No need to stress, your perfect vacation destination is just around the corner. Corfu and Zakynthos, two jewels of the Ionian Sea, are waiting to amaze you with their unique charm and ambiance. Ready to discover which one matches your travel aspirations better? Let’s dive in!
History & Culture
As you start to look beyond the sun, sea, and sand of these Greek islands, you’ll encounter a rich tapestry of history and culture in both Corfu and Zakynthos. But each tells a different story, making them as unique as they are intriguing.
Corfu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has been influenced by various civilizations across centuries, from the Venetians to the French, and the British. These cultural influences are evident in the island’s unique architectural blend.
As you stroll around Corfu Town, you’ll spot Venetian fortresses, British neoclassical houses, and French-style arcades, each contributing to the island’s rich cultural palette.
On the other hand, Zakynthos, known as Zante to the Italians, also tells a fascinating story of cultural blending. The island was under Venetian rule for many years, which greatly influenced its architecture and culture. Here, you’ll find Italian-style villas, charming churches, and age-old monasteries that give a snapshot of the island’s vibrant past.
Both islands have a bustling arts scene but in different ways. Corfu is famous for its philharmonic orchestras, a tradition inherited from the British era. And Zakynthos? It’s the birthplace of the ‘kantada’, a form of local serenade, demonstrating the island’s love for music and poetry.
Despite the differences, both Corfu and Zakynthos share a profound sense of pride in their heritage. They continue to celebrate their history and traditions through various local festivals and events, making every visit a unique cultural experience.
To sum up, if you’re looking for a destination steeped in a mix of European cultures, Corfu’s diverse historical influences might appeal to you. However, if you’re more drawn to a romantic blend of Italian charm and traditional Greek culture, Zakynthos might be your perfect match. Either way, both islands promise a fascinating journey through the annals of Greek history and culture. So, are you ready to embark on your historical adventure?
Attractions & Activities
Looking beyond the beaches, Corfu and Zakynthos are brimming with attractions and activities that will make your vacation a truly unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, nature lover, or just seeking some adventure, each island has something unique to offer.
In Corfu, the Old Fortress is a must-see. This grand fortification, perched on a promontory, provides panoramic views of the Ionian Sea and the island. The fortress itself is a history lesson, bearing the marks of Byzantine, Venetian, and British rule.
Another attraction, the Achillion Palace, is a neoclassical wonder built for Empress Elizabeth of Austria. Adorned with beautiful frescoes and surrounded by lovely gardens, it’s a living testament to Corfu’s rich past.
Zakynthos, on the other hand, is a paradise for nature lovers. The famous Blue Caves are a natural spectacle, offering a unique exploration experience. As you navigate through these marine caves, you’ll witness the mesmerizing play of light on the turquoise waters.
Another attraction you can’t miss is Marathonisi Island, also known as “Turtle Island”. It’s a key nesting ground for the endangered loggerhead turtles, offering a great opportunity for wildlife observation.
For adventure seekers, both islands offer an array of activities. In Corfu, you can hike up to Mount Pantokrator, the island’s highest peak at 2,972 feet (906 meters). The panoramic views from the top are simply breathtaking.
In contrast, Zakynthos invites you to dive into its rich underwater world. The island is famous for its diving spots, where you can explore coral reefs, colorful fish, and even old shipwrecks.
In conclusion, Corfu’s attractions are steeped in history and grandeur, while Zakynthos offers a unique communion with nature. Both islands promise adventures that will fill your vacation with unforgettable memories. So, which island’s attractions and activities resonate more with your travel aspirations?
Beaches
When it comes to beaches, Corfu and Zakynthos both serve up a slice of paradise, each offering a distinct vibe. If you’re looking for a beach destination that perfectly fits your taste, these Greek islands will not disappoint.
Corfu is known for its diverse range of beaches. The famous Paleokastritsa, a collection of six secluded bays, offers a serene escape. The waters here are crystal-clear, providing excellent visibility, sometimes up to 30 feet (9.1 meters).
Glyfada Beach, on the other hand, is a long stretch of golden sand, nestled between verdant hills. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a tranquil beach experience.
