17 Zakynthos Hotels Beyond the Navagio Postcard (2026)

Looking for the best hotels in Zakynthos? You’ve landed in the right place. This stunning Greek island in the Ionian Sea has quietly transformed into one of Greece’s most impressive hotel destinations, with an explosion of beautifully designed resorts, boutique hideaways, and luxury villas that rival anything you’ll find on more famous islands like Santorini or Mykonos.

The best accommodations cluster around the island’s most beautiful beaches—Tsilivi, Kalamaki, Tragaki, Akrotiri, and Vasilikos—each offering a distinct vibe and experience.

BEST HOTEL IN ZAKYNTHOS:Contessina Hotel

QUICK PICKS BY CATEGORY:

• Best Beach Hotel: Crystal Beach Hotel
• Best for Families:Lesante Classic
• Best for Couples: Anemelia Retreat
• Best Budget Option:Fiore
• Best All-Inclusive: Lesante Cape Resort
• Best Adults-Only: Lesante Blu
• Best Luxury Resort: Porto Zante Villas & Spa
• Best Boutique Hotel:Anemelia Retreat
• Best in Zakynthos Town:Palatino Hotel
• Best in Tsilivi:Contessina Hotel
• Best in Kalamaki:Crystal Beach Hotel
• Best in Akrotiri:Lesante Cape Resort

Why Zakynthos is worth your attention

Zakynthos belongs to the Ionian island group in northwestern Greece, and it’s been quietly winning over European travelers for the past decade. Unlike the Cycladic islands with their iconic white-and-blue aesthetic, Zakynthos presents a different Greece: lush green hillsides, dramatic limestone cliffs, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and some of the most beautiful sandy beaches in the Mediterranean.

The island is perhaps most famous for Navagio Beach (Shipwreck Beach), an exposed cove featuring a rusting freighter that ran aground in 1980 while allegedly smuggling contraband cigarettes. The beach consistently ranks among the world’s most photographed destinations.

IMPORTANT UPDATE: Navagio Beach (Shipwreck Beach) remains closed to visitors for the summer season due to ongoing landslide risks from the surrounding cliffs. You can still view the beach from boats (which cannot land) and from the cliff-top viewpoint. Restoration works are expected to begin, with hopes of reopening in the future.

But Zakynthos offers so much more than one famous beach. The island is home to the Zakynthos Marine Park, protecting endangered Caretta-Caretta loggerhead sea turtles that nest on several beaches. Between May and October, you might witness these magnificent creatures nesting and hatching—a truly unforgettable experience.

Getting to Zakynthos

Reaching Zakynthos is easier than you might expect. The island has an international airport (Dionysios Solomos Airport) with direct flights from Athens year-round (about 1 hour) and seasonal connections from major European cities including London, Berlin, Paris, Manchester, Frankfurt, and Milan between May and October.

If you prefer a scenic journey, drive or take a bus from Athens to Kyllini Port (approximately 3.5 hours), then catch the 1.5-hour ferry to Zakynthos Town. Ferries also connect Zakynthos to the neighboring island of Kefalonia—perfect for island-hopping adventures. Check Ferryhopper for current schedules and Booking.com Flights for the latest flight options.

Read More: Athens to Zakynthos

Best areas to stay in Zakynthos

Choosing the right area is essential for your Zakynthos experience. Each region has its own character, from lively beach resorts to tranquil hideaways. Here’s what you need to know about the top areas:

Tsilivi (Planos)

Best for: Families, first-time visitors, beach lovers seeking convenience

Tsilivi sits on the northeastern coast, about 5 kilometers from Zakynthos Town. It’s the island’s most developed resort area, offering a long sandy beach with calm, shallow waters perfect for swimming. The village buzzes with tavernas, shops, bars, and restaurants, yet retains genuine Greek charm. Most of Zakynthos’s best hotels cluster here, making it ideal if you want excellent facilities within walking distance of everything.

Zakynthos Town (Zante Town)

Best for: Culture seekers, ferry-port access, evening strolls

The island’s capital and main port, Zakynthos Town combines Venetian-influenced architecture with modern Greek life. Wander through Solomos Square, explore the Byzantine Museum, and enjoy waterfront dining with views of the harbor. Hotels here put you closest to the ferry port and provide excellent access to the island’s cultural attractions. The town has a nice beach, though it’s smaller than those in resort areas.

