Venetian Castle Zakynthos - A seaside view of a historic building.
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Venetian Castle Zakynthos

4
·2k reviews·Bochali, Greece

Explore the historic ruins of the Venetian Castle on Bohali Hill for breathtaking views of Zakynthos town and the Ionian Sea.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds, cooler temps

CrowdLow
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Venetian Castle Zakynthos - A seaside view of a historic building.

Venetian Castle Zakynthos

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds, cooler temps

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore the historic ruins of the Venetian Castle on Bohali Hill for breathtaking views of Zakynthos town and the Ionian Sea.

4
(2k reviews)

"Ruined fortress with magnificent views of Zakynthos and a beautiful, shady pine forest."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Walk or Taxi?

Consider a taxi if you dislike uphill climbs. Walking from Argassi is possible but can be hot!

💰 Free for Under 25s!

Younger visitors (under 25) get free admission. Adults typically pay €5.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Zakynthos Views

Panoramic Zakynthos Views

Bastion

Breathtaking vistas of Zakynthos town, the harbor, and the Ionian Sea. Perfect for photos!

Shady Pine Forest Trails

Shady Pine Forest Trails

Throughout the castle grounds

Wander through a cool, peaceful forest with wildflowers and the soothing sounds of nature.

Historical Ruins & Barracks

Historical Ruins & Barracks

Various sections

Explore remnants of Venetian architecture and British Army barracks, offering a glimpse into the past.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for Views & Shade

Visit early morning to beat the crowds and heat, enjoying cooler temperatures and the peaceful sounds of nature. The ruins offer plenty of shade, making it a pleasant escape. Consider visiting when restoration work is less intrusive for a more authentic feel.

Embrace the Ruins & Views

This isn't a perfectly preserved castle, but a fascinating historical site with scattered ruins and a beautiful forest. Be prepared for uphill walking on uneven terrain. The panoramic views of Zakynthos town and the sea are the real highlight.

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour for photos
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Good morning from Zakynthos island and Bohali hill One of the must visit places in Zante town A great place to enjoy the view of Zakynthos At Bohali hill there is also the Venetian castle of Zakynthos which you can visit Book your transfer with our minibus Airporport pick ups & Transfers in Zante 🏖️Private & small group tours ✉️ :info@knightridertransfer.com WhatsApp :+30 693 6841650 www.kni...
knight_rider_transfer
15 likes • 394 views

🚶‍♀️ Walk or Taxi?

Consider a taxi if you dislike uphill climbs. Walking from Argassi is possible but can be hot! Reddit

💰 Free for Under 25s!

Younger visitors (under 25) get free admission. Adults typically pay €5. Reddit

🤍 Zakynthos 🤍 🫶🏼Things to do 🫶🏼 ✨ Navagio Beach (Shipwreck Cove) ✨ Sunset dinner at Lofos Restaurant ✨ Xigia Beach ✨ Snorkel and Dive (With Turtles) ✨ Visit The Venetian Castle ✨ Alykes Beach ✨ The Cliffs of Keri ✨ Boat Tour in Zante 🤍 Save for inspo 🤍 #adventurethatislife #adventurevisuals #alwaysgo #exploreeverything #exploreeverywhere #exploretocreate #finditliveit #folktravel #freedomthin...
travel1st_withshonagh
25 likes • 422 views
Zakynthos stole my heart! 🇬🇷 Here are my top 3 must-dos: 1. Boat to the iconic Shipwreck Beach - trust me, the photos don’t do it justice! 2. Explore the Venetian Castle for stunning views and a taste of history. 3. Catch a breathtaking sunset from a cliffside taverna - pure magic! What are YOU waiting for? ✈️ Zakynthos is calling! #GreeceTravel #NavagioBeach #ZakynthosViews
worldtowanderblog
0 likes • 1.8K views

👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed

Uneven terrain and uphill paths require sturdy footwear for exploration. Reddit

🦋 Nature's Soundtrack

Enjoy the abundant cicadas; their noise is part of the natural ambiance. Reddit

Bohali Hill is called one of the most beautiful places on earth. It is located in close proximity from the centre of Zakynthos town. The place is decorated with lush vegetation and with medieval Venetian castle, which can be used as a wedding location for your wedding in Greece. There is a great view of the surrounding countryside and the sea from Bohali Hill. #sweden #russia #frends #travelphoto...
svebell1983
6 likes • 26 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Walk or Taxi?

