Visiting Greece with kids: a complete guide

Offering sun-soaked islands and beautiful beaches, ancient myth-steeped ruins, and delicious food that’ll satisfy even the pickiest of eaters, visiting Greece with kids is perfectly placed to be an utter joy. Add to that a culture that loves kids, and the country adds up being one of the best family vacation destinations in Europe — all the more so if you keep reading to find out everything you need to know about visiting Greece with kids. 

The best times to visit Greece with kids

Though a year-round destination, deciding when to go to Greece will depend on your personal tastes and travel must-dos.

That is to say, the best time to visit Greece will depend on the kind of vacation you’re looking for, and the kind of conditions you want — warm weather? Milder climes? Bustling crowds, or a quieter experience? 

Spring and early fall: Best overall times to visit Greece with kids

On balance, spring and fall are the best overall months to visit Greece with kids. 

Both these seasons offer mild-to-warm weather and moderate crowds, making them ideal for a broad range of experiences in pleasant conditions i.e. outdoor sightseeing and adventuring, and beach breaks when the sun isn't at it's most intense. 

It's also worth noting that while fall heralds cooler temperatures (68°F to 86°F/ 20°C to 30°C), the sea remains warm, which means you and your kids can bathe in bath-warm waters when there are fewer fellow tourist to cramp your style!

All that said, there's a reason summer is a popular time to visit Greece for sun-drenched vacations on the best Greek islands. 

If you and your little ones can handle the heat (82°F to 100°F/28 to 38°C) and bigger crowds, early summer also comes recommended for families. But be sure to book early, and heed sun safety advice — more on that below.

Staying safe and healthy in Greece

With low rates of crime rates, good healthcare, and plenty of child-friendly facilities, Greece is among the safest and most family-friendly destinations in Europe.

That said, to ensure you and your kids enjoy a stress-free Greece vacation, here are some guidelines for staying safe and healthy in Greece. 

Road safety 

Sidewalks are narrow and uneven in many cities, so be sure to hold hands with young kids.

Healthcare and emergency assistance

Though Greece has a good healthcare system, and pharmacies ("Φαρμακείο") are widespread, it’s best to bring your own basic medications e.g. pain relief, allergy medicine and motion sickness tablets.

Also bring mosquito repellent and antihistamines, especially if you’re heading to coastal or rural areas. While Greece doesn’t have malaria, pesky mosquitoes and sandflies can be a pain in summer.

It’s also pretty essential to have travel insurance — public hospitals are free but crowded.

As for emergency numbers, dial 112 for ambulance, fire or police services.

Beach and sea safety

Always stick to lifeguard-patrolled beaches if you and your kids want to swim, and watch for jellyfish in late summer, especially in the Aegean Sea.

Ferry and boat safety

While Greece’s ferries and boats are safe, some are crowded, and it’s better to choose bigger, slower ferries if you’re travelling with kids, or prone to seasickness yourself. 

Not only are these cheaper, but they’re also more stable, which decreases the chance of getting sick.

How to get around Greece with kids

With a well-connected transport system, it’s pretty easy for families to travel between Greece’s cities, regions and islands. 

Read on for tips that’ll make getting around Greece all the smoother.

By train

While Greece’s train system isn’t extensive, it’s useful for travel between Athens and Thessaloniki (4 hours by high-speed train) and some northern cities.

Kids under 4 travel free, and kids aged 4–12 get 50% discounts, and there’s spacious seating and stroller-friendly storage areas.

By rental car

A rental car is advisable for exploring mainland Greece, especially if you’re keen to visit remote villages, archaeological sites and beaches.

For example, it’s better to have your own wheels if you want to do a deep dive into the Peloponnese (Olympia, Nafplio and Epidaurus), and Meteora and Northern Greece, including Mount Olympus, Thessaloniki and Zagori’s villages.

Having a car is also especially handy of the island of Crete so you can reach the likes of Chania, Heraklion and Elafonissi Beach without booking a tour or taxi.

Note that Greece drives on the right, car seats are required for children under 135 cm (4'5"), and it’s best to avoid driving in Athens, where traffic is chaotic and parking is difficult.

By bus

Cheaper than trains and renting a car, an extensive network of long-distance buses (KTEL buses) connect cities, towns, and remote villages.

Useful for traveling to smaller towns not connected by train (e.g. Delphi, Meteora and Nafplio), and for budget-conscious travelers, buses come with longer travel times, and some routes are infrequent.