Kalamaki

Best for: Nature lovers, sea turtle enthusiasts, peaceful beach days

Located within the Zakynthos Marine Park, Kalamaki offers one of the island’s most beautiful stretches of white sand backed by mountain views. This is prime turtle-nesting territory—parts of the beach are cordoned off during nesting season, and water sports are restricted to protect the Caretta-Caretta turtles. The trade-off? A more tranquil atmosphere and the chance to witness nature at its most remarkable.

Laganas

Best for: Nightlife seekers, budget travelers, young crowds

Laganas has long been Zakynthos’s party capital, attracting a younger crowd with its beach bars, clubs, and vibrant nightlife scene. The beach itself stretches for 9 kilometers with fine golden sand. If you’re seeking a quieter experience, this probably isn’t your area—but for those wanting to dance until sunrise, Laganas delivers.

Vasilikos

Best for: Beach-hopping, secluded coves, relaxation

The Vasilikos Peninsula on the southeastern coast hosts some of Zakynthos’s most beautiful beaches, including Porto Zoro, Banana Beach, and Gerakas (another turtle-nesting beach). The area feels more spread out and rural, with fewer large resorts and more small hotels and villas. Renting a car is recommended here to explore the numerous coves.

Akrotiri

Best for: Luxury seekers, privacy, spectacular views

Perched on the hills above Tsilivi, Akrotiri offers elevated views of the Ionian Sea and a more exclusive atmosphere. Some of Zakynthos’s most luxurious properties are here, taking advantage of the dramatic clifftop setting. You’ll need transportation to reach beaches, but the sunset views and sense of seclusion make it worthwhile.

Tragaki

Best for: Adults-only escapes, boutique hotels, serenity

Just north of Tsilivi, Tragaki offers a more refined, peaceful atmosphere. Several adults-only properties have chosen this location for its quiet setting and sea views. It’s close enough to Tsilivi’s amenities while maintaining a distinct sense of calm.

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The 17 best hotels in Zakynthos

After extensive research and considering guest reviews, location, amenities, and value, here are my top picks for where to stay on Zakynthos:

1. Contessina Hotel

Address: Tsilivi | Best for: Families, couples, best overall

The Contessina Hotel consistently earns its place as my top recommendation for Zakynthos. This 5-star property delivers elegant accommodation in a beautifully landscaped setting just 250 meters from Tsilivi’s sandy beach. The hotel’s 160 recently renovated rooms strike a perfect balance between sophistication and comfort, creating a relaxed family atmosphere without sacrificing style.

What sets Contessina apart is its attention to detail: a gorgeous freshwater pool surrounded by lush greenery, a separate children’s pool for the little ones, a poolside snack bar for lazy afternoon refreshments, and that coveted combination of excellent location and high-end service. The property has earned eco-certification, appealing to environmentally conscious travelers who don’t want to compromise on luxury.

For couples seeking an adults-only experience, the adjacent Contessina Suites & Spa offers a more intimate retreat with sleek, modern suites, a swanky wine cellar, rooftop garden, and an intimate spa that looks like a contoured cave with a tranquil pool edged by hanging basket seats.

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2. Lesante Cape Resort & Villas

Address: Akrotiri | Best for: Luxury seekers, all-inclusive, honeymooners

Perched dramatically on a hillside above the sea near Tsilivi, Lesante Cape Resort & Villas is a member of The Leading Hotels of the World—and it shows. This is where discerning travelers come when they want an exceptional Mediterranean experience with breathtaking Ionian Sea views from virtually every angle.

The resort offers spacious, impeccably designed rooms, but the real showstoppers are the exclusive villas with their own private pools and unobstructed views of the azure sea below. Guests consistently rave about the friendly service, fine dining options at the Elea Restaurant (Mediterranean cuisine), and the Noble Lounge Bar for sunset cocktails.

Ideally located in Akrotiri village on a secluded private beach, you’ll feel worlds away from the crowds while remaining just a short drive from Tsilivi’s restaurants and attractions. The seasonal outdoor swimming pool, fitness center, and gardens create a serene environment where relaxation comes naturally. Distance from the airport is approximately 20 km (30 minutes by car).

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3. Lesante Classic

Address: Tsilivi | Best for: Families with children, spa lovers

Family-friendly luxury finds its finest expression at Lesante Classic, a member of Preferred Hotels & Resorts. This 5-star property in Tsilivi village is specifically designed to cater to guests of all ages, with supervised childcare services, a dedicated kids’ pool, and a children’s play room that let parents enjoy some grown-up time knowing their little ones are entertained.

