Where to Stay in Zante for Your Party Holiday: The Ultimate Area Guide

Choosing where to stay in Zante can make or break your party holiday. Book the wrong resort and you'll spend half your holiday budget on taxis, miss out on spontaneous late-night adventures, and watch the sunrise from the back of a cab instead of on the beach with your mates. Get it right, and you'll be in the heart of the action with everything within stumbling distance.

After 15+ years organizing party holidays in Zante, we've seen countless groups make location mistakes that cost them time, money, and memorable nights out. The good news? This guide will help you avoid those pitfalls and choose the perfect base for your Zante adventure.

Whether you're planning your first Zante trip or coming back for round two, understanding the island's resort areas is crucial. Zante (or Zakynthos to give it its Greek name) has several distinct zones, each with completely different vibes. While some are perfect for families and couples, only a couple truly deliver for party holidays.

Let's break down exactly where you should book your hotel or villa to maximize your Zante party experience.

Laganas: The Undisputed King of Party Resorts

If you've heard anything about Zante's nightlife, you've heard about Laganas. This is where the magic happens, and for good reason—it's home to the legendary Zante Strip, the beating heart of the island's party scene.

Why Laganas is the Ultimate Party Base

The Strip is Your Playground

The Zante Strip (officially called Laganas Main Road, but everyone just calls it "The Strip") stretches for nearly 2 kilometers and is packed with over 100 bars, clubs, and late-night eateries. We're talking about an unbroken line of party venues, from classic club anthems at Rescue Club to sunset vibes at Cherry Bay Beach Club, and everything in between.

When you stay in Laganas, you're never more than a 10-minute walk from the main action. Most accommodations are even closer—many hotels are literally on the Strip itself, meaning you can stumble back to your room in under 5 minutes when the sun comes up.

Major Venues at Your Doorstep

Laganas isn't just about quantity; it's about quality too. The area is home to Zante's biggest and best clubs:

• Rescue Club - The island's biggest nightclub with 2,000 capacity, three massive rooms, and six bars. Operating since 2001, it regularly features international DJs

• Cherry Bay - Zante's most legendary nightclub since 1994, welcoming over 100,000 visitors every summer. Home to the famous Cherry Bay Weekender that runs until 8AM. Entry is €10 with a free drink included

• Pure Beach Club - Home to Zante's two biggest weekly events: ABODE every Thursday (6:30 PM - 10:30 PM) and Champagne Spray every Friday (6:00 PM - 10:00 PM)

• Zeros - One of Zante's biggest clubs since 1990, holding over 1,000 people with world-class flair bartenders, fire breathers, and massive weekly events

• IKON Club - Premium venue at the entrance of Laganas Strip hosting Nathan Dawe LIVE every Monday, plus Tom Zanetti and other celebrity events

• Cocktails & Dreams - Iconic bar featured in multiple Zante documentaries

The Zante Strip runs for approximately 1-2 kilometers through central Laganas, and all these major venues are walkable from anywhere in the area. No waiting for taxis, no designated drivers needed, no stress about getting home. You're in complete control of your night.

24-Hour Party Atmosphere

Here's what separates Laganas from everywhere else: it never really sleeps. While other resorts wind down after midnight, Laganas is just getting started. Clubs stay open until 6am or later, and you'll find 24-hour gyros shops, late-night pizza joints, and even beach parties that run straight through sunrise.

This isn't just convenient—it's what creates that special Zante energy. When everyone around you is on the same page, committed to making the most of every moment, the whole experience elevates.

Zero Taxi Costs for Nightlife

Let's talk money. If you stay outside Laganas, you're looking at €15-25 each way for taxis to the main clubs. That's €30-50 per night, per group. Over a week-long holiday, a group of 6 could easily spend €500+ on transport alone.

Stay in Laganas and that money stays in your pocket (or more likely, goes towards drinks and event wristbands). Walking everywhere also means complete flexibility—leave when you want, move between venues spontaneously, and never worry about finding a cab at 4am when everyone else is trying to do the same.

