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

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Venetian Castle Zakynthos
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps

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.
"Ruined fortress with magnificent views of Zakynthos and a beautiful, shady pine forest."
🚶♀️ 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.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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

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
Various sections
Explore remnants of Venetian architecture and British Army barracks, offering a glimpse into the past.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Views & Shade
Embrace the Ruins & Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ 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.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed
Uneven terrain and uphill paths require sturdy footwear for exploration.
🦋 Nature's Soundtrack
Enjoy the abundant cicadas; their noise is part of the natural ambiance.
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!
💰 Free for Under 25s!
Younger visitors (under 25) get free admission. Adults typically pay €5.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed
Uneven terrain and uphill paths require sturdy footwear for exploration.
🦋 Nature's Soundtrack
Enjoy the abundant cicadas; their noise is part of the natural ambiance.
📸 Capture the Views
The views from the Bastion are a must-photograph moment.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
Taxis are a convenient option if you prefer to avoid the strenuous ascent.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.
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.
For those with mobility concerns, taking a taxi directly to the castle is highly recommended to avoid the steep inclines and uneven terrain.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
Advance booking is generally not required for the Venetian Castle. Tickets can usually be purchased upon arrival.
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.
Children are generally welcome, and those under 25 often have free entry.
The site offers a historical and natural exploration experience suitable for families.🎫 🧭 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.
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.
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.
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.
Expect magnificent, sweeping views of Zakynthos town, the harbor, and the surrounding Ionian Sea. The Bastion offers particularly impressive vantage points.
📸 📸 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.
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.
Generally, photography is allowed throughout the site. However, always be mindful of any temporary restrictions due to ongoing restoration work or safety measures.
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.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ History Enthusiasts
📸 Photographers & View Seekers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
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. 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.
The Enchanting Bohali Hill Experience
The views from the castle, particularly from the Bastion, are consistently praised. 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. The combination of historical exploration and breathtaking natural scenery is what makes the Venetian Castle a must-visit on Zakynthos.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit