Greece is a fantastic destination for family-friendly getaways, with gorgeous beaches, crystal-clear waters, charming villages, fascinating history, and sumptuous local cuisine. While the mainland has plenty to offer, the Greek islands are undoubtedly the highlight of any trip to Greece. Here are some of the best Greek islands to explore with your family and top 10 tourist attractions to make your trip unforgettable.
Santorini
Santorini is one of the most famous Greek islands and a highly popular destination for families. The island is famous for its stunning volcanic landscapes, whitewashed villages with blue domes, and breathtaking sunsets. Santorini has plenty of activities for families, including visiting the Red Beach, hiking in the caldera, swimming in the hot springs, and exploring the ancient Akrotiri archaeological site. The island also offers plenty of delicious Greek food and wines to try, such as the renowned Assyrtiko wine.
Mykonos
Mykonos is another famous Greek island, known for its vibrant nightlife, gorgeous beaches, and charming old town with maze-like alleys and colorful bougainvillea. Mykonos suits families who want to combine beach activities with culture and history. The island has several family-friendly beaches, including Ornos, Platis Gialos, and Agios Stefanos. The old town has picturesque windmills, a folklore museum, and several restaurants serving local specialties such as kopanisti cheese and louza cured pork.
Crete
Crete is the largest Greek island and an ideal family destination for those who want to explore a diverse range of landscapes, culture, and history. Crete has something for everyone, from kid-friendly beaches and waterparks to ancient ruins and mountainous regions. The island’s highlights include the archaeological sites of Knossos and Phaistos, the Samaria Gorge, the Balos Lagoon, the Elafonisi Beach, and the Palace of Zakros. Crete also has a unique cuisine, with dishes such as dakos (bread with tomato, cheese, and olives), gamopilafo (wedding rice), and kalitsounia (cheese pies).
Corfu
Corfu is a verdant island located in the Ionian Sea, close to Albania. Corfu has several family-friendly beaches, cute villages, and impressive Venetian fortresses. The island also has plenty of activities for families, such as snorkeling, scuba diving, horse riding, and hiking. The old town of Corfu has a UNESCO-listed historic center with several churches, museums, and palaces to explore. Corfu is also an excellent destination for foodies, with dishes such as bourdeto (fish stew) and sofrito (veal stew).
Rhodes
Rhodes is a stunning island located in the southeastern Aegean Sea, close to Turkey. Rhodes has a rich history, with several archaeological sites, medieval castles, and ancient cities. The island’s top attractions include the Palace of the Grand Master, the Acropolis of Rhodes, the Lindos Acropolis, the Valley of the Butterflies, and the Prasonisi Beach. Rhodes is also famous for its 300 days of sunshine per year and its delicious meze dishes, such as tzatziki, dolmades, and moussaka.
Paros
Paros is a charming island located in the heart of the Cyclades archipelago, between Mykonos and Santorini. Paros has a relaxed vibe, turquoise waters, and lovely beaches, making it an excellent option for families who want to unwind and enjoy Greek island life. The island has several outdoor activities for families, such as windsurfing, kiteboarding, biking, and hiking. Paros also has a beautiful old town, Naoussa, with a Venetian castle, a whitewashed harbor, and several seafood restaurants.
Naxos
Naxos is the largest island in the Cyclades, located south of Paros. Naxos has a varied landscape, with rugged mountains, fertile valleys, and beautiful beaches. The island’s top attractions include the Portara, a massive marble gate that once formed part of a temple dedicated to Apollo, the Chora Castle, the Kouros statues, and the beaches of Agios Prokopios and Agia Anna. Naxos is also an excellent destination for foodies, with tasty specialties such as potato croquettes, pork gyros, and citrus liqueurs.
Skiathos
Skiathos is a small island located in the Sporades archipelago, famous for its emerald waters and lush vegetation. Skiathos has 60 beaches, many of which are family-friendly, such as Koukounaries, Banana, and Vromolimnos. The island also has a charming old town, with cobbled streets, whitewashed houses, and several restaurants serving fresh seafood and Greek delicacies. Skiathos has an international airport, making it an easy destination to reach.
FAQs:
Q: Is Greece safe for families?
A: Yes, Greece is a safe country for families, with low crime rates and friendly locals. However, like any other destination, it’s essential to take precautions and avoid crowded areas during peak hours.
Q: What is the best time to visit Greece with kids?
A: The best time to visit Greece with kids is from May to October, as the weather is warm and sunny, and most tourist facilities are open. July and August are the busiest months, with high temperatures and crowds, while May and October are quieter but still pleasant.
Q: Is it easy to travel around the Greek islands with kids?
A: Yes, it’s relatively easy to travel around the Greek islands with kids, as most islands have excellent ferry connections and rental car agencies. However, it’s advisable to avoid renting a car with young children, as the roads in Greece can be narrow and winding.
Q: What is the food like in Greece, and is it suitable for kids?
A: The Greek cuisine is varied and delicious, with plenty of fresh vegetables, grilled meats, seafood, and dairy products. Most restaurants offer kid-friendly options, such as pasta, pizza, and chicken nuggets, as well as tasty Greek dishes such as souvlaki, tzatziki, and moussaka.
Q: What are the best beaches in Greece for families?
A: Some of the best beaches in Greece for families are Elafonisi in Crete, Koukounaries in Skiathos, Agios Prokopios in Naxos, Platis Gialos in Mykonos, and Red Beach in Santorini.
Top 10 Tourist Attractions in Explore the Best Greek Islands for Family-Friendly Getaways:
1. The ancient site of Knossos in Crete.
2. The caldera in Santorini.
3. The Palace of the Grand Master in Rhodes.
4. The old town of Naoussa in Paros.
5. The Venetian castle in Corfu.
6. The Portara gate in Naxos.
7. The Red Beach in Santorini.
8. The Valley of the Butterflies in Rhodes.
9. The windsurfing spots in Paros.
10. The beaches of Koukounaries in Skiathos.