All-Inclusive vs Self-Catering in Laganas: The Ultimate Guide for Your Zante Clubbing Holiday
- Marcus Decelis
- 2 days ago
- 10 min read
Planning your epic clubbing holiday to Laganas, Zante? The biggest decision you'll face isn't which club to hit first – it's whether to book all-inclusive or self-catering accommodation. This comprehensive guide breaks down everything you need to know about the best hotels in Laganas and how to make the right choice for your party getaway.

Why Zante is THE Ultimate Clubbing Destination
Laganas has gone from a small fishing village to Zante's most vibrant resort, with nightlife in the same league as Ibiza. There's a mile-long, neon-lit avenue with more than 50 different venues, from karaoke bars to state-of-the-art nightclubs like Rescue and Waikiki that fly in international DJs throughout the summer.
But here's the thing – your accommodation choice will dramatically impact your entire holiday experience and budget. Whether you're planning a lads' holiday, girls' getaway, or mixed group adventure, understanding the pros and cons of each option could save you hundreds of pounds.
All-Inclusive Hotels in Laganas: Your Party Safety Net
The Ultimate All-Inclusive Experience
All-inclusive hotels in Laganas offer the closest thing to a worry-free party holiday. Meals and unlimited local drinks are included in the price on our All Inclusive holidays to Laganas, so you won't have to worry about setting money aside for lunches by the pool, cool-down cocktails or al fresco dinners.
Top All-Inclusive Hotels for Laganas Clubbing Holidays
1. Majestic Hotel & Spa ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Location: Just 300 meters from Laganas Strip (4-minute walk), 6km from Zante Airport
Perfect for: Luxury seekers who want the full party experience
Features: Large outdoor swimming pool, on-site restaurant, spacious rooms ideal for group stays, spa facilities
Why it works: Central location means you can easily stroll back after a night on the town
Insider tip: Big comfy beds, clean rooms, strong aircon, and the pool was right next to the bar - perfect after long beach days
2. White Olive Premium Laganas ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Location: 100 metres from Laganas Beach, close to beach and shops
Perfect for: Groups wanting premium all-inclusive with beachfront access
Features: 3 outdoor pools including children's pool, gym, spa facilities, helpful staff
Why it works: Close to beach for daytime relaxation, easy strip access for nightlife
Budget: Premium option with excellent facilities
3. Village Inn ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Perfect for: Groups who want authentic Greek all-inclusive atmosphere with party access
Features: Traditional charm with modern all-inclusive amenities, authentic village-style setting
Why it works: Perfect blend of Greek hospitality and all-inclusive convenience
4. Vivian Hotel Club ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Location: 350 meters (5-minute walk) from Laganas Strip
Perfect for: Groups seeking an all-inclusive option with a social atmosphere
Features: All-inclusive packages, lively atmosphere, hotel regularly organises events and activities
Why it works: Easy to socialise with other guests before heading to the strip
Budget: Excellent value with all-inclusive packages

Self-Catering Hotels: Maximum Freedom in Zante
The Freedom Fighter's Choice
Self-catering gives you complete control over your Laganas experience. Want to eat pizza at 3 AM after hitting Rescue Club? No problem. Fancy cooking breakfast at 2 PM after a big night at Zeros? Your call.
Top Self-Catering Hotels for Zante Party Groups
1. Atlantis Hotel ⭐⭐⭐
Location: Heart of Laganas, walking distance to everything
Perfect for: Budget-conscious groups wanting self-catering convenience
Features: Self-catering accommodation, outdoor pool, restaurant, free WiFi access in public areas
Why consider: Very kind staff, delicious breakfast, very good location, great value for money
2. Cactus Hotel ⭐⭐⭐
Location: Central Laganas, easy walk to all venues
Perfect for: Pet-friendly option for those traveling with companions
Features: Pet-friendly accommodation with numerous amenities to make your pets feel at home
Budget: Great value for money in prime location
3. Canadian Hotel ⭐⭐⭐
Location: Heart of Laganas party zone
Perfect for: No-frills party groups who prioritize location over luxury
Features: Basic but clean accommodation steps from the action
Why choose: Maximum budget for nightlife spending
4. Esperia Hotel ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Location: 250 meters (3-minute walk) from Laganas Strip, central location close to restaurants and bars
Perfect for: Groups looking for comfortable accommodation in a central location
Features: Good-sized rooms and welcoming pool area, proximity to both strip and beach
Why it works: Versatile choice for groups with varied interests
5. Pythari Hotel ⭐⭐⭐

Month-by-Month Analysis: Laganas Edition
JUNE: The Smart Money Month
