Zakynthos (city)

If you are heading to the island of Zakynthos, you will definitely visit its administrative center Zakynthos (other names are Zante or Chora), where the ferries arrive.


It is a standard Greek island town, with a promenade, hotels, restaurants and a port. The island itself is small, so you can spend the night here and travel by car or by bus. By car it will take no more than 1 hour to the farthest point. There is also a bus network, but the schedule is constantly changing, so better check at the bus station here N 37 46.894 E 20 53.580.




Modern buildings stand next to old ones. They are all reconstructed, since there are almost no real old houses. The city was destroyed in 1953 by a strong earthquake.


The most beautiful building on the waterfront is the bell tower of the Church of St. Dionysius.














Be sure to visit the Bochali View Point (N 37 47.432 E 20 53.672). This is the perfect place to meet the sunrise. If you are traveling by car, then keep in mind that there is one-way traffic and the streets are narrow.


Here a native of Zakynthos Dionys Solomos wrote a poem, which later became the anthem of Greece. The square named after the poet is located on the waterfront near the viewpoint. This is the most famous resident of the city.




Close to the viewpoint you will find the entrance to the ruins of the castle.

Getting there: There is an airport on the island (destinations). Most tourists arrive on ferries (schedule). There is also a bus + ferry (schedule) from Athens (5 hours), Thessaloniki (9 hours) and Patras (2 hours).