Family Adventure in Zakynthos: Sun, Sea, and Culture

First Impressions of Zakynthos

Our family adventure in Zakynthos began today, and what a start it has been! From the moment we landed and picked up our rental car, the island's charm began to unfold. Today was all about immersing ourselves in the heart of Zakynthos Town, soaking up its history, and of course, indulging in some incredible Greek food. It's amazing how quickly a new place can feel like home when you're surrounded by so much beauty and warmth.

Our first stop was the Byzantine Museum of Zakynthos. It’s located right in Solomos Square, which made it easy to find. The museum is housed in a beautiful building that was rebuilt after the devastating earthquake of 1953. It was fascinating to see the collection of Byzantine icons, ecclesiastical clothing, and frescoes dating back to the 16th to 19th centuries. Fatima was particularly captivated by the intricate details in the artwork, while Omar seemed most interested in the photos showing Zakynthos before the earthquake. It gave us a real sense of the island's history and resilience. Seeing those images of what was lost and then witnessing the vibrant life of the town today was quite moving.


Discover Byzantine art and Zakynthos's history at this museum in Solomos Square, showcasing icons, frescoes, and pre-earthquake memories.
Leaving the museum, we stepped right into Solomos Square, the heart of Zakynthos Town. The square is named after Dionysios Solomos, the national poet of Greece, and his statue stands proudly in the center. It’s a large, open space surrounded by important buildings, including the Church of Saint Nicholas and the Town Hall. The atmosphere was lively, with people strolling around, children playing, and vendors selling local treats. It felt like the perfect place to take a breath and soak in the local culture. I could imagine spending hours just sitting at a café, watching the world go by. Fatima pointed out the statue of Ugo Foskolo, another significant figure, adding to our impromptu history lesson.


Experience the heart of Zakynthos at Solomos Square: history, culture, and vibrant island life converge in this iconic central hub.

Travel is more than seeing the sights; it is about experiencing the soul of a place.

For breakfast, we decided to try Yard of Taste, and it certainly lived up to its reputation. The restaurant had a lovely ambiance, and the staff were incredibly welcoming. I opted for a traditional Greek breakfast, while Fatima chose a lighter, Mediterranean option. Omar, of course, went straight for the pancakes! Everything was fresh and delicious, setting us up perfectly for a day of exploring. The owner, Giota, was so kind and even shared some insights into local ingredients and culinary traditions.


Experience the exquisite flavors of Greece at Yard of Taste, where traditional meets contemporary in a vibrant dining atmosphere.
Lunch was at Prosilio Restaurant, which was conveniently located near Solomos Square. This restaurant offered a fine dining experience with a menu that celebrated Ionian and Greek culinary art. The setting was beautiful, with a serene garden where we enjoyed our meal. We started with some traditional Zakynthian dishes, and I couldn't resist trying their seafood pasta. The flavors were exquisite, and the presentation was impeccable. Fatima enjoyed a fresh salad with local cheese, while Omar devoured a kid-friendly version of souvlaki. The chef, Kristy Karageorgou, clearly has a passion for her craft, and it shone through in every bite.


Experience the pinnacle of Greek gastronomy at Prosilio Restaurant in Zakynthos - where fine dining meets local charm.
After lunch, we did a little shopping. Fatima had read about Medusa Boutique, a family-run clothing store in Tsilivi, and was keen to check it out. Although it was a short drive from Zakynthos Town, it was well worth the visit. The boutique had a charming, shabby-chic vibe, and the staff were incredibly friendly and helpful. Fatima found a beautiful dress, and I picked up a couple of comfortable shirts. It's always nice to find unique pieces that remind you of your travels.


Shop at Medusa Boutique in Planos for unique fashion finds and a taste of Mediterranean elegance, perfect for your travel memories.
As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Thymalos for dinner. This restaurant is known for its Greek menu and seafood dishes. It's also conveniently located near Solomos Square, making it easy to reach. The atmosphere was relaxed and inviting, and we were seated at a table with a lovely view. I decided to try the grilled octopus, while Fatima went for the sea bass. Omar enjoyed some simple grilled chicken. The food was delicious, and the service was excellent. It was the perfect way to end our first day in Zakynthos. I savored the fresh flavors, thinking how lucky we were to be here, experiencing this beautiful island with my family.


Discover the rich flavors of Greece at Thymalos in Zakinthos—where every meal is a celebration of authentic cuisine.
Looking ahead to tomorrow, we're all excited about our trip to Navagio Beach, also known as Shipwreck Beach, and the Blue Caves. Omar has been especially eager to see the famous shipwreck, and I'm looking forward to capturing some stunning photos of the turquoise waters. We plan to have breakfast at Zinc Restaurant & Bar before heading out, and then enjoy lunch at Taverna Xigia. In the evening, we’re thinking of having dinner at TAVERNA AKROTIRI and maybe stopping by Porto Azzuro Beach Bar for a drink.

Tonight, though, I'm content to relax at the Diana Hotel, reflecting on a wonderful first day in Zakynthos. It feels good to be here with Fatima and Omar, creating memories that we'll cherish for years to come. I am also glad I remembered to pack all of our essentials, including sunscreen, beach towels, swimwear, my camera, and comfortable walking shoes. It would have been a disaster if I had forgotten any of those! Although, I did forget a travel guidebook and a portable phone charger. That's okay though, I'll just have to buy them here!


Discover the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure at Diana Hotel, Zakynthos. Enjoy modern amenities, stunning views, and easy access to top attractions!
Zakynthos has already exceeded my expectations, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings. I have a feeling this family adventure is going to be one for the books!