Banks: 08.30 to 14.00, Monday to Thursday; 08.30 to 13.30, Friday
Post Offices: 07.30 to 14.00, Monday to Friday
Government Offices: 09.00 to 17.00, Monday to Friday
Business Centres: 09.00 to 17.00, Monday to Friday
Shops: 09.00 to 18.00, Monday to Saturday; many open on Sunday

Zakynthos is a safe place for holiday makers, with little in the way of serious crime or violence other than that presented by other visitors. Petty crime exists to a small extent but staying alert in crowded places and making sure your valuables are secure about your person can reduce your chances of becoming a victim.

Some of the roads around the island can be hazardous so if you rent a car or a motorbike, be sure to take extra care and make allowances for the erratic driving habits of the locals. Those who drive motorbikes should ensure they wear a helmet at all times.

220V, 50Hz. Plugs have two round pins.

Zakynthos’ medical facilities offer a high standard of care and treatment, meaning that in the unlikely event that visitors take ill or sustain injuries, they are sure to be well taken care of. EU visitors carrying valid European Health Insurance Cards will benefit from free emergency treatment. For other visitors, travel insurance with medical cover is essential. Tap water is not considered drinkable so opt for bottled water, which is readily available.

Zakynthos Hospital: +30 26950 49111
Emergency services: 100 (police), 199 (fire), 166 (ambulance)

Locals on Zakynthos speak Greek as their official language. English speakers are common among younger generations and those working in aspects of the tourist industry.

In line with the rest of Greece, Zakynthos uses the euro (EUR), with €1 equal to 100 cents.

EU visitors arriving on the island from countries within the EU are not obliged to pay duty on cigarettes, alcoholic beverages, souvenirs or other goods provided they are not in excessive volumes and are intended for personal use only.

For other visitors, the duty-free allowance is: 400 cigarettes or 100 cigars or 200 cigarillos or 500g of tobacco; a litre of alcoholic drink over 22 per cent or two litres of alcohol drink of 22 per cent or less and two litres of wine and two litres of still table wine.

As Zakynthos is a holiday island, things are more relaxed here than on mainland Greece. All the same, it’s important that visitors respect the customs and traditions of the locals. Dressing appropriately is an important consideration, with beachwear not considered suitable for restaurants or formal settings. Modest dress is necessary when entering churches on the island.

When meeting locals for the first time, a handshake is customary while more familiar parties may exchange kisses and hugs. Using honorary titles is wise until you are told otherwise. For dinner appointments at the homes of locals, it’s polite to bring a gift for the host. Once in the dining room, table manners follow continental rules of etiquette. The Greeks are not known for their punctuality and tardiness of around 30 minutes is considered acceptable for social engagements.

Nationals of the US, Canada, Australia and EU countries party to the Schengen agreement do not need a visa to enter Greece; a valid passport is sufficient. Most other visitors require a visa, which must be obtained prior to arrival from a Greek embassy in the individual’s home country.

The Zakynthos Tourist Office is located in the town hall building on Solomos Square. 
Phone: +30 26950 22315