Laganas Accommodation Options

Location Zones Within Laganas

Not all Laganas accommodation is created equal. Think of it in three zones:

1. On the Strip (Prime location) - Literally on or right off the main road. Maximum noise, maximum convenience. Perfect if you want to be in the absolute center of everything and don't mind street noise.

2. 5-Minute Walk (Sweet spot) - One or two streets back from the Strip. You get quiet during the day for recovery, but you're still close enough to walk to clubs in minutes. This is our recommended zone for most groups.

3. Outer Laganas (10-15 minute walk) - Closer to Laganas Beach or the quieter edges of town. Noticeably more peaceful, better for mixed groups or people who value sleep, but still closer than any other resort to the action.

Hotels vs Apartments vs Villas

Your accommodation type matters in Laganas:

• Hotels are perfect for groups who want minimal fuss. Many are party-friendly, with pool bars and social atmospheres. Some even run their own pre-drinking sessions and club reps.

• Apartments offer more space and kitchen facilities (great for budget-conscious groups who want to save on breakfast). You'll have more independence but less social interaction with other travelers.

• Villas work well for larger groups (8+) who want their own pool and private space. You'll save money per person but will be slightly further from the Strip—most villas are in the outer Laganas zone.

Budget Expectations

Laganas accommodation runs the full spectrum:

• Budget hotels/apartments: €20-35 per person per night

• Mid-range hotels: €35-60 per person per night

• Premium hotels/villas: €60-100+ per person per night

Remember, paying slightly more for a central location saves you money on taxis and gives you more time actually partying instead of traveling.

The Honest Laganas Drawbacks

We're not going to sugarcoat it—Laganas has some downsides:

It's Loud - If you're in a prime location, expect noise. Street performers, club music, and drunk people singing at 5am are part of the package. If you need silence to sleep, book further from the Strip or consider whether a party holiday is really for you.

The Beach Isn't Premium - Laganas Beach is long and sandy, but it's not the prettiest on the island. The water can be a bit murky, and it gets crowded in peak season. If Instagram-worthy beaches are your priority, you might prefer Argassi's beaches or day trips to spots like Navagio Beach.

Quieter Outside Peak Season - Visit in May or September and the vibe is noticeably more subdued. Some venues aren't open yet or have already closed. For the full Laganas experience, aim for late June through August.

But here's the thing: if you're booking a party holiday in Zante, these "drawbacks" are features, not bugs. You came to party, not to sleep in silence or find the perfect beach (though there are plenty nearby for day trips).

Argassi: The Alternative Party Base

If Laganas is too intense or you want something slightly different, Argassi deserves serious consideration. It's Zante's second party resort, offering a more compact nightlife scene with some distinct advantages.

Why Argassi Works for Party Holidays

Growing Nightlife Scene

Argassi's main strip (much smaller than Laganas, running about 500 meters) has evolved significantly in recent years. You'll find a solid selection of bars and clubs, including some big-name venues and regular DJ events. While it can't match Laganas for sheer volume, there's enough here to keep you entertained most nights.

The atmosphere is less overwhelming than Laganas—it's lively and fun without the full-on chaos. This makes it ideal if you want nightlife but also value being able to have a conversation at your hotel pool.

Closer to Zante Town

Argassi is only 4km from Zante Town (the island's capital), which has its own thriving nightlife scene popular with locals and Greek tourists. A €10-15 taxi gets you there in 10 minutes. Zante Town offers a different vibe entirely—more sophisticated cocktail bars, Greek music venues, and the famous Bochali area with its hilltop views.

This proximity gives you options. Tired of the British party scene? Head to town for authentic Greek nightlife. Want the best of both worlds? Start in Argassi and finish in Zante Town.

Better Beach Quality

This is where Argassi genuinely beats Laganas. The beaches here (particularly Argassi Beach and nearby Porto Zoro) have clearer water and are generally more attractive. If your group actually plans to spend daytime hours on the beach rather than sleeping off hangovers, this matters.

