Zante, or known locally as Zakynthos, is the third largest Ionian Island off the shores of mainland Greece. Named after the son of a legendary Arcadian chief, this island is only 410 square meters but has about 123 kilometers of stunning coastline.

This island became popular as a tourist destination after the building of an international airport that opened up access to the island and offers of cheap airfares lured tourists in droves to this tiny island.

Despite its small size and a history of earthquakes and wildfires, Zante has much to offer the modern day vacationer. The beaches in Porto Limnionas, Porto Vromi and Porto Zoro are all popular beaches as is the stretch of beach located near Keri that is located in the far southern portion of the island and this village is also home to a lighthouse.

Zante offers both a variety of campsites as well as world-class resorts and hotels. Tourists can choose to stay in a quiet and rustic fishing village or in one of the ultra-modern beach resorts like the area of Laganas. Laganas is a popular resort area as is the area north west of Zakynothos Town.

Places of interest on the island include Shipwreck Bay that is one of the most famous bays in the world. This tiny bay is accessible only by boat from one of the coastal villages nearby, but must not be missed. If you go early enough you can have the bay all to yourself to experience the azure and crystal clear waters and pirate like setting.

Located on the northern coast of the island is Cape Schinari and east of this are the Blue Caves. These geological formations are accessible only by boat, best taken from the port of St. Nicholas in Volimes. Go early in the day when the light is brightest to see the deep blue color of the caves and natural arches. The largest cave is the Kianoun cave and is not to be missed.

Scuba diving is particularly good around the island of Zante. Offering a plethora of cave dive sites and marine life including octopus, monk seals, moray eels and more, the underwater experiences of this island are particularly fascinating.

Of historical interest there are several museums on the island including the Byzantine Museum that was built after the earthquake of 1953, as well as the Dionisios Solomos Museum. In addition there are several monasteries on the island as well as the Venetian Fortress of Zakynothos that was completed in 1640.

Regardless of your search for rest and relaxation or time spend exploring this island, an economical trip to Zante provides an excellent vacation destination for people of all ages. Young adults or those seeking a wide variety of nightlife options may choose one of the larger islands to visit but for everybody else this island is its own form of paradise.