Discovering the Venetian Castle in Zakynthos, Greece: A Memorable Journey

Introduction to the Venetian Castle in Zakynthos

The Venetian Castle is a standout attraction in Zakynthos, located near the island's capital, Zante Town. Despite enduring numerous earthquakes that damaged many other structures, the castle remains a testament to Venetian architecture in the Ionian region, making it a fascinating destination for visitors.

During our 10-day trip to Zakynthos, we found it hard to leave the stunning white sand beaches, but we were delighted with our decision to visit the Venetian Castle. This article will provide detailed information about this site, how to get there, the best times to visit, and associated costs (the good news is, entry is free!).

Zakynthos: A Tourist Paradise

Zakynthos is a small island located about 20 km off the western coast of Peloponnese, Greece, and nearly 250 km west of Athens. It is renowned for its breathtaking natural scenery, diverse culinary options, vibrant nightlife, and beautiful Ionian beaches. Travelers can reach Zakynthos by ferry from Kyllini (with 7 trips per day) or by direct flights from Athens. There are also direct flights from major European cities such as Amsterdam, Rome, and London, from where we began our journey.

Zakynthos is often associated with the nightlife in Laganas and Navagio Beach (also known as Shipwreck Bay), one of the most stunning beaches in Greece.

Useful Information for Vietnamese Travelers

To enter the Venetian Castle, you do not need a visa if you stay for less than 90 days. Vietnamese travelers can fly from Tan Son Nhat Airport (SGN) or Noi Bai Airport (HAN) to Athens, and then take a domestic flight or ferry. Flight costs from Vietnam to Athens typically range from 14 million VND to 20 million VND, depending on the time and airline. Once in Zakynthos, you can easily find affordable accommodations in Zante Town.

Opening Hours and Entry Fees for the Venetian Castle

The castle is open from 08:30 to 15:30 (November to June) and from 08:00 to 19:00 (July to October), except on Sundays and Mondays. Notably, entry to the Venetian Castle is completely free, allowing you to explore without purchasing a ticket.

How to Get to the Venetian Castle

The Venetian Castle is located atop Bohali Hill, approximately 2 km from Zante Town. The easiest way to reach it is by car; if you've rented a vehicle, it's just a 5-minute drive. If you don't have a car, you can walk from the town, which takes about 20 minutes, but be prepared for a climb of 125 meters, so bring some water.

The best times to visit are early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the summer heat.

Exploring the Venetian Castle

The Venetian Castle isn't very large, so one or two hours is sufficient for a visit. While you can find some carvings and remnants of a few ancient churches, much of the main structure has suffered significant damage. Feel free to bring snacks to enjoy the view from the beautiful observation area at the top of the hill.

Main Attractions at the Venetian Castle

While exploring the castle, be sure to check out these key sites:

• The Venetian Castle Gate: Adorned with the winged lion of St. Mark, a symbol of Venice.
• Observation Area: Offers panoramic views of Zante Town and the Ionian Sea, perfect for stunning photos.
• The Prison: Remnants of old cells that were once used to hold prisoners.

Accommodation Near the Venetian Castle

If you wish to stay close to the castle, Zante Town is your best bet. Here are some recommended hotels:

• Pheonix Hotel: A large hotel with double rooms starting at around $50 per night.
• Yria Hotel: A cozy, smaller hotel just 70 meters from the beach, with rates starting from $33 per night.

Conclusion

While there is still much to be done to preserve the Venetian Castle, it is certainly worth a visit. Prepare your mindset and keep in mind some useful information for a fulfilling journey.

Reference and edited from: Goats On The Road