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Zacatecas

Zacatecas, the capital of the state of the same name, is a city of 138,000 people (2020) in the Bajío region of Mexico. The town offers a rich travel experience with its historical downtown centro full of colonial architecture, 17th century churches, innovative restaurants and lively night clubs. Zacatecas is a.

Understand
Located in north-central Mexico, Zacatecas had its start as a Spanish mining camp in the mid-16th century, although Native Americans had already known about the area's rich deposits of silver and other minerals the rich deposits of silver and lead were discovered by the Spanish in the 1540s. Due to the wealth that the mines provided, Zacatecas quickly became one of the most important mining cities in New Spain. The area saw battles during the turbulent 19th century, and the city was held by the colonists during the Mexican War of Independence. It was also the site of a major battle known as the Battle of Zacatecas during the Mexican Revolution when Pancho Villa captured the town, an event still celebrated every anniversary. Today, the colonial part of the city is well preserved with a number of historic buildings. It is a World Heritage Site, due to the baroque churches and other structures built during its mining days. Mining remains an important industry.

The name Zacatecas is derived from the Zacateco people and has its roots in Nahuatl. The name means "people of the grasslands". In the pre-Colombian era, the area was inhabited several groups who were known collectively as the Chichimeca. These groups included Caxcans, Guachichils, Guamares, Huichols, and Zacatecos.

The climate is semi-arid with desert conditions in the nearby mountainous areas.

By car
You can check for shared rides on Blablacar, especially when coming from San Luis Potosi, León, Guadalajara or Aguascalientes. As of 2024, due to cartel violence in the region, you should avoid traveling to Zacatecas from Guadalajara/Jalisco and Durango by private vehicle (busses are fine).

Get around
Walking is probably the best way to get around the Centro Historico (Historic Downtown) which is relatively small. It will allow you to see the city at your own pace. The Centro is about 8000 feet (2400 meters) while surrounding portions of the city are much higher. Be sure that you are acclimated to the altitude.

If you get tired, take a taxi cab. They are moderately priced and available all over the city. Just make sure you ask in advance to the taxi driver how much he will charge you (Cuanto cuesta ir a 'Insert place'?). As most prices in Mexico, taxi fares are open to negotiation and asking in advance should give you a better negotiating position. The ride-hailing services Uber and Didi are also readily available.

There is also the Maxibus, which will drive you around the city to show you the interesting sites. It costs M$100 (pesos) for adults and M$80 for minors (as of 2023), lasts about 45 minutes and leaves from the Plaza de Armas.

Centro Historico
Nearly all of the city center buildings are nineteenth century or older; the topography and irregular street pattern (most streets are too steep and narrow for vehicles; many have steps in them) almost make one think of a medieval city like Toledo, Spain. The city, built on the site where silver was discovered in the 1530s, is crammed into a narrow canyon, with houses and churches perched on its nearly vertical walls.

The whole town is a museum; there are three seventeenth or eighteenth century ex-monasteries near the center, several other churches from the colonial era scattered here and there, and at least half a dozen other museums, nearly all worth visiting. Houses and streets, all of which built in colonial times are worth seeing on their own.

La Bufa
The Cerro de la Bufa, a mountain with a very distinctive shape, is in the center of the city and, along with the cathedral, is the city's most recognizable landmark. The best way to get to the top is using the Teleferico (Cable Car) which takes you from the Cerro del Grillo (Cricket’s Hill) to the top of La Bufa. Once at the top of la Bufa, you can enjoy some of the best views the city has to offer, and don’t forget to visit:

Festivals
Zacatecas is a city that loves to celebrate and you'll find a number of cultural festivals taking over the city streets throughout the year.

 * Festival Cultural de Zacatecas happens every year during the week before Easter Sunday (known as Semana Santa). This is a huge event with more than 100 attractions including popular music concerts every night. Some concerts may be regional Mexican music while others may include rock, pop, rap, and reggaeton. There are cultural shows and kid-friendly events as well as carnival rides, midway games, and plenty of food and drink.

 * Feria Nacional de Zacatecas happens throughout the month of September with events taking place at the foot of Cerro de la Bufa. Events include livestock exhibitions, bullfighting, charreadas, concerts, a craft fair and an auto show. This is a huge event that attracts about 2 million visitors to the city each September. The main concert hall is an intimate venue seating just 5,000 fans despite hosting some of the biggest stars in latin music.

 * Festival Zacatecas del Folclor Internacional celebrates historical and indigenous cultural traditions. It happens the first week of August.

 * Morismas de Bracho is a re-enactment of the decapitation of John the Baptist and the Christian battles against the Moors. About 5,000 costumed players take part in the event, which focuses on the roles of Charlemagne, Mohamed and John the Baptist. The re-enactment takes place in El Bracho Park.

Buy
Sitting atop one of the foremost silver-producing regions in the word, Zacatecas is obviously a great place to buy silver. For traditional crafts, seek out pitiado, in which leather artifacts are beautifully hand-embroidered in complicated designs using pita thread.

Eat
Zacatecas is blessed with some outstanding restaurants serving a wide range of traditional Mexican dishes, including regional variations that an epicurious traveler will seek out since they are rarely cooked in other regions, let alone outside Mexico. The most famous local dish is asado de boda, a type of mole with an orange flavor. Asado de boda can be served over various types of meat, but chicken is most common. The state of Jalisco is most famous for birria, a delicious stew that's typically made with lamb, though in Zacatecas, it's made with goat and is called birria de chivo. Birrieria Don Polo serves some of the city's best birria de chivo.

Drink
Mezcal (tequila is a variety of mezcal): Zacatecano and Huitzila are some traditional local brands. Avoid anything that doesn't say 100% agave (that includes Cuervo Gold).

Bars
There are many bars along the streets near the Jardín Juárez, including outdoor seating at various watering holes lining the Plazuela Miguel Auza.

Stay safe
As of 2024, despite blanket warnings about Zacatecas State from the U.S. and Canadian governments, Zacatecas city is safe for tourists. Some other towns and villages in the state of Zacatecas are not, however. Driving in a private vehicle between Zacatecas city and the states of Jalisco or Durango should generally be avoided – tourists have been murdered on rural Zacatecan highways. This does not apply to busses – traveling by bus in any direction across the state is safe.

Connect
Telcel provides 4G coverage throughout the city. As of 2024, 5G has not yet reached Zacatecas.

Due to the age and construction of most of the buildings in the city, wifi coverage can be spotty in hotels unless the proprietor has put significant effort into boosting the signal.

Go next

 * Aguascalientes
 * San Luis Potosi
 * León
 * Guadalajara

title: Zacatecas


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Zacatecas (state)

Zacatecas is a state in the Bajío region of Mexico. The state is best known for its rich deposits of silver and other minerals, its colonial architecture and its importance during the Mexican Revolution. Its main economic activities are mining, agriculture and tourism.

Cities

 * — a colonial silver-mining city nestled in a gorge, the capital of the state
 * — the center of a rich mining area known especially for silver
 * — one of the Mexico's Pueblos Mágicos due to its architectural wealth
 * — a colonial-style city, modeled by the French in the 19th century
 * — a provincial colonial town situated on a basin
 * — known for the beautiful architecture of its town square and as a city where music always plays
 * — like all the mining towns, its filled with spectacular churches and plazas, but Pinos diferentiates itself with its celebrations of popular culture, like the dances of Matachines and Feathers
 * — a quiet town that gives a real sense of "old Mexico"
 * — charming colonial style town where mezcal is made and loved, one of Mexico's Pueblos Mágicos

Other destinations

 * — scenic park with hundreds of unusual rock formations, on the border with the state of Durango

Itineraries

 * Camino Real de Tierra Adentro is a historic route through Northern Mexico and the southwestern U.S. state of New Mexico. The route is a.

Understand
The name Zacatecas is derived from Nahuatl and means "where there is abundant zacate (grass)".

The state has three main geographical regions, the Sierra Madre Occidental in the west, the Mexican Plateau and the Sierra Madre Oriental. Most of it is in the Sierra Madre Occidental with highly rugged peaks of over 2,500 meters above sea level. The mountains of the southeast and northeast are lower but there are large valleys such as the Juchipila and Tlaltenango. Most of the territory has only small mesas and other areas of flat land. In the center of the state there is a small mountain chain called the Sierra de Fresnillo, from which much of the state's mineral wealth comes. In the extreme northwest there is another important mountain chain called the Sierra de Sombrerete, marked by a mountain called Sombreretillo, which is an important source of mineral wealth. Near this chain is another called the Sierra de Órganos.

Tourism includes the capital along with the designation of "Pueblos Mágicos" such as Jerez, Teul de Gonzalez Ortega and Sombrerete, along with the shrine of the Santo Niño de Atocha, which is visited by thousands every year. It also includes archeological sites such as Alta Vista and La Quemada along with thermal springs such as Paraíso Caxcan.

Climate
Most of the territory has a cool, dry climate, although areas in the south have more moisture, with most rain falling between June and September. The driest and coldest areas are in the northeast, known as the Salado because of its saltwater lakes. 75% of the state is arid or semi-arid. The coldest months are from November to January, with frost not uncommon. The warmest month is June. The state gets an average rainfall of 400 mm per year mostly in the summer, with the warmest and wettest part of the state is along the Sierra Madre Occidental.

Get in
There is an international airport in the capital, which has national and international service with national flights to Tijuana and international flights to Chicago-Midway. and Los Angeles.

The main routes that cross the state are: Federal Highway 23 Fresnillo - Chapala; Federal Highway 25 Aguascalientes - Loreto; Federal Highway 44 Fresnillo - Valparaíso; and Federal Highway 54 Saltillo - Zacatecas.

Get around
Because of the security situation, foreigners should consider staying in the capital and not driving around the countryside.

See
The state of Zacatecas has six Magic Towns: Jerez de García Salinas, Teúl de González Ortega, Sombrerete, Pinos, Nochistlán de Mejía, and Guadalupe.

Archeological sites
Altavista is 229 km northwest of the city of Zacatecas. It was a ceremonial center, part of the Chalchihuite culture, active between 200 and 1000 CE. It Its main building is called the Labyrinth.

La Quemada is 50 km south of the city of Zacatecas, the state's largest pre-Hispanic settlement. It developed between 500 and 900 CE and covered an area of over 70,000 m² at its height. Its name, which means "the burnt", comes from evidence that the city was burned and abandoned. Who occupied the city is not known, with speculation relating to Teotihuacan, the Purépecha and the Toltecs.

El Teúl is on a large hill overlooking the modern town of Teúl de González Ortega (municipality). The name comes from Nahuatl and means "of the gods". It was a ceremonial center, with residences located north of it. The site is noted for its pit burials as well as the oldest copper smelting facility in Mesoamerica. It was inhabited from 200 CE to 1531, when the Spanish destroyed it. It is one of several religious and population centers created by the Caxcans, who were semi nomadic, along with others in Tlaltenango, Juchipila and Teocaltiche.