By ferry 

Greece’s ferries connect Athens (Piraeus port) with the islands. 

Take your pick from slower Blue Star Ferries, or pricier high-speed ferries that’ll get you to the islands faster, but come with a higher risk of seasickness.

By domestic flight

For long-distance travel, domestic flights are the fastest option. 

For example, flying from Athens to enjoy the best things to do in Santorini takes 45 minutes versus a five-hour ferry. Meanwhile, flying from Athens to Crete takes an hour, with the ferry taking eight hours.

Our tip is to check out budget airlines (Aegean Airlines, Sky Express, Volotea) for family discounts, and to book early.

How to get around cities

Here are your transport options when you’re in a Greek city or town.

Walking 

Greek cities and towns have compact, pedestrian-friendly historic centers, making walking the best way to explore.

While a lightweight stroller is ideal for Thessaloniki and Athens, baby carriers are easier in the likes of Santorini and Mykonos, which have stacks of stairs.

Metro (Athens)

Fast, clean, and stroller-friendly, Athens has the only metro system in Greece, with three lines connecting the airport, city center and Piraeus Port.

Kids under six travel free, but avoid the crowded 7–9am and 5–7pm rush hour.

Buses and trams 

While Athens and Thessaloniki have good bus networks, they can be slow due to the congested traffic.

In Athens, note that a tram line connects the city center with a beach (Glyfada) — perfect for families who might want to enjoy some freedom from the city.

Taxis

While taxis are affordable, they sometimes overcharge tourists. Best to use the Beat app – Greece’s version of Uber.

10 tips for traveling to Greece with kids 

With Greece is a mighty fine family-friendly destination, here are our top ten tips for making your family vacation more rewarding.

1. Choose family-friendly islands

If you’re dreaming of an idyllic island break with your kids, note that some islands are more suitable for families than others.

For example, crowded Mykonos and party-heavy Ios might not be what you have in mind.

Instead, consider visiting Naxos for shallow beaches, excellent water sports and small villages, or Corfu — think green landscapes, castles and calm beaches.

Meanwhile, Rhodes is loaded with fun things to do beyond the beach, and myth-rich Crete has lots of theme parks and cool historic sites.

Like the sound of Crete? Take inspiration from our Crete itinerary ideas.

2. Research family-friendly accommodation 

While Greek hoteliers have a habit of loving families with kids, some accommodation in Greece is more child-friendly than others.

For example, many historic buildings don’t have elevators, and not all resorts are kid-friendly.

As a guideline, look for city hotels near parks and playgrounds, and when choosing a resort, be sure to check they have kids' clubs and pools.

For more space and self-catering facilities, look for villas and Airnbs.

3. Book ferries and flights in advance 

To have your pick of routes and more child-friendly times and services, always book flights and ferries well in advance.

For example, the slower Blue Star ferries are better for families than high-speed ones, or look to book overnight ferries with a cabin to save money on hotels, and give kids a comfortable night's sleep.

4. Bring baby and toddler essentials

Good news — supermarkets sell plenty of baby food, diapers and wipes, though they’re expensive on the islands.

While most attractions are stroller-friendly, be aware that hilly islands like Santorini and Mykonos are bad for strollers, and some archaeological sites have steps and uneven ground.

As a result, you might want to bring a baby carrier.

A portable booster seat might also come in handy as high chairs aren’t always available, and baby-changing facilities are rare, so it’s best to bring a portable changing mat.

5. Public transport in cities, car rental in rural spots

As mentioned above, it’s not worth renting a car in Athens — using public transport and walking is far easier and more pleasant.

If you’re taking a longer trip and want to visit, for example, the Peloponnese and Meteora, and truly explore Crete, having your own car is preferable to using buses or taxis

6. Sun protection is essential

Greece gets super-hot in summer, especially in Athens, Crete and Rhodes, where temperatures reach 104°F.

So, be sure to keep your kids hydrated and always carry a refillable water bottle (tap water is safe in Athens and Thessaloniki, but not always on the islands).

It’s also, of course, important to regularly apply SPF 50+ sunscreen and wear hats and sunglasses, especially at the beach or on boats.

7. Get into Greek food

Greek food is fresh and healthy, with the likes of pita bread, souvlaki, Greek yogurt with honey, spanakopita (cheese and spinach pie) and grilled chicken on hand to keep picky eaters happy!