Meanwhile, Zakynthos is home to some of the most photographed beaches in Greece. The iconic Navagio Beach, also known as Shipwreck Beach, is a secluded cove with striking turquoise waters. It’s accessible only by boat, adding to its allure. On the southeastern coast, you’ll find Gerakas Beach, a serene spot known for its fine white sand and shallow waters, ideal for a peaceful dip.
While the islands’ beaches all have the sun, sand, and sea in common, they offer different experiences. Corfu’s beaches blend tranquility with scenic beauty, whereas Zakynthos’ beaches are all about unique allure and nature’s spectacle.
In conclusion, whether you’re drawn to the diverse beach landscapes of Corfu or the iconic seaside wonders of Zakynthos, you’re guaranteed an extraordinary beach vacation. So, are you ready to dive into the turquoise waters of your chosen Greek island paradise?
Eating, Drinking & Nightlife
Part of the fun of visiting a new place is discovering its local culinary scene, trying out local drinks, and exploring the nightlife. When it comes to eating, drinking, and after-dark entertainment, Corfu and Zakynthos have their unique offerings.
Starting with the culinary scene, Corfu’s gastronomy is a delightful blend of Greek and Italian influences, with a dash of French and British. You’ll find plenty of tavernas serving up traditional dishes like pastitsada, a spiced meat stew, and sofrito, a garlicky beef dish.
In contrast, Zakynthos offers a more traditional Greek culinary experience. The island is known for its fresh seafood and local cheese, like ladotyri, a spicy, oil-soaked cheese that’s a must-try.
When it comes to drinks, Corfu has a unique offering – Kumquat liqueur, made from a small citrus fruit that grows on the island. It’s a sweet, tangy drink that’s often served as a digestive after meals. On Zakynthos, the local drink of choice is Ouzo, an anise-flavored aperitif that’s synonymous with Greek hospitality.
As for nightlife, Corfu offers a lively scene, particularly in Corfu Town, where you can find a range of bars and clubs playing everything from traditional Greek music to the latest international hits. Zakynthos also boasts a vibrant nightlife, particularly in the towns of Laganas and Tsilivi, known for their beachfront clubs and late-night parties.
In conclusion, both Corfu and Zakynthos offer a feast of flavors, intriguing local drinks, and energetic nightlife. Your choice might depend on whether you’re drawn to Corfu’s cosmopolitan gastronomy and diverse nightlife, or Zakynthos’s traditional Greek cuisine and beachfront parties. Which island’s vibe calls to you?
Shopping
Whether you’re hunting for unique souvenirs, local handicrafts, or high-end fashion, shopping can be a memorable part of your trip. Both Corfu and Zakynthos have a variety of shopping opportunities, each offering a different experience.
In Corfu Town, you’ll find a blend of local and international brands in the modern shopping district. But if you’re looking for something unique, the Old Town is a treasure trove. Here, you’ll discover charming boutiques selling local olive oil, handcrafted jewelry, and traditional Corfiot ceramics. Also, don’t miss the chance to buy kumquat products, a specialty of Corfu.
Zakynthos, in contrast, offers a more traditional shopping experience. In Zakynthos Town, you’ll find shops selling local products like olive oil, honey, and local wine. The island is also known for its handmade lace and embroidered items, which make for wonderful souvenirs or gifts.
To summarize, Corfu’s shopping scene offers a mix of modern and traditional shopping experiences, with a special focus on local handicrafts and kumquat products. Zakynthos, on the other hand, is great for traditional Greek products and beautiful handmade textiles. Which island’s shopping scene tickles your fancy?
Accommodation
Choosing the right place to stay can make all the difference in your vacation. Both Corfu and Zakynthos offer a range of accommodations to suit different tastes and budgets, from luxury resorts to charming guesthouses.
In Corfu, luxury seekers will find their paradise in resorts like the Grecotel Corfu Imperial, which offers private beaches and stunning views of the Ionian Sea. For those who prefer a more authentic experience, Corfu’s Old Town offers charming boutique hotels set in beautifully restored Venetian houses.
Zakynthos, on the other hand, offers a range of all-inclusive resorts, particularly around the areas of Laganas and Tsilivi. These resorts offer a worry-free vacation with meals, drinks, and often entertainment included. For a quieter stay, the northern part of the island offers quaint guesthouses and villas with stunning views and easy access to less crowded beaches.
In conclusion, whether you’re looking for all-inclusive convenience in Zakynthos, luxury in Corfu, or a cozy guesthouse experience, both islands offer a variety of accommodations to ensure a comfortable stay. The choice depends on what kind of stay suits your vacation style best.
Family-Friendliness & Children’s Activities
When traveling with kids, ensuring a destination is family-friendly and offers plenty of activities for the little ones is essential. Luckily, both Corfu and Zakynthos are great choices for families.
Corfu offers a range of kid-friendly attractions, including the Aqualand Water Park, one of the largest water parks in Europe. It’s packed with slides and pools suitable for all ages. Additionally, Corfu’s donkey rescue center provides a unique opportunity for kids to interact with animals and learn about animal care.
In contrast, Zakynthos offers the chance for unique nature encounters. The Marine Park on the south coast of the island is a fantastic place for kids to learn about the endangered loggerhead turtles that nest there. Also, the Blue Caves offer an adventurous boat ride that kids will definitely love.
In terms of accommodation, both islands offer family-friendly resorts with dedicated kids’ pools, clubs, and activities that can keep the young ones entertained while parents enjoy some downtime.
In conclusion, both Corfu and Zakynthos have much to offer for a family vacation, be it water fun, animal encounters, or kid-friendly accommodations. Whether your family prefers thrilling water parks or natural adventures, both islands are great choices.
Getting There & Getting Around
Getting to and around your chosen vacation destination can significantly influence your travel experience. Both Corfu and Zakynthos are well-connected and relatively easy to navigate.
To reach Corfu, you have multiple options. The Corfu International Airport connects to many European cities during the summer months. Additionally, ferries from the Greek mainland and Italy arrive regularly at Corfu Town’s port. The journey by ferry from Igoumenitsa on the Greek mainland to Corfu is approximately 1.5 hours (1.9 miles or 3.1 kilometers).
Zakynthos is also easily accessible. Zakynthos International Airport has flights from various European cities in the summer. If you prefer sea travel, ferries from Kyllini on the Greek mainland take about 1 hour to reach Zakynthos (12.4 miles or 20 kilometers).
In terms of getting around, Corfu has a reliable network of local buses that connect Corfu Town with the island’s main resorts and beaches. Car rentals are also widely available. Zakynthos is smaller, so hiring a car or scooter can be a convenient way to explore the island. Regular boat services also connect various points along the coast.
In conclusion, getting to and around both Corfu and Zakynthos is relatively straightforward, with good air and sea connections and easy-to-navigate public transport. Your decision may come down to whether you prefer the larger network of buses in Corfu or the simplicity of exploring a smaller island like Zakynthos.
Weather
The weather can play a crucial role in how much you enjoy your vacation. Both Corfu and Zakynthos have a typical Mediterranean climate, which means warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters.
In Corfu, summer temperatures from June to August average around 81°F (27°C), perfect for beach days and outdoor exploration. The winter months from December to February are cooler, with average temperatures around 59°F (15°C). Rain is more common in winter, so pack accordingly if you’re visiting during these months.
Zakynthos also enjoys warm summers, with temperatures in July and August averaging about 86°F (30°C). Winters on Zakynthos are slightly milder than Corfu, with temperatures averaging around 55°F (13°C) from December to February. The island also gets a bit more rain in the winter months.
In summary, both Corfu and Zakynthos offer warm, sunny summers and mild winters. The slight differences in temperature and rainfall might influence your choice depending on your preferred activities and the time of your visit.
Safety
Safety is a paramount consideration when planning your vacation. Both Corfu and Zakynthos are generally considered safe destinations for tourists.
In Corfu, crime rates are relatively low, and visitors typically feel safe exploring the island. However, like in any tourist destination, it’s important to remain alert and safeguard your belongings, especially in crowded areas.
Similarly, Zakynthos also boasts a low crime rate, with most visitors enjoying their stay without any issues. That said, the island is known for its lively nightlife in areas like Laganas, which can get crowded and noisy. If you’re looking for a quieter, more peaceful vacation, consider staying in other parts of the island.