Just 200 meters from Tsilivi Beach, the hotel features remarkably designed rooms, two stunning swimming pools, and spa facilities that offer everything from aloe hydration facials to hot stone massages. After a day of family adventures, retreat to the Ambrosia Restaurant for exceptional cuisine or unwind with soft piano sounds at the Lounge Piano Bar.

Guests consistently praise the variety of sun lounger options—around the pool, overlooking the beach, or directly on the sand—plus the exceptional breakfast spread (served 7:30-11:00) with unlimited barista coffees. The infinity pool is never crowded, and the sandy beach offers calm waters ideal for children. Distance from the airport is approximately 15 km (25 minutes by car).

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4. Olea All Suite Hotel

Address: Tsilivi area | Best for: Design lovers, suite living, Instagram-worthy stays

If space and design are your priorities, Olea All Suite Hotel delivers in spectacular fashion. As a member of Marriott’s Design Hotels, this property showcases contemporary Greek style at its finest—each suite features spacious living areas, lavish sitting rooms, and huge patios complete with private pools or Jacuzzis.

The hotel’s lagoon-style pool complex is perfect for afternoon lounging, while the decadent dining terrace serves classic Greek treats with a refined twist. Every detail has been considered, from the soothing neutral tones in the decor to the carefully curated art pieces throughout the property.

Olea represents a newer breed of Zakynthos accommodation—sophisticated, design-forward, and unapologetically luxurious. It’s an ideal choice for travelers who appreciate architectural beauty as much as sandy beaches.

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5. Porto Zante Villas & Spa

Address: Tragaki | Best for: Ultimate luxury, privacy, special occasions

Nestled along a private sandy shoreline on the island’s east coast, Porto Zante Villas & Spa stands as Zakynthos’s most prestigious address. This globally acclaimed resort provides unparalleled privacy and luxury, raised above the Ionian Sea to offer spectacular views while harmonizing elegantly with its serene surroundings.

Each villa here is air-conditioned with marble floors and modern decor in bright colors. The sea-view villas accommodate up to eight guests, but for ultimate luxury, the three-bedroom villas feature their own private pool, a large living room with fireplace, a fully equipped kitchen, and a huge terrace overlooking the ocean. The bathrooms are especially impressive, boasting both luxurious bathtubs and separate showers.

Guests enjoy a gastronomic journey in two waterfront dining establishments, with flavors spanning Greek, Mediterranean, and Japanese cuisines. The resort offers 24-hour in-villa dining and intimate private beach dining experiences. Additional amenities include a private waterfront spa, a vibrant kids’ club, exhilarating watersports, and private yacht excursions to nearby attractions.

This is where celebrities and discerning travelers retreat when they want the best of the best in Greek island hospitality.

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6. The Bay Hotel & Suites

Address: Vasilikos Peninsula | Best for: Secluded beach stays, tranquility seekers

Located almost at the southeastern tip of Zakynthos on Plaka Beach, The Bay Hotel & Suites offers a different side of the island. This is where you come to escape the crowds entirely, surrounded by olive groves with several beautiful small beaches nearby where the water is beautifully warm and never overcrowded.

The hotel is pet-friendly, making it a rarity among Zakynthos’s upscale properties. Guests consistently mention the kind, generous, and charismatic staff who resolve any issues immediately. The location feels like a hidden paradise—you’ll want to rent a car to explore the numerous coves along this stretch of coastline.

One recent guest summed it up perfectly: “Every single member of the staff was kind, generous, charismatic, and knew how to resolve any and all issues immediately. I stayed at five different places during my time in Zakynthos and no other place even came CLOSE to the quality and value.”

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7. Alexandra Beach Resort & Spa

Address: Tsilivi | Best for: Beach bars, families, watersports

The fabulous Makai Beach Bar is nestled in a beautiful cove at Alexandra Beach Resort & Spa, making it one of the most desirable beach hotels on Zakynthos. This resort captures that perfect Greek island atmosphere—toes in the sand, cold drink in hand, turquoise waters stretching to the horizon.

The resort offers comprehensive facilities for both relaxation and adventure. Families appreciate the dedicated kids’ amenities, while couples can retreat to the spa for rejuvenating treatments. The beach location means watersports are right at your doorstep, from paddleboarding to jet skis.

What makes Alexandra Beach stand out is how it balances resort comfort with authentic beach culture. You can enjoy all the conveniences of a high-end property while feeling genuinely connected to Zakynthos’s stunning coastline.