Just avoid raw seafood and street food in very hot weather, and note that Greek mealtimes are later (dinner is usually from 8–9pm), so stock up on snacks if your kids usually eat earlier.

8. Avoid midday crowds at tourist spots 

Popular sites like the Acropolis get VERY crowded in summer, so plan an itinerary around visiting such sites early (before 9am) or late (after 5pm) for a better experience.

Doing that also means you avoid outdoor sightseeing during the hottest time of the day.

9. Be crowd safe

Staying on the subject of crowds, attractions, islands like Santorini, and ferry ports are very crowded in summer, so you’ll really need to keep a close eye on your kids.

Perhaps write your phone number on a bracelet or card for younger children in case you become separated.

10. Plan plenty of breaks around kid-friendly attractions

Making the most of Greece often means a lot of walking in order to see its top historic sites.

To prevent burnout (or, dare we say it, boredom!), mix up visiting ancient ruins and museums with the likes of playgrounds, beach time and ice cream stops.

You’ll also want to include plenty of Greece’s top child-friendly attractions in your itinerary. Read on for more on that all-important subject. 

Things to do in Greece with kids 

Covering magical myth-laden ancient sites, fun theme parks and a whole lot more — including unforgettable uniquely Greek experiences — here are some of the best things to do in Greece with kids.

Best places for ancient history and myth magic 

• Acropolis, Athens: kids will love climbing up to the Parthenon to see ancient ruins up close, and learn about Athena and Poseidon. Take a kid-friendly mythology tour to bring history to life, and visit the Acropolis Museum’s LEGO model of Athens.
• Temple of Poseidon, Cape Sounion: Greek mythology comes alive at this clifftop temple dedicated to Poseidon. It’s the perfect place for a sunset picnic overlooking the Aegean Sea, combined with spending the afternoon on nearby Legrena or Sounion Beach.
• Palace of Knossos, Crete: here kids can explore the legendary home of the Minotaur, replete with colorful frescoes and hidden passageways. It’s a must-visit on any Crete itinerary.
• Delphi: at the expansive UNESCO World Heritage Site of Delphi, center of the ancient world, kids can explore the ruins of the Temple of Apollo, see where the Oracle of Delphi delivered her prophecies, visit an Ancient Theatre and be wowed by the Stadium of Delphi, which used to host the Pythian Games.

Best child-friendly beaches and islands 

If you’re looking for a family beach vacation on an idyllic Greek island, here are a few places to have on your radar, alongside wising up on all the best beaches in Greece.

• Naxos island: less crowded than Santorini and Mykonos, Naxo boasts shallow waters, golden sand, and gentle waves. Swimming conditions are great at Agios Prokopios and Plaka Beach, and you can easily enjoy boat trips to nearby islands.
• Elafonissi Beach, Crete: with its pink-hued sand and warm, shallow water, this charmer is for sure one of the best beaches in Crete. Kids will also love being able to walk to a nearby island. While on Crete with kids, be sure to take a boat trip to the breath-taking Balos Lagoon. 
• Navagio Beach, Zakynthos: AKA Shipwreck Beach, this famous beach and real shipwreck can only be reached by boat, which gives kids a real sense of adventure. Tours often also include visits to the magical Blue Caves. Zakynthos is also a great place to enjoy turtle watching boat trips.

Islands on your mind? Read up on how to plan a Greek island holiday.

Best theme parks

There are time when kids just need to let off steam and have a whole lot of fun in theme parks. Here are some of Greece’s best.

• Allou! Fun Park, Athens: Greece’s best amusement park boasts roller coasters, a fun ferris wheel, tons of funfair rides and kid-friendly carousels.
• Waterpark, Rhodes: Greece’s biggest water park, no less!
• Acquaplus Waterpark, Crete: this place is perfect for toddlers and big kids alike.
• CretAquarium, Crete: Greece’s best aquarium is loaded with sharks, jellyfish, and colorful Mediterranean fish. Combine with a visit to the nearby Dinosauria Park.

Best unique Greek experiences

From adventures in nature, to special cultural activities, here are a few uniquely Greek experiences little ones will love.

