A paradise island with snow-white beaches, turquoise water and sunshine all year round sounds like a place where to fly for at least ten hours, with transfers and jet lag. But here's a surprise: the most beautiful island in the world is literally close by! The Greek Zakynthos, which won the TRAVELBOOK vote.
Why Zakynthos?
This island is made for postcards: dazzling white sand, azure sea, green cliffs... Here, even nature seems to have done its best, creating landscapes that will take your breath away.
The main symbol of the island is the bay of Navagio. If there was a ranking of the most photographed places in Greece, it would undoubtedly be at the top! Imagine: a secluded beach surrounded by steep cliffs, clear turquoise water and an old ship washed ashore many years ago. This is one of those places where you want to return, even if you have been there only once.
But Zakynthos is not only about beaches, it offers something special for everyone:
- For the more adventurous, explore the Blue Grottoes Caves and take a boat ride along the scenic coastline,
- Fans of water activities will find excellent conditions for snorkeling, diving and SUP boarding,
- Those who prefer silence should check out the National Marine Park, which is home to the rare Caretta Caretta sea turtles. Just imagine: you are sitting on the shore, and a turtle the size of a small suitcase is slowly gliding in the waves nearby!
Zakynthos is not only about nature
This island is full of comfort, warmth and tastes that you want to remember. Greek taverns offer aromatic dishes made with fresh seafood, local cheese and olive oil, and it's impossible to resist a plate of baked octopus or traditional moussaka.
What about sunsets? They're not just beautiful here – they're magical! Imagine: you are sitting in a small tavern on a rock, a glass of cool white is in front of you, and the sun is slowly dissolving into the sea, painting the sky in pink-orange shades...
An island that is easy to reach
Usually, a "piece of paradise" means long flights, layovers, and adapting to a new time zone. But not in the case of Zakynthos. If you get to Europe, the road to the island will take only a couple of hours, and you can immediately immerse yourself in the atmosphere of Greek relaxed happiness.
Perhaps that is why Zakynthos has surpassed even such exotic places as Bora Bora and Maui in the ranking. After all, sometimes the most beautiful island is the one that can be reached without tiring travel.
Ready to pack your suitcase?
