Partying hard is the the mantra for those heading for Laganas on the sunny Greek island of Zakynthos, also known as Zante, found in the south of the Ionian Islands. This bar-heavy resort is a big hit with the young for its alchohol-fuelled nightlife.
If you are looking for a quiet, traditionally Greek holiday spot this is probably not for you, but if you are looking for lots of fun and a real getaway from boring old life at home, then Laganas could hit the spot. Like the bars, the beaches get busy, but that's what it's here for, plenty of sand, sea and to dance like there is no tomorrow.
Getting there/getting around Laganas
There's plenty of direct flights from the UK to Zakynthos. The airport is about 15 minutes taxi ride from Laganas resort, but beware that the airport gets very busy in peak season and you may have to face lengthy delays at check in.
Apart from tour operator transfers, there aren't any buses to the resort, so one option is to hire a car at the airport if you're travelling independently.
Beaches in Laganas
This Greek island has some great beaches, and the ones at Laganas are no exception. Expect to spend plenty of time paddling. The downside is the beaches are really popular so can get very busy in high season.
Laganas is famous for the loggerhead sea turtles which land on the beaches here to lay their eggs. For this reason, the beaches are closely studied by ecologists. Kalamaki beach is less developed than the main Laganas beach. Both Kalamaki and the main Laganas beach have protected status because of the turtles.
Laganas beach is big and has plenty of bars and cafes nearby, so there is no need to worry about where you are going to get an ice cream or a cold drink. Beach sellers come by as well, and you can even get a massage on the beach.
Sightseeing in Laganas
Set aside a day to get away from the bustle of Laganas and explore the rest of this pretty island along its mountainous small roads. The best way to get around is to hire a car and wind your way around the island visiting the pretty Greek villages, stopping for an ouzo and taking in the countryside.
Stop at Keri, a typical small village with pretty houses, and in Maherado, with its big village church in the centre of the village. Stop off in Zante town, and visit the old Solomos Square and the Byzantine Museum; the prettiest part of the town. The impressive historic monastery at Spiliotissa is worth a look on your travels. Throughout the day treat yourself with stops at local cafes to try the specialities such as crumbly cheese, flat bread and delicious honey.
Family attractions in Laganas
Laganas is not suited to every family. It is more of a resort suited for 18-30 year olds, with all the expected noise and nightlife to cater to this crowd. But if you are prepared to put up with a bustling party resort, kids will enjoy the chance to see the turtles on the beach. The beaches are good, with plenty of nearby amenities on hand.
Just make sure if you have little ones that you choose a hotel that's not on the main drag, otherwise getting an early night might be a challenge.
Day trips in Laganas
Combine a trip to the Luna Fun Park with the Bowl M Over centre in Tsilivi and you should keep everyone entertained. The Luna Park has loads of bouncy castles and a laser shooting arena, while the Bowl M Over centre has loads of state-of-the-art bowling alleys, air hockey and table football. The bowling centre even has an outside bar.
The new water park in Sarakinada is an alternative option.
Eating in Laganas
One of the most famous spots in town for a good bit of nosh is Bonanza with its cowboy theme. It serves everything from morning tea to evening meals. There are tons of restaurants along the beaches serving every kind of international food. You can find Chinese, Italian and good old British cuisine.
The restaurant scene is big and noisy. There's plenty of choice, and you don't have to worry about getting stuck in the same place night after night.
Nightlife in Laganas
When the sun drops, Laganas definitely switches onto full power. The party atmosphere really starts to kick in, and the nightlife kicks off. The main action on the strip ranges from Strings bar to Chevy's bar – expect to have a riot.
Shopping in Laganas
Leather goods are the best buys on Zante. Choose from belts and shoes galore. But for a wider choice of shops, Zante Town is a better option than Laganas.
If you like Laganas, take a look at the following travel guides:
