Zakynthos

Although the main town is not the most popular place for visitors to stay, Palatino (Kolokotróni 10) in Repára district is a contemporary choice that offers good value for money. Southeast of town, the Vasilikós Peninsula boasts a strong reputation for idyllic beaches, and is equipped with some great accommodation such as the Bay Hotel & Suites, notable for its design features, or the Hotel Vasilikós Beach (Ágios Nikólaos cove), where watersports are prevalent. To the northwest of town, Tsilivi (go for the sleek Al Mare) and Alykés provide worthy bases, although it is fair to say that the beaches of Vasilikós are in a different league. At Límni Kerioú beyond Laganás, the Pansion Limni could be considered one of Zakynthos’ foremost budget options, run by the welcoming Bratis family.

Zákynthos is a great place to shop if you're looking for local specialities. Designed for the protection of the loggerhead sea turtle, the National Marine Park of Zákynthos encompasses Laganás Bay, and has led to the availability of all kinds of souvenir imaginable related to the beautiful creatures, including mugs, keyrings and ceramic figurines. Bottled wines make for a great item to take back home, ranging from the crisp white Verdea to varying styles of rosé and dark reds that make use of grape varieties unique to the island. There are a number of reputable wineries you can visit, including Oinollpi, in Agriá near Maherádo, Callinico, in Kalípado village, near Alykés, and Solomos, in Kydóni, just inland from the main town, off the Volímes road.

The menus at certain beach resorts do not tell the whole story when it comes to the dining scene in Zákynthos, which is far more healthy than you might be led to believe. Found at opposite ends of the main town, Malanos (Agíou Athanasíou, off Kalamáki road, Kípos suburb) specialises in magireftá (casserole dishes), while Green Boat (Dionysíou Róma, behind municipal lido) is a great shout for well-priced seafood. Much of Zákynthos’ architecture was damaged by an earthquake in 1953, but in the westerly mountain villages many of the stone buildings survived, and these days house restaurants offering local recipes. Alitzerini (Kilioméno outskirts), LIthino (Maherádo) and Kalas in Kambí hamlet all come recommended.

Carnival

February/March

Carnival throws up a veritable medley of fireworks, partying and other such revelry, and while perhaps not as celebrated as Corfu’s, Zákynthos still boasts the same Venetian heritage that can be found across the other Ionian Islands.

Feast Day of Saint Mavra

3 May

Folk dancing and banquets follow mass at the impressive church of Agía Mávra in Maherádo village at the Feast Day of Saint Mavra.

Theatro Avouri/Skalia Cultural Village events

June-August

This delightful stone venue is found outside Tragáki village, and something can usually be found happening here, although there are often child-centred or educational themes rather than concerts.

Wine Festival

August-September

The port capital plays host to this wine festival that enables visitors to sample local offerings.

Feast Days of Saint Dionysios

24 August, 17 December

Zákynthos Town’s striking waterfront basilica of Ágios Dionýsios sees the beginning of the procession in honour of Saint Dionysios, the island’s patron saint, relics and all. Expect a few days of dancing, eating and drinking to follow.