The Venetian Castle is a must-see in Zakynthos, conveniently located near the island’s capital, Zante Town. Despite many earthquakes that have damaged similar structures on the island, this castle remains a splendid example of Venetian architecture in the Ionians and is well worth a visit.
In this guide, I’ll discuss how to get there, how much time you should spend, and the cost (spoiler: it’s free).
Zakynthos is a small island about 20 kilometers west of the Greek Peloponnese mainland and around 250 kilometers from Athens. It’s one of Greece’s top tourist spots, known for its lively scene, great restaurants, nightlife, and stunning beaches.
To get to Zakynthos, you can take a ferry from Kyllini, which has seven sailings daily, or fly directly from Athens. There are also seasonal direct flights from major European cities like Amsterdam, Rome, and London.
Zakynthos is famous for its nightlife in Laganas and the breathtaking Navagio Beach, also known as Shipwreck Cove.
If you’re staying in Zante Town, don’t miss the chance to visit this 15th-century castle located on a hill in a picturesque pine forest. It offers incredible views of Zakynthos and the Ionian Sea and exemplifies Venetian architecture. The area is serene, offering a break from the bustling port town below.
Although the castle was largely destroyed by the Turks in 1460, it was restored by the Venetians by 1646. As you walk through the main entrance, look for the Winged Lion of Saint Mark above the former gate, a symbol of the Venetian Empire.
The castle was once the island’s capital, but today it shows signs of damage from earthquakes, wars, and pirate raids. When the British took over the Ionian Islands in 1812, they used the castle for military purposes, including housing the British Parliament.
Within the castle walls, you’ll find ruins of many Byzantine churches, such as the Church of the Savior dating back to the 12th century and the 14th-century churches of Saint Francis and Santa Barbara.
Located at the top of Bohali Hill, about 2 kilometers from Zante Town, the best way to get there is by car; it’s only a 5-minute drive. If you’re walking, be prepared for a 20-minute uphill trek with an elevation gain of 125 meters. It’s best to visit in the early morning or late afternoon during the summer to avoid the midday heat.
The castle has free entry and is open until 3:00 pm or 7:00 pm, depending on the season. It’s not a major tourist attraction, so you won’t find it on many tours, making it an ideal spot for a quiet visit.
The castle covers only a few hundred meters, so an hour or two is sufficient to explore. The views from Bohali Hill are stunning, so consider bringing a picnic to enjoy the scenery.
There are some English signs explaining the main parts of the castle, but not much else to help bring the site to life. The main points of interest include:
– The Venetian Entrance: The Winged Lion of Saint Mark, symbolizing Venice’s rule over the Ionian Islands, is carved on the entrance arch.
– The Viewing Platform: This spot offers panoramic views of Zante Town and the Ionian Sea, perfect for photos and relaxing.
– The Prison Cells: Inside the castle, you’ll find remnants of old prison cells and munitions storage areas.
If you want to stay close to the castle, Zante Town is a great option. Here are some top-rated hotels:
– Happy Owl Apartment: Located 1.3 kilometers from Zante Town Beach, this apartment offers air-conditioned double rooms with kitchens, private bathrooms, flat-screen TVs, and a nice terrace. It’s highly rated on Booking.com.
– Pheonix Hotel: Close to the center, this hotel offers double rooms with private bathrooms, starting at around $50 a night, depending on the season. It’s well-reviewed on Booking.com.
– Yria Hotel: Located 70 meters from the beach, this quaint hotel offers air-conditioned rooms with private bathrooms and balconies. Prices start at around $33 a night, depending on the season, and it’s well-reviewed on Booking.com.
While it would be nice if more effort were put into restoring the castle, it’s still worth visiting. You may have to use your imagination a bit, but the views and peaceful surroundings make it one of the best things to do in Zakynthos.