Zante weather

Known as Zakynthos in Greek and Zante to the majority of tourists, we have a beautiful destination in the Ionian Sea that is extremely popular.

From its variety of beaches to the panoramic views and hilltop villages, as well as Venetian culture and vibrant nightlife, there is so much to experience when you book a trip to this mesmerizing part of the Greek islands. Here, we'll refer to the island as Zante because most of us are accustomed to the name.

Weather during January

There are mild temperatures in Zante in January, especially compared to the UK. Thankfully you won’t need your hat, scarf, and gloves but you’ll want to pack a coat and jumper for when it does get chilly.

Rain could be present for 12 days of the month so be prepared for your plans to change, though overall the weather isn’t too unpredictable and wind is minimal.

Highs of 14°c will coax you outside and possibly onto the beach. There are plenty to choose from that are worthy of a stroll, however the sea will be too cold for a swim at 15°. Argassi or Plaka are both sandy beaches and beautiful any time of the year.

Agios Dionysios Church is a great place to visit if the climate drops – located on the waterfront in Zante Town it is a marvellous building with some equally stunning interior.

See our full analysis of the Zante weather during January

Weather during February

The climate in February is much like January, with one less day of rain and a gentle breeze. You’ll get 5 hours of sunshine per day and as the weather remains steady throughout the month it will be ideal for those seeking a quiet getaway.

Accommodation will be cheaper this time of year and if you like to swim, then book somewhere with a heated pool as the sea will still be 15°c in February.

Visiting a winery to taste some of the island’s finest wines should be on your to do list – imagine sipping a refreshing glass while enjoying some gorgeous views of Zante!

You also have the option of hiring a car to explore all the corners of the island, and you’ll come across some places that may be missed otherwise. This is a great way to see as many beaches as possible too, along with some memorable sunsets.

Other indoor activities such as visiting museums or relaxing at a spa would be ideal on a cloudy February day.

See our full analysis of the Zante weather during February

Weather during March

With little change from January and February, March is still considered a cool month. Highs climb a couple of degrees now (to 16°c) and sunshine hours rise to 6 per day.

You will be able to enjoy the outdoors comfortably and if you pack wisely, this month will be a pleasant time to visit.

There won’t be much wind, and rain is forecast over 10 days. If you do experience some wet weather, you’ll be pleased to know there are plenty of cafés and restaurants where you can take shelter while enjoying some Greek cuisine.

When the sun is out, why not head to Kalmaki Beach – this is a good stretch of coarse sand with crystal clear waters. There are eateries dotted around and now should be the time when more facilities begin to reopen.

See our full analysis of the Zante weather during March

Weather during April

April brings the springtime and from now the climate should noticeably improve. Highs of 19°c and 8 hours of sunshine will no doubt tempt you outdoors for a lot longer. 

While there is the possibility of rain over 9 days of the month, it shouldn’t worry you too much and they will only be light showers. Wind speed decreases in April too meaning the island will begin to feel warmer.

Hiring a bike is possible this month and will give you the opportunity to see so much of the island. For those who want a more relaxed pace though, why not hire a private boat or book a tour of the island by boat.

Heading for the beach is a great way to bask in the April sunshine. For a secluded and calm retreat, visit Amboula Beach – a small sandy location where you can either relax or partake in a few water sports.

There are steps leading down to the shore and greenery surrounding the area which complement the clear blue waters. The sea temperature has risen to 16° so you’ll be happy to let the waves lap over your feet for now.

See our full analysis of the Zante weather during April

Weather during May

We see high temperatures climb to 23°c in May and with averages of 19° it’ll mean Zante sees more people travelling here.

10 hours of sunshine guarantees a beach day and thanks to only 6 days of rain over the entire month, the weather should be dry and sunny.

Banana Beach is one for your wish list. It has soft golden sand and turquoise waters, as well as sun loungers to hire, water sports, and beach games. On the northeast coast, it is an extremely popular beach, yet visiting in May it will not be too crowded. For those wanting the beach on the doorstep, there is accommodation nearby and with restaurants and amenities at hand you’ll have everything you need for a great holiday. The sea temperature is now 18° and might be comfortable enough for some to take a swim.

