The 4-Day Zakynthos Itinerary of Your Dreams

This guide isn’t about rushing from spot to spot. It’s about seeing the island properly with boat days that actually feel magical, west-coast swims that stop you in your tracks, and dinners where the sunset becomes part of the meal.

It works no matter where you’re staying. Just adjust start times based on drive distance and let the island set the pace.

Day 1, Town Energy, Rope Bridge Photos & Turtle Time

Morning: Zante Town

Ease into the island. Coffee by the water, a stroll along the promenade, a little browsing. This is your “we’ve arrived” moment, no rushing required.

Midday: Cameo Island

Cross the rope bridge, take the photos (yes, it really is that pretty), and have a quick look around. You don’t need hours here, it’s a stop, not a full beach day.

Afternoon: Mini boat to Marathonisi

This is where the day really shines. Rent a mini boat from Agios Sostis, captain it yourself, cruise around the island, explore the caves, and watch for turtles. It’s relaxed, fun, and one of the most Zakynthos things you can do.

Lunch + slow afternoon

Back on land, grab a simple seaside lunch and do absolutely nothing important for a few hours. Swim, float, reset.

Evening: easy, or very local

Stay near where you’re based, or go full authentic at Pirounaki wiht local flavours, no fuss, and the kind of place that feels like real island life. (Bring cash)

Day 2, Exploring First, West Coast Drama Later

Morning: Karakonissi

Give yourself about an hour here. Wander, swim, snorkel, explore the rock formations. It’s quiet, a little wild, and a great contrast to the busier beaches.

Late morning → Afternoon: Porto Roxa or Limionas

These two are close, choose your mood:

• Porto Roxa for relaxed, scenic swimming

• Limionas for classic cove energy and a memorable taverna stop

On the drive, pull over at the tiny roadside shops. This is prime territory for local honey, olive oil, and little treats you didn’t plan on buying but absolutely should.

Evening: sunset plans (book ahead)

This is your sunset dinner night, and Zakynthos does this very well.

• Cross Taverna — relaxed but special

• L'Ètè Sunset Bar — elevated, dress-up energy, jaw-dropping views. Reservations are essential.

  Both are worth the effort. You won;t have access to showers anywhere, so plan accordingly.

Day 3, Blues You’ll Never Forget (Keri + Mizithres)

Morning: Keri → Mizithres by boat

Whether you join a tour, hire a captain (our fav!) or rent a boat if you’re confident, this is one of the most beautiful experiences on this island. The colour of the water here is unreal, take your time.

Lunch

Keep it simple near Keri after the boat.

Afternoon: Marathias

Rocky, calm, and soulful. This isn’t a loud beach day, it’s a “float and stare at the water” kind of place.

Evening

Easy dinner. Early night if you want. You’ve earned it.

Day 4, Mountains, the Famous View & Swim Stops on the Way Down

Early morning: Navagio Viewpoint

See the shipwreck from above. Go early for better light and fewer people. Even if the beach itself is closed, the view is unforgettable.

Midday: beach stops as you come down the mountain

Pick two or three, this isn’t about doing them all.

• Makris Gialos — clear, refreshing, easy

• Xigia Beach — unique, milky-blue water (a quick stop is perfect), sulfur smell (love it or hate it)

• Alykes — soft sand, relaxed finish to the day (a great stop for lunch if you didn't find a tavern on your way down!)

Evening

Head back to wherever you’re staying and keep dinner casual.

A few things that make this trip better

• Boat days = dry bag, water, sunscreen, snorkel mask.

• West coast coves = water shoes help! Available almost everywhere in the tourist shops.

• Sunset dinners = plan a little time to 'clean yourself up' and change.

This itinerary is how we’d show Zakynthos to someone we really like, not rushed, not overdone, just beautiful days that flow.

Make sure to download your free Zakynthos Essentials Guide from our site.