Choosing the perfect island for a family holiday in Greece can be a challenge, especially with each island offering unique attractions. This guide highlights the best Greek islands for families, with insights into what makes each destination family-friendly and ideal for unforgettable adventures.
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Table of Contents
1. Crete – A World of Adventure and Family Fun
Crete, the largest Greek island, is often ranked as the number one Greek island for families. Known for its lovely beaches, historical sites, and family-friendly amenities, it’s a top choice for families wanting a bit of everything.
Why Stay in Crete?
Crete offers a mix of cultural, outdoor, and recreational activities for families. Many resorts are designed with families in mind, with kids’ clubs, child-friendly pools, and babysitting services. The island also has calm, shallow beaches, ideal for young children to safely enjoy the water. Families can experience the island’s cultural heritage, as Crete is home to the famous Palace of Knossos and plenty of interactive museums.
Things to Do in Crete for Families
- Explore Ancient Sites: Discover the Palace of Knossos, a fascinating archaeological site that brings history to life for young explorers.
- Enjoy Family Beach Days: Head to Elafonissi Beach, where the sand has a pinkish hue, and shallow waters are perfect for young swimmers.
- Take Nature Walks and Hikes: Samaria Gorge is a must for older kids and teens who enjoy hiking and exploring Greece’s natural beauty.
- Visit Aquaworld Aquarium: Located in Hersonissos, this small aquarium and reptile centre gives children an up-close experience with local marine life.
- Have Fun at Acqua Plus Water Park: One of Crete’s largest water parks, Acqua Plus offers slides, wave pools, and a lazy river, making it an exciting spot for family fun. Book your tickets with a coach transfer from your hotel for minimal fuss.
Keep in Mind
Crete is large, and travel times between attractions can be longer than on other islands. However, with plenty to explore, it’s a fantastic option for families who don’t mind a bit of travel.
2. Rhodes – History and Relaxation Combined
Rhodes offers a lovely balance of historical exploration and beach relaxation. It’s a fantastic option for families who want a mix of educational sites and fun beach days.
Why Stay in Rhodes?
Rhodes is famous for its medieval Old Town and offers plenty of family-friendly resorts. Many family resorts in Rhodes have facilities tailored for children, including kids’ pools, play areas, and entertainment programs. The beaches are ideal for families, with gentle waters and plenty of sandy spots for beach games and picnics.
Things to Do in Rhodes for Families
- Step Back in Time: Explore Rhodes Old Town, where families can wander through cobblestone streets, visit the Palace of the Grand Master, and feel like they’ve traveled back in time. If you have older kids, a walking tour is a great way to learn more about the town with a knowledgeable guide.
- Beach Fun at Tsambika Beach: With its clear, shallow waters, Tsambika Beach is ideal for families with young children.
- Rhodes Aquarium: Great for curious kids, this small aquarium in the Old Town showcases the local marine life.
- Take a Boat Trip to Lindos: Kids will love the boat ride, and families can enjoy the beautiful town of Lindos, complete with its ancient Acropolis and whitewashed houses.
Keep in Mind
Rhodes can be busy during peak season, so consider visiting in the shoulder months for a quieter experience.
3. Corfu – Lush Landscapes and Relaxed Vibes
With its green hills and beautiful beaches, Cofru is a top pick for families seeking a relaxed, nature-filled holiday. It offers family-friendly beaches, charming villages, and plenty of cultural sites.
Why Stay in Corfu?
Corfu’s family resorts cater well to those travelling with children, with spacious accommodations, children’s menus, and family pools. The island has a relaxed atmosphere, making it perfect for parents wanting a slower-paced holiday while enjoying scenic views and exploring historical landmarks.
Things to Do in Corfu for Families
- Spend the Day at Paleokastritsa Beach: With calm, clear waters and nearby caves to explore, Paleokastritsa Beach is a hit with families.
