Zante All-Inclusive Holidays: An Expert’s Guide to the Ionian Paradise

Welcome to Zakynthos (Zante), where crystal-clear waters meet limestone cliffs and pristine beaches hide nesting sea turtles. We’ve consulted three local experts to create the ultimate guide to all-inclusive holidays on this enchanting Greek island, revealing insider tips and hidden treasures that most tourists never discover.

Choosing Your Perfect Location

Dimitris Karavias, a Zante-born tourism consultant with 20 years of experience, shares his insights on the island’s different regions. “While Laganas is famous for its vibrant nightlife, areas like Tsilivi and Kalamaki offer a more relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere. The all-inclusive resorts in these areas provide excellent amenities while maintaining a genuine Greek character.”

Resort Areas Overview

Laganas

• Best for: Young couples and groups
• Known for: Vibrant nightlife, long sandy beach
• Atmosphere: Lively and energetic
• Distance from airport: 10 minutes

Tsilivi

• Best for: Families and couples
• Known for: Blue Flag beach, water park
• Atmosphere: Relaxed but well-developed
• Distance from airport: 20 minutes

Kalamaki

• Best for: Families, nature lovers
• Known for: Turtle nesting beaches, nature reserve
• Atmosphere: Peaceful, natural setting
• Distance from airport: 15 minutes

Argassi

• Best for: Mixed groups, couples
• Known for: Central location, mountain views
• Atmosphere: Balanced mix of activities
• Distance from airport: 15 minutes

Climate and When to Visit

Maria Kokkinis, local meteorologist and tour guide, explains the ideal times to visit: “Zante enjoys a typical Mediterranean climate with long, hot summers and mild winters. For the perfect balance of weather and crowds, consider May, early June, or September.”

Seasonal Overview

Spring (April-May)

• Temperature: 15-23°C
• Rainfall: Occasional showers
• Highlights: Wild flowers, Easter celebrations
• Perfect for: Hiking, sightseeing, cultural experiences

Summer (June-August)

• Temperature: 25-35°C
• Rainfall: Rare
• Highlights: Beach activities, boat tours
• Perfect for: Swimming, water sports, turtle spotting

Autumn (September-October)

• Temperature: 18-27°C
• Rainfall: Increasing later in season
• Highlights: Wine harvest, fewer crowds
• Perfect for: Beach time, local festivals

Winter (November-March)

• Temperature: 10-18°C
• Rainfall: More frequent
• Highlights: Authentic local life
• Perfect for: Cultural experiences, lower prices

Beyond Your Resort

Alexandros Galanos, experienced local tour guide, shares his insights: “Many visitors never venture beyond their resort, but Zante offers extraordinary experiences. Book a boat trip to Navagio Beach (Shipwreck Cove) early in the morning to beat the crowds, and don’t miss the view from the Keri Lighthouse at sunset.”

Must-See Attractions

Navagio Beach (Shipwreck Cove)

• Best time to visit: Early morning
• Book through: Resort tour desk or local operators
• Duration: Half-day trip
• What to bring: Camera, sun protection

Blue Caves

• Best time to visit: Morning for best lighting
• Access: Boat tour from various ports
• Duration: 2-3 hours
• Highlight: Swimming in crystal waters

Marathonisi (Turtle Island)

• Best time: May-August for turtle spotting
• Access: Boat trips from Laganas
• Duration: Half-day
• Special note: Protected nesting area

Local Experiences and Activities

Water Activities

• Turtle spotting boat trips
• Cave exploring
• Snorkeling
• Scuba diving
• Water sports at organized beaches

Cultural Experiences

• Visit to Bohali Castle
• Traditional village tours
• Olive oil tasting
• Local cooking classes
• Wine tasting in mountain villages

Dining and Cuisine

Chef Georgios Marinos, owner of a traditional taverna in Bohali, offers his perspective on local gastronomy: “While all-inclusive resorts offer good dining options, try to experience local tavernas at least once. Look for properties that offer dine-around programs with local restaurants.”

