General information about the island of Zante
Strengths:
Sea and beaches, excursions, connections, prices, nightlife, suitable for families with children.
Average:
Points of interest.
Weaknesses:
Very crowded.
- Capital: Zakynthos
- Population: 39000
- Area: 407 km²
- Port: Zakynthos
- Airport: yes
- Public transportation: yes
- Car and motorcycle rental: yes
- Campsites: yes
Zakynthos or Zante (from the Greek Ζάκυνθος) is part of the Ionian Islands archipelago, called the “Flower of the East” by the Venetians for its climate and lush vegetation. It is located south of Cephalonia and is easily accessible both by sea, from Greece or Italy, and by air (Solomos International Airport). It is only 18 nautical miles from the Peloponnese (port of Killini), 53 from Patras, and 38 from Sami (Cephalonia).
It has an area of 407 km² and a population of about 39,000 inhabitants.
The island is mostly mountainous and its highest mountain is Vrachonas (758 meters) located in the northwestern part, but to the southeast there is also a plain interspersed with green hills. Its western coasts are steep and rocky with many caves and bays, while to the east, towards the Peloponnese, they are sandy with beautiful beaches. The island has thermal springs and in the southwestern area a marine park where the protected turtle Caretta Caretta lays its eggs.
The island's main crops are olives, vines, citrus fruits, and vegetables, while the most renowned food products are olive oil, thyme honey, cheese, wine, nougat, and cologne water.
The capital of the island is the city of Zakynthos, partially destroyed by the earthquake in 1953 and rebuilt as a modern city. Zakynthos also has the main port of the island.
Its sea is very beautiful: colorful, transparent, with beautiful beaches and caves. The island has an additional charm for both Italians and Greeks as it is also the homeland of Ugo Foscolo and Dionysios Solomos, the principal modern Greek poet and author of the national anthem.
Zakynthos has always been an island where music, song, and dance, with its unique folk dances, have played a very important role in the lives of its inhabitants.
Typical local handicraft products are embroidery, textiles, and ceramics.
The island's road network is dense in the flat area and all the main localities are connected, although the road surface is not always in good condition. Public transportation is widespread and reaches the main places on the island. It is also possible to get around by taxi or rent cars, scooters, and bicycles.
