Many airports don’t accept flights at night because of disruption caused to the locals. Zakynthos Airport (also known as Zante Airport) is the same but this time the locals are turtles that nest on the beach under the flight path! Other visitors to the islands over the years have been the Venetians who stayed for six centuries and the French who occupied the island during the Napoleonic Wars.
The influence of the Venetians is considerable, not least in the other name for the island – Zante. Hiring a car to travel around the island you’ll find many examples of how the invaders have left their mark.
Zakynthos Airport Mini Guide
Is Zakynthos the Same Place as Zante?
Yes, they’re the same place; Zante is the commonly used Italian spelling of the island’s name. The island is most famous for being the nesting ground of the endangered loggerhead turtles and tourism there, especially on the south of the island where the turtles nest, has to take second place to the needs of the turtles. As a whole, the island makes a great holiday spot with its plentiful rain making the island green and verdant. The Venetians called it ‘the flower of the Levant’ and today millions flock there each year for the beaches, the scenery and the entertainment that has something for everyone.
How do I get to Zakynthos?
Zakynthos has its own airport in the south of the island that has dozens of seasonal charter flights from European destinations including many by the main tour operators in the UK. Easyjet also fly from Gatwick to Zakynthos giving travellers a low cost option. Out of season there is a scheduled route daily from Athens and one from Larnaca in Cyprus. The airport is about three miles from the main town and has a variety of methods of getting to your accommodation.
What is Zakynthos Airport Like?
The airport is large and modern with a reasonable range of facilities for an island airport. It’s close to the major resorts but be aware that it doesn’t operate night flights in order to protect the turtles that nest nearby.
What can I Expect Upon Arrival?
The airport looks very big from the outside and despite the number of flights arriving each day it never seems crowded inside. You might need to walk from the aircraft stand to the terminal depending on your flight so, if you need assistance in doing so, please advise your airline more than two days before departure. If you need any help or advice whilst at the airport, the information desk is situated centrally in the arrivals hall and can deal with queries relating to transport, lost luggage or general airport matters. Hire cars are available at the airport but as vehicles are limited and passenger numbers high you would be advised to pre-book. The desks are easily spotted at the back of the arrivals hall. If you’re using public transport to reach your accommodation then a local bus passes the airport terminal regularly throughout the day and, failing that, you have the local taxi service. There are no banks at the airport but there is an ATM should you need cash.
What is it Like for Departures?
It’s quick and easy to get checked in at the airport, even when the coaches arrive. After handing over your bags you have the choice of two cafes that call themselves restaurants serving reasonable quality food in clean surroundings. Shopping is limited to a small kiosk landside selling newspapers, magazines and confectionery and drinks. Once through security you have the duty free store which can supply you with spirits, tobacco, gifts, perfumes and cosmetics. You’ll also find another small refreshment concession with hot and cold drinks and light snacks.
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