Essential information for Zante

When to go

Holidays to Zante enjoy an enviable climate year-round, with average daily temperatures rarely dipping below 15°C even in the dead of winter. That being said, you’re far more likely to experience rainfall in winter, while the summer months often enjoy in excess of 12 hours of sunshine a day and temperatures above 30°C, though the northerly wind will give you a welcome breeze.

Perhaps the best time to visit is between March and May. In this window, the weather is pleasant without being stifling, parades are occurring all over the island in honour of the Easter festival, and the countryside is in full bloom with a rich spectrum of colourful flowers. Alternatively, those interested in turtle-spotting would be best advised to pick a cheap Zante holiday between May and early July to stand the greatest chance of glimpsing these beautiful creatures in their natural habitat.

Health and safety

Just as you would with any holiday, taking out comprehensive medical and travel insurance prior to departure is a must. It also makes sense to get hold of a European Health Insurance Card – EHIC – before setting off on your holiday. This is free to obtain and entitles you to the same emergency medical treatment Greek nationals receive. It should be noted that it’s only applicable to emergency treatment, however – ongoing care and medical repatriation are not covered.

If you plan to get involved in any watersports or other adrenaline-fuelled pursuits during your Greece holidays, you should see to it that your insurance covers this. Check out our holiday extras page for more information, and for the latest health and safety information, visit www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/greece/health.

Passports and Visas

British citizens don’t need a visa to enter Greece but must have a valid passport. By law, you must carry your passport with you and may need to show it when paying by credit card. For the most up-to-date passport and visa info, visit www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/greece/entry-requirements

Getting around

All of the major tourist hotspots in Zante are connected by public buses. Although the stops are well signposted and almost impossible to miss, the service itself is somewhat infrequent and unreliable. Taxis are widely available and fairly inexpensive. Alternatively, car rental might be the best option if you plan to explore the island in any depth. Be warned that many roads are in poor condition and even the larger ones can become treacherously slippery after rainfall. Four-wheel drive vehicles are recommended, especially if you plan to tackle some of the more inaccessible spots.

Motorbikes and scooters can be hired from all of the larger towns on the island, though the hilliness of the terrain might discourage you from renting the latter. Bicycles also represent a great way to get around for the more active holidaymaker, but it should be noted that the rugged topography in the north of the island will present a challenge even for experienced cyclists.

One airport serves the island, located near Zakynthos Town, Laganas and Kalamaki. There are no public buses connecting the airport to the towns, though a taxi should cost between €10 and €15, depending on where you are headed.

Electricity

Connector type: In general, round two-pin plugs

Voltage info: 220 volts AC, 50Hz

Emergency services

Call 112 for all emergencies and the operator will put you through to the police, fire brigade or ambulance service. The line is operated in five languages, including English.

British consulate

If you or someone you know is unlucky enough to become a victim of crime or theft while on the island, contact the Consulate immediately.

Address: 28, Foskolou, Zakynthos 291 00, Greece

Email: zakynthos@fco.gov.uk

Telephone: (+30) 2695 022906

Hospital

There is a health centre located in Zakynthos Town for all your medical needs. For minor scrapes or complaints, seek attention in the clinic in your resort.

Zakynthos Medical Centre- Telephone (from within Zante): (+30) 26950 49111, (+30) 26950 49112, (+30) 26950 49113

Useful links

Zante Holiday Insider – Tips, tricks and travel hacks by Zante island experts.

Zante-Laganas – An additional guide to nightlife on Zante, as well as general travel information.