Do
Sierra de Órganos National Park has several steep elevations and capricious rock formations originated by various climatic and geological factors, with a shape similar to that of cacti or that of the pipes of those musical instruments from which it takes its name. It is a refuge for some endemic animal species in the region and others in danger of extinction. It is a popular place for the practice of extreme sports such as cycling, hiking and also for the scenic beauty of its landscapes

Festivals
Most of the state's festivities are in honor of local patron saints and many of the secular festivals have links to religious ones. Such festivals often focus on recitals of traditional dances such as the Mexicapan. Many of these are derived from waltzes and polkas because of the state's mining history.

In the state capital, September 8 is dedicated to the Virgen del Patrocinio on the Cerro de la Bufa, with various cultural and artistic events such as bullfighting, concerts, horse racing and culinary demonstrations. The last week of August is dedicated to the Morismas de Bracho, a theatrical production of the struggle between Moors and Christians.

It hosts the International Folklore Festival in August, featuring dance and costumes from around the world. It is held during Holy Week, and features music, food, street performances, dancing and parties.

Other major festivals include the Festival Cultural Zacatecas, the Feria Nacional de Zacatecas and the Internacional Festival de Teatro de Calle, Feria de Primavera de Jerez, the Feria del Libro, and the Cabalgata Turistica Revolucionaria.

Eat
Traditional favorite foods include gorditas and panecillos, both made from corn and can be sweet or savory, depending on the filling. Wheat breads include panochas and semitas. Condoches are gorditas made with fresh corn cooked in corn husks. Gorditas de cuajada are representative of food on ranches. Meat is most typically prepared as part of a stew to which vegetables such as corn, chickpeas, squash, rice and more are added. One well-known meat preparation is asado de boda, which is pork in a sauce made with mild red chili peppers.

Traditional beverages include pulque, aguamiel, aguardiente and mezcal as well as a purely local beverage called colonche, made by fermenting a cactus fruit.

Drink
Small artesanal mezcal distilleries operate in parts of Zacatecas, mostly near the border with Jalisco. Some make varietal mezcals from a single type of agave, while others are blended spirits. Mezcal varietals in Zacatecas include the Masparillo, Tepemete, and Azul produced by the Bañuelos distillery, as well as others. There are about 10 mezcal distilleries in the state: in addition to Bañuelos, look for Huitzla, Don Ramon, El Zacatecano, Kimo Sabe, Mala Noche, Luminar and Mexicat. Some of these produce young blanco mezcals only while others have a darker añejo.

Zacatecas is a state where people drink beer, mezcal or tequila. There are few wine drinkers, although two intrepid vintners have established wineries in the state and (mostly red) grapes are grown in three municipalities. The two vineyards are Tierra Adentro and Vinicola el Consuelo. Seek these out if you've got a curious tongue and want to support local craft wineries.

Stay safe
Plan only daytime activities, preferably staying within a single urban area, rather than traveling around the state.

Go next

 * Durango is a state near Zacatecas.
 * Aguascalientes
 * San Luis Potosi

license: Creative Commons - Attribution Share-Alike - https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/

title: Zacatecas (state)


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Zadar

Zadar is the biggest city, cultural, economic and transit center of northern Dalmatia and the oldest continuously inhabited city in Croatia. Zadar is today one of the most popular Croatian tourist destinations, named "entertainment center of the Adriatic" by The Times and "Croatia's new capital of cool" by The Guardian in 2017.

Understand
Its Venetian city walls are inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Ground transportation

Buses run to the Central bus station and Old town from Zadar airport terminal. These buses are clean, comfortable and efficient. Buses run in conjunction with arriving flights. Therefore they will run more frequently during weekdays than at weekends, as more flights are arriving at the airport. However, at weekends it is still possible to catch a bus. The airport bus costs.

You can also rent a car at Zadar airport. There are multiple car rental companies.

For taxi or pre-booked transfers are also available.

By bus

About half the buses for Zagreb pass through the stunning Plitvice National Park.

By train
Very few people use train to get to these cities. The train to Knin is just of one carriage with no A/C and can be quite uncomfortable, however the scenery is beautiful and will leave you in wonder at the numerous stations which appear to be in the middle of nowhere.

On foot
The centre is easy enough to get around on foot. To reach the bus and train stations or Youth Hostel you will probably need to catch one of the frequent local buses, which are the only form of public transportation.

By bus

Virtually all the routes have a stop at the Autobusni kolodvor (Bus station). In the newer part of the city there is another popular bus stop: – at the a post office at the crossroads of Ul. Josipa Jurja Strossmayera and Ul. Stjepana Radića.

Single tickets can be bought either at the driver or at Liburnija kiosk at a bus stop. Double ride tickets, sold individually or bound into a carnet of 10 (so for 20 rides) are available at newsstand (Tisak) kiosks.

Buses are usually scheduled from early morning (05:30 - 06:30) and finishing just before the midnight, so plan your trips accordingly.

You can check the map here.

By bicycle
The cycling infrastructure improved during the 2010s. But still, foreign traffic participants pay more attention to cyclists than locals.

By taxi
The main taxi ranks in Zadar are at the following locations:
 * Autobusni kolodvor (Bus station)
 * Ferry quay at the Liburnska obala in the old town (near the bus stop), tel. +385 (0)23 251 400
 * Obala kneza Branimira at the opposite end of the bridge across the Jazine bay

See
Walk around the atmospheric streets of the old town, located on the peninsula. There are 34 old churches on the peninsula, and all of them with a very rich history. The oldest is St. Simeon (Sv. Šime).

Do

 * Chill in one of the cafes and enjoy the city, the sun, and the people.
 * Walk: take a stroll along the paved seafront on a summer evening for one of the best sunsets in Europe and listen to the relaxing sounds of the rather original 'sea organ' set into the harbour wall.
 * Sail: if you wish to spend your holidays on a yacht charter, Zadar has a lot to offer.The best season for sailing is early summer with good S/SE winds in May and June, while the winds during July and August are generally calmer. Summer temperatures are 26-30°C in average and the sea temperature is about 25°C.
 * Swim: take a dip in the beautiful clear waters. It's quite common to see people sunbathing and swimming along virtually the entire coast of Zadar. The most popular beaches are:

 * Kolovare, close to the city centre, a favorite for locals.

 *  Borik, a massive hotel complex hosting numerous activities such as parasailing, water slides and other activities.

 * Vitrenjak, close to Zadar's sailing club, Uskok. A beach frequented by mostly families. In the nearby sailing club you can find a lovely open terrace cafe offering refreshments and food.

Contemporary art and culture
Zadar has been advancing its offerings in Contemporary art and culture in 2010s. With few festivals and strong dance scene it also has alternative cultural centers like Nigdjezemska and Knjigozemska (for indy and grassroot culture), as well as most recent institutional offerings in so called II Palaces (for modern-history and contemporary culture).

Buy
Zadar has 2 major shopping areas: the old town with its numerous shops, and the Voštarnica commercial district.

Connect
As of Sept 2021, Zadar and the coastal highway have full 4G and sporadic 5G coverage from T-Mobile/Hrvatski Telekom, A1 and Tele2. Wifi is widely available in public places and in most cafés.

Go next

 * Dugi Otok – for its beautiful landscape, salt lake and donkeys at the Telašćica Nature Park
 * Šibenik for the UNESCO World Heritage lists its prominent Cathedral of St. Jacob
 * Krka National Park where you can explore the breathtaking scenery and swim close to the waterfalls
 * Kornati National Park – a national park of more than 80 islands where you can find peace and quiet
 * Hike and climb in the Paklenica National Park
 * Visit the stunning waterfalls and lakes of the Plitvice National Park

title: Zadar


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Zafra

Zafra is a town of 17,000 people (2018) in Extremadura. Dominated by its 15th-century fortress (Alcazar) Zafra is a pleasant town where you can take a stroll or hang out in one of its parks eating tapas while watching the world go by. It has a medieval quarter, which surrounds the fortress and there are numerous winding streets and historical buildings to explore.

Understand
Zafra has always been an industrial and commercial city, serving surrounding areas mainly dedicated to agriculture. A commercial base are the fairs that have been celebrated for Saint John since 1395 and for Saint Michael since 1453.

See

 * The castle, which is famed for the white marble renaissance patio designed by Juan de Herrera, is the main reason people visit Zafra.
 * Plaza Grande and Plaza Chica are the two attractive arcaded plazas where people sit to watch the world drift by.
 * Nuestra Senora de la Candelaria Church
 * Convento de Santa Clara - tombs of the Figueroa family who were the original inhabitants of the castle.

Buy
There are plenty of your standard shops in Zafra.

Eat
East good authentic tapas sitting in one of the plazas, or at one of the many bars in Zafra’s winding streets. You can also get a good Chinese just off one of the squares.

Drink
This region is famed for its wines so will have no problem indulging in some of their specialties.

Look out for a rather lovely liquor made from acorns; special to Extremadura.

Go next
Los Santos de Maimona, Fuente del Maestre, Usagre, Villafranca de los Barros, La Lapa

title: Zafra


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Zagazig

Zagazig is a town of about 280,000 people in Lower Egypt, the capital of the Sharqia Governorate.

By plane
Cairo International Airport is the nearest international gateway to it and it is only an hour by car from the Airport.

By bus
You can reach the city by the Public Bus Service which is being run by "East of Delta co." or "Shark Al-Delta" as pronounced in Arabic.

By train
You can reach to the city using the Egyptian National Railways which is called in Arabic "Sekak Hadeed Masr" and the city is about 1.5 hours away from Cairo. is centrally located at Orabi square.

By taxi
From Aboud station you can reach the city using the road which connects "Cairo-Banha-Minyat Al Kamh- Zagazig" or From the El salam station "Locally widely known as Al aashr station" using the desert way to Belbies to Zagazig.

title: Zagazig


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Zagora

Zagora (زكورة) is a town in southern Morocco.

Get in
There are direct buses from Marrakech (approx 8 hours). From Ouarzazate CTM has three buses a day (55 dirham) at 05:35, 16:00 and 16:30, taking 3-3¼ hr (Mar 2017). There are also collective taxis (~2 hr once the taxi is filled, 50-70 dirham (2008)). A bus route between Tantan and Zagora mostly following the N12 gives a view of the Anti-Atlas.

Get around
The town is maybe 5 km long and 1 km wide at the widest point. There are numerous petit taxis (3 dirham per person if you share).

See
Jebel Zagora is said to be worth climbing. There are pleasant walks along the river and in the irrigated areas around. The Zagora «Palmeraie» is the 2nd largest palm grove in the world. 8 km north of the city, in Ksar Tissergate, there is a museum for art and tradition in the Draa valley. 18 km south, Tamegroute has a famous ancient library.

Do
Go on a camel trek; not necessarily to the dunes, which are hard on the legs.

Buy
Dates and spices in the market (Wednesday and Sunday).

Eat
There are plenty of small café/restaurants, as well as juice and milk shops along the main drag in town. Expect to pay between 80 and 100 dirham for a lunch for two people. Here are some sample prices:
 * Salade marocaine (tomatoes, onions and peppers) 15 dirham
 * Tajine kefta (meatball tajine) 40 dirham
 * Mint tea 10 dirham
 * Orange juice 6 - 10 dirham

For a nice dinner, go to one of the hotels just outside town in Amzrou. La Fibule du Draa and Kasbah Asmaa both have full service restaurants in the evening.

Sleep

 * Auberge Restaurant Chez Ali (on the way to the river) is worth looking at for its remarkable garden.
 * Auberge Restaurant Chez Ali (on the way to the river) is worth looking at for its remarkable garden.

Go next

 * M'Hamid – The "end of the road" after Zagora.

title: Zagora


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Zagreb

Zagreb is a city in Central Croatia and the capital of Croatia. The city has a charming medieval 'old city' with architecture and cobbled streets reminiscent of Vienna, Budapest, Prague and other Central-European capitals.

Understand
Zagreb is a vibrant city of around 770,000 people (2021, metropolitan area: 1,100,000). In 2017 it was visited by over a million tourists, mainly from Austria, Germany and Italy. Zagreb is also well known for its Advent festival, which occurs from December to early January, boasting vibrant nightlife and additional cultural and gastronomic activities.

Tourist information

Other information points are located at the airport, bus station, railway station and at the Lotrščak Tower.

By plane
Getting there:

 * Buses leave from the airport at 07:00 and every 30 minutes between 08:00 and 20:00. Beyond these hours, there are buses leaving to the main bus station every time a Croatia Airlines plane lands. When traveling to the airport from the main Zagreb bus station, the buses are scheduled between 04:30 and 20:30. A journey takes about 30 min. The price of the single ticket is . Online timetable can be checked at the Pleso prijevoz website. Airport buses leave from the main bus station which is in the wider city center; they leave from its northeast wing (toward the city)—look for "Croatia Airlines" and "Eurolines" banners on the building.
 * A cheaper local ZET bus 290 also goes to the city center (and back to the airport) from the main road outside the terminal.
 * You can also order a taxi, Bolt or Uber. A ride from the airport to the city center can cost from.

By train
There are direct services from major European cities such as Vienna (6½ hours) via Graz (4 hours), Budapest, Zurich, Munich, Salzburg, Ljubljana and Belgrade as well as domestic services to all major towns (except Dubrovnik). There is also an all-year-round overnight train (with sleeping compartments) between Zagreb and Split (6 hours, 8 if going overnight). The main rail station is centrally located.

Trains are not fast everywhere in the country; a journey to Split takes ~6 hours while by bus it takes ~5 hours, while other destinations along the coast are practically not reachable by train.

Croatian railway times and prices can be found here where you can buy e-tickets for travel within Croatia. There is a Croatian rail app but this does not appear to be available to non residents of Croatia.

Tourists coming from or going to neighboring capitals should note the following EuroCity and InterCity as well as EuroNight railway lines:
 * EC "Mimara": Villach - Ljubljana - Zagreb
 * EC "Croatia": Vienna - Maribor - Zagreb, also by EuroNight train
 * IC "Agram": Budapest - Zagreb
 * EN "Lisinski": Stuttgart - Munich - Salzburg - Ljubljana - Zagreb (overnight), extending to Rijeka April-Aug
 * EN "Alpine Pearls": Zurich - Innsbruck - Ljubljana - Zagreb - Belgrade (day part from Belgrade, overnight from Zurich)
 * B 410: Ljubljana - Zagreb - Belgrade (overnight service)

Trains no longer run across the border to Sarajevo in Bosnia. The work-around route is to take the local train from Zagreb main station at 09:00 to Hrvatska Kostajnica, arriving by 10:45, for a fare of. This is 3 km from the Bosnian border crossing, either take a taxi, or walk south into town then east and cross the river by the first bridge. Once you've entered Bosnia, find a taxi to Banja Luka, 100 km southeast, costing around and taking approximately 90 min. You'll reach Banja Luka in time to catch the 15:49 local train to Sarajevo via Zenica, arriving by 20:41. (The easier workaround, but with less trains, is a direct bus from Zagreb to Banja Luka for ; The journey takes 3.5 hr and you'll arrive in Banja Luka directly at the joint bus and train station at around 14:00.)

Most of the services are operated by Croatian Railways. EuroNight trains can be booked via ÖBB (Austrian railways), DB (German railways) or SBB (Swiss railways), or any other ticketing agency.

You can leave you luggage in lockers in the hallway of the Zagreb Main railway station´s central area. Locker rental price per day varies per locker size: from approximately.

You can hand over your luggage for safekeeping at the Passenger Service Office on Platform 1, too. This will cost you approximately per day.

By bus
International bus lines come from London, Paris, Rotterdam and Amsterdam, numerous cities in Germany, Belgium, Switzerland, Italy, Slovakia, Czech Republic, Slovenia, Hungary, many destinations in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, Montenegro, and Macedonia.

Timetable information and prices can be found at the AKZ website. Croatian and international coach operators maintain scheduled lines covering all major domestic and European cities.

You can hand over your luggage for safekeeping at the platform 106 of the main bus station. This service operates from 06:00-22:00.

For luggage up to 40 kg the price is per hour for the first four hours, and  for any following hour.

By car
Almost all highways (motorway; autocesta in Croatian) in Croatia start or end in Zagreb.

Travellers from Vienna can pass by Graz and Maribor and then take the A2 highway upon entering Croatia. Mind the toll in Slovenia.

Travellers from Budapest can pass by Székesfehérvár and then use the Croatian A4 motorway. It also connects Varaždin. You will have to pay toll from shortly after entering Croatia until shortly before reaching Zagreb.

Travellers heading from Serbia, Bulgaria, Macedonia, Greece and Turkey can use the Croatian A3 motorway to reach Zagreb.

Travellers heading from Ljubljana can use the A3.

Travellers coming from the west - Italy, Rijeka or Istria - can use the A7 motorway (near and bypassing Rijeka), A6 motorway (Rijeka-Bosiljevo) and then the A1 (Bosiljevo-Zagreb).

Those travelling from Italy can bypass the expensive motorway toll in Slovenia by using the state route SS21 through Trieste, route E61 through Slovenia (in a bad shape) and then A7 south to Rijeka, then Rijeka bypass, then A6 east to Bosiljevo and A1 northeast to Zagreb.

Travellers heading from the south - Dalmatian coast (Zadar, Split, Dubrovnik...) or from Montenegro - can use the A1 highway, often combined with the state roads D8 (by the coastline) and D1 (through the hinterland).

To use highways in Croatia you must pay in euro. You may also pay by credit card- American Express, Diners, MasterCard, Maestro or Visa cards. A third option is to use the HAC Smart Card, which can reduce the cost of travelling on the Croatian highways by 10-25%. It is issued by Hrvatske Autoceste, but pays off only if travelling more than 500 km (that's a return trip Zagreb-Zadar or Zagreb-Serbia) or 250 km for a seasonal Smart Card (a return trip Zagreb-Rijeka or two return trips to Zagreb from Austrian border). There are also transponders by Hrvatske Autoceste for electronic toll collection (called ENC). You can find a toll details here.

Get around

Zagreb has a well-developed and efficient public transport system that consists of trams, buses and trains. You can find routes and schedules from Easyway journey planner or Google maps.

The tram network operates 24 hours a day - from around 04:30 to just after 00:00 there are 15 "day-time lines" (tram lines 2–9, 11-15 and 17). From 00:00 to 04:00 there are 4 "night" lines (tram lines 31-34) which cover most of the day-time lines on a reduced (around 30-40 minute) frequency. Occasionally, buses replace trams on night lines. Tram lines 1, 3, and 8 do not operate Saturdays, Sundays and on public holidays. Tram 1 doesn't operate in Summer. Maps of daytime lines are available under the link "Network of daytime tram lines". Both buses, trams and the funicular are operated by ZET.

By bus
As for the buses, there are 138 day-time and 4 night lines. ZET buses cover the area outside the city center, and some neighboring towns in Zagreb county. The buses use the same ticketing system as the trams. There does not appear to be a map of bus routes. Google Maps is probably the easiest planner to use.

By funicular
A historic funicular railway (uspinjača in Croatian), one of the steepest and shortest in the world, operates between the lower and upper towns with a travel time of just one minute. The funicular operates every 10 minutes, but for a fee of (in addition to regular tickets for everyone on board), an immediate ride can be purchased.

Funicular Fare

Ticketing system for buses & trams
ZET operate city buses, trams, funicular & Sljeme cable car.

Paper tickets & chip cards can be purchased at any news-stand/kiosk (Tisak), including at the airport. It is cheaper to buy a ticket here than from a driver.

Many locals use Stored Value electronic chip cards to pay for the ride. These can be bought at ZET company offices for and need to be charged with money in advance. They are also used for the multiple day tickets. The advantage is that they are easier to use than paper tickets, as buses and trams often have fewer machines that accept paper tickets (one by the first and one by the last tram doors). If you want a cheaper short-duration option, you need to select it on the display before waving the chip card, otherwise you'll buy a 1.5-hour ticket.

Another easy option is to buy tickets by smartphone using the MOJ ZET app (iOS, Android) which can be topped up in euro increments using a credit card. You purchase tickets on the app and then activate them by reading the blue QR code near the vehicle doors or using NFC. Tickets purchased from the drivers

By train
Trains operated by Croatian Railways (Hrvatske Željeznice) run every 15 minutes from the east to west of the city, connecting the suburbs of Zagreb with the central railway station. They are usually the quickest form of transport for those coming from the areas of Zagreb far from the railway station (Glavni kolodvor), or beyond the tram network.

Zagreb Card
Travellers who intend to visit many museums may consider buying the Zagreb Card. The card offers unlimited travel on public transport in Zagreb, discounts at virtually all of the city's museums, reduced prices at many restaurants, shops, and service providers and many other concessions. As of 2023, it costs for 24 hours or  for 72 hours from the date and time entered on the card. Holders of the card also receive a special booklet with a list of all of the establishments and the discounts available to them. The card can be purchased at any of Zagreb's Tourist Information Centre, at the reception desks of the majority of Zagreb's hotels, and ordered online (shipping cost is added).

By bicycle
There are few companies that offer bicycle rent option:

nextbike is the one which offers automated public bike rental stations. Bikes are available at 20 stations in the city.

Tariff is per 30 mins. Weekly and annual passes are also available for and  respectively. They include unlimited number of free rides up to 30 minutes. Additional 30 min is charged according to the usual tariff. You can pay using mobile application.

By foot
Zagreb is a compact city and can be best explored by walking. For the lower town (Donji Grad) the six squares of Lenuci Horshoe and the Botanical Garden can be covered in about 2 - 3 hours of walking. This area is also the home of Zagreb's major museums, galleries and theaters. The upper town (Gornji Grad) can also be covered in about 2 - 3 hours of walking and includes the cathedral, St. Mark's Church and Main square (Trg Bana Josipa Jelačića) and the Museum of Broken Relationship.

By taxi
There are few taxi companies in Zagreb:

By car
Zagreb has about average traffic congestion for a city of its size. However parking in the inner city is a problem. It is expensive and time limited and empty parking spaces are hard to find.

City is divided into few zones, parking tariffs are the following:

 * I zone: per hour or  per 1/2 hour. Maximum parking time is 2 hours.
 * II zone: per hour. Maximum parking time is 3 hours.
 * III zone: per hour.
 * IV.1 zone: per day.
 * IV.2 zone: per day.

Parking payment methods:

 * ZgPark mobile application
 * m-parking service
 * Parking meters. Cards are accepted only in newly installed parking meters.
 * Electronic parking permit purchased at a newsstand
 * Zagrebparking’s ePK Portal

There are also 2 companies that offer car sharing:

See

Caution: Several of Zagreb's historical buildings sustained damage due to a moderate earthquake that struck the city in March 2020 and are temporarily closed until repairs are finished.

The city of Zagreb is mainly divided into two parts Gornji grad (Upper Town) and Donji grad (Lower Town). They are the cultural, religious, and commercial hubs of Zagreb. These are where most of the restaurants, bars and tourist sights are located. The Upper Town, which is the medieval core of the city, developed as two separate (and often warring) towns - Kaptol, the seat of the Bishop (where the imposing Cathedral now stands), and Gradec, the free town where tradesmen and artisans lived (proclaimed by King Bela of Hungary in the 12th century) merged in the 1770s to form the northern section of historic Zagreb. Following this, the city expanded south of today's Trg Bana Josipa Jelačića (Jelačić Square) to the railway station and the Sava River.

Apart from the two main parts, the City of Zagreb is extended both north-south and east-west. The northern part consists of the mountains and wilderness while the Southern part extends beyond the River Sava and consists of modern Zagreb and is known as Novi Zagreb. So Zagreb can be classified under five areas:
 * Upper Town (Gornji Grad)
 * Lower Town (Donji Grad)
 * Northern Zagreb
 * Trnje
 * New Zagreb (Novi Zagreb)

Gornji Grad (Upper Town)
Churches and religious structures:

Parks:

Museums: Most museums and historical sights close at 13:00 on Sundays and do not reopen until Tuesday. Other Buildings:

Donji Grad (Lower Town)
Parks: Other city parks are connected in the "Lenuci Horseshoe", an unfinished project of combining small green squares and parks at the core of the centre of the town.

Museums: Most museums and historical sights close at 13:00 on Sundays and do not reopen until Tuesday.

Street architecture:

Novi Zagreb
Lakes Zagreb has two very popular lakes:

Museums:

Do

 * Football: GNK Dinamo Zagreb play soccer in HNL, the top tier. Their home ground is Stadion Maksimir (capacity 28,000) 2 km east of city centre.
 * NK Lokomotiva also play in HNL, at Stadion Kranjčevićeva (capacity 5000) 1 km southwest of city centre.
 * NK Rudeš were relegated in 2024 so they now play in Prva NL the second tier. Their home ground is 3 km west of city centre but they sometimes use the Lokomotiva ground, Stadion Kranjčevićeva.
 * NK Lokomotiva also play in HNL, at Stadion Kranjčevićeva (capacity 5000) 1 km southwest of city centre.
 * NK Rudeš were relegated in 2024 so they now play in Prva NL the second tier. Their home ground is 3 km west of city centre but they sometimes use the Lokomotiva ground, Stadion Kranjčevićeva.

 * Mount Sljeme. Part of the Medvednica mountains, this is the highest mountain (1,035 m) of Zagreb and quite popular with hiking, trail running. Take Tram 8 or 14 to the last stop (Mihaljevac) and then change to tram 15 to the Gračansko dolje terminus. From here you can either take the cable car (ZET card accepted) or start your hike. You can also go up by bus 140 (Mihaljevac-Sljeme) or car. Different trails exist with good views and restaurants on the top where you can enjoy some traditional Croatian hiking food.
 * Mount Sljeme. Part of the Medvednica mountains, this is the highest mountain (1,035 m) of Zagreb and quite popular with hiking, trail running. Take Tram 8 or 14 to the last stop (Mihaljevac) and then change to tram 15 to the Gračansko dolje terminus. From here you can either take the cable car (ZET card accepted) or start your hike. You can also go up by bus 140 (Mihaljevac-Sljeme) or car. Different trails exist with good views and restaurants on the top where you can enjoy some traditional Croatian hiking food.

Cinemas
Foreign language movies are subtitled, not dubbed; only children's movies are dubbed.

A regular ticket will cost you. About is the combined price of a medium popcorn and cola.

Main cinema chains are CineStar and Cineplexx:
 * Kino Europa, Varšavska 3. - this cinema is in the city centre.
 * Kino Croatia, Katančićeva 3; +385 1 48-13-711.
 * Kino Jadran, Ilica 42; 062-100-100 (within Croatia).
 * Kino Central, Petrinjska 4; 062-100-100 (within Croatia).
 * Kino Europa, Varšavska 3. - this cinema is in the city centre.
 * Kino Croatia, Katančićeva 3; +385 1 48-13-711.
 * Kino Jadran, Ilica 42; 062-100-100 (within Croatia).
 * Kino Central, Petrinjska 4; 062-100-100 (within Croatia).
 * Kino Croatia, Katančićeva 3; +385 1 48-13-711.
 * Kino Jadran, Ilica 42; 062-100-100 (within Croatia).
 * Kino Central, Petrinjska 4; 062-100-100 (within Croatia).

Learn
The University of Zagreb combined with the Croatian Heritage Foundation Matica Hrvatska offers comprehensive Croatian language courses for foreigners. The courses occur in the fall and spring semesters along with an intensive one-month course in July. All courses cost around. More information can be found by visiting the University's website.

Many universities in Croatia accept a small group as international students every year, who stay in dorms and learn Croatian.

FER (Fakultet elektrotehnike i računarstva, trans. Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science) is a globally-appreciated school of computer related learning. It is part of the University of Zagreb and accepts around ten international students a year.

Zagreb has its own hackerspace called Radiona where anyone interested in computers, technology, machining, science, digital art or electronic art can meet, collaborate, learn and engage in the ongoing workshops open for public.

Work
For creative types, Croatia is occupied by some street performers and many stands selling jewellery or other hand-crafted products, so the populace has an open mind to casually buying things from an interesting stand near the main square or dropping a few coins into a musician's case.

Buy
There are many small grocery stores around Croatia such as Konzum and Diona. There you can buy most necessary foods, hygiene products and items like cigarettes and alcohol.

If you have a more specific need (like appliances, cutlery) or wish to go bulk shopping then try one of the larger Konzums or Kaufland.

Bread in Croatia is sold unsliced, and with no preservatives used is generally inedible after the second day, so if you don't eat bread much then ask for half a loaf ("pola").

Most international brands, like Nutella or M&Ms, can be found in the larger stores but are rather expensive. Trying a domestic alternatives is not a bad idea.

Zagreb also has designated areas, the singular being a "platz", where you can buy and bargain for clothes and shoes as well as perfume, chocolate and souvenirs. Illegally imported cigarettes are also cheap (because of high importation taxes).

Eat
Tobacco smoking is banned in all enclosed public spaces, including restaurants and some bars and cafes. The smaller bars and cafes could opt (and some did) to allow smoking.

Budget
There are many take out, pizza-cut, sandwich bars and fast foods around the city. Most are located in the city centre (main square - Ban Jelačić and surrounding blocks). There are also food chains such as the "McDonald's", "Mlinar", "Pan Pek", and the preferred "Dubravica". (updated May 2022). You can also find many kebabs and pancake-to-go places.

Bars and pubs
Many bars are found around Flower square (Cvjetni trg aka Preradovićev trg), the main square (Trg Bana Josipa Jelačića), Preradovićeva, Tkalčićeva, Radićeva, Bogovićeva, and Gajeva streets.

 * Cafe de Paris
 * Cafe de Paris
 * Cafe de Paris
 * Cafe de Paris
 * Cafe de Paris
 * Cafe de Paris
 * Cafe de Paris
 * Cafe de Paris
 * Cafe de Paris
 * Cafe de Paris
 * Cafe de Paris

Mid-range

Connect
As of April 2023, the city has 5G from all three major carriers (HT, A1 and Telemach). Wi-Fi is widely available in public places.

Stay safe
As with much of Croatia, Zagreb is very safe on the whole. But just as anywhere else in Europe, dark/poorly lit alleys, parks (during the night), and some poorer neighborhoods should be avoided, and common sense should be followed. The chance of getting in trouble in Zagreb is fairly low, especially in the centre where most of the hotels and restaurants are located, and for foreigners, who are in general respected and welcome. Visitors soon realize that Zagreb is safer than the majority of European capitals such as London, Paris, Vienna, Rome, and Budapest.

Pickpocketing isn't a particularly common occurrence in Zagreb, but you might be approached by beggars and similar people on the street – ignore them and they will go away. Do be extra careful inside and close to the main railway station.

Though Croatia has become a more tolerant nation, outbursts of homophobic behaviour have been known to occur regularly, so it is advisable for non-straight couples to not show affection in public, especially in low control conditions and when near groups that look like football hooligans, skinheads or similar. For example, a lesbian couple from UK was assaulted by an angry passenger in a tram, and they suffered minor injuries, and the perpetrator was apprehended by the police.

Park Ribnjak, very close to the city centre, is safe during daytime and worth visiting, especially for children. However, it has become a night-time meeting place of alternative youngsters, and subculture violence involving skinheads and similar violent young people has occasionally occurred. It's best to steer clear of Ribnjak after dark, which shouldn't be a problem because of a lack of interesting activities there for most tourists anyway.

Further, if you are going out at night (especially on weekends), steer clear of any drunk and rowdy groups of young people you might encounter in the street or night trams as random beatings have been known to occur. It is not uncommon for such groups to start unprovoked attacks on passers-by, although they target mainly younger crowd and teenagers. These are not common, but have occurred, and individuals have been beaten up and even killed by such attacks in the past, so take precautions. It is advisable for men not to wear feminine styles.

Avoid night clubs playing "Turbo-folk" music, as violence erupts in them quite easily. Also, do your best to avoid strip clubs at all costs. Zagreb is not famous for such clubs and they are rare; however, most of them are often run by very shady characters, and often overcharge their guests. Foreigners have been charged for a bottle of champagne. These clubs overcharge their customers to the extreme, and their bouncers will not have any mercy if you tell them you are unable to pay. You will soon find yourself in a local hospital. This not only applies to strip clubs in Zagreb, but also all over Croatia.

