Banana Boat Ride

Zante is haloed by great beaches – but St Nick's gets top billing. Located at the east of the Vasilikos peninsula, it's one of the island's most popular bathing spots. And with good reason. Not only is it the place to see and be seen, it is overlooked by a gorgeous little white church.You'll head to this prime spot in Vasilikos – one of the most beautiful parts of Zante – for a day of fun and relaxation on the beach. Your sunlounger and parasol are included in the price, along with a tasty barbecue buffet for lunch. Either lie back and enjoy the scenery or take to the sea for a swim. Or if you're a bit more adventurous, there's a complimentary banana boat ride. St Nick's is famed for its water sports offering and there's a discount for our guests. And make sure to head over to the dinky white church on a hillock at the top of the beach – it's made for selfies.

free cancellation
Available in:

en 

Things to do in Zakynthos

Zakynthos, or Zante is a gem nestled in the Ionian Sea. With its sunny beaches, crystal-clear waters, and rich cultural heritage, this popular Greek island is ideal for those well-deserved relaxing vacations that are hard to forget. From the bustling capital to the magnetic Blue Caves, there is something for everyone in Zakynthos. Its strategic location completes the picture, making it a great starting point for trips to mainland Greece and neighboring islands. Are your bags packed already?

6 top activities and excursions to do in Zakynthos

1. Explore the city of Zakynthos

The island's capital is a major city center. Its streets are packed with bars and boutique shops, and the old town's architecture, embellished in neoclassical style, tells a story of resilience and reconstruction following the earthquake of 1953. Don't miss out on the Byzantine Museum, where you can admire sacred art dating back hundreds of years, and the Kastro, the Venetian castle from which you can see beautiful views.

2. Set sail for Marathonisi

Just a stone's throw away from the shores of Zakynthos lies the island of Marathonisi. Also known as Turtle Island, this small islet gets its nickname both for its peculiar shape and for being a nesting place for loggerhead sea turtles. A boat trip to this uninhabited island is an unmissable excursion. Take a dip in the crystal-clear waters, relax on one of the picturesque sandy beaches, and maybe even see a turtle.

3. Dedicate yourself to water sports

For those looking for an active and fun-filled vacation, Zakynthos will not disappoint. There are plenty of facilities on the island for those who want to enjoy water sports, from jet-skiing to parasailing, from banana rafts to diving. Whether you are an adrenaline junkie or a novice sportsman, you will find an aquatic experience to suit your pace.

4. Discover the Blue Caves

One of Zakynthos' most famous natural attractions, the Blue Caves are an unmissable sight. This captivating place, accessible only by sea, is famous for the blue reflections of the water on the walls of the caves, creating eye-catching plays of light. Don't forget to bring your camera; you'll want to snap a few memories of this spectacle.

5. Take a trip to the archaeological site of Olympia

From Zakynthos, you can take a short ferry ride to this famous archaeological site in mainland Greece. Olympia is a UNESCO World Heritage site, rich in history and mythology, where the first Olympic Games were held. Stroll around the ruins of the temples, ancient stadium, and gymnasium. Here you can envision the life of the athletes, who competed here in honor of Zeus.

6. Try the local cuisine

Greek cuisine is delicious — a mix of Mediterranean flavors, and Arabic, Turkish and Middle Eastern influences. Going on vacation in Zakynthos means trying traditional dishes, from gyros to moussaka, tzatziki to keftedes. The fish dishes are also tasty, made with fresh ingredients, as are the honeyed desserts and local wine. Tuck into a Greek salad for lunch and sit down to a nice dinner with a glass of tsipouro. Can you think of anything better?

Get ready to visit Zakynthos

When is the best time to visit Zante?

In Zakynthos, you will find warm days with little chance of rain from May to October. If you prefer a beach vacation, the summer months are ideal for making the most of excellent sea temperatures. If, on the other hand, you were planning to do some hiking as well, it might be worth avoiding the hottest months, July and August, where temperatures average around 34 C.

How much time is needed to visit Zakynthos?

If you prefer a relaxed holiday, alternating between days of relaxation and days of sightseeing, one week in Zakynthos will suffice. On the contrary, if you have a more energetic pace and want to change the type of activity during the day, with four days you will be able to visit the island's most beautiful beaches and do some half-day excursions.

What are the most beautiful beaches in Zakynthos?

Zakynthos' most famous beach is Navagio Beach, located on the island's west coast. Here, in addition to the spectacular scenery and crystal clear waters, there is the famous smugglers' shipwreck, which makes the setting even more fascinating. On the east coast, on the other hand, are golden sandy shorelines, particularly suitable for families with children. Of these, Banana Beach is the most popular, equipped with all amenities. Also very attractive are the sandy beaches of Makri Gialos and Donkey Beach, easily accessible, and the wild Porto Limnionas and Plakaki, both rocky.