Zakynthos: Discover The Past

Exploring Zakynthos’ Past: A Deep Dive into Culture, Views, and Flavors

If you’re after a day that mixes history, scenic beauty, and authentic local experiences on Zakynthos, the “Discover The Past” tour from Smile Tours could be just what you need. It promises a balanced blend of cultural insights, stunning vistas, and leisurely stops—all wrapped into a manageable six-hour window.

What we love about this tour is how it carefully combines activities that appeal to different interests: the chance to taste local wines, learn about olive oil production, visit charming stone villages, and marvel at the famous Navagio Shipwreck viewpoint. Plus, the swim stop at Xigia beach offers a refreshing break amid your cultural adventures. The only caveat? The tour’s pacing means you’ll want to keep your camera and comfortable shoes handy, especially if you’re keen on capturing every scenic moment.

This experience is perfect for travelers who appreciate a mix of learning and leisure, enjoy scenic drives, and want a taste of Zakynthos beyond the usual beaches. If you’re looking for a well-rounded day without feeling rushed, this tour is a solid choice.

Key Points

• Cultural highlights include visits to stone villages and an olive oil factory.
• Scenic viewpoints like Navagio Shipwreck are included, offering photo opportunities of iconic sights.
• Taste local wines and explore traditional production methods, adding a flavorful dimension to your trip.
• Relaxation is built in with a swim stop at Xigia beach, renowned for its crystal-clear waters.
• Comfortable transport in a VIP air-conditioned minibus ensures a smooth journey.
• Flexible booking options and the ability to cancel up to 24 hours in advance provide peace of mind.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Full Breakdown of the Experience

Starting the Day: Convenient Pickup and Smooth Transport
The tour kicks off with pickup from one of seven central locations, including popular resorts and local spots like Caretta Paradise and Azure Resort. Traveling in a black Mercedes van or mini bus with the Smile Tours logo, you’ll enjoy a comfortable ride to kickstart your exploration. The journey to the first stop varies from 20 to 45 minutes, giving time to settle in and enjoy the views en route.

First Stops: Wine Tasting and Olive Oil Factory
As you settle into your VIP van, you’ll soon visit a traditional olive oil production site. Here, you’ll learn about the ancient art of olive oil making—an activity that’s been part of Zakynthos’ culture for generations. The chance to see traditional methods in action, coupled with tasting sessions, offers a genuine taste of local life. Many reviews highlight how insightful and authentic these visits are, with one noting, “The olive oil factory was surprisingly fascinating, and tasting fresh oil was a highlight.”

Stone Villages and Panoramic Views
Next, the tour takes you through quaint stone villages with narrow winding streets that whisper stories of yesteryears. These stops are perfect for wandering and soaking in the traditional architecture. The real star here is the view from the Navagio Shipwreck viewpoint—an image that’s etched into most travelers’ memories. From this vantage point, the shipwreck’s rusty hull contrasts dramatically against the white sandy beach and turquoise waters, offering a picture-perfect moment.

Local Cuisine and Relaxation
After these scenic stops, you’ll enjoy a hearty, traditional lunch at a local taverna. This meal provides a chance to sample authentic Greek flavors, often praised for its generous portions and genuine ambience. Many guests mention that the lunch alone offers excellent value, especially since it’s included in the tour price.

Swim Stop at Xigia Beach
The day doesn’t end without a refreshing swim at Xigia beach. Known for its mineral-rich, crystal-clear waters, it’s an ideal spot to cool off and recharge. Reviewers who have swum here mention how the waters are both invigorating and uniquely tinged with sulfur, offering a sensory experience beyond typical beach visits.

Wrap-Up and Return
After the swim, the tour winds down with a scenic drive back, with optional photo stops along the way. The drop-offs are at the same seven pickup points, making logistics simple and straightforward.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The standout element of this tour is the way it balances educational experiences with pure relaxation. You’re not just moving from site to site; you’re gaining insights into local traditions, enjoying breathtaking views, and having time to savor the moment—whether that’s through wine, food, or nature.

Another highlight is the flexibility of the itinerary. With stops designed to maximize scenic and cultural value while allowing enough time for photos and brief explorations, it’s a well-paced day. The inclusion of a swim stop adds a refreshing contrast, making it a well-rounded experience.

From reviews, travelers often mention the quality of the transport—a comfortable, air-conditioned minibus that makes the long drives more pleasant. The live English-speaking guide adds value, offering insights and answering questions, making the entire journey more engaging.

