Zakynthos Emergency & Practical Guide: Everything You Need to Know

Traveling to Zakynthos is generally safe and trouble-free, but it’s essential to be prepared. This guide provides all the emergency numbers, medical information, and practical details you need for peace of mind during your Greek island vacation. Save this page offline before exploring remote beaches or villages.

Emergency Numbers

Critical Emergency Contacts (Available 24/7)

Local Zakynthos Contacts

Pro Tip: Add these numbers to your phone contacts before you need them. The European emergency number 112 should be your first call in any serious emergency — operators speak English and can dispatch the appropriate service.

Medical Care on Zakynthos

Zakynthos General Hospital (Agios Dionysios Hospital)

Address: Dimokratias Avenue, Zakynthos Town, 29100
Phone: +30 26950 42514
Emergency Department: Open 24/7

Important Notes:

• Basic medical services are available on the island
• Serious cases may be transferred to mainland hospitals (Patras or Athens)
• EU citizens: Bring your EHIC card (European Health Insurance Card) for free treatment at state hospitals
• Non-EU visitors: Ensure you have travel insurance that covers medical evacuation

Private Clinics

Several private clinics operate in Zakynthos Town. For the nearest clinic, ask your hotel reception or call the tourist police at +30 26950 24482.

Pharmacies (Φαρμακεία — Farmakia)

• Identifiable by: Green cross sign (illuminated at night)
• Hours: Generally Mon–Sat 08:00–14:00
• 24-Hour Service: Pharmacies rotate on-call duty; check the posted schedule on pharmacy doors
• Location: Multiple pharmacies in Zakynthos Town, at least one in every major resort area

Tip: Greek pharmacists are highly trained and can dispense many medications without a prescription that would require one in other countries.

Police & Security

Zakynthos Police Station

Address: Lomvardou 14, Zakynthos Town
Phone: +30 26950 22100
Tourist Police: +30 26950 24482

Lost Documents

1. Report to the police station immediately
2. Obtain a police report (needed for insurance and replacement documents)
3. Contact your nearest embassy or consulate (most are in Athens)

Crime & Safety

Zakynthos is one of the safest Greek islands with very low crime rates. Petty crime is rare, but standard precautions apply:

• Keep valuables secure at crowded beaches (Laganas, Tsilivi)
• Don’t leave items unattended on beaches or in rental cars
• Use hotel safes for passports and extra cash
• The tourist police are specifically trained to help visitors

Health Tips for Zakynthos

Water & Food Safety

• Tap water: Safe to drink in most areas, but bottled water is preferred by locals and visitors
• Bottled water: Widely available, inexpensive (€0.50–1.00 for 1.5L)
• Food: Greek food safety standards are high; eat confidently at busy tavernas

Sun Protection (Critical!)

UV Index: Regularly 8–11 (Very High to Extreme) from June–September

• Apply SPF 30+ sunscreen every 2 hours
• Wear a hat and UV-protective clothing
• Avoid midday sun (11:00–15:00)
• Stay hydrated — heat exhaustion is the most common health issue

Sea Hazards

• Jellyfish: Occasional in late summer (August–September); most are harmless but can sting
• Sea urchins: Common near rocky shores; wear water shoes when exploring
• Currents: Generally mild, but check local advice at remote beaches — see our transport guide for getting to remote areas safely
• Boat accidents: Always wear life jackets on boat tours

Medications

• Bring prescriptions: Carry a copy of your prescriptions
• Controlled substances: Some medications require a Greek prescription
• Pharmacies: Well-stocked, but specific brand names may differ

Embassies & Consulates

Most embassies are located in Athens (approximately 3 hours from Zakynthos via ferry + road). Contact your embassy for lost passports or serious legal issues.

Embassy Contacts in Athens

Note: For minor issues, your hotel or the tourist police can often help without embassy involvement.

Practical Information

Currency & Banking

• Currency: Euro (€)
• ATMs: Plentiful in Zakynthos Town, available 24/7
• ATM Locations: Plateia Solomou (main square), Lomvardou Street, Alexandrou Roma Street
• Banking Hours: Mon–Thu 08:00–14:30, Fri 08:00–14:00
• Cards: Widely accepted, but carry cash for remote tavernas and small shops

Post Office

Address: Tertsetou 27, Zakynthos Town
Hours: Mon–Fri 07:30–14:00
Services: Stamps, shipping, postal orders

Electricity & Communications

• Voltage: 230V/50Hz
• Plugs: Type C and F (EU standard, two round pins)
• SIM Cards: Available at the airport and in Cosmote/WIND/Vodafone shops in town
• Internet: WiFi available in most hotels, restaurants, and cafes
• Mobile Coverage: Good 4G coverage across the island; some dead spots in mountainous areas

Transport Emergencies

Car Breakdown

• Most rental companies provide 24/7 roadside assistance
• Keep the rental company’s emergency number in your phone
• For serious accidents, call 112 or 100 (police)

Ferry Services (To Mainland)

Route: Zakynthos ↔ Killini (mainland Peloponnese)
Duration: 1.5 hours
Operators: Ionian Ferries, Levante Ferries
Frequency: Multiple daily departures (reduced in winter)

Airport Information

Airport Code: ZTH
Name: Zakynthos International Airport “Dionysios Solomos”
Location: Approximately 6 km from Zakynthos Town

Taxi Services

Radio Taxi: +30 26950 48400
Important: Uber and Bolt are not available on Zakynthos
Tip: Agree on the fare before starting your journey if the meter isn’t used

Quick Reference Table

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the emergency number in Zakynthos/Greece?

The universal European emergency number is 112, which works throughout Greece and connects you to police, fire, and ambulance services with English-speaking operators.

Is there a hospital on Zakynthos?

Yes, Zakynthos General Hospital (Agios Dionysios Hospital) is located in Zakynthos Town at Dimokratias Avenue. The emergency department operates 24/7. For serious conditions, patients may be transferred to mainland hospitals.

Is tap water safe to drink in Zakynthos?

Tap water is generally safe to drink in most areas, though many visitors prefer bottled water for taste. Bottled water is inexpensive and widely available.

Can I use my EHIC card in Zakynthos?

Yes, EU citizens can use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for free or reduced-cost medical treatment at state hospitals and healthcare facilities in Zakynthos, just as they would in their home country.

What should I do if I lose my passport?

1. Report the loss to the Zakynthos Police Station (Lomvardou 14, +30 26950 22100)
2. Obtain a police report
3. Contact your embassy in Athens for emergency passport services
4. Your travel insurance may cover the costs of replacement documents

Stay safe and enjoy your Zakynthos adventure! This guide is designed to give you peace of mind so you can focus on what matters most — experiencing the beauty, culture, and hospitality of this incredible Greek island. For the latest information, always check with local authorities or your hotel reception.