Greece Family Vacation

Greece is the perfect place for families seeking an unforgettable vacation. With its combination of rich history, vibrant culture, and picturesque beaches, it’s no wonder it’s a popular choice among families. While the entire country is family-friendly, there are certain spots that are exceptionally great for kids.

Our team has put together a comprehensive guide that highlights some of the best family vacation spots in Greece. Regardless of whether you’re traveling with your children or extended family, there’s an experience for everyone to indulge in. So, get your suitcases packed and prepare for an unforgettable family adventure. Let’s dive in!

Photo courtesy to Casa Cook Rhodes

Greece Family Vacation

Best Family Vacation Spots in Greece

Crete

Crete is the largest island in Greece and offers a variety of activities for families. From hiking in the Samaria Gorge to exploring ancient ruins, there is plenty to keep everyone entertained. The island is also home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Greece.

One of the most popular beaches in Crete is Elafonisi, known for its clear turquoise waters and pink sand. Families can spend the day swimming, snorkeling, and building sandcastles. Another popular beach is Balos, which can be reached by boat and offers stunning views of the Gramvousa peninsula.

For those seeking a more cultural experience, a visit to the Palace of Knossos is a must. This ancient palace was once the center of the Minoan civilization and offers a glimpse into the island’s rich history. At night, families can enjoy a traditional Greek meal at a taverna and watch the sunset over the Aegean Sea. Crete is truly beautiful and is a perfect destination for a family vacation.

Stay: Daios Cove Luxury Resort & Villas

Rhodes

Rhodes is known for its medieval architecture and is a great place for families to learn about history and culture. Visitors can take a boat tour to nearby islands or go hiking in the lush forests surrounding the town. The island is also a popular destination for scuba diving and snorkeling, with crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life.

For those looking for a more relaxed vacation, there are plenty of spas and wellness centers that offer luxurious treatments. And of course, no visit to Rhodes would be complete without indulging in some of the delicious local cuisine, which features fresh seafood, traditional Greek dishes, and a variety of international flavors. Adventure, relaxation, or a little bit of both, can be had in Rhodes.

Stay: Casa Cook Rhodes

Photo courtesy to Daios Cove Luxury Resort & Villas

Santorini

In addition to its natural beauty and historical sites, Santorini offers a variety of activities for families. Kids can enjoy swimming and playing on the island’s beautiful beaches, while parents can indulge in some relaxing spa treatments. For those who love adventure, there are opportunities for hiking, horseback riding, and even scuba diving.

One of the most popular attractions on the island is the town of Oia, known for its iconic blue-domed churches and stunning views of the Aegean Sea. Families can take a leisurely stroll through the town’s narrow streets, stopping at local shops and cafes along the way.

For a unique experience, families can also visit the Santorini Donkey Sanctuary, where they can interact with rescued donkeys and learn about the sanctuary’s efforts to promote animal welfare on the island.

From its breathtaking scenery to its rich history and culture, it’s no wonder that Santorini is one of the most popular destinations in Greece.

Stay: Canaves Oia Suites

Corfu

Corfu is known for its lush greenery and stunning beaches Families can explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of Corfu’s old town or take a hike on the Corfu Trail to witness the island’s natural beauty.

Water sports enthusiasts can enjoy windsurfing, paddleboarding, and jet skiing in the island’s clear waters, which are also ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Foodies will be thrilled to try Corfu’s delectable traditional dishes, such as sofrito and pastitsada, which are unique to the island and bursting with flavor. Night owls can hang out in the island’s lively bars and clubs, which stay open until the early hours of the morning.

Corfu offers something for everyone, making it the ideal vacation spot for multi-generational families.

Stay: Domes of Corfu, Autograph Collection

Mykonos

Families can enjoy a leisurely stroll through the charming town of Mykonos, with its winding streets and white-washed buildings. The town also has many restaurants serving delicious Greek cuisine, including fresh seafood and traditional dishes like moussaka and spanakopita.

For a fun and educational experience, families can visit the Aegean Maritime Museum, which displays the island’s rich nautical history. Kids will love seeing the historic ships and learning about Mykonos’ seafaring traditions.

Another great family-friendly activity is a visit to the Mykonos Folklore Museum, which showcases the island’s cultural heritage. Visitors can see traditional clothing, furniture, and household items, as well as learn about local customs and traditions.