Consider a taxi if you dislike uphill climbs. Walking from Argassi is possible but can be hot! Reddit

💰 Free for Under 25s!

Younger visitors (under 25) get free admission. Adults typically pay €5. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed

Uneven terrain and uphill paths require sturdy footwear for exploration. Reddit

🦋 Nature's Soundtrack

Enjoy the abundant cicadas; their noise is part of the natural ambiance. Reddit

📸 Capture the Views

The views from the Bastion are a must-photograph moment. InstagramReddit

What Travellers Say

4
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find the Venetian Castle a lovely place with magnificent views and a peaceful, shady forest. While some note the ruins are overgrown and undergoing restoration, many appreciate the historical atmosphere and natural beauty. The free entry for under-25s is a significant plus.

"It is a very lovely place to visit! I walked to it from Argassi, I suggest to visit it early in the morning, as it opens. There aren't a lot of people at that time, I was the first one to enter and walk around for half an hour) for people who are younger than 25 the ticket is free! The ruins are nice to see, the view is amazing and the forest is great - the sound of nature and the coolness of the shadow. It worth just to pay a relaxed visit there and there is a nice little church on the way worth your attention!"

Kateryna Maistrenko

"Very good. Lots of shade. Would be better if all the weeds were removed from the ruins to prevent further decay and also enabling better viewing. Hopefully this will be done as they do appear to be renovating in parts. However hope not too much is done in that respect as it takes away the fact this is a very old castle..don't want modern interference"

Jane Jones

"Ruined fortress with magnificent views of Zakynthos and a beautiful, shady pine forest. There was preservation work being done on some of the structures, which was interesting to see although not particularly picturesque. Other ruins were just overgrown and filled with wildflowers. Butterflies were everywhere. We were free to roam around, although a few dangerous spots were roped off for safety. It was peaceful and beautiful up there. You don't see a castle, like in Scotland. You see ruins scattered up a hill in a forest. And an amazing view down to the port. For me, this was a lot of fun. You need to be comfortable climbing uphill (and down) on sometimes uneven terrain to really enjoy this experience."

Miriam Kotsonis

What People Like

Amazing panoramic views
Shady pine forest
Historical ruins

What People Dislike

Overgrown ruins
Ongoing restoration

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

You can reach the Venetian Castle by taxi from Zakynthos town or nearby areas like Argassi. Some visitors enjoy the walk, but be prepared for an uphill climb, especially in the heat. Reddit Taxis are a convenient option if you prefer to avoid the strenuous ascent. Reddit

Parking availability can vary, especially during peak season. If you're driving, arrive early or consider parking in Zakynthos town and walking or taking a short taxi ride up. Reddit

Yes, it's possible to walk from Zakynthos town, but it involves an uphill trek. The walk from Argassi is also an option for those who enjoy a longer hike. Reddit

For those with mobility concerns, taking a taxi directly to the castle is highly recommended to avoid the steep inclines and uneven terrain. Reddit

Public bus routes may not go directly to the castle entrance. Taxis or private transfers are generally the most reliable ways to access the site. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission for adults is typically around €5. However, visitors under 25 often receive free entry, making it a great deal for younger travelers. Reddit

Opening hours can vary seasonally and may be affected by local conditions like fire risk. It's advisable to check locally or online for the most up-to-date information before your visit. Reddit

Advance booking is generally not required for the Venetian Castle. Tickets can usually be purchased upon arrival. Reddit

Yes, visitors under 25 often get free admission. It's always a good idea to inquire about any other potential discounts or special offers upon arrival. Reddit

