The best area to stay in Zakynthos depends on your vibe

If you are Googling 'where to stay in Zakynthos', you are not alone - the island has a few very different personalities.

Here is the simplest way to choose:

• Want easy evenings, restaurants, and a bit of everything? Start with Tsilivi.
• Want a beach holiday with quick access to town? Argassi is a popular middle-ground.
• Want sandy beaches and a relaxed-but-lively feel? Kalamaki is a classic.
• Want nature, quieter coves, and a slower pace? Vasilikos is the 'switch off' zone.
• Want a more classic resort feel with amenities? Look at Tsilivi or Alykes/Alykanas.

Tip: do not try to stay 'perfectly central'. Zakynthos is compact, and choosing the right base matters more than being exactly in the middle.

Tsilivi, Zakynthos Town, Argassi, Kalamaki, Laganas, Vasilikos and beyond

Tsilivi

Great for: families,couples and groups who want a resort-style area with lots of facilities.

Why stay here: convenient, plenty of options, easy beach days, easy access to everything and everywhere.

Zakynthos Town

Great for: short stays, anyone who wants easy evenings.

Why stay here: harbour vibe, shops, and plenty of dining options.

Argassi

Great for: couples and friends who want a beach base close to town.

Why stay here: you can get into town easily, but still feel like you are on holiday.

Kalamaki

Great for: sandy beach days, families, summer energy.

Why stay here: long beach, lots of choice for activities and casual food.

Laganas

Great for: sandy beach days, friends, party energy.

Why stay here: long beach, lots of choice for nightlife.

Vasilikos

Great for: nature lovers, quieter beach days, couples, anyone who likes a slower pace.

Why stay here: beautiful coastline and a more relaxed feel.

Alykes/Alykanas

Great for: laid-back holidays, families, repeat visitors.

Why stay here: calmer pace and a nice holiday feel.

Use these three questions to pick the right area

Ask yourself:

• What do you want most days to feel like: quiet, lively, or a mix?
• Do you want to be near the airport/town, or are you happy being more 'escape' focused?
• Are you planning boat trips (north and west) or beach days (south and east) more often?

If you want a balanced plan (boat day, beach days, town evenings), staying near the east side often feels easy for first-timers.

If you are visiting mainly for the iconic cliffs and viewpoints, you can still stay elsewhere and do one 'big' excursion day - just plan your start time.

Do you need a car in Zakynthos?

For most travellers, a car (or a few planned transfers) makes the trip smoother - Zakynthos is easiest when you can move at your own pace.

If you do not want to drive: base yourself somewhere with walkable dinners and beaches nearby, then book 1-2 organised trips (boat day, a viewpoint tour).

Friendly reminder: for the most famous spots, mornings are your secret weapon - cooler, calmer, and better photos.

A calm, comfortable base to explore the island

If you want a stay that feels relaxing (not hectic), but still want to reach the island highlights without drama, choosing a comfortable base matters.

At Zante Calinica Hotel & Suites, the goal is simple: you come back from the beach or a boat day and actually feel like you can unwind. Use us as your base, then pick one main experience per day: a signature boat trip, a beach day, a viewpoint morning, and an easy town evening.

Our guests love quiet nights, comfortable suites and the family environment we have created.

Quick answers to common questions

Q: What is the best area to stay in Zakynthos for first-timers?

A: Somewhere with easy dinners and good access to day trips - many people choose Tsilivi due to the proximity to Zante town as well as the amenities.

Q: What is the best area to stay in Zakynthos for couples?

A: Tsilivi for a good mix or Vasilikos for quiet beach days.

Q: Where should families stay in Zakynthos?

A: Tsilivi (amenities), Kalamaki (relaxed beach) and Alykes are common picks.