The Balanced Approach

Argassi is the compromise choice for groups with mixed priorities. Maybe some people want all-night ragers while others want to actually enjoy Zante's natural beauty. Argassi lets you do both without either experience feeling too compromised.

The Argassi Downsides for Party Groups

You'll Need Taxis to Laganas

Here's the reality: most of the big events—ABODE at Pure Beach Club every Thursday, Champagne Spray every Friday, Nathan Dawe LIVE at IKON every Monday, the major boat parties—happen in or depart from Laganas. From Argassi, that's a 15-20 minute taxi ride costing €15-20 each way.

For occasional trips this is fine, but if you're planning to attend multiple events per week, those costs add up quickly. You're also dependent on taxi availability, which can be challenging at peak times.

Smaller Venue Selection

While Argassi has enough bars to keep things interesting, you'll likely find yourself in the same places repeatedly. Laganas offers variety—if you don't like one club, there are literally 20 others within walking distance. In Argassi, your options are more limited.

Less Late-Night Infrastructure

Argassi winds down earlier than Laganas. You'll find late-night food, but the 24-hour energy isn't quite the same. By 4am, things are noticeably quieter.

Best For

Argassi works brilliantly for:

• Groups who want nightlife but also value beach quality and daytime activities

• People who've "done" Laganas before and want something different

• Mixed groups where some people are less committed to all-night partying

• Those who want to experience both resort nightlife and authentic Greek nightlife in Zante Town

Zante Town: For the Adventurous

Zante Town (also called Zakynthos Town) isn't typically recommended for party holidays, but it deserves a mention for repeat visitors or those seeking something completely different.

The Zante Town Experience

Authentic Greek Nightlife

Zante Town is where locals and Greek tourists party. You'll find sophisticated cocktail bars along the waterfront, bouzouki clubs playing Greek music, and a completely different atmosphere than the British-dominated resort areas.

The Bochali area, perched on a hill above the town, offers stunning sunset views and upscale bars with a more mature crowd. It's a world away from Laganas shots and drinking games.

Cultural Appeal

Beyond nightlife, Zante Town has actual culture. Museums, historic churches, the Byzantine Museum, proper restaurants (not just English breakfasts and kebabs), and genuine Greek character. If you're interested in Zante beyond the party scene, this is the place.

Why It's Not Ideal for Party Holidays

Distance from the Action

The big events, the famous clubs, the boat parties—they're all in Laganas. From Zante Town, that's a 20-minute, €20-25 taxi ride. You're looking at €40-50 per night just to access the main party scene.

Different Demographic

Zante Town attracts older tourists, couples, and Greek families. You won't find the concentrated 18-25 party crowd that creates the special Zante energy. If you're traveling solo or as a small group, you might feel a bit isolated.

Fewer English-Speaking Venues

Many bars and clubs in Zante Town cater to Greeks. Staff speak English, but the music, atmosphere, and crowd are distinctly local. This is fantastic if you want authentic Greece, but less ideal if you want the full "Zante party holiday" experience.

Who Should Consider It

Zante Town works for:

• Repeat visitors who've experienced Laganas multiple times

• Mature travelers (25+) who want nightlife without the party resort vibe

• People genuinely interested in Greek culture and local experiences

• Those with rental cars who don't mind driving to different areas

For first-time Zante party holidays? Give it a miss and stick to Laganas or Argassi.

Areas to Avoid for Party Holidays

Let's be clear: these are lovely parts of Zante. They're just completely wrong for party holidays.

Kalamaki: The Family Resort

Kalamaki sits right next to Laganas—you can literally see the Strip from parts of Kalamaki—but the vibe couldn't be more different.

Why It Doesn't Work

Kalamaki is deliberately quiet and family-focused. The restaurants close early, there's minimal nightlife, and the whole atmosphere is geared toward couples and families with young children.

"But it's only a 20-30 minute walk to Laganas!" Sure, but that walk feels much longer at 3am after a full night out. And in summer heat, even a 20-minute walk is genuinely unpleasant. You'll end up getting taxis anyway, spending the money you thought you'd save on accommodation.