In terms of non-crime safety, both islands are located in a region prone to earthquakes. However, modern infrastructure and regulations ensure that buildings are built to withstand such events. Plus, emergency protocols are in place to keep residents and visitors safe.
In conclusion, both Corfu and Zakynthos are relatively safe destinations, but like anywhere, it’s important to take standard safety precautions. Your choice may depend on your preference for a bustling or quieter atmosphere.
Cost
Your vacation budget is a key factor in deciding where to go. Here, we’ll look at the cost differences between Corfu and Zakynthos, including lodging, food, and transportation.
In Corfu, mid-range accommodations typically range from €60-100 per night (approximately $70-115), while a meal at a reasonably priced restaurant may cost around €15 ($17). Public transportation, such as a local bus ticket, is about €1.70 ($2).
Zakynthos, on the other hand, is slightly cheaper. Accommodations in a mid-range hotel may cost around €50-80 per night (approximately $57-92). A meal in an average restaurant might cost around €12 ($14), and a local bus ticket is about €1.60 ($1.8).
In summary, while both Corfu and Zakynthos offer a range of price points to suit various budgets, Zakynthos generally tends to be slightly cheaper. Therefore, your choice might depend on your budget and what kind of accommodations and experiences you wish to spend on.
Which Is Better – Corfu or Zakynthos?
Deciding between Corfu and Zakynthos for your vacation can be a challenging task as both islands offer unique experiences. Here’s a recap of what each island offers based on the previous sections to help guide your decision.
For history and culture enthusiasts, Corfu stands out with its rich historical past and fascinating blend of European influences. The UNESCO World Heritage site of Corfu Old Town is a testament to the island’s storied past. On the other hand, Zakynthos also has intriguing historical sites, with a special focus on local traditions and folklore.
When it comes to attractions and activities, both islands excel. Corfu, with its larger size, offers a greater variety of natural sights and historical landmarks. Zakynthos, while smaller, is famous for its breathtaking beauty, such as the iconic Navagio Beach, and also offers unique opportunities like turtle spotting.
Beach lovers will find both islands delightful. Corfu’s pebbly beaches, framed by rocky cliffs and lush vegetation, have a distinct charm. Meanwhile, Zakynthos is renowned for its stunning sandy beaches and clear turquoise waters, making it a paradise for sunbathers and swimmers.
In the realm of eating, drinking, and nightlife, both islands offer lively culinary scenes and vibrant nightlife. However, Zakynthos tends to be livelier, especially for younger crowds, while Corfu offers more diverse options for different tastes.
For shopping, Corfu’s larger size gives it a wider range of shopping options, from local markets to luxury boutiques. In contrast, Zakynthos offers a more local and traditional shopping experience, ideal for those looking for authentic Greek products.
In terms of accommodation, both islands offer a wide range of options to suit different budgets. Corfu, being larger and more popular, has more upscale options, while Zakynthos is ideal for those seeking more budget-friendly choices.
Family-friendliness and children’s activities are strong points for both islands. Corfu’s larger size and variety of attractions can be a bonus for families, while Zakynthos’s smaller size makes it easier to explore with children.
Getting to either island is straightforward, with good air and sea connections. For getting around, Corfu’s extensive bus network can be an advantage, while Zakynthos’s smaller size makes it easy to explore.
Weather-wise, both islands have a Mediterranean climate with warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters, although Zakynthos can be slightly warmer.
Both islands are safe for tourists, with low crime rates. Non-crime safety is also good, thanks to modern infrastructure and emergency protocols.
Lastly, in terms of cost, Zakynthos generally tends to be slightly cheaper, although both islands offer a range of options to suit various budgets.
In conclusion, your decision might come down to your personal preferences. If you’re interested in history, diverse activities, and shopping, or you’re traveling with family, Corfu may be the better choice for you. If you’re after stunning beaches, lively nightlife, and a smaller, easier-to-explore island, or you’re traveling on a tighter budget, Zakynthos could be your ideal destination. Ultimately, both Corfu and Zakynthos are fantastic Greek islands that promise a memorable vacation.
