If you are planning your summer holiday in Greece, you will quickly discover that there are countless activities to do in Zakynthos that go far beyond relaxing on the beach. From crystal-clear waters and hidden coves to vibrant nightlife and unique local experiences, the island offers something for every type of traveler. Whether you are visiting as a couple, with friends, or as a family, choosing the right activities to do in Zakynthos will completely shape your holiday experience.

One of the biggest advantages of the island is that most of these experiences are easily accessible by car. Renting a vehicle gives you the flexibility to move freely between beaches, villages, and activity spots without depending on public transport. If you want to plan your trip better, you can read our article about Zakynthos without a car: What you’ll miss and why freedom matters to understand why mobility is essential.

In this guide, we will explore five of the most popular and memorable activities to do in Zakynthos, including real locations, distances, and practical tips. Each experience is carefully selected to help you make the most of your time on the island while enjoying comfort, flexibility, and unforgettable views.

1. Boat day around Zakynthos: Explore hidden beaches and caves

One of the most iconic activities to do in Zakynthos is a full-day boat trip around the island. Most tours depart from ports such as Laganas, Keri, or Zakynthos Town, which is located just 10–15 minutes from the airport.

From here, you can explore famous spots like Navagio Beach (Shipwreck Beach), the Blue Caves, and hidden coves that are only accessible by sea. Driving to your departure point is easy, especially if you stay near Zakynthos Town or in areas like Tsilivi or Argassi. For example, Laganas is approximately 8 km (15 minutes) from Zakynthos Town, while Agios Nikolaos (for Blue Caves tours) is around 30 km (45–50 minutes). Having your own car allows you to choose the best port and avoid crowded group transfers.

Boat days are ideal for swimming, photography, and relaxing in turquoise waters. If you want to combine your trip with driving routes, read our article Top 7 scenic drives in Zakynthos, which you can only explore by car. This is one of the most rewarding activities to do in Zakynthos, especially if you enjoy exploring both land and sea.

Another important aspect of this experience is choosing the right type of boat tour. You can opt for organized group tours, private boat rentals, or even self-drive boats (no license required for small boats). Each option offers a different level of flexibility, but all of them are among the most popular activities to do in Zakynthos.

If you want a more exclusive experience, renting a private boat from areas like Keri or Laganas allows you to stop at hidden beaches and swim at your own pace. This is especially useful during peak season when famous spots like Navagio Beach can get crowded. Having your own schedule makes this one of the most rewarding activities to do in Zakynthos.

If you want to find out more about Navagio Beach and exactly how to get there by car, you can read our article: Navagio Beach in Zakynthos by car: Discover hidden viewpoints and parking secrets. And if you’re looking for more information on activities like boat trips, you’ll definitely find our article useful: The Best Car-to-Cave Adventure: Rent a Car to Agios Nikolaos Skinari Port.

Popular boat departure locations:

• Laganas Port (easy access, many daily tours)
• Keri Port (great for Marathonisi and caves)
• Agios Nikolaos Port (best for Blue Caves and northern routes)
• Zakynthos Town Harbor (central and convenient)

If you want to find out more about the locations of other ports, you can find a wider selection here for your family activities.

2. Zante Town at night: Culture, food, and atmosphere

Exploring Zakynthos Town at night is one of the most relaxing and authentic activities to do in Zakynthos. Located on the eastern coast of the island, the town is easily accessible by car from most tourist areas. For example, it takes about 10 minutes from Tsilivi and 15 minutes from Laganas to reach the center.

In the evening, Solomos Square and the seafront promenade come alive with restaurants, cafes, and local shops. You can enjoy traditional Greek dishes, fresh seafood, or simply walk along the harbor with a view of the illuminated boats. Parking is available, but if you want tips, check out our article about Where to park in Zakynthos Town: Insider tips for free & paid zones.

This is one of the most accessible activities to do in Zakynthos, especially if you have a rental car. You can explore at your own pace, stay as long as you want, and even combine your evening with sunset viewpoints nearby. If you enjoy cultural experiences, also read our article on The culture of Zakynthos: Visiting the best cultural 12 attractions.

Beyond the main squares, Zante Town offers hidden streets and local spots that are worth exploring at night. Walking through Bochali, a hilltop area just above the town (5 minutes by car), gives you panoramic views over the harbor and city lights. This makes it one of the most romantic activities to do in Zakynthos. And if you’re looking for more activities to enjoy with your partner, don’t hesitate to read our article: A 1-Day romantic countryside loop for two: Wine tastings & Olive-Grove walks in Zakynthos.