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8. Aeolos Boutique Hotel

Address: Tsilivi area | Best for: Boutique experience, personalized service

For travelers who prefer intimate properties over large resorts, Aeolos Boutique Hotel delivers a more personal Greek island experience. This charming property offers the attention to detail and individualized service that only smaller hotels can provide.

The boutique setting creates an atmosphere where staff remember your name and preferences, where breakfast feels like dining at a friend’s home, and where the pool area never feels crowded. It’s an excellent choice for those seeking authenticity over anonymity.

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9. Tsamis Zante Suites

Address: Kipseli | Best for: Modern suites, pool lovers, value luxury

Located in Kipseli, about 1.3 miles from Drosia Beach, Tsamis Zante Suites offers modern accommodations with an outdoor swimming pool, free private parking, a fitness center, and beautiful gardens. This newer property represents the contemporary wave of Zakynthos hotels—stylish, well-equipped, and designed for the discerning modern traveler.

The suites are spacious and thoughtfully designed, offering a home-away-from-home feel with all the amenities you’d expect from a premium property. The garden setting creates a peaceful atmosphere, while the pool provides the perfect spot for lazy afternoon swimming.

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10. Anemelia Retreat

Address: Near Laganas | Best for: Couples, unique stays, romantic getaways

If you’re looking for something off the beaten path, Anemelia Retreat delivers a unique Zakynthos experience. This quirky, character-filled property appeals to couples and travelers seeking accommodations with personality and soul.

The retreat offers an intimate setting that feels worlds away from cookie-cutter resorts. Each space has been thoughtfully designed to create a romantic atmosphere, making it particularly popular for honeymoons and anniversary trips. The property balances seclusion with accessibility—you’re tucked away from the crowds but still within reach of beaches and restaurants.

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11. White Springs Retreat

Address: Inland Zakynthos | Best for: Nature lovers, peaceful escapes

For travelers who want to experience Zakynthos beyond its beaches, White Springs Retreat offers a serene inland escape. Set among the island’s lush green landscapes, this property showcases a different side of Zakynthos—the rolling hills, olive groves, and authentic village atmosphere that many visitors never discover.

The retreat provides a perfect base for exploring the island’s interior while still being within driving distance of the coast. It’s ideal for those who prioritize peace and natural beauty over being steps from the sand.

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12. Lesante Blu Exclusive Beach Resort

Address: Tragaki | Best for: Adults-only, honeymooners, eco-conscious travelers

Set on the east coast of Zakynthos with stunning views across the water to Kefalonia, Lesante Blu Exclusive Beach Resort is a member of The Leading Hotels of the World—and it’s reserved exclusively for adults. This makes it a sanctuary for couples on honeymoons and those seeking a break from the energy of family resorts.

The spacious sea-view suites come with their own infinity-edge pools, offering plenty of privacy and luxurious touches. Guests consistently praise the tasteful design, excellent gastronomic offerings, and the spectacular infinity pool that creates unforgettable holiday moments. As an eco-certified establishment, it appeals to environmentally conscious travelers who don’t want to compromise on luxury.

The beachfront setting provides direct access to crystal-clear waters, perfect for morning swims before retreating to your private pool for the afternoon. This is adult indulgence at its finest. Distance from the airport is approximately 10 km (20 minutes by car).

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13. Palatino Hotel

Address: Zakynthos Town | Best for: Culture seekers, ferry port access, town exploration

For those who want to immerse themselves in Zakynthos Town’s vibrant culture, Palatino Hotel provides an excellent base. Located in the heart of the capital, this property puts you within walking distance of Solomos Square, the Byzantine Museum, the harbor, and countless tavernas and shops.

The hotel features a lovely rooftop restaurant and pool with views over the town and harbor—perfect for sunset cocktails after a day exploring. Its proximity to the ferry port makes it particularly convenient for arrivals and departures, and for those planning island-hopping excursions to Kefalonia.

While you won’t have a beach at your doorstep, Zakynthos Town offers a more authentic Greek experience, and excellent beaches are just a short taxi or bus ride away.

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14. Arkadia Hotel

Address: Tsilivi area | Best for: Apartment-style living, longer stays, self-catering

Arkadia Hotel offers a hybrid experience that combines hotel comforts with apartment-style independence. This is an excellent choice for travelers who appreciate having kitchen facilities, more space to spread out, and the flexibility to create their own schedule.