Reading and speaking
Croatian children start learning a foreign language in primary school, and for the majority it is English, so younger people can usually speak the language well enough, and many older people know some. You may also try German or Italian, as both are popular (for historical and cultural reasons).

It is also advisable to learn some basic Croatian words and phrases - because Zagreb can be a vibrant, busy city, a few basic molim (please), hvala (thanks) or oprostite (excuse me, pardon me, I'm sorry) will go a long way to avoid being ignored by a busy local.

Visiting during summer
Summer time is traditionally time in Zagreb for maintenance and road repairs. If you visit Zagreb at that time, you should do some research on what streets are open and what aren't and also be prepared to get stuck in traffic jams during rush hours.

Embassies

 * 🇦🇱 Albania
 * 🇦🇺 Australia
 * 🇦🇹 Austria
 * 🇨🇦 Canada
 * 🇨🇳 China
 * 🇫🇮 Finland
 * 🇩🇪 Germany
 * 🇬🇷 Greece
 * 🇯🇵 Japan
 * 🇲🇰 Macedonia
 * 🇳🇴 Norway
 * 🇷🇴 Romania
 * 🇰🇷 South Korea
 * 🇨🇭 Switzerland
 * 🇬🇧 United Kingdom
 * 🇺🇸 United States

Go next

 * Samobor - a picturesque medieval town with well preserved old lore and long tourist tradition. 25 km west of Zagreb, accessible by bus (~30 min distance from Zagreb, ticket price ~).
 * Sisak - a beautiful town at the intersection of 3 rivers with long history. 50 km southeast of Zagreb, accessible by fast train (about 30 min), and bus.
 * Vrbovec - a town for all who would like to see the typical way of Croatian life. 32 km northeast of Zagreb, accessible by bus.
 * Karlovac - a stunning town at the intersection of 4 rivers. 45 km southwest of Zagreb, accessible by bus.
 * Zapresic -Town next to Zagreb, place of life and death of one of the most prominent Croatian historical figure- ban (semi-ruler of Croatia) Josip Jelacic
 * Ljubljana, Slovenia.
 * Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, is easily reachable by a direct bus. It offers an interesting mix of cultures in a beautiful landscape.

title: Zagreb


text:
Zahara de la Sierra

Zahara de la Sierra is in Cádiz Province in Andalucia. It is a small white village of 1,400 people (2018) that sits picturesquely on a mountain cone on the northern edge of the Sierra del Jaral. A reservoir, the Embalse de Zahara, spreads out at its feet. Behind the village, the Sierra de Jaral rises to an altitude of 1,300 m. Zahara de la Sierra is presumably a Roman foundation.

Understand
The meaning of the name of the village is controversial. It is translated with citrus blossom "azahar", the female first name "Al Zahara" or with the brilliant.

In Moorish times, the place was more important because of its strategically important location and was a respected city. The village was revitalized by the Moors in the 8th century and fortified by a castle in the 12th century. In 1483 the Catholic kings conquered the town and cleared the way for further reconquests in Andalusia.

By bus
It can be reached by bus from Ronda.

By plane
The nearest airports are Jerez de la Frontera, Malaga or Seville.

By car
From Jerez de la Frontera, Cádiz or Arcos de la Frontera you can get to Zahara de la Sierra on the A382 in the direction of Antequera. From Seville you use the A376 to Ronda. Zahara de la Sierra is not on the main road, but coming from the west you can see the white village with the castle ruins on the right and you can then take a junction to get there.

See

 * The Garganta Verde, a huge canyon aff the road to Grazalema is very scenic. It is a place where many griffon vultures fly and access is prohibited during the nesting season.
 * Ruin of the castle. From the 12th century with a keep above the town with a fantastic view.
 * Torre del Reloj. The clock tower from the 16th century received the clock in the previous century.
 * Santa Maria de la Mesa church. The 17th-century baroque church with a baroque altar was completed in 1755. The main front is baroque, made of pink marble.

Do

 * Horse riding
 * Bathing in the Embalse de Zahara
 * On Corpus Christi, the citizens celebrate the feast of Corpus Christi. They decorate the city with lots of green branches and flowers. There is a procession. Street musicians with guitars sound out Seville songs and the citizens dance the traditional Seville dance, which every Andalusian can do more or less well.

Eat

 * Restaurante al Lago. Specialty: trout.
 * Meson la Escribos. Hearty cuisine. Price: main course.

Sleep

 * Hotel Arco de la Villa. Tel .: +34 956 123 230 . 16 double rooms and one single room, air conditioning, TV, restaurant and cafeteria.
 * Hostal Marqués de Zahara. Tel .: +34 956 123 061 . 10 double rooms.
 * Hostal Los Tadeos. A new building. 10 double rooms with air conditioning. Beautiful view.

title: Zahara de la Sierra


text:
Zahedan

Zahedan is the capital of Baluchistan province in Iran. It is border city connecting Iran with Pakistan and if one is not going through Afghanistan, they'll have to pass through Zahedan on the overland route from Istanbul to New Delhi.

By train
There is a direct train Tehran several times per week, which takes about 24 hours and is formed of couchette sleepers. Additionally, there are daily trains from Kerman and Khash. An international train is supposed to run twice per month from Quetta in Pakistan, with a journey time of 11 hours, but due to security concerns this train has been frequently cancelled. Make sure to check the status before travelling. As of early 2023 local information suggests this is being used as a freight-only service for now. Sandstorms frequently block the tracks and cause severe delays.

See

 * Zahedan has also a Friday mosque for shiye
 * Jame mosque
 * The city has a Sikh gurdwara
 * A colorful bazaar, Rasouli Bazaar, can also be found in the city, where Baluchi and Pashtun traders intermingle.
 * About 100 km south of Zahedan is an intermittently active volcano, Taftan, which rises abruptly 4,042 meters from the surrounding plain.
 * About 100 km south of Zahedan is an intermittently active volcano, Taftan, which rises abruptly 4,042 meters from the surrounding plain.

Do
If you’re very lucky you might be in town for a camel race (mosabagheh-ye shotor-e davani), a traditional Baluchi activity usually held in summer.

Go next

 * Pakistan - this is a likely candidate for why you're here in the first place, but make sure you've got a visa before coming, as the consulate here no longer issues them. Mashad also has a Pakistani Consulate where you can get visas there, which is the nearest place to pick one up. Also Tehran has a Pakistani Embassy.

title: Zahedan


text:
Zahle

Zahle (or Zahlé; Arabic: زحلة) is a city in Lebanon, 52 km east of Beirut.

Understand
Zahle is at an altitude of almost 1000 m, at the end of the Beqaa Valley.

Do

 * Enjoy a leisurely meal at one of the city's numerous restaurants.

Buy

 * "DCM Jennyfer" an international clothing brand for ladies in Boulevard Zahle.

Eat

 * Wadi el-Aarayesh (Grape Vine Valley), popularly known as Al Wadi, is a well known area for strolling, eating and arcade activities. Restaurants in this area typically offer a traditional mezze and mechoui menu. Dining is primarily outdoors in a pleasant setting next to the river. The area is typically more comfortable, even on hot days, due to the cooling effect of the river and the shade in the valley. In addition to typical restaurants, there are ice-cream cafes.
 * Wadi el-Aarayesh (Grape Vine Valley), popularly known as Al Wadi, is a well known area for strolling, eating and arcade activities. Restaurants in this area typically offer a traditional mezze and mechoui menu. Dining is primarily outdoors in a pleasant setting next to the river. The area is typically more comfortable, even on hot days, due to the cooling effect of the river and the shade in the valley. In addition to typical restaurants, there are ice-cream cafes.
 * Wadi el-Aarayesh (Grape Vine Valley), popularly known as Al Wadi, is a well known area for strolling, eating and arcade activities. Restaurants in this area typically offer a traditional mezze and mechoui menu. Dining is primarily outdoors in a pleasant setting next to the river. The area is typically more comfortable, even on hot days, due to the cooling effect of the river and the shade in the valley. In addition to typical restaurants, there are ice-cream cafes.
 * Wadi el-Aarayesh (Grape Vine Valley), popularly known as Al Wadi, is a well known area for strolling, eating and arcade activities. Restaurants in this area typically offer a traditional mezze and mechoui menu. Dining is primarily outdoors in a pleasant setting next to the river. The area is typically more comfortable, even on hot days, due to the cooling effect of the river and the shade in the valley. In addition to typical restaurants, there are ice-cream cafes.

Drink

Sleep

 * Grand Hotel Kadri is a five star hotel situated on the Berdawni river.

Go next
Visit the Baalbek historical site.

title: Zahle


text:
Zakarpatska Oblast

Zakarpatska (Transcarpathia) is in an oblast in Western Ukraine.

Cities

 * (Ужгород) – The oblast's capital, with two 'must see' the Castle-fortress, 1500; and the Exaltation of the Cross cathedral, and bishop's residence, 1745.
 * – Famous for St. Elizabeth church, 1450.
 * – The highlights of its: Castle "Palanok", 14th-18th century; St. Martin chapel, 14th century.
 * – A great variation from the rest of Ukraine with the highest mountain of Ukraine closeby, Hoverla, an easy climb.
 * – A great variation from the rest of Ukraine with the highest mountain of Ukraine closeby, Hoverla, an easy climb.

Other destinations

 * The Ukrainian Carpathians.
 * (Національний парк «Синевир») — Natural Reserve near Synevirska Polyana.
 * (Свалява) – A small village with the St. Nicolas church 1588, 1759. One of the oldest in the Region
 * (Чинадійово) – a small town with its main sights: Palace "Beregvar" of Shenborn counts, 1890-1895 ; Castle Saint Nicholas, 14th century, 17th century.

Understand
Zakarpatska is separated from mainland Ukraine by the Wooded Carpathians whose highest peak Hoverla is 2,061 metres high. Thus, the Ukrainian name Zakarpatska ("Transcarpathia") means "across the Carpathians"; while for its Western neighbours, the region is "below the Carpathians" and therefore called "Subcarpathia". Another historic name is "Carpathian Ruthenia", as its indigenous Eastern Slavic population were considered "Ruthenians".

From the Middle Ages until World War I, Zakarpatska belonged to Hungary (under the Austro-Hungarian Empire) and between the wars to Czechoslovakia. It retains a relatively multi-national flair having considerable ethnic minorities, including Magyars (Hungarians), Romanians, Russians and Roma. The indigenous population to this region are Rusyns, an East Slavic people of the Carpathian region, who mostly consider themselves part of the Ukrainian nationality, but maintain their own cultural traditions and some speak their own Rusyn language.

The Tourist Information Center network is the most developed one in the country. In addition to the main offices in the cities mentioned above, they can also be found in smaller towns like Chynadiieve (Street Voloshina, 53 b), Mizhhir´ia (Street Khustska, 68 A), Solotvyno (St Kharkivska 1), Tiachiv (Street Robitnycha 8/1), and Shayan  (Khust district, Karpatskoi Sichi street 14).

Talk
The official language is Ukrainian and it is also the most common one. Most inhabitants have a good command of Russian as a foreign language. Minority languages include Slovak, Hungarian and Romanian. Other foreign languages are German and English.

By plane
Uzhhorod has its own international airport. Other nearby airports are Ivano-Frankivsk, Kosice (Slovakia) and Debrecen (Hungary).

By train
Train connections are available from Ivano-Frankivsk, Kosice and Debrecen.

See

 * Nevytske Castle (замок Невицьке) – Built in 1400.

Do

 * (Mountain) Biking
 * Skiing
 * Trekking and walking
 * Lake Synevyr Natural Reserve
 * Mount Hoverla near Rakhiv
 * Mount Hoverla near Rakhiv

Consulates

 * 🇷🇴 Romania

Go next

 * Kosice, Slovakia
 * Lviv
 * Ivano-Frankivsk
 * Debrecen, Hungary

title: Zakarpatska Oblast


text:
Zakho

Zakho is a border town in Iraq. When traveling from Turkey into Iraq by car this is the main border crossing.

Get in
There are several buses per day from cities in eastern Turkey and from in Iraqi Kurdistan.

title: Zakho


text:
Zakopane

Zakopane is a large, year-round mountain resort in Małopolskie Province in southern Poland. It's set in the Tatra mountains which form the natural frontier between Poland and Slovakia. It's been a spa and fashionable society spot, and is characterised by wooden chalets in a distinctive local style.

By train
Trains run every couple of hours or so from Kraków, taking 3 hr 30 min. Three of these come direct from Warsaw (6-9 hours), with Sleeper trains most nights. Other destinations usually involve changing in Kraków but there is one direct train daily from Bydgoszcz via Poznan and Wroclaw.

The is  east of town centre.

By bus
Several bus companies run from Kraków via Nowy Targ to Zakopane, taking two hours, so there's price competition and buses at least hourly. The main carriers are Majer Bus and Szwagropol. Flixbus run direct from Warsaw, 7 hr.

By car
From Kraków take Highway 7 to Rabka and then 47 to Zakopane, 90 min but longer on fine weekends and holidays when everyone heads into the mountains.

On foot
You can use the long-distance hiking trails which cross the border with Slovakia.

Get around

 * PKS buses according to schedule.
 * Mini bus — There are a lot of privately owned vans (called mini bus). Most have fixed routes and rates, no schedule. Often there is the possibility of negotiation (route, price, time). Note a driver's telephone number if you think you may need transport later.
 * Taxi

See

 * Morskie Oko lake
 * Morskie Oko lake

Museums

 * The Władysław Hasior Gallery ul. Jagiellońska 18b
 * The Gallery of Art in Koziniec ul. Koziniec 8
 * The Kornel Makuszyński Museum ul. Tetmajera 15
 * Museum of the 1846 Chochołów Uprising Chochołów 75
 * The Gallery of Art in Koziniec ul. Koziniec 8
 * The Kornel Makuszyński Museum ul. Tetmajera 15
 * Museum of the 1846 Chochołów Uprising Chochołów 75

Do

 * Ski
 * Kasprowy Wierch
 * Gubałówka
 * Nosal
 * Białka Tatrzańska
 * Bukowina Tatrzańska
 * Butorowy Wierch
 * Polana Szymoszkowa003 Białka Tatrzańska wyciąg narciarski talerzykowy - Kotelnica Białczańska.jpg
 * Hike
 * Hike

Many of these activities are outside of Zakopane. However, minibuses, leaving when full, depart from different points in Zakopane all day. Most minibuses leave from the front of the train station. The same system works to return hikers/skiers to Zakopane. Expect to pay about 3.50 zł each for the minibus (around €1).

Additional things to explore:
 * Murowaniec hostel in Gąsienicowa valley
 * Morskie Oko valley
 * Kasprowy Wierch (mountain), 1985 metres. Tatra view point. Restaurant. Skiing area. Cable railway runs from

Hike
It's worth buying a map of the area if you're going hiking. Most likely you will be hiking in Tatra National Park. Be aware that as it is a National Park special rules apply—don't be loud, leave any garbage or disturb animals. Maps are sold by the tourist office (17 Kosciuszki St., telephone: 01820 12211), down the hill, on your left, just before getting to the bus stop and cross roads (Krupowki St. and Kosciuszki St.) in the centre of town. They'll also give suggested routes, based on the latest weather forecasts and your fitness and equipment. Entrance fee of 4 zł (2 zł for students and school kids).

The maps are very tourist-friendly, with the "difficulty levels" for different paths marked: possibly slightly patronising for seasoned hikers. The pram symbol for the 'easy' paths is taken too literally - people have been seen trying to get prams up steep paths from Zakopane into the mountains. All the paths marked on the map are well maintained by the government.

Whichever route you plan to take, it is advised you dress warmly and bring spare waterproof clothes and water. Put the clothes in a plastic bag in your backpack to keep them dry in case of rain. Even midsummer it can hail for a whole day in the mountains! Remember you are already at 1000m, although it doesn't feel like it.

See also: Hiking from Zakopane to Giewont

Nearby hikes
Mount Rysy 2499-metre, 4-hour hike from Morskie Oko valley

Learn

 * Mountain Academy "Murowaniec" — avalanche courses.

Buy

 * Many shops at Krupówki promenade.

Eat
A local speciality is Oscypek, smoked sheep's milk cheese.

There are many good eateries within Zakopane. Look for authentic-looking wood huts. Avoid ones with colourful lights and multi-coloured lamps. Good "Bacowkas" include "Bąkowo Zohylina Wyźnio and Nizino" right off of Krupowki. Chata Zbójnicka on Jagiellońska is also good for authentic food (and experience). You can also try the fried fish eateries anywhere in town for a quick, cheap meal. Trout is the speciality in this town.

There is a cheese market every day. It's probably best to come early in the morning while the produce is still fresh, but it's fine to eat whenever it's purchased.

Budget
All of these are in the city centre:

Mid-range

 * Plenty of private rooms. Tourists coming by train or bus will often find private landlords waiting for them at the stations. Negotiate the price. Board often available. Ask to be shown the location on a map. Many locations are outside Zakopane city (which may be an advantage).

Go next

 * Kuźnice: get in on foot, or by local bus.
 * Chochołów
 * Nowy Targ

title: Zakopane


text:
Zakros

Zakros is a city in Crete.

Get in
One of the most picturesque villages of Crete, Zakros is located 18,5 km from Palekastro and 37 from Sitia. It has 1050 inhabitants, farmers, producing mainly olive oil.

Get around
Kato Zakros is a small coastal village, site of the fourth large Minoan Palace, located 7,5km from Zakros at the bay of the same name.

Within a few distance from the village of Zakros, starts the Gorge, which ends at the bay of Kato Zakros, almost near the Palace area. This gorge is of outstanding beauty, with large caves in its walls.

See
In those caves were discovered tombs from the Minoan period, and finds of great archaeological importance. That is the reason why the caves are named "The Caves of Deads" and the gorge "The Gorge of Deads".

Eat
Nowadays in Kato Zakros live a few people, occuping with farming, and fishing. There are some taverns and bars available for the visitors.

title: Zakros


text:
Zakynthos

Zakynthos (Greek: Ζάκυνθος), also called Zante (its Italian name), is the third largest island in the Ionian Sea, off the west coast of Greece. The island is named after Zacynthos, son of legendary Arcadian chief Dardanos.

While Ios and Kos are associated with partying, and Rhodes and Crete with families, Zakynthos is something in between. The majority of beaches and towns are along the south and east coasts, as the west and north coasts are extremely mountainous often with cliffs dropping many hundreds of feet straight into the sea.

Understand
Zakynthos, due to mild winter rainfall, is an extremely lush island. The Venetians, who conquered it, referred to it as Il fiore del Levante, the flower of the Levant. March-May is a particularly rewarding time to visit; the island has relatively few tourists, the Easter parade takes place, and the island blooms spectacularly with a myriad of colorful flowers and lush green hills.

Zakynthos, like its neighbour Kefalonia, was heavily affected by the massive earthquake of 1953 and subsequently a lot of its stunning Venetian architecture was sadly destroyed. Ruins still lay in some parts of the island due to this. The main town was completely rebuilt and still has an uncanny resemblance to Venice's San Marco Square. It is well worth taking a look at.

The beautiful white cliffs that plunge into azure seas towards Keri have to be seen to be believed; the water is wonderfully clear and it is worth hiring a boat to see such sights.

History
Archaeological excavations have proved that Zakynthos was inhabited from the Neolithic Age. The island is first mentioned by the Greek poet and writer Homer. In his masterpieces, the Iliad and the Odyssey, he stated that the first inhabitants of Zakynthos were the son of King Dardanos, Zakynthos (which the island has been named after), of Troy and his men who settled around 1500-1600 BCE.

Over the years the island was conquered by King Arkeisios of Kefalonia, and after him Ulysses from Ithaca. Later on Zakynthos became the first independent democracy in the Hellenic area, as a treaty was signed and it lasted over 650 years.

In the summer of 1953, Zakynthos was hit by two severe earthquakes, resulting in the total destruction of the islands infrastructure and most of its state archives. The most powerful of those quakes registered 7.3 on the Richter scale occurred on 12 August and was felt throughout almost the entire country. In Zakynthos Town only three buildings were left standing: the St. Dionysios Cathedral, the National Bank building, and the church of St. Nicholas "tou Molou". The rebuilding of the island was subject to a very rigid anti-seismic code, and has thus withstood several moderate and powerful earthquakes with a minimal amount of damage, including one in 2005.

Mining has been common on the island. Today, however, the only activity is two quarries on the mountain range in the western part of the island. A small mountain on Zakynthos west side was mined during the late 20th-century, though it is no longer in use. Today tourism is the most important source of income and Zakynthos is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Greece.