Staying outdoors, we’d suggest investing a day in a trip to Ampelostates Farm. Located in the mountains, you’ll have opportunities for horse riding, visiting the vineyards and cheesemaking. In the later autumn months, they also offer olive picking and harvesting grapes.

See our full analysis of the Zante weather during May

Weather during June

June is the ideal month to visit Zante if you like the sun, but don’t want it to be too hot. Daytime temperatures sit at around 24°c and while the highs can reach 28°, the evenings will be more comfortable at 22°.

Now the lovely weather is here, it’s only fair that we give you one of the most beautiful beaches. Navagio Beach (also known as Shipwreck Beach) is a world-famous destination located in the northwest. Boats stop regularly here because that is the only way to reach the beauty spot – but don’t let that fool you – as you can imagine, it is extremely popular.

If you want to spend a few hours here you’ll have to come prepared – there are no facilities or sun loungers, but you will get photo opportunities of breathtaking sights and scenery, as well as observing the shipwreck on the shore and exploring the Blue Caves if you book a boat trip.

You may prefer to relax on the sands while your little ones play in the shallow waters, so head to Koukla Beach, offering a narrow stretch of sand with lovely views and a relaxed atmosphere.

For those of you that enjoy a little adventure, you’ll find waterparks, go karting, and crazy golf venues open now.

The sea is warming up, and you can expect to enjoy swimming in the water as well as participating in water sports.

See our full analysis of the Zante weather during June

Weather during July

Through July and August, Zante will be in the peak summer season. The island will be buzzing with tourists from early morning, right through to late at night.

Younger visitors will come for the vibrant nightlife and with temperatures during the evening sitting at 24°c, the crowds will spill out of the bars onto the streets, and there will also be beach parties well into the night.

Leading into the day, you’ll notice the partygoers descend on the beaches to laze around. If you prefer it a little quieter, we’d recommend Porto Vromi– a small, secluded pebbly beach that would be best suited to those travelling without children.

Those who don’t mind the crowds would do well at Tsilivi Beach – Blue Flag awarded for its soft sand and clear waters. Facilities and amenities are plentiful and with accommodation nearby, it has everything in one place for a fun-filled getaway.

High winds and rainfall are pretty much unheard of and the sun shines for 13 hours per day with high temperatures reaching a scorching 31° so it’s clear to see why July is one of the busiest months.

See our full analysis of the Zante weather during July

Weather during August

The climate in August is on par with that of July. Daytime temperatures range between 27 and 28°c and highs of 31° remain. 12 hours of sunshine means you can work on your tan throughout the day – remembering to use sun protection and keep hydrated.

On the east coast you will find Argassi Beach, a mainly sandy destination with blue waters. Impressive views and the remains of Argassi Bridge make for some great photo opportunities. There are sun loungers and umbrellas for hire, and plenty of taverns and restaurants to refuel during your time there.

The sun might get a bit too much during the afternoon and if that’s the case it might be worth finding things to do indoors. Places to seek some much-needed shade include the Naval Museum in Tsilivi, History War Museum in Laganas, or the Exhibition Centre of National Marine Park in Dafni.

The sea at 26° will be refreshing as you splash around, and water sports such as scuba diving, pedalo hire, snorkelling, and jet skiing will be widely available.

See our full analysis of the Zante weather during August

Weather during September

You can expect the tourists to vacate from the second week of September as families and University students head back home. Those who have the freedom to travel any time of the year will enjoy Zante while the climate is still good and the crowds disperse.

Highs in the late 20’s and 10 hours of sun per day give you scope to spend the day at the beach or exploring the island.

Porto Kaminia Beach is located in the south and has a small sandy shore offering sun loungers and umbrellas. Unwinding here is easy to do as there are no water sports or loud parties.