Detailed Look at the Itinerary

Pickup and Journey (7 Options)

Starting from various popular locations, the tour offers flexibility and convenience. Guests appreciate the ease of being picked up from their resort or local spot, which saves time and simplifies logistics. The bus ride, lasting between 20 to 45 minutes, is an opportunity to settle in and prepare for the day ahead.

More Great Tours Nearby

Visit to the Olive Oil Factory

This stop is a definite highlight. Many reviewers find the experience surprisingly informative and authentic. You’ll see traditional methods of olive oil extraction, which are often still done by hand or with age-old equipment. Tasting the fresh oil, often described as “delicious” and “fragrant,” gives you a real taste of local craftsmanship.

Exploring Stone Villages & Navagio Viewpoint

Driving through the narrow lanes of stone villages feels like stepping back in time. These places are perfect for photos and absorbing the peaceful, rustic charm of Zakynthos. The Navagio viewpoint is arguably the most iconic part of the trip—standing on the cliff edge, looking down on the shipwreck, is a moment worth capturing.

Traditional Taverna Lunch

The included lunch offers hearty Greek fare, often at a traditional taverna setting. Guests mention the generous portions and friendly atmosphere. It’s a great chance to mingle with fellow travelers and enjoy authentic cuisine.

Swim at Xigia Beach

The final stop, Xigia, is praised for its mineral-rich waters and stunning surroundings. Many reviewers say the water’s clarity and unique mineral content make it a memorable swim. Plus, the peaceful setting provides a perfect way to unwind after a busy morning.

Return Journey & Drop-offs

The tour wraps up with a scenic drive back to your starting point. The organized drop-off at multiple locations ensures you’re dropped close to your accommodation, making the experience stress-free.

Pricing and Value

Considering the inclusive nature of this tour—wine tasting, olive oil visit, traditional lunch, and swim stop—it offers solid value. The price reflects not only the transportation but also the chance to gain authentic insights into Zakynthos’ culture and enjoy stunning views without the hassle of planning multiple separate excursions.

Many travelers find this tour’s focus on cultural and scenic highlights well worth the price, especially since it’s designed to be a relaxed yet enriching experience. The option to reserve now and pay later adds flexibility, making it easier to plan your trip.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This experience suits culture lovers who want a well-rounded day exploring Zakynthos beyond its beaches. It’s perfect for first-time visitors eager to see iconic sights and taste local products, as well as those seeking a relaxed pace with plenty of scenic photo ops.

Families, couples, and small groups will appreciate the intimate, guided nature of the trip. Keep in mind, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users or travelers with mobility issues, given the walking involved at some stops.

Final Thoughts

For anyone wanting a taste of Zakynthos’ history, natural beauty, and flavors in one neat package, this tour ticks many boxes. It offers a genuine look at the island’s traditions, with plenty of chances for photos and relaxation. The combination of scenic viewpoints, cultural stops, and a swim makes it an excellent value for your time.

While it may be a busy day, the careful pacing allows you to enjoy each highlight without feeling rushed. The included lunch and wine tasting add a touch of indulgence that makes this experience feel complete. If you’re after a thoughtfully curated day that captures the essence of Zakynthos, this tour is worth considering.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?
Start times vary, so check availability for the specific departure time on your preferred day.

How long is the journey from start to finish?
The entire experience lasts around 6 hours, including travel, stops, and lunch.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from seven designated locations, including resorts and central spots.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, hat, swimwear, camera, sunscreen, water, and snacks for the day.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s best suited for travelers able to walk and stand for periods; not ideal for those with mobility issues or wheelchair users.

What is included in the price?
You get wine tasting, visit to an olive oil factory, a swim stop, hotel pickup/drop-off, and a viewpoint of the Navagio shipwreck.

Are meals included?
Yes, a traditional lunch at a local taverna is included in the tour.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

Is there a guide?
Yes, the tour is led by an English-speaking guide who shares insights and answers questions.

Is this tour suitable for people who want free time?
The schedule is structured but allows for some free time at stops, especially at scenic viewpoints and the beach.

If you’re looking to combine scenic beauty, cultural insight, and local flavors into one memorable day, the “Discover The Past” tour offers a well-balanced and enjoyable experience. It’s especially suited for those eager to see Zakynthos beyond its famous beaches, with a taste for authentic Greek culture along the way.

You can check availability for your dates here: