The Best Places to Visit in Greece with Family

Greece is a dream destination for families. With its rich history, breathtaking beaches, exciting outdoor activities, and charming islands, it's the perfect place for a memorable family vacation. Whether you want to explore ancient ruins, relax on golden sands, or dive into thrilling water sports, there’s something in Greece for every member of the family. Let’s dive into the best places to visit in Greece with your family and discover what makes each one special.

Best Place for Families Interested in Culture & History: Athens

Athens, the capital of Greece, is a city where history comes alive. For families interested in learning about ancient civilizations, Athens is a must-see. The iconic Acropolis is a highlight, where you can explore the Parthenon and other ancient monuments that date back thousands of years.

One of the best things about Athens for families is how easy it is to visit major sites on foot. The city has pedestrian-friendly areas, like Plaka and Monastiraki, which are perfect for a family stroll. These neighborhoods are filled with local shops, cafes, and street performers, giving kids plenty to enjoy while parents take in the history.

For a more interactive experience, the Acropolis Museum and the National Archaeological Museum offer fascinating exhibits that bring history to life. Both have kid-friendly activities like scavenger hunts and hands-on displays that help children understand Greece’s ancient past in a fun way.

Why Athens is great for families:

• Easy to explore on foot.
• Kid-friendly museums with interactive exhibits.
• The opportunity to see one of the most famous landmarks in the world—the Acropolis.

Best Place for a Family Beach Vacation: Rhodes

If your family is looking for a beach getaway, Rhodes is the ideal destination. Rhodes has some of the most beautiful beaches in Greece, offering soft sand, crystal-clear waters, and safe swimming spots for children.

One of the top family-friendly beaches is Tsambika Beach, known for its shallow waters and clean sand, perfect for young kids. Families can also rent umbrellas and lounge chairs, making it a comfortable and relaxing day for parents.

Aside from the beaches, Rhodes has a rich history that kids and parents can explore together. The medieval Old Town of Rhodes feels like stepping back in time, with cobbled streets, ancient buildings, and even a castle! You can take a family-friendly walking tour to learn about knights, castles, and the island's fascinating past.

Why Rhodes is great for families:

• Sandy, shallow beaches perfect for young kids.
• Safe swimming areas and beach facilities.
• Opportunities to explore castles and medieval history.

Best Place for Outdoor Adventure: Crete

Crete is the largest Greek island and a top destination for families seeking adventure and outdoor activities. With its mountains, gorges, and beaches, Crete offers something for everyone in the family to enjoy.

One of the highlights of Crete for families is hiking the Samaria Gorge, one of the longest gorges in Europe. The hike is long, but even children as young as ten can handle it with the right preparation. The scenery along the trail is stunning, with opportunities to spot wildlife and enjoy a picnic surrounded by nature.

If hiking isn't your thing, Crete has plenty of other adventures to offer. You can explore caves, take a jeep tour through the mountains, or even visit a traditional olive farm to learn how olive oil is made.

For younger children, the Cretaquarium is a must-see. This large aquarium is home to hundreds of species of marine life, and it’s a fun and educational experience for the whole family.

Why Crete is great for families:

• Hiking trails suitable for older children.
• Jeep tours and outdoor activities.
• Family-friendly attractions like the Cretaquarium.

Best Place for Water Sports & Sailing: Naxos

Naxos is the perfect destination for families who love the water. Known for its beautiful beaches and calm seas, this island is a haven for water sports enthusiasts. Whether your family wants to try windsurfing, sailing, or snorkeling, Naxos has it all.

Plaka Beach is one of the best spots for families, with plenty of water sports facilities nearby. Here, kids can take beginner windsurfing lessons or rent kayaks and paddleboards. Parents can also enjoy the fun or relax in the sun while the kids play in the safe, shallow waters.

For families who want to explore the sea even further, sailing trips around Naxos and the nearby islands are a great option. You can take a family-friendly boat tour to explore hidden beaches, swim in secluded bays, and even snorkel in crystal-clear waters.

Why Naxos is great for families:

• Safe beaches with plenty of water sports options.
• Opportunities for beginner windsurfing and sailing.
• Family-friendly boat tours to explore the surrounding islands.

Best Place for Island Luxury & Relaxation: Mykonos

When it comes to a luxury family vacation, Mykonos is the perfect choice. Known for its glamorous resorts and beautiful beaches, Mykonos offers a laid-back island atmosphere that families will love.

Many of the family-friendly resorts in Mykonos have amenities like kids' clubs, playgrounds, and swimming pools, making it easy for parents to relax while the children are entertained. The island's famous beaches, like Ornos and Agios Ioannis, are great for families because they have calm waters and are less crowded than other popular spots.

For families who want to explore, the Mykonos windmills and Little Venice area are fun to visit, especially at sunset. Kids will love running around and watching the boats in the harbor, while parents can enjoy a meal with a view.

Another fun activity for families is taking a boat trip to the nearby island of Delos, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Delos is filled with ancient ruins and temples, making it a great educational trip for kids interested in history.

Why Mykonos is great for families:

• Luxury resorts with kids' clubs and pools.
• Beautiful beaches with calm waters.
• Opportunities to explore historical sites like Delos.

Final Thoughts

A family vacation in Greece is more than just a trip; it’s an experience that blends fun, relaxation, and education. From the cultural wonders of Athens to the sandy beaches of Rhodes, the outdoor adventures in Crete, the water sports in Naxos, and the luxurious retreats in Mykonos, Greece offers something for every type of family. No matter what your family's interests are, you’ll find that Greece has everything needed for an unforgettable holiday.