Staying active and enjoying nature is possible with a trip to Askos Stone Park situated in the northeast. This is a popular place to visit, although we still like to think of it as a hidden gem – on an island that is widely known for its beaches, clear waters, and vibrant nightlife, you’ll find a beauty within this park that gives a different perspective of Zante. Plants, birds, animals, and amphibians live within the stone structures, making this a history and nature lover’s dream.

See our full analysis of the Zante weather during September

Weather during October

Changes to the climate will begin in October in line with the change in the seasons. Lows of 16°c are possible now and you may see rain over 7 days of the month. Don’t be discouraged though, because highs of 23° and averages in the early 20’s mean October is still a great month to visit Zante.

7 hours of sun per day will allow you to make the most of your time here and going to the beach will be more bearable now the temperatures are not scorching. 

Another beach that is free from distractions and noise is Geraka Beach. Golden sands that stretch over 500 metres mean you’ll have plenty of space to sunbathe or even take a long stroll. You may notice turtle nests dotted around which are protected for safety. There are some exceptional views of green vegetation and glistening blue waters. Do note though, that you may need a car to get here, and you’ll need to bring your own provisions.

If you want to explore some traditional surroundings, look no further than Volimes Village. Here you’ll find olive groves, pine forests, shops and stalls selling locally made goods, as well as traditional architecture in the form of stone-built houses and churches, and authentic cuisine from the many restaurants.

Located in the northern mountains you’ll experience some incredible views and may even be able to look down on the shipwreck if you don’t get chance to visit by boat.

See our full analysis of the Zante weather during October

Weather during November

Thanks to a few hotels and apartments remaining open during November, as well as restaurants, activities and shops, this month would be the perfect time to get away from the drab weather that will have already taken hold of the UK and while the temperatures are in the mid-teens, it will still be milder than what you’re used to this time of year.

You could go to the beach in November and with highs of 19°c you’d be comfortable enough to spend a few hours there. The sea will be a pleasant 19° too so some will still enjoy a swim. 

Laganas Beach is stunning any time of the year and because it won’t be heaving with tourists, it will seem even bigger than it already is. If you’ve visited Laganas in the peak season you’ll notice the difference during low season – there will be no wild beach parties or 18-30’s spilling out onto the streets, and you may find less facilities open as the month passes, but if that doesn’t bother you and a quiet holiday is on the cards, you’re in luck.

November is another great month to hire a car because it will be extremely cheap and you will get the freedom to explore the island at your own pace. A lot of places you visit probably won’t have many people around, if any, so you’ll feel like you’re being spoilt to have some of the most idyllic settings all to yourself.

See our full analysis of the Zante weather during November

Weather during December

Mild and pleasant is what you can expect from the climate if you travel to Zante in December. While there will inevitably be more rainy days over the entire month and the sun won’t shine as long as in the summer season, there are still many reasons to take your holiday now.

Highs of 16°c and average temperatures of 13° are impressive and comparing them to a standard UK winter, we know where we’d rather be!

The island will be quiet as most places are closed, but this gives you the opportunity to mingle with the locals as they themselves get chance to relax.

It will be too cold to spend a day at the beach, but if you bring your own games and wrap up, you’ll have fun passing the time, or maybe even take in the scenery with a gentle stroll.

The festive period can be the perfect way to enjoy Zante too, thanks to the decorations, lights, and churches steeped in Christmas adornment. This all adds to the charm and joyous atmosphere that echoes around the towns and villages.

Accommodation will be cheaper now, and you will find some lovely traditional places to stay – December is a truly magical time to take your trip.

See our full analysis of the Zante weather during December

With such a stunning part of Greece offering so much all year round, it could be difficult to choose the best month to travel.

Enjoying a sun filled beach holiday, you’ll have plenty of options from June to September, whereas if you prefer a more relaxed and traditional break, travel during January to April or October and November. December will bring the festivities this month, and don’t forget to think about off peak times if you’re on a budget.

In Zante though, there really is a month to cater for every type of holiday.