3 days tour with a car rental in Zakynthos

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One of the jewels of the Ionian Sea, Zakynthos is an ideal destination to explore by car. With landscapes ranging from turquoise beaches to hills covered in lush vegetation, this Greek island offers a rich and varied experience. Here is a detailed three-day route to make the most of your visit to Zakynthos with a rental car.

Without a doubt, a rental car is the best option for discovering this destination but, in this post, we’ll leave you with the must-see must-sees on your getaway.

With Record go Mobility you can book your car hire in Zakynthos at the cheapest price. Book online, without intermediaries, and with exclusive car hire discounts.

The best part? You only need 3 days, but you’ll probably want more. Here we go!

Day 1: Discovering the West Coast and the famous Navagio Beach

Pick up the car and start the adventure!

The first day starts with the pick-up of your rental car at the airport or in Zakynthos town. Make sure you check the condition of the vehicle and know the local traffic rules. With everything ready, head north towards the west coast, famous for its stunning cliffs and beaches.

Stop in Kampi: Scenic viewpoints

The first stop is Kampi, a small village known for its lookout points offering spectacular views of the Ionian Sea. Here, you can enjoy a coffee while you marvel at the scenery and take some memorable photos. It’s a great place to stop and appreciate the natural beauty of the island.

Navagio Beach (Shipwreck Beach)

Next stop is the iconic Navagio Beach, also known as Shipwreck Beach. This beach is famous for the wreck of the MV Panagiotis and its incredibly blue waters. The beach is only accessible by boat, so you can head to Porto Vromi or Agios Nikolaos and take a boat to this stunning spot. Don’t forget to bring your snorkelling gear, as the clear waters are perfect for exploring the marine life.

Sunset at Navagio viewpoint

After spending the afternoon on the beach, drive to the Navagio viewpoint for one of the most spectacular sunsets in Greece. From here, you will be able to see the beach from above and capture the perfect view of this iconic landscape.

Day 2: Adventure in the blue caves and the north of the island

Early morning in Agios Nikolaos

Start day two by heading north to Agios Nikolaos, a picturesque port known for its excursions to the Blue Caves. These caves, carved into limestone cliffs, are famous for the stunning blue colour of their waters, which intensifies in the sunlight. You can hire a boat or join a tour to explore these natural wonders.

Blue Caves Excursion

A visit to the Blue Caves is an unforgettable experience. Some of the caves are large enough for boats to enter, allowing you to get a close-up view of the rock formations and crystal clear water. Be sure to bring a waterproof camera to capture the beauty of this place.

Lunch in Agios Nikolaos

After the excursion, return to Agios Nikolaos to enjoy a relaxing lunch at one of the local restaurants. Here, you can try traditional Greek dishes such as moussaka, souvlaki or fresh local seafood.

Exploring the North: Lighthouses and traditional villages

In the afternoon, continue your journey to the north of the island. You can visit the Skinari lighthouse, which offers panoramic views of the sea and neighbouring islands. It is also worth exploring the traditional villages of Volimes and Anafonitria, where you can buy local products such as olive oil, honey and handmade pottery.

Overnight at Alykes or Alykanas

End the day in the coastal towns of Alykes or Alykanas, where you’ll find a variety of seaside accommodation and restaurants. These areas are perfect for enjoying a quiet dinner and relaxing after a day full of activities.

Day 3: Relaxation and discovery on the East Coast

Morning at Gerakas Beach

The third day is dedicated to relaxation and enjoying the beautiful beaches of the east coast of Zakynthos. Start your day at Gerakas Beach, one of the most beautiful and protected beaches on the island. This beach is famous for being a nesting place for caretta caretta turtles, and is part of the Zakynthos National Marine Park. Here, you can enjoy a quiet swim in the crystal clear waters and relax on the golden sand.

Excursion to Daphni and Porto Zoro Beaches

After Gerakas, you can drive north to visit other beautiful beaches such as Dafni and Porto Zoro. These beaches are less touristy and offer a quieter experience. Porto Zoro, in particular, is known for its clear waters and rock formations that emerge from the sea, creating a picturesque landscape.

Lunch in Vasilikos

For lunch, head to the Vasilikos area, where you’ll find a variety of tavernas serving local cuisine. Try the fresh fish of the day, accompanied by a Greek salad and local wine. The hospitality of the locals and the delicious food will make this meal a memorable experience.

Afternoon at Banana Beach & Return to Zakynthos Town

End your adventure at Banana Beach, one of the longest and most popular beaches on the island. Here you can enjoy water sports or simply relax on a sun lounger with a refreshing drink. After enjoying the sun, it’s time to return to Zakynthos Town.

Farewell Dinner in Zakynthos Town

For your last night, consider dinner at one of the restaurants in Zakynthos Town. The town offers a vibrant nightlife, with numerous bars and cafes where you can enjoy a drink while you reflect on your trip. Don’t forget to try some traditional Greek desserts, such as baklava or kataifi.

With this guide, you’ll be ready to discover Zakynthos in three unforgettable days – get your camera ready, put on your sunscreen and enjoy the Greek beauty and hospitality!