- Visit Aqualand Water Park: A must for families, this large water park offers slides, wave pools, and attractions suitable for all ages. Combine your tickets with a coach transfer for ease.
- Explore Corfu Town: Wander through Corfu Town’s narrow streets, discover Venetian architecture, and enjoy an ice cream at one of the charming cafés. Older kids may enjoy a guided Corfu Town Sightseeing Tour.
- Horse Riding Adventures: Corfu’s trails and coastal paths offer family-friendly horse riding tours, providing a unique way to see the island.
Keep in Mind
While Corfu has many family-friendly beaches, some areas have pebbly shorelines. Be sure to pack water shoes for easy beach days.
4. Kos – Small and Easy to Explore
Kos is a smaller Greek island that’s easy to navigate, making it ideal for families looking for a relaxed holiday without long travel times. With beautiful beaches, fascinating archaeological sites, and a laid-back vibe, Kos is a great choice for young families.
Why Stay in Kos?
Kos has a compact layout, with most family-friendly activities within easy reach. Many family resorts cater specifically to families, offering kids’ clubs and activities designed to keep children entertained. With safe, sandy beaches and shallow waters, Kos is ideal for young swimmers and paddlers.
Things to Do in Kos for Families
- Spend the Day at Tigaki Beach: Tigaki Beach’s shallow waters make it safe for young children, and it’s known for its lovely soft sand.
- Discover the Ancient Ruins of Asklepion: Families can explore the ancient ruins and learn about Kos’s history.
- Lido Water Park: Perfect for families, this water park offers slides, wave pools, and toddler-friendly splash areas. Book your admission tickets with transfers for an easy day out.
- Visit the Tree of Hippocrates: Located in Kos Town, this ancient tree is a fun stop for families learning about the ‘Father of Medicine.’
Keep in Mind
Kos can get busy in the peak months, but many of the family-friendly beaches are spacious, making it easy to find your own spot to relax.
5. Naxos – A Family Favourite for Beaches and Local Charm
Naxos is a lesser-known Greek island that’s perfect for families seeking a quieter, more authentic experience. With wide beaches, family-friendly activities, and charming villages, Naxos is a hidden gem.
Why Stay in Naxos?
Naxos has a family-friendly atmosphere, with a welcoming local community and low-key resorts that offer plenty of space for children. The island’s long sandy beaches are safe for young children, and there are plenty of local spots that provide a taste of traditional Greek culture.
Things to Do in Naxos for Families
- Relax at Agios Georgios Beach: With shallow, clear waters, this beach is ideal for families, offering plenty of space for kids to play.
- Visit the Temple of Apollo: Kids and parents alike will be fascinated by this ancient landmark, especially at sunset.
- Explore Naxos Town: Wander the charming streets of Naxos Town, where families can enjoy local food and buy unique souvenirs.
- Take a Boat Trip to Nearby Islands: Families can enjoy a day out on the water, exploring the smaller islands around Naxos.
Keep in Mind
Naxos is quieter than some other Greek islands, making it ideal for families who prefer less crowded spots.
6. Mykonos – Stylish Spots with Family-Friendly Beaches
While you might think of Mykonos as a party island, it also offers a range of family-friendly activities and peaceful areas perfect for young children. With beautiful beaches, charming towns, and a unique Cycladic atmosphere, Mykonos provides a sophisticated family getaway.
Why Stay in Mykonos?
Mykonos has a variety of family-friendly resorts, with some quieter areas and excellent facilities for children. The island also has calm beaches suitable for young children, and it’s a great place to explore the unique Cycladic architecture with its iconic white-washed buildings and colourful doors.
Things to Do in Mykonos for Families
- Relax at Ornos Beach: Ornos Beach offers gentle waves, soft sand, and plenty of family-friendly restaurants nearby.
- Visit the Windmills of Mykonos: Kids will love seeing the island’s famous windmills, a unique sight in Mykonos Town.
- Day Trip to Delos: Just a short boat ride away, Delos is a fascinating ancient site where families can explore Greek history and mythology.
