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
- Book excursions through reputable operators
- Visit Shipwreck Beach viewpoint early
- Pre-book airport transfers
- Carry water and sun protection
- Learn basic Greek phrases
- 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.