If you’ve experienced all the things to do in Zakynthos, day trips from Zakynthos present a thrilling opportunity to explore more of the Ionian Sea’s marvels. These adventures take you to hidden coves, ancient ruins, and picturesque villages, each telling its own story of Greek beauty and tradition.
Venturing beyond Zakynthos, the wider offerings of things to do in Greece await, from the majestic cliffs of the mainland to the serene waters of nearby islands. This exploration enriches your journey with a deeper appreciation of Greece’s natural landscapes and historical depth.
Selecting where to stay in Zakynthos is key for travelers aiming to discover the island’s secluded beaches and vibrant marine life, as well as those looking to embark on day trips. A well-chosen base combines convenience for local explorations with access to the island’s best departure points for adventures further afield.
Discover Best Day Trips from Zakynthos, Greece
1. Kefalonia, Greece
Kefalonia, known for its dramatic landscapes and beautiful beaches like Myrtos, is the largest of the Ionian Islands. The island offers charming villages, enchanting caves, and a rich history.
Distance: Approximately 50 km
Travel Time: The ferry from Zakynthos to Kefalonia takes about 1 to 1.5 hours
Transportation: Ferry (book via local operators)
Main Attractions: Dramatic landscapes, beautiful beaches like Myrtos, charming villages, enchanting caves
Best Time to Visit: Summer
Entrance Fees:
- Melissani Cave Boat Tour: €10
Budget: Approximately €30-€60 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Myrtos Beach, Melissani Cave, Assos Village
Travel Tip: Visit the Melissani Cave, where a boat tour will take you through a stunning underground lake.
2. Olympia, Greece
Olympia, the birthplace of the Olympic Games, is steeped in ancient Greek history. The archaeological site includes the Temple of Zeus, the original Olympic stadium, and the Archaeological Museum of Olympia.
Distance: Approximately 200 km
Travel Time: A road trip to Olympia takes approximately 3.5 hours, including a ferry ride to the mainland
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Birthplace of the Olympic Games, Temple of Zeus, Archaeological Museum of Olympia
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Olympia Archaeological Site: €12
Budget: Approximately €50-€80 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Temple of Zeus, Original Olympic Stadium, Olympia Archaeological Museum
Travel Tip: Consider a guided tour to fully appreciate the historical significance of the ruins.
3. Athens, Greece
Athens, the historic capital of Greece, offers a rich tapestry of history and modernity. The city is home to the Acropolis, the Parthenon, and numerous other ancient landmarks.
Distance: Approximately 300 km
Travel Time: A flight from Zakynthos to Athens typically takes around 1 hour
Transportation: Flight
Main Attractions: Acropolis, Parthenon, numerous ancient landmarks
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Acropolis and Museum Combo Ticket: €20
Budget: Approximately €60-€100 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Acropolis, Parthenon, Plaka Neighborhood
Travel Tip: Purchase a combination ticket for access to multiple historical sites in Athens, including the Acropolis and its museum.
4. Ancient Delphi, Greece
Ancient Delphi, once considered the center of the world in Greek mythology, is famous for its oracle and stunning mountainous scenery. The site includes the Temple of Apollo and the Delphi Archaeological Museum.
Distance: Approximately 250 km
Travel Time: The journey involves a 3.5-hour drive, including a ferry trip to the mainland
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Oracle of Delphi, Temple of Apollo, Delphi Archaeological Museum
Best Time to Visit: Spring to Autumn
Entrance Fees:
- Delphi Archaeological Site: €12
Budget: Approximately €50-€80 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Temple of Apollo, Delphi Museum, Mountainous Scenery
Travel Tip: Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the extensive ruins and hilly terrain.
5. Lefkada, Greece
Lefkada is connected to the mainland by a bridge and is known for its stunning beaches, like Porto Katsiki and Egremni. The island also offers charming villages and scenic landscapes.
