Despite the tourist explosion of recent years, Zante is still cheaper than many other Greek islands such as Santorini and Mykonos. We give you 10 tips that can save you more than 100 euros during your stay in Zante.

1) EXCURSIONS: If you arrive by tour operator / travel agency, the site representatives will try to sell you the excursion on your arrival at inflated prices (sometimes as much as by 40%). To save money you can buy tickets from one of the many online agencies or from an on-site office. You can also negotiate theprice if you are a large group, but always ask details regarding the boat that they will use for the excursion. 8 hours on a 350 seats full boat may be unpleasant!

2) FREE SHUTTLES: Not many people know that some beaches offer a free shuttle service. San Nikolas Beach and Banana Beach offer a free bus every day. The bus stops at Laganas, Kalamaki and Argasi-you’ll recognise it because of the logo on the side. The timetable is listed on our website “Watersports in Zante”

3) PUBLIC TRANSPORT: To travel in the area of ​​Vasilikos (Porto Zoro, Banana Beach, San Nikolas, Gerakas) you can use public transport (called KTEL, 1.80 euros each way) and in this way you do not depend on the free shuttle provided by the various beaches and you can move at any time from one beach to the other.

4) UMBRELLAS AND SUNBEDS: Some beaches offer sunbeds and umbrellas for free as long as you buy a drink or a meal in their establishment, others will ask for a minimum of 2.50 euros to 7 euros per person. Ask for the cost before sitting on the deck.

5) MOTORCYCLE RENTAL: The cost of renting a scooter in Zante varies according to the season, number of days and engine size. Generally the price of a 50cc scooter is 100 euros in low season and 130 euros in high season. If you spend less you could risk not having assistance if your vehicle breaks down. Our advice is to book online at one of the many companies. In high season (July and August) as a result of the reduced availability, the prices of the vehicles go up by 20% (for example, 150 euros a week for a 50cc scooter).

6) CAR RENTAL: The cost of renting a car in Zante varies according to the season, number of days and size of car. Generally the price of a small car is between 210 euros in low season and 280 euros in high season. If you spend less you could risk not having assistance if your vehicle breaks down. Our advice is to book online at one of the many companies. In high season (July and August) as a result of reduced availability, car prices can go up by 20% (for example, 350 euros a week for a small car).

7) FESTIVALS: Entry costs to events depend on the organiser. In some cases you could avoid those who want to sell you the tickets and buy directly at the venue. Pay attention to the agencies that sponsor Open Bar/Free Alcool- it is always low quality or limited to a couple of hours.

8) TAXI: Always ask the taxi driver to check the rate document shown in each taxi, to avoid finding yourself spending twice the normal rate. Check the taxi website to find out how much you should spend https://www.zantetaxi.gr/rates/

9) SUPERMARKETS: In some areas of Zante there are some large supermarkets (including LIDL) where you can save a lot of money, but unfortunately require a car or motorbike to reach them. In case you do not have transportation you can go to one of the many mini-markets which are usually open until midnight.

10) RESTAURANTS: Eating in Zakynthos is still quite cheap: pitas have a maximum cost of 2.50 euros; meat 10-15 euros per person and fish 20-25 euros per person. Always try to eat in less touristy restaurants or ones frequented by locals. Some tips to these restaurants can be found on our page Where to eat in Zakynthos.