Is Zante Safe? A Guide for Young Tourists Visiting Laganas

When planning a trip to Zante (Zakynthos), particularly to the vibrant resort town of Laganas, safety is naturally a top concern for young travellers and their families. As one of Greece's most popular party destinations for the 17-22 age group, Laganas offers an exciting holiday experience, but it's important to understand the safety landscape.

Laganas Safety Overview for Young Travelers

Laganas is generally considered safe for tourists, including those in the 17-22 age bracket. Greece as a whole maintains a low crime rate compared to many other European destinations, and violent crime against tourists is rare. However, like any busy resort area, there are specific considerations young visitors should be aware of.

Common Safety Concerns in Laganas

Nightlife Safety

Laganas is famous for its lively strip of bars and clubs, making it a magnet for young travelers seeking vibrant nightlife. While generally safe, there are some precautions worth taking:

• Travel in groups rather than alone, especially late at night

• Watch your drinks being prepared and never leave them unattended

• Set spending limits to avoid carrying excess cash

• Be cautious with alcohol consumption, as excessive drinking is the primary factor in most tourist incidents

Road Safety

Many young visitors rent scooters or quad bikes to explore the island. This comes with significant risks:

• Greek roads can be challenging, with winding coastal sections and varying quality

• Helmet laws exist but are sometimes ignored by tourists, leading to serious injuries

• Rental companies may not always check if you have appropriate licenses or experience

• Traffic accidents remain the most common serious safety issue for tourists in this age group

Beach and Water Safety

Laganas beach is famous for its golden sand and turtle population. Water safety is generally good, but:

• Pay attention to flag systems and warning signs

• Be aware that certain areas are protected for loggerhead turtle conservation

• Boat parties are popular but ensure operators follow safety protocols

Health Considerations

Medical facilities in Zante are adequate for minor ailments but limited for serious emergencies:

• Always have comprehensive travel insurance that covers adventure activities

• The island has a hospital in Zakynthos Town, about 15 minutes from Laganas

• Pharmacies are widely available for minor health issues

• Dehydration is common among young tourists due to heat, alcohol, and insufficient water intake

Practical Safety Tips for Young Travelers

• Keep digital and physical copies of important documents

• Share accommodation details and itinerary with family back home

• Use reputable tour operators for excursions

• Be respectful of local customs and laws

• Stay hydrated, especially when consuming alcohol

The Bottom Line: Is Laganas Safe for 17-22 Year Olds?

Laganas can provide a safe and memorable holiday experience for young travellers with the right precautions. The vast majority of visitors encounter no serious problems. The key safety concerns stem primarily from risky behaviours rather than external threats.

The resort area has adapted to cater to young tourists, with many businesses and authorities understanding the needs and typical behaviours of this age group. This has led to improved safety measures in recent years, particularly around nightlife venues.

For parents concerned about sending younger travellers to Laganas, consider that many tour operators offer specialised packages for this demographic with additional support and supervision.

With reasonable caution, awareness of surroundings, and smart decision-making, Zante's Laganas resort remains one of Europe's most accessible and relatively safe party destinations for young travellers seeking sun, sea, and vibrant nightlife.