The Greek Islands offer families a captivating blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion. Corfu, adorned with verdant landscapes and golden beaches, emerges as an ideal haven for families seeking relaxation and exploration. Meanwhile, Crete, the largest of the islands, unveils a tapestry of ancient ruins, picturesque coastlines, and lively urban centres such as Heraklion, promising endless discovery for all ages. For peaceful retreats, look no further than Rhodes, renowned for its storied past and an array of family-friendly resorts.
Here are the best destinations in Greece for families with young children.
- Corfu
Corfu stands out as one of the best getaway spots, with an abundance of fantastic Greek vacation packages available. Nestled in the azure waters of the Ionian Sea, it offers an idyllic setting for parents to bond with their little ones. From discovering the island’s natural beauty to learning about the rich history and indulging in child-friendly activities, Corfu provides a safe and inviting environment for you and your kids to frolic and play.
Explore the island’s charming villages, where your kids can immerse themselves in the local culture and interact with friendly locals. In addition, Corfu boasts a wealth of family-friendly attractions, including water parks, mini-golf courses, and adventure playgrounds, ensuring endless entertainment for you and your little ones.
For families who love nature, Corfu’s lush countryside offers scenic hikes and picnics amidst olive groves and citrus orchards. Embark on boat trips to discover hidden coves and secluded beaches, where your kids can snorkel, swim, and build sandcastles to their heart’s content.
Moreover, Corfu’s rich history provides educational opportunities for curious kids to learn about ancient Greek civilizations and explore historical sites such as the Old Fortress and Achilleion Palace.
- Mykonos
Mykonos, renowned for its vibrant nightlife and cosmopolitan atmosphere, may not immediately appear as a destination for families with young children. However, beyond its party scene, it offers child-friendly activities and attractions, making it a fantastic destination for families seeking excitement and relaxation.
The island’s stunning beaches, with their shallow, crystal-clear waters and soft sands, provide safe and enjoyable environments for children to swim and play. Agios Ioannis, Ornos, and Platis Gialos are among the most family-friendly beaches on the island, offering amenities such as beach chairs, umbrellas, and water sports suitable for your little ones.
Moreover, Mykonos boasts charming villages and cultural landmarks you can explore with your kids. The picturesque streets of Mykonos Town, known as Chora, are perfect for relaxing strolls. Attractions like the Archaeological Museum and the Aegean Maritime Museum offer educational experiences for young minds.
If you have adventurous kids, embark on outdoor adventures such as horseback riding, snorkelling, and boat trips to nearby islands, providing opportunities for unforgettable bonding moments.
So, while Mykonos may be renowned for its party scene, its wealth of family-friendly activities and fantastic family-friendly Greek villa rentals make it a versatile destination that caters to the needs and preferences of families with young children.
- Crete
As the largest of the Greek islands, Crete has plenty to offer for families with young children. Aside from its rich culture and history, the island has child-friendly activities and attractions. Crete’s expansive coastline is home to several pristine beaches, many of which feature shallow waters and soft sands, providing safe and enjoyable environments for your kids to swim and play.
Family-friendly resorts and hotels have child-friendly amenities, including kids’ clubs, playgrounds, kiddie pools, and supervised activities, ensuring you can relax while your kids are entertained and cared for.
Moreover, Crete’s cultural heritage provides educational opportunities for your curious kids to explore Greek ancient history and mythology. Take them to archaeological sites like the Palace of Knossos, where they can learn about the fascinating Minoan civilisation through interactive exhibits and guided tours.
Outdoor adventures also abound on Crete, with opportunities for hiking, horseback riding, and exploring scenic gorges and caves. Families can also embark on boat trips to discover hidden coves and snorkel in crystal-clear waters.
- Santorini
With its breathtaking stunning sunset views and picturesque villages, Santorini lures honeymooners and may not seem like an obvious choice for families with young children at first glance. However, this enchanting Greek island has child-friendly attractions and activities, making it an ideal destination for family vacations.
While Santorini’s rugged cliffs and volcanic terrain may not be suitable for traditional beach activities, you can still enjoy the island’s unique coastline. Many hotels and resorts have swimming pools with stunning views of the Aegean Sea, providing a safe and enjoyable environment for children to swim and play.
Exploring Santorini’s charming villages, such as Oia and Fira, offers opportunities for scenic strolls and immersing in the local culture. Wander through narrow cobblestone streets, visit local shops and markets, and admire the island’s iconic white-washed buildings and blue-domed churches.
Treat your kids to fun boat tours, providing a chance to discover Santorini’s volcanic landscape and nearby islands. These tours also offer opportunities for swimming, snorkelling, and exploring sea caves. Additionally, outdoor activities like hiking along scenic trails and horseback riding offer opportunities to connect with nature and create lasting memories with your kids.
- Rhodes
Given its wealth of child-friendly activities, there’s no doubt that Rhodes is one of the best destinations in Greece for families with young children. The island’s expansive coastline boasts numerous family-friendly beaches with shallow, calm waters, ideal for swimming and sandcastle building. Resorts along the coast often provide amenities like kids’ clubs, playgrounds, and water sports facilities, ensuring kids have fun while parents relax.
Exploring Rhodes’ rich history provides educational opportunities for young kids to learn about ancient civilisations. Visit historical sites like the UNESCO-listed Medieval Town of Rhodes, where you can wander through cobblestone streets, explore ancient fortifications, and visit museums showcasing artefacts from Rhodes’ past.
Rhodes’ lively atmosphere extends to its traditional villages and bustling markets. These places are perfect for immersing in the local culture and sampling delicious Greek cuisine.
With its diverse offerings, from beautiful beaches and rich history to its abundance of outdoor activities and cultural experiences, Rhodes is an ideal destination for families seeking a memorable and enjoyable vacation with their little ones.