Family Adventure in Zakynthos: Sun, Sea, and Culture

A Fond Farewell to Zakynthos

As our Zakynthos adventure draws to a close, I wanted to soak up every last bit of this beautiful island. Today was all about delving into its rich history and savoring the local flavors one last time. It's amazing how much history is packed into this relatively small island, and I was eager to learn more before we packed our bags.

Our final day in Zakynthos began with a hearty breakfast at The TZANTE. I must say, their breakfast buffet is a delightful spread of local Zakynthian products. It’s the perfect way to start the day, fueling up for more exploration. They truly focus on detail, and I felt welcomed as a guest. Omar especially enjoyed the fresh fruit and pastries, while Fatima and I appreciated the strong Greek coffee. It's these small, local experiences that really make a trip memorable.

With our stomachs full and spirits high, we set off to explore the Venetian Watch Tower. Situated in Tsilivi, about 5 kilometers north of Zakynthos Town, the tower, also known as Vardiola of Planos, offered a glimpse into the island’s Venetian past. The term “vardiola” comes from the Italian word “guardiola,” meaning guard or observatory. These watchtowers were built by the Venetians along the coasts of the Ionian Islands to monitor and protect against maritime threats. It was interesting to learn that most of these structures were built during the administration of Venetian Proveditore Claudio Gherardini, around 1770.


Explore the historic Venetian Watch Tower in Planos, Zakynthos, for stunning views and a glimpse into the island's rich Venetian past.

The best journeys answer questions that in the beginning you didn't even think to ask.

The tower itself stands on a rocky peninsula, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape and the Ionian Sea. Although the tower is described as being in a state of disrepair, it still holds a certain charm and historical significance. It's a great spot for photography, especially during sunset, even though some reviews mention it is small and lacks restoration. As I stood there, gazing out at the sea, I couldn't help but imagine what it must have been like to stand guard here centuries ago, watching for approaching ships. It’s amazing how a simple structure can transport you back in time.

Next on our itinerary was the Museum of D. Solomos and Other Eminent People of Zakynthos. Housed in a neoclassical building in Saint Mark's Square, the museum is dedicated to Dionysios Solomos, the esteemed poet who penned the Greek national anthem, as well as other influential figures from the island. The museum is a treasure trove of artifacts, manuscripts, and exhibits that vividly illustrate the cultural heritage of Zakynthos.


Explore the cultural gems of Zakynthos at the Museum of D. Solomos, celebrating the island's literary and artistic heritage.

The ground floor houses the mausoleum where the bones of Dionysios Solomos and Andreas Kalvos, another famous poet, are interred. The other rooms display paintings of eminent personalities of Zakynthos, personal items, manuscripts, and more. It was fascinating to learn about the rich artistic and literary contributions of local figures, including playwright Antonios Matesis, novelist Gregorios Xenopoulos, and composer Pavlos Carrer.

Wandering through the halls, I felt a deep connection to the island’s history and culture. It’s inspiring to see how much Zakynthos has contributed to Greek society, despite its small size. The museum truly offers a comprehensive view of the island's cultural landscape.

After immersing ourselves in history and culture, it was time for lunch. We decided to try Fiore Fine Dining, the gastronomic restaurant of Lesante Cape Resort & Villas. The restaurant offers a modern Greek fine dining experience inspired by traditional Greek flavors and sea- and farm-to-table dining. The setting is stunning, with panoramic views of the Ionian Sea. Executive Chef Aggelos Bakopoulos creates a superb menu that showcases the best of Zakynthian cuisine. Although we enjoyed the food, the location was the real star.


Savor exquisite modern Heptanesean cuisine at Fiore Fine Dining in Akrotiri - where culinary artistry meets exceptional service.

For our final dinner in Zakynthos, we chose Carpe Diem Zante in Laganas. Located at the end of the famous Laganas main street, the restaurant has a classy and welcoming atmosphere. We wanted something a little more laid-back for our last night. The food was delicious, and the service was excellent. Fatima and I shared a bottle of local wine, while Omar enjoyed a refreshing juice. It was the perfect way to end our trip, savoring the flavors of Zakynthos one last time.


Experience authentic Greek cuisine at Carpe Diem Zante in Laganas - where flavor meets vibrant atmosphere.

As I reflect on our time here, I’m filled with gratitude for the experiences we’ve had. Zakynthos has captured our hearts with its natural beauty, rich history, and warm hospitality. From the stunning beaches to the charming towns, there’s something for everyone here. I’m so glad we chose to spend our family vacation on this enchanting island.

Tomorrow, we pack our bags and head back to Germany, filled with memories that will last a lifetime. I'm already looking forward to our next adventure! I will miss the sunshine and beautiful beaches, but I will take the memories with me.

Before we leave, we plan to visit Male/female karakas stores to buy some souvenirs. I want to bring a piece of Zakynthos back home with us, something to remind us of this incredible journey.


Explore Karakas Stores in Zakinthos for the latest in fashion apparel, accessories, and a unique shopping experience that reflects the local style.

Until next time, Zakynthos! It's been an unforgettable experience.

I hope my blog has inspired you to explore this beautiful island. If you have any questions or comments, feel free to leave them below. I’d love to hear about your own travel experiences!

I'm already looking forward to sharing our next adventure with you all!