You can also combine your evening with a cultural visit, such as the Byzantine Museum or local art galleries, depending on opening hours. Many visitors choose to enjoy a long dinner followed by a relaxed walk along the marina. This mix of culture and leisure makes it one of the most balanced activities to do in Zakynthos.

Best spots to visit at night in Zante Town:

• Solomos Square (main cultural hub)
• Bochali viewpoint (sunset + night views)
• Zakynthos Marina (relaxed evening walks)
• Local tavernas in the old town streets.

3. Snorkeling at Cameo Island: A unique beach experience

Snorkeling is one of the most popular activities to do in Zakynthos, and Cameo Island is one of the best places to enjoy it. Located near Agios Sostis, about 10 km (20 minutes) from Zakynthos Town, this small private island is connected by a wooden bridge and offers clear, shallow waters perfect for snorkeling.

The area is known for its calm sea and visibility, making it ideal for beginners and families. You can bring your own snorkeling gear or rent equipment nearby. The beach also has sunbeds, a beach bar, and a relaxed atmosphere that makes it perfect for spending a full day.

Having a car makes it much easier to reach Cameo Island, especially during peak season when buses are crowded. This is one of those activities to do in Zakynthos where flexibility really matters. If you want more ideas like this, read 9 Amazing Zakynthos nature finds.

In addition to snorkeling, Cameo Island offers a unique beach setting with crystal-clear waters and soft sandy seabeds. The area is also known for small fish and calm currents, which makes it ideal for beginners. This makes it one of the easiest activities to do in Zakynthos if you are new to water sports.

If you want to explore more snorkeling spots, you can easily drive to nearby beaches in the Laganas area. Having a car allows you to combine multiple locations in one day, which adds even more value to your list of activities to do in Zakynthos.

You handle the vacation planning, and we’ll handle the car rental at Top Rentals. Want to find out more? You can find all the details in our sections for extras, insurance, terms and conditions, and FAQs.

Other great snorkeling spots nearby:

• Agios Sostis Beach (next to Cameo Island)
• Marathonisi (accessible by boat)
• Porto Limnionas (deeper waters, more advanced)
• Porto Roxa (clear water and rocky seabed)

4. Swim with horses in Laganas Bay: A unique experience

Swimming with horses is one of the most unique and unforgettable activities to do in Zakynthos. This experience usually takes place in Laganas Bay, a protected area known for its shallow waters and sandy beaches. Laganas is located just 10 km (around 20 minutes) from Zakynthos Town, making it very easy to reach by car.

Local stables offer guided experiences where you can ride horses along the beach and even enter the water with them. This activity is suitable for beginners, as trained guides are always present. It is a perfect combination of nature, relaxation, and adventure.

This is one of the most special activities to do in Zakynthos, especially for couples or those looking for something different. If you plan to explore more areas around Laganas, having a rental car gives you full flexibility. You can also read 10 Essential reasons to rent a car in Zakynthos for your 2026 holiday to understand the benefits.

This experience usually takes place early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when temperatures are lower, and the light is perfect for photos. It is recommended to book in advance, especially during the summer months. This is one of those activities to do in Zakynthos that combines nature, animals, and relaxation in a unique way.

After your horse swimming experience, you can spend the rest of the day exploring nearby beaches or enjoying a meal in Laganas. The area offers a mix of quiet spots and more lively beach bars, depending on your preferences. This flexibility makes it one of the most versatile activities to do in Zakynthos.

Nearby places to combine with this activity:

• Laganas Beach (long sandy beach)
• Kalamaki Beach (quieter and family-friendly)
• Marathonisi Island (short boat trip away)
• Keri Lake (peaceful alternative area)

5. Scuba diving: Discover the underwater world

Scuba diving is one of the most exciting activities to do in Zakynthos, especially for those who want to explore marine life and underwater caves. Popular diving spots include Keri Caves, Marathonisi (Turtle Island), and the Blue Caves in the north of the island.

Most diving centers are located in areas like Laganas, Tsilivi, and Alykes. For example, Keri is about 20 km (30–35 minutes) from Zakynthos Town, while Alykes is around 17 km (25 minutes). Having a car allows you to choose the best diving center and schedule that fits your itinerary.

Whether you are a beginner or an experienced diver, Zakynthos offers excellent conditions for diving. This is one of the most rewarding activities to do in Zakynthos, especially if you love the sea. If you want to combine diving with scenic routes, read A 1-Day romantic countryside loop for two: Wine tastings & Olive-Grove walks in Zakynthos for inspiration.