Towns and villages

 * - capital, on the east coast. This has the main shops, piazza, and harbour from which the frequent ferries to the mainland port of Kyllini depart and arrive.
 * - (northeast) although the small village has only around 30 year-round inhabitants, it is the second most important port on Zakynthos, as the ferry to Kefalonia departs there. The bay is fairly sheltered by the tall mountains and island in the bay and has many sea front restaurants along with a local coastguard station. Boats running trips to the blue caves slightly to the north depart from here and although quiet it can get busy at certain times of day when busloads of tourists arrive to get the ferry to and from Kefalonia
 * and - a closely linked pair of family resorts on the east coast north of Tsilivi.
 * - A few kilometres south of Zakynthos town on the Vassilikos peninsula. No real beach and consists of a few streets with hotels and more across the main road that runs up the peninsula. It has some bars and clubs but not a lot else to recommend it.
 * - To the east of Laganas past the turtle "no build zone". Although a busy resort, it's less of an all-night party area than Laganas and is more suited to families.  Most of its buildings and shops are on the main road that runs between this resort, past the airport and towards Laganas.  Like Laganas it shares a very long sandy beach that stretches for many kilometres across the south part of the island.
 * - There are 3 parts to Keri. The pebble beach and coast area at Limniou Keri, the village of Keri in the mountains, and further west the lighthouse of Keri which is popular with tourists who want to see a sunset.
 * - The infamous resort of Laganas. This is the main "party" town on the island. The main street consists almost entirely of nightclubs, bars, and fast food outlets. It's very popular with the 18-30 set, particularly young people from England. The beach itself has some nicer bars and restaurants along its length.
 * - A family-oriented resort north of Zakynthos town. It has some late night bars and near nightclubs but on the whole is a bustling family resort with all the usual hotels, supermarkets, restaurants and so on. It has a very wide and long sandy beach along with watersports available from it.
 * - A quiet village in the south east on the Vassilikos peninsula. Here there are now no major hotels and just apartments, villas along with restaurants and tavernas. It has much more of a small village feel to it, has no nightclubs or other entertainment, as is the place to look for a more relaxing, quiet holiday. In this area are the turtle nesting beaches of Gerakas and Dafnia. Slightly to the north is Agios Nikolaos (not to be confused with the one in the north) where there are many watersports, basic scuba diving and a busier place.

By plane
Zakynthos is served by one airport (ZTH), towards the south end of the island near to the resort of Laganas and Kalamaki. It receives both international and domestic flights. Almost all international flights are chartered flights from other European cities during the holiday season (May-October). Domestic flights are available between Zakynthos airport and Athens, served by the national airline Olympic Airlines. There are usually two flights a day to Athens. The journey time to Athens is approximately 1 hour. EasyJet flies to Zante from nearly all UK airports and flights are usually Thursday to Sunday (2010). There are also flights by WizzAir to Budapest every Tuesday.

The airport is closed during the night. Queues are very long, so arrive early. Free Wi-Fi. A lot of electric sockets. No public buses go to the airport from the city. Taxis can be ordered, which cost €10-15. The airport can be reached from the city centre by foot in approximately 1½ hours. Quite easy to find the way, but beware of the dogs on the way (especially close to KTEL bus station).

By ship
Zakynthos has ferry links to Kyllini on the Greek mainland from Zakynthos Town. €8.20 per person and €38 per car. Ferries to Kefalonia can be boarded at Aghios Nikolas, on the northeast tip of the island.

By public transport
There are buses that go between the most crowded areas of the island. Ask around and there will be no pain in finding the bus stops. However, bus services on the island are rather infrequent and sometimes unreliable. Taxis, however, are not too expensive.

By car
The best way to get around is by rental car. There are literally dozens of rental agencies on the island besides the big ones. Preferably get a 4WD car, as some attractions are off the main roads. Beware of the condition of some of the roads. The smaller roads may well have pot holes and even the "better" roads are extremely slippery. Also beware of other drivers. If you assume everyone else on the road is out to get you and drive accordingly it's probably the best way of dealing with it. Due to the island being fairly small and only a few major towns it's quite hard to get lost as most roads either go eventually to Zakynthos town or to Volimes in the north and you can work it out from there. Road signs are sporadic and some are bi-lingual with English and Greek, some are Greek alone.

Also watch out for scooters, especially in the main tourist areas.

By motorbike/scooters
Rental agencies abound. However, scooters may be somewhat painful to ride around the island, because it is very hilly, so get something with a little bit more power.

By bicycle
Cycling is a pleasant way of navigating the southern and central parts of the island, if somewhat impractical in the rougher, hillier terrain of the north. Bike hire is available in all but the smallest of resorts, costing around €4-8 per day, with discounts available for multi-day hire periods. A basket and a lock will usually be included but hire shops are very unlikely to rent helmets, so bring your own if required. Bike Ride Zakynthos offers tours of the island if you don't fancy doing it alone.

By private boat
Visit the famous shipwreck "Navagio", the blue Caves, the Keri Caves, Marathonisi island, the Mizithres Rocks and many hidden beaches by renting a private boat. Available at Zakynthos main port, at Ag.Sostis port or Ag.Nikolaos port, there are many companies that offer boat rentals with or without skipper.

See

Beaches

Some beaches in Zakynthos are also unofficial nudist beaches.

Do
Zakynthos is not so much an island for children. The water park here is small and rather hard to get to as compared to that in Corfu. Most resorts there are relatively low-key and tourist booths are more likely to offer excursions to neighboring islands or the Greek mainland rather than concentrating on Zakynthos' beauty. This is a shame, because it is still an island where mountainside villages and hidden coves await discovery by the discerning traveller. It is well worth hiring a car.

Eat
Traditional agricultural products are olive oil, thyme honey, currants, and wine, which can be purchased at roadside stalls or in the villages.

Zakynthos is a growing tourist island, and hence along with traditional Greek fare, one will find Anglicized cuisine. In Laganas, travellers would be more hard-pressed to find baklava than an English-fry up, but there are some very good places to eat Greek cuisine, and at very reasonable prices.

Drink
Bars are found in abundance on Zakynthos, from the lazy beach bar to clubs to British-run establishments. The beers of choice are the Greek Mythos, Alfa and Fix, though Amstel comes a close second. Drinkers looking for a more sartorial experience are advised to check out bars in Zakynthos town. There are also the local village wines (beware: strong!), the Metaxa brandy along with the standard ouzo.

The bars of Laganas can serve pretty much anything else and caters to the young drunk tourist.

Go next

 * Athens overnight trips are available through organised tours or using scheduled KTEL bus services and the Kyllini ferry.
 * Day trip to Kefalonia - the ferry leaves Agios Nikolaos to and from this island several times daily and there are many official guided tours allowing you to visit and return. Unfortunately the scheduled bus service to Agios Nikolaos is virtually non-existent, so if you don't want to sign up with an organised tour then you will require a taxi or your own transport to link up with the ferry.
 * Olympia - There are many organised tours using the ferry from Zakynthos town to Kyllini on the mainland to visit the ancient site of the original Olympic Games (about 45 min drive from the port).

title: Zakynthos


text:
Zalău

Zalău is a city of 56,000 people (2011) in Crișana, Romania. It has at least two dozen monuments and buildings of historical importance in the city.

Understand
Placed in north-western Romania, at the crossing between the Eastern Carpathians and the Apuseni Mountains, Salaj County was known as Sylvania County (ie the "County of Woods"). With an area of 3,850km², its neighbours are Satu-Mare and Maramures counties in the north, Bihor County in the west and south-west and Cluj County in south-east. Placed in the centre of the county it is the administrative residence of Salaj County. It is close to the border with the former Roman Empire, 8 km from the Roman camp of Porolissum- the strongest fortress in north-western Roman Dacia.

During medieval times the town represented the passage between Central Europe and Transylvania, through the well-known "salt road". Today the town is connected to the European road on the axis Cluj- Satu-Mare- Petea Vama, DN1F-E81.

Apart from its economic importance, it's a powerful cultural, educational and tourist centre.

This town suffers from periodic water shortages, so you may want to fill a receptacle while water is flowing.

Get in
By train, the town is 159 km from Cluj-Napoca, 81 km from Baia-Mare and 124 km from Satu-Mare.

By car the distances are: 86 km to Cluj-Napoca, 108 km to Baia-Mare, 119 km to Satu-Mare, 117 km to Oradea.

Get around
In the town the transport is possible by bus and minibus.

See

 * Among the 24 monuments and architectural ensembles in Zalau, the most representative are: the Transylvania building (1895- the municipal Theatre), the city hall building (housing the Law Court in 1889 and the Prefecture between 1904-1907), the Roman-Catholic Church (1878), the Reformed Church (1904-1907), The Dormition of Our Lady Orthodox Church (1930-1934), the Orthodox Rectorate (built at the end of the 19th century), the History County Museum (1900- casino of the Tradesman Association, a veritable architectural monument with neo-classical elements), the "Simion Barnutiu" Elementary School( 1895- girl’s school) and the Silvania National College (1860- reformed college), with town architecture of great value for the historic and cultural heritage of the country.
 * Republic Street houses the building where the Swedish king, Carol the XIIth, made a halt for one night in 1714. A memorial plaque on the front of the building reminds us of Ady Endre’s (1892-1896) time spent here during the high-school time. The statuary group “Wesselenyi” is very interesting, being the opera of the well-known sculpture Fadrusz Janos. It is also worth mentioning the busts of Ady Endre (inaugurated in 1902) and Ocatavian Goga - both placed in front of the theoretical high school, as well as the bust of Simion Barnutiu, made by Romul Ladea. Other architectural elements are the busts of Al. Papiu Ilarian, Mihai Viteazu, Corneliu Coposu, Iuliu Maniu, and Andrei Saguna; the Monument of the Heroes, raised in the memory of the soldiers who died in the World Wars; the Lion Monument in front of the city hall; and the Angel Monument.

title: Zalău


text:
Zamami

Zamami (座間味) is an island in Zamami Village. Zamami is about an hour's high-speed ferry ride from Okinawa's capital, Naha, but worlds apart with turquoise waters, white sand beaches, abundant coral, and untouched old-growth forests. Although it's a sub-tropical island destination, Zamami offers a rare corner of quiet, undeveloped, untouched, pristine nature. Zamami's not a resort, which is exactly what makes it great.

Understand
Zamami Village is a part of the larger island group, the Kerama Islands (Keramashoto, 慶良間諸島), in Okinawa Prefecture, Japan. Zamami Village is a part of the Keramashoto National Park. It is also designated as a Wetland of International Importance under the Ramsar Convention. Known as a top diving locale since as early as the 1960s, Zamami offers ideal conditions for snorkeling, sea kayaking, standup paddleboarding, fishing, Nordic walking, enjoying the beach, and more.

Zamami Village is comprised of three inhabited islands: Zamami, Aka (aka. Akajima, 阿嘉島), and Geruma (慶留間島).

Tourist information site
The local tourist association has a bilingual guide site.

Get in
Zamami is primarily reachable via the village-run ferries that depart from Tomari Port in Naha. All ferries stop at both Zamami Port (Zamami Island) and Aka Port (Aka Island). There are two ferries: the new "Queen Zamami" (introduced in 2021) and the larger "Ferry Zamami 3". The Queen takes 50–70 minutes to reach Zamami depending on which port it goes to first. The Queen costs ¥3140 one-way and ¥5970 round-trip. The Ferry Zamami takes approximately 2 hours to reach Zamami Island and costs ¥2120 one-way (¥4030 round trip).

You can book ferry tickets online via the Web Reservation System. (Click the "Log In" button to proceed.) Booking online requires a credit card. You can also book by phone by calling Zamami Village's ticket office in Tomari Port at Tel. 098-868-4567. You could always reserve tickets in person at Tomari Port. Reservations are always recommended during peak seasons (golden week, summer, August, September, October) as the ferries can become booked full (esp. Queen).

You can also get to Zamami Village from neighboring Tokashiki Village's (Tokashiki Island) Aharen Port. You have to reserve tickets for Zamami's Mitsushima Inter-Island Ferry's Kerama Route by calling the ticket office on Zamami Island at 098-987-2614. The Kerama Route costs ¥700 traveling to Zamami Village (Zamami or Aka) and ¥800 traveling to Tokashiki. (Tokashiki levies a ¥100 "environment tax" for entering their port)

Lastly, you can reach Zamami Village's Kerama Airport (Fukaji Island—connected to Geruma and Aka by bridges) via chartered helicopter. There are also a boat-charter operator in Zamami Village called Oscamintol (098-987-2356).

Although the Zamami island isn't far from Tomari Port, there are only 2 or 3 ferries per day. You can either reach the island in the morning with the 09:00/10:00 ferries or in the afternoon with the 16:00 ferry. By using the Web Reservation System (link above) you can see the schedule of the ferries. Also please check, if you want to make a day trip, when the afternoon ferry leaves.

Get around
You can walk to the two nearest beaches in about 20 minutes (1.5 km). There are also bicycle, electric bicycle, scooter, and car rentals available in the area near the port. Stop by the tourist information center in the port to grab a map. Zamami's quite hilly, and it's quite the workout to try to go around the island without a motor.

There is a village run bus with two routes that go to the two nearest beaches. The bus costs ¥300 per person one-way. Stop by the tourist information center to check the schedule. It primarily runs in unison with the arrivals and departures of the ferries.

There was one taxi on the island (there only can be one due to stringent Japanese laws on transportation), but it is out of service. It might be operating when you go, but again stop by the information center to find out if it's operating.

The Mitsushima Inter-Island Ferry runs between Zamami Island and Aka Island and costs ¥300 per person one-way.

See
In addition to its white-sand beaches, Zamami has multiple observation decks spread over the island that offer stunning views. It's fun to bring a pre-made boxed lunch up for a picnic (always take your trash with you!) Other on-land sights include a host of tropical birds that frequent the island. Zamami's got nice sunsets and on clear nights you can even see the Milky Way.

In the water, you can see all kinds of coral and tropical fish by snorkeling. Lucky divers can even encounter manta rays during the right season.

Every winter (end of Dec to beginning of Apr) humpback whales return to the waters around Zamami to breed, give birth to, and raise their young. There are whale watching tours available from Zamami port during that time. Email the Whale Watching Association to make reservations.

Do
There are nice waters around the island so scuba diving is the most popular activity. Other options are snorkeling and sea kayaking. Standup paddleboarding is popular in the village. There are many marine-activity shops in the village, but the shops that accept customers who can only speak English seems to change quite frequently. Check the official English tourism page (Zamami Tourist Information) operated by the Zamami Village Office to see what shops are available and how to contact them.

Diving
The island has many dive charter companies, and diving is their main tourist attraction. There are over 400 species of coral and 200 species of fish in the village's waters.

Camping
There is a campground about a 15-minute walk from the ferry port on the beach with toilet, shower and BBQ facilities. They also have some camping equipment to rent. The campground is in a grove of shady pine trees right on the Ama Beach in the Ama Hamlet. Call the campground to reserve rental equipment (098-987-3259). Tents start at ¥1000 per person per night. Otherwise there is a ¥300 fee per person per night to use the facilities. There are also cottages available to rent for ¥20,000 per night. This page provides detailed information.

Snorkeling
There are a number of diving and snorkeling points around the island but most snorkel at Furuzamami Beach and the Ama Beach. You can rent snorkeling equipment at Furuzamami Beach and nearby Ama Beach during the summer and peak seasons. It costs approximately ¥1500 per day for a 3-item set (snorkel, mask, and fins). Always wear a lifejacket. It keeps both you and the coral safe. Without a lifejacket, swimmers inadvertently stand on and kicke the coral. This kills the coral and the fish that inhabit it lose their home and disappear. Wear a lifejacket.

Standup paddleboarding
Standup paddleboarding (SUP) involves standing on a long board and propelling oneself with a paddle. Zamami's sheltered waters provide a calm sea for participants to learn how to SUP. Standing on the ultra-transparent waters, you can see all kinds of fish and coral below. Standup paddleboarding tours often involve paddling to a nearby uninhabited island, snorkeling around the island, and paddling back. Check Zamami Tourist Information (ZTI) for an updated list of tour services.

Geocaching
There are a number of geocaches on the island, most of them at the lookout points. http://www.geocaching.com

Zamami Festival
Zamami Festival is held usually on the third Saturday of August and includes performances such as Eisa drum dancing, local musicians, and fireworks. Local restaurants line the venue and sell food and drinks.

Sabani Race
The annual Sabani Race (a traditional Okinawan boat) from Furuzamami beach on Zamami Island to Okinawa Island runs the last weekend in June.

Buy
The Zamami-Mun Market in the Zamami Port Terminal building exclusively sells Zamami-made souvenirs from the locally grown mozuku seaweed and related products to t-shirts and cellphone cases.

There are three small grocery stores on the island, all located in the main Zamami Area next to the port.
 * 1) 105 Store: the largest of the three stores
 * 2) Komine Store: growing in both size and inventory.
 * 3) Zamami Store

Eat
There are many restaurants and "izakaya" (Japanese-style pubs) in the main Zamami Area. Grab a map in the information center and be sure to stop by the restaurant during the day to make a reservation for dinner if you are visiting during peak-season months.

There are two small parlors in the facilities at Furuzamami Beach that offer light food items such as Okinawa Soba, shaved ice, and taco rice. There are 1-2 small parlors located near Ama Beach during the summer that feature similar offerings.

There is a boxed lunch shop near the 105 store in the center of the Zamami Area. The grocery stores also sell premade boxed lunches, some made by the restaurants in Zamami, others sent from Okinawa Island.

You can find a cafe at 3 min walk from the main port. "CHA-VILLA" serves coffee, tea and some cakes. You can enjoy them in or out, but getting out to the beautiful garden is highly recommended.

Drink
Most of the restaurants and all of the Izakaya in town sell ice-cold glasses of Orion beer. Awamori (Okinawan distilled rice wine) is a standard at all of the establishments as well. Many places offer an assortment of awamori-based cocktails.

Zamami Village had a distillery on Okinawa Island produce an infused awamori with bayberries that are naturally grow on and are locally harvested in Zamami Village. You can buy this "yama-momo shu" at the grocery store.

Sleep
There are over 30 small-scale pensions and inns on Zamami Island that accept customers who can only speak English. Many of Zamami's accommodations are "minshuku" (民宿). Minshuku are small, family-operated bed & breakfast establishments. Breakfast is not a requirement, and you can even include dinner with you accommodations depending on the minshuku. Many minshuku feature Japanese-style futon-on-tatami sleeping arrangements and shared bathrooms. However, there are minshuku with western-style bed rooms that include private bathrooms. These are also called "pension," but the distinction is a blurry one.

Zamami Tourist Information has a comprehensive list of accommodations with descriptions and contact information.

You can also stay at the Ama Beach Campground in the Ama Hamlet as described above.

Connect
Within the official Japanese website, you can find a link to the official English-information page, Zamami Tourist Information.

There is a guide in English written by a former English teacher on the island. Some of the information is dated.

Go next
Take the Mitsushima Inter-Island Ferry to Akajima or go on a tour boat.

title: Zamami


text:
Zambales

Zambales is a province in the Central Luzon region of the Philippines. Central Luzon is also called Region III.

Cities

 * Iba - capital
 * Botolan
 * Cabangan
 * Candelaria
 * Castillejos
 * Masinloc
 * Palauig
 * San Antonio
 * San Felipe
 * San Marcelino
 * San Narciso
 * Santa Cruz

Talk

 * Tagalog is widely spoken and as with most parts of the Philippines, almost everyone can converse in English.
 * Sambal language remains as a spoken language in homes, but has been superseded by Tagalog and Ilocano in other areas of life.
 * Ilocano language is spoken by descendants of Ilocano settlers in south Zambales.

Get in
From Manila, one can take a bus operated by Victory Liner. They have five terminals that are located in different cities - Caloocan, Cubao, Kamias, Pasay and Sampaloc. With the exception of the Kamias terminal, only the four others have trips to Olongapo and Iba.

The nearest from the three international airports in Manila is the Pasay Terminal located along EDSA, Pasay City. From there, it’s a 5-hour bus ride, depending on the traffic, to Iba, the capital of Zambales. Available buses are aircon and non-aircon. A one-way fare from the Pasay terminal is. The first trip leaves at 5AM, but this is variable.

Another option is to hop on a bus to Olongapo from either Pasay, Cubao, Sampaloc or Caloocan, since the frequency of trips per day are more. Upon arrival at the terminal of Victory Liner Olongapo, you can transfer to one of the buses going to Iba or Sta. Cruz. Sta. Cruz is the last municipality that comes right before the province of Pangasinan where the famous Hundred Islands are located.

Get around
You can take a jeep to travel from one town to another. The standard rate is around per 4 km. You can also take a tricycle if traveling within a barangay. Minimum fare is per person.

title: Zambales


text:
Zambezi Basin

The Zambezi Basin is a region in Western Zambia, consisting of Western, Northwestern, and Southern Provinces.

Cities

 * — small town and proposed provincial capital of Kafue province
 * —
 * — gateway to the Victoria Falls
 * — provincial centre of Western province Zambia
 * —
 * — fast-growing provincial centre of Northwestern province

Other destinations

 * - by some measures the largest waterfall in the world
 * - by some measures the largest waterfall in the world
 * - by some measures the largest waterfall in the world
 * - by some measures the largest waterfall in the world

Talk
In the Northwestern Province, the largest town is Solwezi, in this province people speak Lunda, Kaonde, Luvale and Chokwe. The population has grown in the district because of the opening of mining industries hence the need to diversify economic activities to sustain the needs of the people.

By bus
Buses travel to/from the Livingstone inter-city bus terminus daily. Approximately 8 hours to travel to Lusaka, the Shalom bus is comfortable and recommended. Oasis busses depart for Mongu at 0500 with a stop/changeover in Sesheke. The road from Livingstone to Sesheke, though less than 200 km, is more pothole than road (the bus frequently opts to drive in the bush beside the road) and will take approximately 5-8 hours.

Drink
In the Northwestern Province, people like taking alcohol to much more food; and their a lot of types of beer, kachaso, wine, kajijili, boss, kasonge, bonte and many more

title: Zambezi Basin