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Zante

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About Zante

Zante — more formally known as Zakynthos — is the third-largest of the Ionian Islands. Famed for its spectacular coastline, where sweeping white cliffs meet bright turquoise waters and pristine sandy beaches, this is perhaps the most popular island in the group. Zante has acquired a reputation as a package holiday destination over the past few decades, with big resort hotels opening up along the south-eastern coast. There are also, however, gorgeous villas and design-led hotels in more secluded parts of the island — where you’ll find our Gurus’ recommendations of the best places to stay in Zante.

Bustling Zakynthos Town is the island’s capital and main hub. Prior to the 1953 earthquake, the town was home to some striking Venetian architecture, but it has since been rebuilt in a more modern style. Stroll past bougainvillea-wreathed houses and busy boutiques to the pretty harbour, where you’ll find lively cafés, bars and seafood restaurants. For a late-night party vibe, look to the trendy bars and clubs of Laganas.

Head northeast to the tiny town of Agios Nikolaos to see the dramatic Blue Caves or to catch the ferry to neighbouring Kefalonia. Laid-back Tsilivi is a family favourite, whilst tranquil Vassilikos is known for its quiet atmosphere and beautiful villas. Beyond the towns, you’ll find hiking, mountain biking, zip-lining and quad biking in the hills and forests of Zante’s interior. Springtime visitors can marvel at fields of wildflowers, too — at a time when most of the best places to stay in Zante are refreshingly quiet. There’s always the pull of the sea, too, with sailing, swimming and diving as well as some superb sunbathing along Zante’s craggy coastline and picture-perfect beaches.

The Best Places to Stay in Zante

For Romance

  • Lesante Blu sits on a secluded hilltop, promising dazzling sea views. A chic, contemporary beach resort with infinity pools, a superb spa and multiple restaurants, it's a top romantic escape. Adults-only and very swish.
  • Zante Maris Suite, just inland from Porto Zante, is another exclusive island hideaway for couples. Think swish, minimalist interiors and a real sense of barefoot luxury. The holistic spa is a standout, and the best suites boast private terraces and plunge pools. Honeymoon heaven.

For Families or Groups

  • Cielo Luxury Villas will delight families and groups of friends. Split into two villas -- one with three bedrooms and the other with four, the property can also be rented out in its entirely for larger group gatherings. Spacious, modern lounges have big sliding doors leading out to the swimming pool. Fabulous.
  • Paradisso Beach Villas is another small collection of villas, perfect to rent as a family or small group. Interiors are fresh and airy, with white and blue textiles, big windows and lots of soft linen. Sink into hammocks inthe garden, explore the picturesque peninsula and swim in the sea.

For Absolute Luxury

  • Porto Zante Villas & Spa offers ten indulgent villas, each with a private pool, marble bathrooms and ocean-facing terraces. Guests share access to a serene waterfront spa, chic cocktails bar and popular Mediterranean restaurant. Fabulous beachfront bliss for couples or families.
  • Olea All Suite Hotel has won multiple awards for its innovative contemporary design. The most sensational suites have private pools with ocean views, big terraces and Mediterranean interiors with tiled floors and natural materials. Enjoy restorative spa treatments before feasting at one of three restaurants. Absolute luxury.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY VILLA

  • If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

  • Fly to Zakynthos International Airport, in the island's south-east -- often via Athens International Airport -- and continue to your destination by bus or taxi. Speak to your hotel in advance to arrange an airport pick up.
  • Zante is wonderful to explore with the freedom of your own transport! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
  • Expect warm summers, with temperatures reaching around 26°C between June and August, which is also peak season. For fewer crowds travel in May or late September, when you can find great hotel deals.

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Best Hotels in Zante

  • Paradisso Beach Villas Zante from $202

    Beach Life  -  The villas perch on a small peninsula jutting out to the blue Ionian sea which is straddled by a golden beach
    Families  -  Self-catering villas capable of housing up to 5 people makes this a suitable family option
    Active Holiday  -  A wide variety of water-based activities and excursions are organised by your hosts
    Sights nearby  -  Explore the Blue Caves sea sculptures rising from the sea in striking blue colours
    Air conditioningGardenPet friendlyViewsParking
    Recommended by  -  I Escape

    Lying on a charming peninsula, these picturesque villas overlook the Ionian sea. The rooms are light and fresh, with whitewashed walls, linen curtains and tiled floors. The villas feature multi-functional living quarters leading onto outdoor terraces, with loungers and hammocks. A magical spot. See More

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  • Lesante Blu Zakynthos, Zante 92 rooms from $327

    Hideaway  -  A luxurious clifftop property offering an exclusive escape.
    Sailing  -  Take a private cruise around the island.
    Restrictions on children  -  Adult only
    Secluded setting  -  For escaping.
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenViewsParkingNo pets

    A secluded hilltop property offering glorious sea views. Suites and rooms are all white on white with plenty of glass, all the mod-cons and indulgent bathrooms. Expect a selection of bars and restaurants, a fabulous spa and glorious pool. Ideal for romantic getaways. See More

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  • Zante Maris Suites Tsilivi, Zante 192 rooms from $368

    Beach Life  -  Located a stone's throw from beautiful sandy beaches on the island, this hotel is a great choice for a seaside getaway
    Hideaway  -  Book a discreet luxury suite and hideout in your room with your own private pool and beautiful sea views
    Romantic Break  -  Couples love the romantic seaside setting of this hotel and the first-class facilities
    Sights nearby  -  Visit the Agios Dionysios Church, a historic Orthodox Greek church with a breathtaking interior
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolViewsNo pets

    This chic, adults-only hotel is located on the Greek island of Zakynthos. Suites are bright and contemporary with crisp white linens and sea views; the best suites offer a cosy private terrace and pool. Eat at the à la carte restaurant before booking into the holistic spa. A luxury seaside getaway. See More

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  • Olea All Suite Hotel Tsilivi, Zante 93 rooms from $401

    Foodies  -  Foodies are spoiled for choice at this hotel, with three on-site restaurants serving international and Mediterranean dishes
    Honeymoons  -  Book a luxury suite at this hotel for a honeymoon with added indulgence, and admire sunset from your private pool
    Romantic Break  -  Couples love the hotel's chic interiors and the first-class facilities at the on-site spa
    Minimum Stay  -  Minimum stay of 2 nights
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolViewsParkingNo pets
    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith, Design Hotels

    This award-winning design hotel is located on Zakynthos, Greece. Rooms have chic, Mediterranean interiors with tiled floors and natural accents; the most luxurious suites boast a private pool with sea views and a spacious terrace. Choose between 3 restaurants before visiting the spa; luxury defined. See More

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  • Cielo Luxury Villas Zante 7 rooms from $441

    Families  -  Split into two villas one with 3 rooms and one with 4, this is perfect for families to rent out in its entirety
    Beach Life  -  Set right on the sea and with a number of watersports on offer
    Diving  -  Discover the colourful marine life in the crystal clear waters off the coast
    Sailing  -  Hire a private yacht to explore the coastline in style!
    Air conditioningSwimming PoolGardenPet friendlyParking

    Two contemporary villas situated on a private estate beside the sea. Chic interiors are simply designed with monochrome hues, straight lines, and modern art. Spacious lounges lead onto the swimming pool from large glass sliding doors. An idyllic spot to rent as a family or with friends. See More

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  • Porto Zante Villas & Spa Zakinthos, Zante 10 rooms from $1334

    Spa breaks  -  Come for the luxury spa treatments and ancient Greek therapies performed in areas with breathtaking views of the Ionian Sea
    Romantic Break  -  A perfect romatic getaway. Enchanting seaviews from the luxury of your private villas
    Beach Life  -  A beachfront hotel, some villas come with a private beach
    Families  -  Spacious villas welcome children as well
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenPet friendlyViewsParking
    Recommended by  -  Small Luxury Hotels

    Luxurious villas with exotic views of the ocean. Rooms come with private pools, marble bathrooms, lavish toiletries and sea facing private terraces. A Mediterranean restaurant, a chic cocktail bar, a fabulous waterfront spa and other 24 hrs five star services. Winner of several awards. See More

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