• Santorini volcano and hot springs: older kids will get a thrill from hiking to the to the crater of Nea Kameni volcano and swimming in the hot springs at Palea Kameni — a highlight of any Santorini itinerary.
• Meteora's magical floating monasteries: best for older kids who can handle lots of stairs, these UNESCO-designated giant rock formations with monasteries perched atop them really do look like something from a fairy tale.
• Traditional Greek dance shows: wherever in Greece you decide for visit with kids, look out for opportunities to see family-friendly Greek dancing shows. Participation recommended!

Greece itinerary with kids

While the places you choose to include in your family vacation to Greece will depend on your personal must-visit places, the ages of your kids, your budget, and when you plan to visit, here’s a suggested 7-day itinerary that covers a range of top attractions and experiences, from ancient history, to beaches and boat trips

Day 1: Arrive in Athens, uncover Greek mythology

After arriving in Athens, take a taxi or metro to your hotel (read up on the best area to stay in Athens) before spending the afternoon exploring the Acropolis and Acropolis Museum.

While seeing the Parthenon and Temple of Athena is something else, younger kids will also love the Acropolis Museum, with its LEGO model of Athens and fun interactive exhibits.

That evening, enjoy family-friendly dinner combined with a fun Greek dancing show.

Day 2: Explore the Temple of Poseidon and hit the beach!

On day two, rise early to take a trip to Cape Sounion to see the majestic Temple of Poseidon. It’s a 1.5-hour drive that delivers amazing sea views and legends aplenty when you arrive.

If that wasn't enough, after exploring the site, you can head to a nearby beach to swim (e.g. Legrena or Sounion are both kid-friendly and calm) before enjoying lunch in a seaside taverna.

Either spend the rest of the day on the beach, or else return to Athens to explore the pretty Plaka district. It’s packed with street performers and places to eat ice cream and buy souvenirs.

Day 3: Discover ancient Delphi and magical mountains

Day three is devoted to ancient Delphi — a 2.5. hour drive from Athens. Book a guided tour to take the hassle out of getting there yourself.

Here, older kids (especially Percy Jackson fans!) will love exploring the Oracle of Apollo, the ancient stadium and stacks of temple ruins.

Many guided tours include a mountainside meal in Arachova — a charming town near Delphi. 

Into nature? Check out tours that include visiting Arachnova and a stop in nearby Parnassus National Park, where you and your kids can enjoy an easy short hike through spectacular mountain scenery. 

Editor’s tip: while this itinerary includes three days in Athens, you might want to do something different with your schedule. If that’s the case, read up on how many days you need in Athens.

Day 4: Volcanic adventures in Santorini 

Take a 45-minute morning flight to Santorini for a one-night stay that’ll have you and your family embracing some of the island’s best experiences in exhilarating style.

After checking into your accommodation (read up on where to stay in Santorini), take an afternoon boat tour to see an active volcano and swim in sulphuric hot springs.

You could also ride a cable car down to the old port, leaving time to soak up Santorini’s legendary sunset from Oia Castle or Amoudi Bay.

Day 5: Myths and beach bliss in Crete

On day five, take a morning ferry to Crete (2 hours by a high-speed service).

After checking in (read up on the best area to stay in Crete), spend the afternoon at the Palace of Knossos, where kids can explore the legendary labyrinth of the Minotaur.

If you have time, head to one of Crete’s best beaches in the late-afternoon e.g. pink-hued Elafonissi Beach or Stavros Beach.

Day 6: Outdoor adventures or theme park fun in Crete 

If your kids are older, active and into nature and adventure, you could head to Samaria Gorge — a challenging 16km hike that'll take you to Europe's largest gorge.

Alternatively, head to Dinosauria Park and Crete’s CretAquarium for a mix of life-size dinosaur models, fossil excavation activities, and underwater magic, with the island’s Acquaplus Waterpark also recommended. 

Come, the evening enjoy a sunset dinner in a beachfront restaurant.

Day 7: Return to Athens ready to depart

On day 7, it’s time to return to Athens.

The flight only takes an hour, so you could either leave later to have more time on Crete, or else fly early to leave some time for last-minute sight-seeing or shopping in Athens.

With younger kids, the former option might be better, as it’s likely to involve a simpler transfer from one flight to another. 

That said, your kids might appreciate having the flights broken up by, for example, enjoying lunch in Athens, before boarding your main flight home.

Ready to visit Greece with kids? Our guide to how to plan a trip to Greece will come in handy.

You could also take inspiration from our customisable Greece itineraries, or contact our local Greece travel experts about curating your perfect family vacation for any duration.