The best budget option on Zakynthos, Zante Backpackers is a lively hostel near Laganas offering clean dorms and private rooms, a pool, and regular social events. It is the social hub for budget travellers on the island.
Zante Backpackers is a well-known budget hostel located in Laganas on the southern coast of Zakynthos (Zante), one of the Ionian Islands. Laganas sits on the largest bay on the island, roughly 8 kilometres from Zakynthos Town, and is the primary budget-travel and nightlife hub of the island. The Laganas beach, stretching over 9 kilometres, forms part of the National Marine Park of Zakynthos, one of the principal nesting zones for the loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta) in the Mediterranean — a significant natural attraction that draws visitors from across Europe each summer.
The hostel is a purpose-built backpacker facility occupying a compound close to the beach strip. Accommodation ranges from four- and six-bed dormitories with bunk-style beds, en-suite or shared bathrooms, and air conditioning, through to private double rooms for couples travelling on a budget. All dormitory beds include a locker and bedding. The hostel's central feature is a sizable outdoor pool with a surrounding terrace, bar, and seating area — the social focus of the property in the evenings.
The hostel bar operates from midday and hosts regular themed nights, pub quiz evenings, and pre-arranged group outings to Laganas's club strip, a short walk from the property. Zante Backpackers coordinates organised excursions including boat trips to Navagio (Shipwreck Beach) and the Blue Caves in the island's north, sea turtle night watches at the National Marine Park with licensed guides, and guided scooter tours of the island. These group activities are a significant part of the hostel's appeal and are bookable at the front desk.
Laganas offers a long sandy beach, watersports, and a variety of low-cost dining options, from souvlaki stands to beachfront tavernas. The hostel is approximately five minutes on foot from the beach and the heart of the resort strip.
Amenities
- dorms
- pool
- bar
- wifi
- organized trips
Location
Laganas, Zakynthos, 29092
37.7280, 20.8552 View on map
Highlights
- Outdoor pool with a lively social bar at the centre of the hostel's evening scene
- Organised group excursions to Navagio (Shipwreck Beach), the Blue Caves, and sea turtle night watching
- Location near Laganas beach, part of the National Marine Park protecting Caretta caretta sea turtle nesting sites
- Affordable dorm and private room options, all with lockers and air conditioning
- Prime position in Laganas for access to the island's main nightlife and beach strip
Tips for visiting
- Book sea turtle watching excursions immediately on arrival — licensed permit slots are limited and fill fast in July and August
- The Laganas nightlife district peaks around midnight; request a room on the quieter rear side of the hostel for an earlier start
- Scooter hire from the hostel is the best way to reach remote beaches like Dafni and Gerakas on the eastern Vasilikos peninsula
- Group boat trips to Navagio organised via the hostel are usually cheaper than booking independently at dock vendors in Zakynthos Town
- Bring reef-safe sunscreen — the National Marine Park discourages chemical sunscreens near the nesting beaches
Accessibility
The hostel is a largely ground-level facility with the pool area, common spaces, and bar accessible without stairs. Some dormitory blocks may involve internal steps. Guests with mobility requirements are advised to contact the hostel directly to request ground-floor accommodation and discuss specific access needs.
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Frequently asked questions
How close is the hostel to Laganas beach?
The hostel is approximately a five-minute walk from the main Laganas beach strip. Beach towel hire and watersports rentals are available along the beach road.
Are sea turtle sightings guaranteed during a stay?
Sightings are not guaranteed. The nesting season runs from May to October, with peak hatching in late August and September. The hostel arranges licensed night-watching excursions with the National Marine Park, which offer the best chance of an ethical sighting.
Is there a curfew at the hostel?
No curfew is in place. The hostel bar operates late and common areas remain accessible through the night.
Does the hostel provide airport transfers?
Transfers to and from Zakynthos International Airport can be arranged for a fee. The airport is approximately 9 km from Laganas, and independent taxis are also available.
Is the outdoor pool heated?
The outdoor pool is unheated but benefits from the warm Zakynthos climate. It is typically comfortable for swimming from late May through September.