Whether you’re looking for a lively night out or a relaxing family vacation, you can find it in Mykonos. With its beautiful beaches, fascinating history, and welcoming culture, this Greek island is a must-visit destination.

Stay: Katikies Mykonos

Photo courtesy to Domes of Corfu, Autograph Collection

Naxos

With its crystal-clear waters and soft sandy beaches, Naxos Island is the perfect destination for families looking to unwind and relax. The island boasts a wide range of activities for visitors of all ages, including beach sports, hiking, and water activities such as surfing and diving. Parents can also take advantage of the island’s many spas and wellness centers for some much-needed relaxation time.

For those who are interested in history and culture, the Portara is a must-see attraction. This impressive structure is a massive marble doorway that dates back to ancient times and is the only remaining structure of a temple that was once dedicated to the Greek god Apollo. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll to the Portara and enjoy breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea as they explore the ruins.

Foodies will also love Naxos, as the island is known for its delicious cuisine. From fresh seafood to traditional Greek dishes, visitors can indulge in a wide variety of mouthwatering options. There are also plenty of family-friendly restaurants that cater to children and offer a range of options for picky eaters.

If you’re looking to enjoy a more laid-back vacation without sacrificing fun, adventure, or cultural experiences, Naxos is a great stop to add to your itinerary!

Stay: 18 Grapes Hotel Naxos

Skiathos

For those seeking adventure, Skiathos offers a range of water sports such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and jet skiing. The island is also home to several historic sites, including the medieval castle of Skiathos and the 18th-century Monastery of Evangelistria. Visitors can also enjoy the island’s vibrant nightlife, with a variety of bars and clubs offering music and entertainment until the early hours of the morning.

Skiathos is a popular destination for tourists from all over the world, but it still manages to maintain its traditional charm and friendly atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach holiday or an action-packed adventure, Skiathos has something to offer everyone in the family.

Stay: Skiathos Senses

Planning A Family Vacation to Greece

Best Time to Visit Greece

Greece is a popular tourist destination all year round, but the ideal season for your trip largely depends on your preferences. If you want to soak up the sun while enjoying the beaches, then June to August is the best time to visit. However, be prepared for large crowds and higher prices due to peak tourist season. If you prefer milder weather and fewer tourists, May or September is an excellent alternative.

During the winter months, many tourist attractions are closed, and the weather can be cold and rainy. However, this is an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in local culture and traditions, and benefit from the lower prices. If you’re planning a winter visit, be sure to check out our blog on Holiday Safety Tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

How to Get Around Greece

Traveling to Greece from the US is easier than you might think with direct flights available from major airports across the country. Once you arrive, there are numerous transportation options to choose from.

Island hopping is the perfect way to see Greece. Each of the numerous islands has its own unique charm. The best way to travel between them is by ferry, as there is an abundance of ferry companies that offer different routes, prices, and types of ferry.

Renting a car is the ideal way to explore the mainland. Be prepared for some challenging driving conditions due to the narrow and winding roads. Despite this, renting a car allows you to tour the country at your own pace, and you may uncover hidden gems that you wouldn’t find on a guided tour.

Alternatively, public transportation is a reliable and affordable option. Buses operate on most of the popular tourist routes, but be prepared to be flexible with your plans as the schedules can be unpredictable.

Amount of Time

Selecting the ideal Greek islands to visit can be overwhelming, but it’s all about how long you can stay and the sort of activities that interest you and your family. Don’t forget to read this blog post on how to help your baby’s sleep schedule while traveling;

Keep in mind:

• If you have a week, it’s best to limit your itinerary to just one or two islands.
• If you have more time, you can explore more islands and the mainland at your leisure.
• Keep in mind that transportation between islands can take a few hours, so plan accordingly.
• You can choose to travel by ferry or plane, but during peak travel season, be sure to book in advance.

Greece is a stunning and diverse country, and with the right planning, you can experience all the beauty it has to offer.

Photo courtesy to 18 Grapes Hotel Naxos

Overall, Greece is the perfect destination for families seeking a blend of historical, cultural, and beachside entertainment. The Greek hospitality is renowned worldwide, so families can rest assured that they will be treated with warmth and kindness throughout their stay. With so much to see and do, Greece truly offers something for everyone, making it the perfect destination for a family vacation.