Kalamaki also has a residential feel. Locals live here year-round, and they're not thrilled about drunk tourists stumbling through at 5am. The last thing you want is conflict with locals or hotel staff telling you to keep it down.

When Kalamaki Makes Sense

If you're a couple within a larger group and want to escape the chaos, or if you're on an absolute shoestring budget and don't mind the walk, Kalamaki has cheaper accommodation and nicer beaches than Laganas. Just know you're sacrificing

convenience.

Tsilivi: Too Far North

Tsilivi is Zante's other major resort, located on the north coast about 30 minutes from Laganas.

The Wrong Demographic

Tsilivi caters to an older crowd—think 30s-50s, couples, and families. The nightlife exists but it's tame. We're talking quiet bars with acoustic music, not 3am club sessions.

Distance Kills the Vibe

Getting to Laganas from Tsilivi requires a 30-40 minute taxi costing €35-45 each way. For multiple nights out, this becomes financially ridiculous. You'd literally be better off booking Laganas and paying extra for accommodation.

The journey also breaks up your night. You can't spontaneously decide to head out, bounce between venues, or stay out until you feel like leaving. Everything requires planning and coordination.

Beautiful But Wrong

Tsilivi is genuinely lovely—great beaches, nice restaurants, pleasant atmosphere. It's just completely inappropriate for party holidays. Save it for when you're 35 and traveling with your kids.

Vasilikos Peninsula: Stunning Isolation

The Vasilikos Peninsula (east coast) has some of Zante's most beautiful beaches, including Porto Roma and Gerakas (a protected turtle nesting site).

Paradise for the Wrong Holiday

If you want peaceful nature, pristine beaches, and relaxation, Vasilikos is heaven. For party holidays, it's a disaster.

There is zero nightlife. The area is deliberately low-key to protect the turtle population and maintain a peaceful atmosphere. The nearest party venue is 40+ minutes away.

Requires a Car

Vasilikos is spread out and poorly served by taxis. You essentially need a rental car, which adds cost and complexity (and removes your ability to drink and travel freely).

Save It for Next Time

Vasilikos is perfect for romantic getaways, family holidays, or when you're 30 and want peaceful Zante. Not for party holidays.

Practical Location Considerations

Beyond the vibe and nightlife, some practical factors should influence your decision.

Transport and Timing

Airport Transfers

Laganas is 8km from Zante airport—about a 15-minute transfer. Most arrivals happen during the day, so this is straightforward and costs around €15-20 for a taxi (or it's included in most package holidays).

Argassi is similar distance, roughly 10-12 minutes from the airport.

Zante Town is closest (5 minutes) but Tsilivi and Vasilikos add 30+ minutes to your journey.

Getting Around the Island

If you're planning day trips to beaches or want to explore beyond your resort, consider:

• Laganas and Argassi have regular taxi services and are hubs for organized tours

• Laganas is central for boat trips to Marathonisi Island and Keri Caves

• Both resorts offer easy access to most of Zante's attractions

Late Night Safety

Walking in Laganas at 4am is completely normal and safe—there's always people around. The area is well-lit and regularly patrolled.

Argassi is similar on a smaller scale, though quieter streets late at night.

Walking from Kalamaki to Laganas at 3am? Less ideal. The main road is fine but parts of the walk are dark and isolated.

Budget Impact by Location

Your resort choice has a ripple effect on your overall holiday budget.

Accommodation Costs

• Laganas: Mid-range (€35-50 per person/night average)

• Argassi: Slightly cheaper (€30-45 per person/night average)

• Kalamaki: Cheapest (€25-40 per person/night average)

• Tsilivi: Mid-range (€35-50 per person/night average)

Transport Costs

Here's where Laganas wins financially:

Weekly Transport Costs (7 nights, going out 6 nights):

• Laganas: €0 (everything walkable)

• Argassi to Laganas: €180-240 in taxis (if attending Laganas events)

• Kalamaki to Laganas: €120-180 in taxis

• Tsilivi to Laganas: €420-540 in taxis

Even if you save €10/night on accommodation in Kalamaki, you'll spend €120+ extra on taxis. The math strongly favors Laganas.

