Budget-Conscious Travelers Will Adore This Spectacular Greek Island Getaway

Greece is one of the most fascinating destinations in Europe for history buffs, foodies, and nature enthusiasts. As one of the world's ancient countries, it is home to a few of the oldest continuously inhabited cities. Ancient ruins, mouthwatering cuisine, and a unique cultural identity are just a few reasons that many travelers dream of visiting. The beautiful islands have cemented the nation as a top tourist destination. 

Greece has thousands of islands surrounded by turquoise water and covered in pristine beaches. A few hundred are inhabited, and several have become popular vacation spots. Islands like Santorini and Mykonos are world famous destinations for a romantic vacation, but you may have to shell out the big bucks for accommodations and tours. If you're hoping to visit Greece on a budget then you might want to opt for the island of Zakynthos instead.

Zakynthos is a large island with plenty of things to keep travelers busy. You can relax on gorgeous beaches, enjoy jaw-dropping natural scenery, explore charming villages, and stay in affordable accommodations. It's an excellent option for tourists who want to experience the magic of the Greek islands without breaking the bank.

Zakynthos is located in the Ionian Sea about 15 miles from the west coast of mainland Greece. It is one of the biggest islands in the country, and the third largest of the Ionian Islands. It's also commonly referred to as Zante. The island is not connected to the mainland by any roads, so you'll need to travel via airplane or boat. Getting there takes some effort, but the stunning island is well worth the journey. Both transportation options are great for budget-concious tourists.

Most international tourists will arrive in Athens. From there, you can take a domestic flight directly to Zakynthos. One-way tickets cost $100-$200 and the flight takes about an hour. During the summer months, Zakynthos International Airport has direct flights to a few major cities across Europe including London, Paris, Rome, and Barcelona.

Alternatively, you can take a budget-friendly ferry. The ferries in Greece are a wonderful experience. You can ride on the deck and enjoy gorgeous views of the bright blue sea. Most ferries also offer refreshments for purchase. The ferry departs from the town of Kyllini. If you're flying into Athens you can take a public bus to Kyllini for about $40. The driving time is about three and a half hours. Alternatively, you can rent a car for around $30 per day and drive yourself. Cars are permitted on the ferry, so it's a great option if you'd like to have a vehicle on the island. The ferry from Kyllini takes just over an hour and tickets cost $35-$200. The price depends on when you visit and whether or not you are traveling with a vehicle.

Zakynthos is 25 miles long and 12 miles wide with over 75 miles of stunning coastline to explore. About 40,000 people call the island home. Zakynthos Town, also called Zante Town, is the largest city. The Venetian Castle, Saint Mark Square, and Solomos Square are a few worthwhile sites to explore while you're in Zante Town. The Post-Byzantine Museum is an excellent destination for history lovers and art enthusiasts. Due to the island's size, you may want to rent a car so you can explore at your leisure. Average car rental costs on the island are around $31 per day. Motorbikes are also available for rent. Alternatively, you can take the public bus or hire a taxi to get around. 

Zakynthos is famous for its beautiful beaches. The most well-known is Shipwreck Beach or Navagio. The stretch of soft white sand is hidden away in a cove surrounded by rugged cliffs sparkling turquoise water. It's a breathtaking sight, and a massive wrecked ship adds visual interest. There's an overlook where you can see aerial views of the beach that is easily accessible by car, but to explore the beach up close you'll have to book a boat tour. Luckily, you'll find affordable options starting at around $35 per person. There are many more gorgeous beaches to explore across the island, some of which serve as a nesting ground for endangered caretta caretta (loggerhead) sea turtles.

The island is a popular tourist destination, particularly amongst Europeans, and there are plenty of affordable accommodations perfect for travelers on a budget. You can choose between dozens of 3-star hotels for under $100 per night. Another travel tip when visiting Greece is to visit during the off-season. You can save money by traveling outside of the summer months.