Zakynthos

Rising from the cobalt waters of the southern Ionian Sea, Zakynthos transitions from rugged limestone massifs in the west to fertile central plains and shallow eastern bays. Walking through the waterfront capital, Zakynthos Town, reveals wide flagstone plazas, arcaded street corridors, and pastel neoclassical facades rebuilt after the catastrophic 1953 earthquake. Ruled by Venice from 1484 to 1797, the island still reflects an Italianate architectural footprint. Overlooking the town, the pine-clad hill of Bochali holds the ramparts of a Venetian castle. Below, Solomos Square houses the Byzantine Museum, displaying gilded icons rescued from the rubble of the mid-century tremors. Southward along the harbor stands the Church of Agios Dionysios, home to the silver reliquary of the island patron saint. On the remote northwest coast, the rusted hull of the coaster MV Panagiotis, grounded during a storm in 1980, rests against sheer white cliffs. In inland tavernas, diners eat ladotyri, a sharp sheep cheese matured in olive oil, accompanied by kantadhes, polyphonic folk serenades inherited from Venetian times. Late August brings lively religious processions for Saint Dionysios across the capital. Rent a small car to navigate the steep, switchbacked roads leading to mountain hamlets like Volimes, and plan your journey for May, June, or September when sea waters are warm and summer crowds thin out.