Weather: 25-30°C, perfect for pool parties with comfortable temperatures
Laganas Scene: Great month in Laganas, events all running from start of June, major bars and clubs open, weather hot but not too hot
Strip Activity: All 50+ venues operational, good deals available
All-Inclusive Advantages:
Early season pricing still reasonable at hotels like Majestic, White Olive Premium, and Village Inn
Pool areas perfect for daytime socializing before strip adventures
Hotel entertainment programs complement Laganas nightlife
Easy transition from pool bar to Laganas strip
Typical AI Costs: £600-800 per person per week
Self-Catering at Atlantis/Canadian: £400-500 + £300-400 food/drinks = £700-900 total
Verdict: All-inclusive marginally wins for convenience and predictable costs
JULY: Peak Zante Madness
Weather: 30-35°C with up to 13 hours of sunshine per day
Laganas Scene: Peak month in Laganas, masses of people from UK, strip as busy as ever, events selling out, clubs full to the brim
Strip Reality: Laganas comes alive late in the evening, especially after 11 PM, vibrant party hotspot best suited for travelers aged 17 to 25
All-Inclusive Advantages:
Typical AI Costs: £800-1200 per person per week
Self-Catering Equivalent: £500-700 + £400-600 strip spending = £900-1300 total
Verdict: All-inclusive wins hands down for July Laganas chaos
AUGUST: International Laganas Mix
Weather: 30-35°C, peak temperatures with minimal rainfall
Laganas Scene: Busy first few weeks, popular with Italians, real mix of nationalities, events still selling out
All-Inclusive Advantages:
Typical AI Costs: £750-1100 per person per week
Self-Catering Equivalent: £500-650 + £400-550 Laganas spending = £900-1200 total
Verdict: Marginal advantage to all-inclusive for convenience during peak season
SEPTEMBER: The Laganas Sweet Spot
Weather: 25-28°C, perfect temperatures with about 10 hours of bright sunlight Laganas Scene: Events generally end on 2nd week of September, cheap last minute deals for first two weeks, perfect for chilling out
Strip Experience: Quieter, more relaxed vibe, cheaper flight and hotel prices, good weather continues
All-Inclusive Advantages:
Typical AI Costs: £550-750 per person per week
Self-Catering Equivalent: £350-450 + £250-350 Laganas spending = £600-800 total
Verdict: Both options offer excellent value – choose based on your style
The Brutal Truth: Laganas Pros and Cons
All-Inclusive Pros in Laganas:
✅ Strip Recovery: Always have food/drinks when you stumble back at 6 AM
✅ Budget Control: Know exactly what you're spending on Laganas strip
✅ Quality Assurance: Hotel drinks have quality control from both hotels and tour operators, security standards higher than bars
✅ Hangover Helper: Pool bar hydration before hitting Laganas strip again
✅ Social Hub: Hotel pools perfect for meeting people heading to same clubs
All-Inclusive Cons:
❌ Missing Local Gems: Might miss authentic tavernas and local restaurants in Laganas
❌ Higher Upfront Cost: More expensive booking for Laganas trip
❌ Limited Freedom: Tied to hotel meal times instead of flexible Laganas dining
Self-Catering Pros in Laganas:
✅ Local Experience: Try authentic Greek tavernas and local specialties throughout Laganas
✅ Budget Flexibility: Can live off €1.50 pizza slices if you aren't too bothered about quality
✅ Group Bonding: Shopping/cooking together before hitting Laganas strip
Self-Catering Cons:
❌ Strip Temptation: Easy to get swept up in hedonistic holiday atmosphere and blow all money in first couple days
❌ Quality Risks: Most bars in Laganas owned by foreigners who illegally serve bad quality, untaxed alcohol
❌ Hangover Decisions: Having to think about food when you can barely function
❌ Hidden Costs: Strip spending can spiral out of control quickly
The Laganas Financial Reality Check
Daily Budget Breakdown for Laganas
Expense Category | All-Inclusive | Self-Catering Budget | Self-Catering Splurge |
Hotel Cost | £80-120/night | £30-60/night | £60-100/night |
Breakfast | Included | Skip or €1.50 pizza slice | €15-25 proper meal |
Lunch | Included | €1.50 pizza or €15 taverna | €25-40 quality meal |
Pre-Strip Food | Included | €30 self-catering for day | €40-60 restaurant |
Pre-Drinks | Included | €20 drinks by pool/balcony | €30-50 premium |
Strip Night Out | €30-50 | €50 should see you right for strip | €80-120 VIP experience |
TOTAL/DAY | €110-170 | €125-190 | €250-405 |
Weekly Laganas Reality Check
All-Inclusive Week: €770-1,190 (£660-1,020)
Self-Catering Budget: €875-1,330 (£750-1,140)
Self-Catering Splurge: €1,750-2,835 (£1,500-2,430)
The Laganas Verdict: Budget around £100 per day total – all-inclusive delivers predictable costs, but self-catering can work if you have discipline
Laganas Strip Survival Guide
All-Inclusive Strip Strategy:
Self-Catering Strip Survival:
Stock Atlantis/Canadian fridge: Water (€1.40 for 6x2L bottles), hangover snacks, breakfast basics
Pre-strip fuel: Cook pasta or grab cheap bites before expensive strip drinks
Budget discipline: Only take out how much you can afford for the night - once spent, that's it