Children are generally welcome, and those under 25 often have free entry. Reddit The site offers a historical and natural exploration experience suitable for families. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Explore the scattered ruins of the Venetian fortress, including remnants of barracks and fortifications. Enjoy the stunning panoramic views of Zakynthos town and the sea from the Bastion. Wander through the peaceful, shady pine forest. InstagramReddit

The castle grounds involve walking on uneven terrain and uphill paths. Comfortable shoes are essential. Some areas may be roped off for safety, but there's plenty to explore. Reddit

The castle consists of ruins, some of which are undergoing restoration. Other areas are overgrown with wildflowers, offering a more natural and less manicured historical experience. Reddit

While official guided tours might not always be advertised, the site's historical significance and the information available can enhance your visit. You can also explore at your own pace and soak in the atmosphere. Reddit

Expect magnificent, sweeping views of Zakynthos town, the harbor, and the surrounding Ionian Sea. The Bastion offers particularly impressive vantage points. InstagramReddit

📸 📸 Photography

The Bastion offers incredible panoramic views of Zakynthos town and the sea, perfect for landscape shots. The winding paths through the pine forest also provide beautiful, atmospheric photo opportunities. InstagramReddit

Late afternoons during the golden hour provide beautiful, soft light for photography. Early mornings are also great for capturing clear views with fewer people in your shots. Reddit

Generally, photography is allowed throughout the site. However, always be mindful of any temporary restrictions due to ongoing restoration work or safety measures. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the expansive views. A standard zoom lens will cover most situations. Consider a tripod for low-light conditions or long exposures if you're aiming for professional-quality shots. Instagram

Drone usage is often restricted in historical sites and areas with high visitor traffic. It's best to check local regulations and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Venetian Castle offers a unique adventure for families. Kids under 25 often get free admission, making it an affordable outing. Reddit The shady pine forest provides a cool and engaging environment for children to explore, and the scattered ruins can spark their imagination about knights and ancient times. Remember to wear comfortable shoes as there's some uphill walking on uneven paths. Reddit The stunning views are also a great reward for young explorers. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ History Enthusiasts

📸 Photographers & View Seekers

The Venetian Castle is a photographer's dream, especially for capturing panoramic vistas. The Bastion offers unparalleled views of Zakynthos town and the sea, perfect for landscape photography. InstagramReddit The golden hour light in the late afternoon casts a magical glow over the scenery. The winding paths through the pine forest also provide opportunities for atmospheric shots. Reddit Early mornings are ideal for clear, uncrowded shots. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into History

The Venetian Castle in Zakynthos, also known as Bochali Castle, is a testament to the island's strategic importance throughout history. Originally a Byzantine fortress, it was significantly fortified by the Venetians during their rule. Later, it also served as barracks for the British Army in the early 19th century. Reddit Today, visitors can explore the remnants of these different eras, offering a layered historical experience. The ongoing restoration work aims to preserve these structures for future generations, blending historical preservation with the natural beauty of the site. Reddit

Walking through the castle grounds, you'll encounter scattered ruins, including parts of the old fortifications, cisterns, and the foundations of various buildings. The presence of the British Army barracks from the 1810s adds another layer to its military past. Reddit While it may not be a perfectly preserved medieval castle, its historical significance lies in its evolution and the stories embedded within its stones. It's a place that appeals to history buffs looking to connect with Zakynthos's past. Reddit

The Enchanting Bohali Hill Experience

Perched atop Bohali Hill, the Venetian Castle offers more than just historical ruins; it provides an unparalleled natural setting. The area is characterized by a beautiful, shady pine forest that offers a welcome respite from the Mediterranean sun. Reddit Visitors often describe the forest as peaceful, with the sounds of nature creating a serene atmosphere. Reddit This natural beauty, combined with the historical remnants, makes Bohali Hill a unique destination.

The views from the castle, particularly from the Bastion, are consistently praised. InstagramReddit You get a sweeping panorama of Zakynthos town, the bustling harbor, and the vast expanse of the Ionian Sea. This vantage point is ideal for photography, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. InstagramReddit The combination of historical exploration and breathtaking natural scenery is what makes the Venetian Castle a must-visit on Zakynthos. Instagram

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