Food and Drink Variations

Prices are fairly consistent across resorts, though Laganas offers more budget options (kebab shops, gyros stands) for late-night food. You'll also find better happy hour deals due to competition between venues.

Group Dynamics and Priorities

Mixed Groups

If your group has varying priorities, location becomes crucial:

• All party, all the time? Laganas is non-negotiable

• Mix of party people and beach lovers? Argassi or outer Laganas

• Couples within a group? Consider villas in outer Laganas where couples can have space

• Solo travelers joining groups? Central Laganas maximizes your chance to meet others

The Accommodation Split Dilemma

Some groups try to split accommodation—party animals in Laganas, others elsewhere. This almost never works well. You end up separated, coordination becomes difficult, and the group dynamic suffers. Better to find one location that accommodates everyone's priorities.

Seasonal Considerations

Peak Season (July-August)

• Laganas is absolutely rammed—book accommodation early for prime locations

• Argassi is busy but less overwhelming

• All venues are fully operational

• Maximum energy and atmosphere

Shoulder Season (June, September)

• Early June and late September are quieter but still decent in Laganas

• Some venues have reduced schedules or aren't open yet/anymore

• Accommodation is cheaper and more available

• Weather is still excellent

Off-Season (May, October)

• Laganas is noticeably quiet—many venues closed

• Only consider if you've got a strong reason (cheaper prices, quieter vibe)

• Not recommended for first-time party holidays

Our Expert Recommendations

After 15+ years organizing Zante party holidays, here's our definitive breakdown:

First-Time Party Holiday

Choose: Central Laganas (5-minute walk from the Strip)

Why: You're here for the full Zante experience. Don't compromise with distant locations or alternative resorts. Book somewhere within easy walking distance of major venues like Rescue Club, Cherry Bay, and IKON and you'll have the perfect base.

Focus on the zone one or two streets back from the Strip itself—close enough for convenience, far enough for some recovery sleep.

Budget-Conscious Groups

Choose: Laganas (any zone)

Why: Walking everywhere saves massive money on taxis. Even if accommodation is slightly more expensive than Kalamaki, you'll save overall. Consider outer Laganas for the best value while staying accessible.

Look at our early bird packages for additional savings on event tickets and wristbands.

Want Beach AND Parties

Choose: Argassi or outer Laganas near the beach

Why: Argassi offers better beaches with decent nightlife. Outer Laganas near Laganas Beach gives you easy beach access while keeping you close to the Strip.

You can also base in Laganas and do beach day trips to Cameo Island, Porto Zoro, or other stunning spots around the island.

Mixed Group Priorities

Choose: Outer Laganas with villa or apartment

Why: A private villa gives party-weary members escape options while keeping the group together. You're still close enough to walk to clubs but have your own space and pool for recovery days.

This works especially well for groups of 8+ where 2-3 people might not be as committed to every night out.

Repeat Visitors

Choose: Argassi for a different experience

Why: You've done Laganas. Argassi offers a fresh perspective while still delivering nightlife. You can still taxi to Laganas for the big events like ABODE every Thursday, Champagne Spray every Friday, or Nathan Dawe LIVE every Monday, but your base has a different energy.

Consider Zante Town if you're genuinely ready for something completely different, but only if you've experienced the classic party scene first.

Solo Travelers

Choose: Central Laganas in a party-focused hotel

Why: You'll meet other solo travelers and groups in the social areas. The central location means you're never isolated and can easily join other groups' nights out. Several hotels in Laganas specifically cater to party groups and have social atmospheres perfect for solo travelers.

Booking Timing Strategy

Book Early for Laganas Prime Locations

The best hotels within 5 minutes of the Strip sell out fast, especially for July and August. Book 6-9 months ahead to secure prime spots at reasonable prices.