Emergency stash: Stuff emergency €5 into phone case for late-night gyros on stumble home
Hotel-by-Hotel Recommendations
JUNE: Getting Started Right
Winner: Slight edge to All-Inclusive Top Choice: Majestic Hotel & Spa – Perfect introduction to Laganas with luxury safety net
Premium Option: White Olive Premium – Beachfront all-inclusive with excellent facilities
Budget All-Inclusive: Village Inn – Authentic Greek all-inclusive experience
Self-Catering Pick: Atlantis Hotel – Great value self-catering in heart of Laganas
JULY: Peak Laganas Chaos
Winner: All-Inclusive dominates Premium Choice: Majestic Hotel & Spa – Spa facilities essential for recovery
Beachfront Choice: White Olive Premium – Three pools perfect for scorching weather
Party Choice: Village Inn – Traditional atmosphere with all-inclusive convenience
Avoid: Self-catering during peak chaos unless you're very experienced
AUGUST: International Laganas
Winner: All-Inclusive for safety Best Choices: Majestic Hotel & Spa, White Olive Premium, or Village Inn Self-Catering: Only Esperia Hotel for experienced party groups
Why: International crowds can mean language barriers at restaurants
SEPTEMBER: The Perfect Balance
Winner: Your choice – both work brilliantly Luxury Option: White Olive Premium – Premium beachfront as season winds down
Traditional Choice: Village Inn – Authentic Greek hospitality
Party Base: Atlantis Hotel – Perfect for last hurrah with cheaper costs
Budget Champion: Canadian Hotel – Maximum strip budget allocation
The Ultimate Laganas Decision Matrix
Choose ALL-INCLUSIVE at Majestic/White Olive/Village Inn if you:
Want guaranteed quality and safety during Laganas chaos
Need cost certainty for strip spending planning
Plan to use hotel pool as social hub and recovery center
Are traveling during July/August peak madness
Want spa facilities for hangover recovery (Majestic) or premium pools (White Olive)
Prefer organized activities alongside strip adventures
Love authentic Greek hospitality with modern convenience (Village Inn)
Choose SELF-CATERING at Atlantis/Esperia if you:
Have excellent budget discipline for strip spending
Want maximum flexibility around Laganas schedule
Love exploring authentic Greek restaurants in Laganas
Are comfortable with potential strip overspending risks
Want to save accommodation money for VIP strip experiences
Are traveling in June or September shoulder seasons
Laganas Insider Secrets
All-Inclusive Hacks:
Pre-book strip events online – Hotel price was €275 vs online prices around €100-150
Use Majestic spa strategically – Book treatments for worst hangover days
White Olive Premium pools – Three pools mean you can always find a quiet spot
Village Inn authenticity – Best Greek breakfast to fuel strip adventures
Pool bar networking – Best place to find strip companions
Late checkout requests – Many hotels accommodate if you ask nicely
Self-Catering Strip Survival:
Atlantis Hotel kitchen strategy – Stock hangover cure supplies and late-night snacks
Canadian Hotel location advantage – Stumbling distance from all major clubs
Esperia pool positioning – Perfect pre-strip socializing spot
Cash is king: Bringing cash saves money and some venues add extra discount for cash payments
The Final Laganas Verdict
For July peak season chaos: Majestic Hotel & Spa or White Olive Premium (All-Inclusive) The spa facilities/premium pools, guaranteed meals, and central location provide perfect safety net during busiest time.
For June/September shoulder seasons: Atlantis Hotel (Self-Catering) More flexibility and great value when Laganas is more manageable.
Best Budget Compromise: Canadian Hotel with all-inclusive budget Book cheapest accommodation but budget as if you're all-inclusive. Use savings for VIP strip experiences.
The Sweet Spot: Esperia Hotel (Self-Catering) in September Perfect balance of comfort, location, and value when Laganas crowds thin out.
For Authentic Experience: Village Inn (All-Inclusive) Traditional Greek hospitality with modern all-inclusive convenience.
Your Laganas Adventure Awaits
Laganas boasts the longest beach on the island and likes to rival the elite coastal nightspots of Spain when it comes to after-hours fun. Its mile-long party strip is home to state-of-the-art clubs, where international DJs fill the bills for the whole of summer.
Whether you choose the safety net of all-inclusive at Majestic Hotel & Spa or the freedom of self-catering at Village Inn, your Laganas experience will be legendary. The key is matching your choice to your party style and travel month.
The strip will be pumping, the clubs will be packed, and the memories will last forever – regardless of where you rest your head between the chaos.
Ready to book your Laganas party holiday? Check out the latest deals on TUI.com and Jet2holidays.com for all-inclusive options like Majestic Hotel & Spa, White Olive Premium, and Village Inn, plus self-catering gems like Atlantis Hotel and Esperia Hotel. Book early for guaranteed availability during Laganas peak season.
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