When we talk about a paradise island, our thoughts tend to go to distant destinations like the Maldives or French Polynesia, with their crystal clear waters and dreamlike landscapes. However, a European island surprised everyone and everything by winning the title of the most beautiful in the world. The distinction was made by readers of the German magazine Travelbook, through a vote on social media that had more than 13 thousand participants.
With 1,569 votes, the Greek island of Zakynthos came in first place, surpassing the iconic Bora Bora, in French Polynesia, by just 16 votes. Located less than a two-hour flight from Athens, Zakynthos, also known as Zante or Zakynthos, stands out for its surrounding nature, the countless activities available and the hospitality of the Greek people.
For centuries under Venetian rule, it received the name “Flower of the Levant”, due to its natural beauty, recalls the travel blog VagaMundos. The paradisiacal island is also a natural sanctuary for the Caretta-caretta turtle, a species in danger of extinction that finds one of its favorite nesting spots here.
To protect it, the Zakynthos National Marine Park was created, which also preserves the rich local marine biodiversity.
Villages and traditions
Zakynthos maintains traditional villages surrounded by green fields and typical architecture, where the rhythm of life follows ancient customs. Churches, monasteries and bell towers complete the bucolic landscape. The historic center of the main city was severely damaged by the 1953 earthquake, but was rebuilt maintaining its original charm.
Solomos Square and the Church of Saint Dionysus are mandatory stops, but it is on the beaches that the island really makes a difference, according to the same source. The western coast hides authentic natural treasures, such as the famous Navagio beach, famous for the ship that ran aground in 1980. The bay, isolated between cliffs, has become a symbol of Zakynthos.
Other beaches not to be missed
The beaches include Porto Limnionas, with translucent waters and dramatic cliffs, Makris Gialos, suitable for diving, and Gerakas, essential for the reproduction of Caretta-caretta turtles. Laganas, busier, is within the protected area of the marine park.
The Blue Caves, accessible only by boat, are another highlight. Sunlight creates bluish reflections on the water, especially at dawn and dusk. Nearby, Askos Park offers an immersive experience with the local fauna (home to falcons, deer, peacocks and even raccoons) and includes trails and archaeological areas.
Authentic Mediterranean cuisine
Zakynthos cuisine reflects the genuine flavors of the Mediterranean. Dishes such as sofrito and ladotyri, a cheese cured in olive oil, are typical, and Verdea wine is much appreciated. The island is also suitable for outdoor activities such as boating, diving, hiking and turtle watching.
Nightlife and exuberant nature
The nightlife pleases everyone: relaxed bars, family taverns and lively cafes guarantee an atmosphere for all tastes. Zakynthos also stands out for its lush vegetation: more than 7,000 floral species, and the presence of the Mediterranean monk seal (Monachus monachus), also protected. Conservation areas are strictly monitored.
Italian influence
The Venetian influence remains visible in music, cuisine and lifestyle. Zakynthos combines tradition and modernity: it is both the main city and the most important port, with museums, shops and cafes that coexist with local daily life.
The Post-Byzantine Museum houses icons and works of art that testify to the island’s history, according to the same source.
Solomos Square, flanked by historic buildings and dominated by the statue of the poet Dionísio Solomos, is one of the most visited places. In the surrounding area, there is the public library and several restored churches, which reinforce the island’s cultural heritage.
Access and flights
There are no direct flights from Portugal to Zakynthos, but it is possible to travel with one or two stops, through companies such as Aegean Airlines, Ryanair, easyJet or TAP.
Prices are around 160 euros, and the average trip duration is around eight hours and 45 minutes, depending on the connections, according to .
The new European paradise
With beaches considered magnificent by all who visit, preserved nature, excellent gastronomy and rich cultural heritage, this paradisiacal island asserts itself as one of the most enchanting in the world.
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