The property maintains high standards while offering more value than traditional luxury hotels—ideal for extended stays or families who prefer preparing some meals themselves. The location provides easy access to Tsilivi’s amenities while maintaining a quieter, more residential atmosphere.

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15. Bitzaro Boutique Hotel

Address: Zakynthos Town | Best for: Town stays, family atmosphere, harbor views

Bitzaro Boutique Hotel sits in the northern part of Zakynthos Town, just a one-minute walk from Zante Town Beach and 500 yards from the Byzantine Museum. The hotel offers charming accommodations with a genuine family atmosphere—modern, spacious rooms with sea views and staff who treat every guest like a friend.

Guests particularly appreciate the excellent breakfast spread and the hotel’s convenient location for exploring the capital on foot. The harbor is steps away, perfect for watching boats come and go while enjoying your morning coffee. It’s a welcoming option that balances boutique charm with accessible pricing. Distance from the airport is approximately 5 km (10 minutes by car).

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16. Crystal Beach Hotel

Address: Kalamaki | Best for: Beach lovers, turtle watching, nature enthusiasts

Crystal Beach Hotel enjoys one of the most special locations on Zakynthos—right on Kalamaki Beach within the Marine Park. This stretch of fine white sand and mountainous views is a nesting ground for endangered Caretta-Caretta turtles. Between May and October, you might witness these ancient creatures nesting and hatching.

The hotel is consistently rated among travelers’ favorites in the Kalamaki area. The shallow, gentle waters are excellent for swimming and perfect for families, while the beachfront location means you can walk straight from your room onto the sand. Yes, some areas are cordoned off and watersports are restricted to protect the turtles—but that’s precisely what makes this beach so special.

Take a turtle-spotting boat tour of Zakynthos that stops at Marathonisi (Turtle Island) for an unforgettable wildlife experience.

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17. Cielo Luxury Villas

Address: Akrotiri | Best for: Private villa experience, groups, special celebrations

For the ultimate private Zakynthos experience, Cielo Luxury Villas delivers exceptional villa living with stunning sea views. Each villa features its own private pool, spacious indoor and outdoor living areas, and the kind of privacy that hotels simply cannot match.

This is an excellent choice for groups traveling together, multi-generational families, or couples celebrating milestone events who want to entertain in their own space. The villas combine modern luxury with Mediterranean character—think sunset dinners on your private terrace, morning swims in your personal pool, and all the space you need to truly relax.

While you’ll need a car to reach beaches and restaurants, the trade-off is absolute privacy and a home base that feels like your own Greek island retreat.

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Zakynthos essentials: what you need to know

Best area to stay in Zakynthos

The Tsilivi area (also called Planos) is hands-down the best base for most visitors. It offers the island’s finest concentration of quality hotels, a beautiful sandy beach with calm waters, and a charming village atmosphere with excellent restaurants, shops, and bars—all within walking distance. See all hotels in Tsilivi

Best hotel in Zakynthos

Contessina Hotel — exceptional value, stunning grounds, perfect location, and service that exceeds expectations.

Best villa in Zakynthos

Villa Shangri-La Zakynthos — for travelers seeking the ultimate private villa experience.

How many days do you need in Zakynthos?

Plan for at least 5-7 days to experience Zakynthos properly. The island is larger than many expect, with numerous beaches, the famous Navagio viewpoint, traditional villages, boat trips, and opportunities for turtle spotting. Rushing through in 2-3 days means missing much of what makes Zakynthos special.

Do you need a car in Zakynthos?

I strongly recommend renting a car if you want to explore beyond your hotel. While taxis exist and local buses run on some routes, having your own transportation gives you the freedom to discover hidden beaches, visit the Navagio viewpoint at sunset, and explore traditional villages at your own pace. That said, if you’re mainly planning to relax at your resort, you can manage without one.

Best time to visit Zakynthos

The peak season runs from June through August, offering the best weather and warmest seas but also the highest prices and biggest crowds. May and September-October provide excellent conditions with fewer tourists and better value. Hotels are most affordable in January, with rates up to 81% lower than peak season—though many properties close for winter.

Average hotel prices

On average, 3-star hotels in Zakynthos cost around $115 per night, 4-star hotels around $192 per night, and 5-star luxury hotels approximately $400 per night. The average trip length is 6 nights, with typical total accommodation costs around $2,385 for premium properties. Budget travelers can find clean, comfortable options starting around $43 per night.

Frequently asked questions