Last-minute bookings often mean settling for outer Laganas or inferior hotels, which defeats the purpose.

Package Advantages

Consider complete packages including flights, accommodation, and event wristbands. These often work out cheaper than booking separately and guarantee you don't miss key events.

We offer packages specifically designed around optimal Laganas locations and include tickets to headline events like ABODE every Thursday, Champagne Spray every Friday, Tidal Boat Party, and access to venues like Cherry Bay and Rescue Club.

Final Verdict: Location Makes Your Holiday

Where you stay in Zante genuinely makes or breaks your party holiday experience. You can have the best group of friends, perfect weather, and all the energy in the world, but if you're spending 30% of your budget on taxis and losing hours to transport, you're not maximizing your Zante experience.

For 90% of party holidays, Laganas is the answer. It's purpose-built for exactly what you're trying to do: party hard, meet people, and make memories. The convenience factor alone—walking everywhere, complete flexibility, 24-hour atmosphere—makes it the obvious choice.

Argassi works brilliantly as an alternative if you've got specific reasons (better beaches, different vibe, been to Laganas before), but even then, you'll probably end up in Laganas for the big nights anyway.

Everything else? Save it for a different type of holiday. Kalamaki, Tsilivi, and Vasilikos are lovely. They're just not party holiday destinations.

The good news is that Zante delivers no matter what you're looking for. Choose your location strategically based on your actual priorities, book early to secure the best spots, and you'll set yourself up for an incredible holiday.

We've been helping groups plan their perfect Zante party holidays for over 15 years, with deep local knowledge of every resort, venue, and hotel. Browse our event packages and wristbands, check out our guides to Zante's best clubs, and start planning the ultimate party holiday.

Your Zante adventure starts with choosing the right base. Now you know exactly where that is.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which area of Zante has the best nightlife?

Laganas has the best nightlife in Zante by far. The Zante Strip in Laganas features over 100 bars and clubs including major venues like Rescue Club, Cherry Bay, and Zeros. Everything is within walking distance and the area stays open until 6am or later. Argassi is the second-best option with a smaller but still lively nightlife scene.

Is Laganas good for party holidays?

Yes, Laganas is specifically designed for party holidays and is internationally known as one of Europe's premier party destinations. It offers the highest concentration of clubs and bars, 24-hour atmosphere, walking distance to all venues, and hosts all of Zante's major events like ABODE every Thursday at Pure Beach Club, Champagne Spray every Friday, and Nathan Dawe LIVE every Monday at IKON Club.

How far is Argassi from Laganas clubs?

Argassi is approximately 15-20 minutes from Laganas by taxi, costing around €15-20 each way. While you can base yourself in Argassi and visit Laganas for big nights out, the taxi costs add up quickly if you're going to Laganas multiple times per week.

Should I stay in Zante Town for nightlife?

Zante Town is not recommended for party holidays. While it has its own nightlife scene popular with locals, it's 20 minutes from Laganas where all the major party venues and events are located. Zante Town suits mature travelers interested in authentic Greek nightlife rather than the classic Zante party experience.

What's the best location to book a hotel in Zante for partying?

The best location is central Laganas, specifically within a 5-10 minute walk of the Zante Strip. This gives you immediate access to all clubs and bars, eliminates taxi costs, and puts you in the heart of the action while still allowing for some recovery sleep away from the loudest street noise.

Is Kalamaki close enough to Laganas for party holidays?

While Kalamaki is next to Laganas (20-30 minute walk), it's not ideal for party holidays. The walk feels much longer at 3am after a night out, and you'll likely end up paying for taxis anyway. Kalamaki is deliberately quiet and family-focused, creating a conflict between the local atmosphere and party holiday needs.

When is the best time to visit Laganas for the party atmosphere?

Peak season (July and August) offers the maximum party atmosphere with all venues operating at full capacity. Late June and early September are also excellent with slightly fewer crowds but still vibrant nightlife. May and October are significantly quieter with many venues closed or operating on reduced schedules.