Zante Plaza Hotel & Apartments

This hotel consists of three apartment-style buildings set on a quiet road in Laganas. Pretty stone stairways and charming balconies with wrought-iron railings set off the cream-colored buildings, which are framed by various shrubs, palm trees, and potted plants. Decorated in warm, inviting shades of cream and chocolate brown, the small modern lobby is flooded with natural light from large windows and generous doorways leading out to the pool area. Sofas and armchairs are clustered around a flat-screen TV near the large reception desk, opposite a cheerful black-and-white bar lit by a few hanging round lamps. A massage chair sits against one wall, and another portion of wall contains tour and travel information, as well as local maps.

Ideal for travelers keen on fully experiencing busy Laganas, the Zante Plaza Hotel is just a five-minute walk from both the beach and the main strip. The town's wide variety of restaurants and shops, as well as bars and nightlife make Laganas especially popular with younger international travelers from spring through fall. Located on the main street but tucked far enough back to help limit noise, this property puts most activities and attractions within easy walking distance. Guests wanting to explore more of the island can use the local buses (100 meters away) or taxis (500 meters away); the town of Zante, the main port, and Zakynthos International Airport are all within about a 15-minute drive.

The hotel offers Superior Twin/Double and Family rooms, as well as larger Studios and One-Bedroom Apartments that include small kitchenettes with counter space, tableware, and sinks. All are simple and basic, decorated with blonde wood furniture and neutral tones, accented with orange or green. Bathrooms have neutral brown or gray tiles and shower/tub combos. Some rooms were remodeled in 2010, so have a more modern look (including larger bathtubs), but others may be in need of updates or repairs. All rooms include free Wi-Fi and free parking, as well as balconies or patios, flat-screen TVs, coffeemakers, and air-conditioning (for an additional fee). All have mini-fridges, except for Superior Twin/Double rooms. Studios can sleep four adults; apartments have two adjoining rooms; and Superior Family rooms offer space for up to five adults.

Although this smaller property doesn't offer as many on-site amenities as some of the larger resort-style hotels in the Laganas area, the Zante Plaza Hotel & Apartments offers thoughtful features. The highlight of this family-owned property is its convenient location -- guests are close to the beach and nearby shops and restaurants. The hotel also has an on-site restaurant serving a buffet of Greek and continental cuisine, with much produce sourced from its own nearby farm. The lovely, palm tree-shaded pool and patio area has royal blue lounge chairs with white umbrellas; there is also a separate quiet pool and whirlpool. A poolside snack bar offers patio dining at colorful tables. Beauty treatments and massages are available in the small sunny spa, and the hotel hosts various activities and event nights -- like karaoke, bingo, and Greek night. All-inclusive guests also have free access to dining at the hotel's sister property in Kalamaki, the Klelia Beach Hotel. A small on-site gift shop sells snacks and travel necessities.