Distance: Approximately 170 km
Travel Time: Driving to Lefkada takes about 3.5 hours, including a short ferry ride
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Stunning beaches like Porto Katsiki and Egremni, charming villages
Best Time to Visit: Summer
Entrance Fees:
- Free (beach access)
Budget: Approximately €30-€50 (including transportation and food)
Scenic Spots: Porto Katsiki Beach, Egremni Beach, Lefkada Villages
Travel Tip: Visit the west coast of Lefkada for spectacular sunset views.
6. Corinth, Greece
Corinth, an ancient city with significant historical and biblical references, is known for its canal, archaeological site, and Acrocorinth fortress. The modern city also offers cafes and shops for a more contemporary experience.
Distance: Approximately 300 km
Travel Time: The drive to Corinth takes about 3.5 hours, including a ferry ride to the mainland
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Corinth Canal, Ancient Corinth Archaeological Site, Acrocorinth Fortress
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Corinth Archaeological Site: €8
Budget: Approximately €40-€70 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Corinth Canal, Acrocorinth, Ancient Corinth Ruins
Travel Tip: Don’t miss walking along the Corinth Canal for a unique perspective of this engineering marvel.
7. Patras, Greece
Patras, the regional capital of Western Greece, is a lively port city known for its carnival, wineries, and Roman Odeon. It’s also a gateway to the Peloponnese region.
Distance: Approximately 200 km
Travel Time: It’s about a 3-hour drive to Patras, including a short ferry crossing
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Lively port city, Roman Odeon, Achaia Clauss Winery
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Roman Odeon: €5
Budget: Approximately €40-€70 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Patras Roman Odeon, Patras Port, Achaia Clauss Winery
Travel Tip: Try the local wines and visit the Achaia Clauss winery for a tasting and tour.
8. Meteora, Greece
Meteora, famous for its monasteries perched atop giant rock formations, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and spiritual history. The views and architecture here are truly breathtaking.
Distance: Approximately 400 km
Travel Time: The journey to Meteora takes about 4.5 hours, including a ferry ride to the mainland
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Monasteries perched atop giant rock formations, breathtaking views
Best Time to Visit: Spring to Autumn
Entrance Fees:
- Monastery Entrance: €3 per monastery
Budget: Approximately €50-€80 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Meteora Rock Formations, Monasteries, Panoramic Views
Travel Tip: Dress modestly when visiting the monasteries, and check the opening days and hours as they vary for each monastery.
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FAQ About Best Day Trips from Zakynthos, Greece
What are some popular day trips from Zakynthos?
Popular day trips from Zakynthos include visits to Navagio Beach (Shipwreck Cove), the Blue Caves, Keri Caves, and day cruises to the nearby Ionian Islands like Kefalonia and Ithaca.
Is a boat trip to Navagio Beach worth it?
Absolutely! Navagio Beach is famous for its stunning turquoise waters and the picturesque shipwreck. A boat trip there offers a unique opportunity to see one of Greece’s most iconic beaches.
Can I visit Olympia from Zakynthos?
Yes, Olympia, the site of the ancient Olympic Games, is accessible from Zakynthos. It’s a perfect day trip for history enthusiasts, offering a glimpse into ancient Greek culture and architecture.
Are there guided tours to the Blue Caves?
Yes, there are numerous guided tours available to the Blue Caves. These tours often include opportunities for swimming and snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters of the caves.
What wildlife can I see on a day trip from Zakynthos?
Zakynthos is known for its marine life, especially the Caretta Caretta sea turtles in Laganas Bay. Boat tours often offer chances to observe these turtles in their natural habitat.
Is a trip to the Marathonisi Island recommended?
Definitely! Marathonisi Island, also known as Turtle Island, is a beautiful and protected nature reserve. It’s a great spot for swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying the serene natural environment.
Can I explore traditional villages near Zakynthos on a day trip?
Yes, there are charming traditional villages like Volimes and Keri nearby, offering a glimpse into the local culture and lifestyle, along with stunning views of the Ionian Sea.
Are there wine tasting tours available in the Zakynthos region?
Zakynthos offers some delightful wine tasting tours, showcasing local Greek wines. These tours provide an insight into the winemaking process and include tastings of regional specialties.
Sources:
https://www.getyourguide.com/zakynthos-l32286?activity_type=dayTrip
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