Local Specialties

• Zakynthian Ladotyri (oil cheese)
• Fresh seafood
• Local olive oil
• Skordostoumbi (aubergine dish)
• Local wines

Recommended Local Restaurants

Dennis Taverna, Laganas

• Specialty: Fresh seafood
• Price range: Moderate
• Best for: Authentic Greek dining

Lofos Restaurant, Bohali

• Specialty: Traditional meat dishes
• Price range: Premium
• Best for: Sunset dining with views

Taverna Alexandros, Kalamaki

• Specialty: Family recipes
• Price range: Moderate
• Best for: Local atmosphere

Practical Information

Transport

• Airport transfers: Usually included with all-inclusive packages
• Local buses: Regular service between main resorts
• Taxis: Available at ranks or by phone
• Car rental: Recommended for exploring
• Water taxi: Available between some beaches

Money Matters

• Currency: Euro
• ATMs: Widely available in resort areas
• Credit cards: Accepted in most establishments
• Tipping: Optional but appreciated
• Resort credit: Check if available for local experiences

Health and Safety

• Emergency number: 112
• Medical facilities: Main hospital in Zakynthos Town
• Pharmacies: Available in all resort areas
• Beach safety: Follow flag system
• Sun protection: Essential, especially 11am-4pm

Cultural Insights

Local Customs

• Greeks eat late (dinner after 8pm)
• Afternoon siesta observed (2-5pm)
• Casual dress acceptable
• More conservative dress for churches
• Friendly greetings expected

Language Tips

• Hello: Yassas
• Thank you: Efharisto
• Please: Parakalo
• Good morning: Kalimera
• Good evening: Kalispera

Tipping Culture

Local hospitality expert Andreas Nikolaidis explains: “While tipping isn’t as ingrained in Greek culture as in some countries, it’s increasingly common in tourist areas. In Zante, especially during peak season, service staff do appreciate gratuities for good service.”

General Tipping Guidelines

Restaurants & Tavernas

• Local restaurants: 5-10% of bill
• High-end restaurants: 10-15%
• Small cafes: Round up the bill
• Note: Check if service charge is included

All-Inclusive Resorts

• Bar staff: €1-2 per round of drinks
• Housekeeping: €1-2 per day
• Restaurant staff: €5-10 at end of stay
• Concierge: €5-10 for special assistance
• Note: Some resorts have no-tipping policies

Transportation

• Taxi drivers: Round up fare or 5-10%
• Airport transfers: €2-5 per bag
• Tour guides: €5-10 for half-day tours
• Boat trip captains: €2-5 per person
• Private drivers: €10-15 per day

Other Services

• Spa treatments: 10%
• Hair salons: 5-10%
• Food delivery: €1-2
• Beach attendants: €1-2 for setup
• Luggage porters: €1-2 per bag

Important Notes About Tipping

• Tips in cash are preferred
• Small denominations of euros are ideal
• Tip directly to the person providing service
• Group tour guides often rely heavily on tips
• Tipping is never mandatory but always appreciated

When Not to Tip

• Self-service establishments
• Quick counter service
• Small purchases from shops
• Public transportation
• Where explicitly stated not to

Sustainability and Responsible Tourism

Environmental expert Dr. Elena Karagianni advises: “Choose resorts with Green Key certification and respect the protected status of our beaches, particularly during turtle nesting season (May-August).”

Eco-Friendly Practices

• Respect nesting beaches
• Use reef-safe sunscreen
• Support local businesses
• Minimize plastic use
• Follow marked trails

Expert Tips for Making the Most of Your Stay

1. Book excursions through reputable operators
2. Visit Shipwreck Beach viewpoint early
3. Pre-book airport transfers
4. Carry water and sun protection
5. Learn basic Greek phrases
6. Try local restaurants

Planning Your Perfect Holiday

Best Time to Book

• Summer: 6 months ahead
• Shoulder season: 3-4 months ahead
• Winter: 2-3 months ahead
• Special offers: Sign up for alerts

Package Types

• Standard all-inclusive
• Ultra all-inclusive
• Premium all-inclusive
• Family packages
• Adult-only options

Final Recommendations

“Zante offers more than beautiful beaches,” says Dimitris Karavias. “Take time to explore the mountain villages, taste local wines, and experience the warm hospitality of the Zakynthian people. The best all-inclusive holidays here combine resort comfort with authentic Greek experiences.”

Note: All expert recommendations are based on professional experience in Zante tourism and hospitality. Contact specific travel agents for current offerings and availability.