- Enjoy Traditional Greek Cuisine: Mykonos has many tavernas offering local dishes, perfect for introducing children to Greek food.
Keep in Mind
Mykonos can be more expensive than other islands, but staying in family-friendly areas like Ornos or Agios Ioannis offers a quieter, more affordable experience.
7. Paros – Quiet Beaches and Charming Villages
Paros is a more relaxed, family-friendly alternative to Mykonos, with a mix of traditional villages, sandy beaches, and a laid-back atmosphere. It’s a great choice for families looking to experience the charm of the Cyclades without the hustle and bustle.
Why Stay in Paros?
Paros is perfect for families wanting a mix of beach days and cultural exploration. Many of its beaches are calm and safe for children, and there are plenty of outdoor activities to keep kids entertained. The island also has family-oriented resorts that make for a comfortable stay.
Things to Do in Paros for Families
- Swim at Kolymbithres Beach: With its unique rock formations and shallow waters, this beach is ideal for children who enjoy exploring.
- Explore Naoussa Village: A charming fishing village, Naoussa has small shops, cafes, and beautiful views that families will enjoy.
- Horse Riding Tours: Paros offers horse riding excursions along the beach, a fun way for families to experience the island’s natural beauty.
- Visit the Butterfly Valley: A unique attraction where kids can see colourful butterflies in a peaceful, shaded valley.
Keep in Mind
Paros is a quieter island, making it perfect for families seeking a relaxing holiday, but it may lack some of the busier attractions found on larger islands.
8. Zakynthos – Nature, Marine Life, and Stunning Beaches
Zakynthos, also known as Zante, is famous for its turquoise waters and breathtaking beaches. It’s a fantastic choice for families who want to explore marine life and enjoy some of the most beautiful natural scenery in Greece.
Why Stay in Zante?
Zante has a range of family-friendly accommodations, including beach resorts with plenty of amenities for children. Its beaches are safe and beautiful, and the island is known for the loggerhead turtles that can be spotted in the waters around Laganas Bay.
Things to Do in Zante for Families
- Visit Navagio Beach (Shipwreck Beach): While it’s best reached by boat, the views of this iconic beach are unforgettable and a must-see for families.
- Turtle Spotting: Families can take boat tours to spot the island’s famous loggerhead turtles, a thrilling experience for children.
- Banana Beach Water Sports: For older children, Banana Beach offers water sports and family-friendly activities on a lovely sandy beach.
- Have Fun at Zante Water Village: One of the island’s largest water parks, Zante Water Village offers exciting slides, lazy rivers, and splash zones, perfect for a family day out. Like most water parks in Greece, you can book your admission tickets and transfers as a package.
Keep in Mind
Zante is popular and can be busy in summer. Visiting in spring or autumn may be ideal for families looking for a quieter experience.
9. Lefkada – Ideal for Beach-Loving Families
Lefkada is connected to mainland Greece by a bridge, making it one of the easiest Greek islands to reach by car. With an abundance of beautiful beaches surrounded by clear blue waters, Lefkada is a paradise for families who love spending time by the sea.
Why Stay in Lefkada?
Lefkada offers a variety of family-friendly resorts, especially near popular beach areas. The island’s beaches are often calm, with gentle waves and sandy stretches perfect for children. Lefkada also offers excellent water sports facilities, suitable for older children and teens.
Things to Do in Lefkada for Families
- Relax at Kathisma Beach: With soft sand and clear waters, this beach is great for family relaxation and beach games.
- Windsurfing at Vasiliki: Older kids and teens can enjoy beginner-friendly windsurfing lessons, as Vasiliki is known for its excellent conditions.
- Boat Trip to Porto Katsiki Beach: Accessible by boat or a scenic drive, Porto Katsiki is one of Greece’s most stunning beaches.
- Explore Nidri Waterfalls: A short hike from Nidri village, these waterfalls are a beautiful spot for family photos and a refreshing swim.
Keep in Mind
Lefkada’s western beaches can get windy, which is great for water sports but may not be ideal for very young children on windy days.
10. Samos – Culture and Nature Combined
Samos offers a mix of cultural sites, beautiful beaches, and nature reserves, making it a great choice for families wanting an educational and scenic holiday. The island has plenty of vineyards and traditional villages, providing a relaxed, culturally immersive experience.
Why Stay in Samos?
Samos is home to many family-friendly hotels and apartments, often located near beaches with gentle waves. The island’s rich history and beautiful landscapes make it ideal for families who enjoy exploring new cultures and the great outdoors.
Things to Do in Samos for Families
- Pythagorion Archaeological Site: Children can learn about Greek history at this UNESCO-listed site, which includes ancient ruins and a fascinating museum.
- Visit Kokkari Beach: This beach is family-friendly with shallow waters and plenty of cafes and restaurants nearby.
- Potami Waterfalls: A gentle hike leads to these beautiful waterfalls, where families can enjoy a scenic picnic.
Keep in Mind
Samos has a quiet atmosphere, perfect for families wanting a low-key holiday with a mix of beach and cultural activities.
11. Skiathos – Easy to Explore and Full of Beautiful Beaches
Skiathos may be small, but it’s packed with family-friendly beaches and easy-to-reach attractions, making it an ideal choice for families with young children who prefer a more compact island to explore.
Why Stay in Skiathos?
With its manageable size, Skiathos is easy to get around, allowing families to explore without long travel times. The island’s beaches are famous for their soft sand and calm waters, and family-friendly resorts here make it easy to relax while the kids enjoy the beach.
Things to Do in Skiathos for Families
- Koukounaries Beach: With golden sands and shallow waters, Koukounaries Beach is a favourite among families.
- Banana Beach: This beach has shallow waters and is ideal for swimming and sandcastle building.
- Boat Trip to Lalaria Beach: Famous for its beautiful stone arch, Lalaria Beach is a unique spot to explore with children. They’ll also enjoy the speedboat trip to reach your destination.
- Explore Skiathos Town: Families can wander through the narrow streets, sample local foods, and enjoy a relaxed day exploring the town’s boutiques.
Keep in Mind
Skiathos can be more crowded during peak season due to its popularity, so visiting early or later in the season may be ideal for families seeking a quieter experience.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Greece with Your Family
Should I take my kids to Greece?
Absolutely! Greece is a fantastic destination for families. Greeks are known for being warm and welcoming, especially towards children, and the country offers a range of activities suitable for all ages. From beaches to historical sites and interactive museums, kids will have plenty to do.
What area of Greece is best for kids?
The islands are generally more family-friendly than the mainland, with safe beaches, family-oriented resorts, and a welcoming atmosphere. Crete, Rhodes, and Kos are particularly known for catering to families with children.
Which is better for families, Crete or Corfu?
Crete is larger, offering more variety with archaeological sites, beaches, and adventure activities, making it great for families with varied interests. Corfu, however, has a more relaxed vibe, with lush landscapes and beautiful beaches, perfect for families wanting a peaceful holiday.
Which beach in Greece is best for kids?
Many beaches in Greece are family-friendly, but some top picks include Elafonissi Beach in Crete, Tsambika Beach in Rhodes, and Koukounaries Beach in Skiathos. These beaches have shallow waters, soft sand, and nearby facilities that make them ideal for families with kids.
Is Kefalonia suitable for families?
Kefalonia is a lovely island for families. It’s quieter than some of the more famous islands, offering beautiful beaches, charming villages, and a relaxed atmosphere. Families can enjoy nature, caves, and scenic beaches in Kefalonia.
Is Zakynthos good for young children?
Zakynthos is great for young children, with safe beaches, gentle waves, and fun activities like turtle spotting. The island’s size and layout also make it easy to explore with little ones.
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