Looking for the best Greek islands for families? You’re in the right place! Greece is a playground for all ages, a place where every member of the family can find their slice of happiness. Did you know that i 2019 Greece over
From the mythology-soaked ruins of Crete to the shimmering shores of Corfu, these islands serve up a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural enrichment. Pack your bags, because sun-drenched memories await you and your loved ones in the Greek isles.
Crete
The Mythical Island Playground
Crete is a paradise for families looking for a mix of beach fun and cultural exploration. Imagine dipping your toes into the warm sands of Elafonissi Beach, where the waters are as clear as crystal. Or, take a step back in time at the ancient ruins of Knossos, offering a hands-on history lesson for the kids. Crete’s size means there’s always something new around the corner – whether it’s a hidden cove for snorkeling or a mountain village with tales as old as time.
- How to Get There: Just a short hop from Athens by plane, or take a ferry for a more scenic route.
- Distance from Athens: About 320 km (200 miles), making it an accessible choice for a family getaway.
- Accommodation: Choose from beachside resorts with kid-friendly pools to quaint villas in sleepy mountain villages. There’s a place for every family size and budget.
- Dining: Crete’s culinary scene will delight both young and old. Enjoy fresh seafood by the harbor or traditional Cretan dishes in a village taverna. Don’t miss out on trying the local cheese pies and honey-drenched sweets!
- Transportation: Renting a car is the best way to explore Crete’s diverse landscapes, from its bustling cities to secluded beaches and ancient ruins.
- Activities and Excursions: Beyond the beaches, take the family on a hike through Samaria Gorge or a boat trip to Spinalonga Island. For a cultural day out, the Palace of Knossos is a must-see, bringing ancient myths to life.
- Safety and Convenience: Crete is well-equipped for families, with healthcare facilities and amenities widely available. The warm Cretan hospitality ensures a welcoming and safe environment for visitors of all ages.
- Local Culture and Education: Engage with Crete’s rich history through its archaeological sites and museums. Interactive experiences like pottery workshops and traditional cooking classes offer fun learning opportunities for kids.
Still wondering if Crete is worth visiting?
Corfu
The Emerald Jewel of the Ionian
Corfu is a storybook island where emerald mountains meet azure seas, offering families a lush playground steeped in history and natural beauty.
- How to Get There: Catch a direct flight from Athens or sail on a ferry from the mainland. The island’s accessibility makes it a breeze for family travel.
- Distance from Athens: Approximately 400 km (about 250 miles) to the northwest of Athens, Corfu is a gem in the Ionian Sea waiting to be explored.
- Accommodation: Corfu’s family-friendly resorts and hotels, nestled on beautiful beaches or in the heart of verdant landscapes, offer amenities that cater to both parents and kids.
- Dining: The island’s cuisine is a feast for the senses, with seaside tavernas serving up dishes like sofrito and pastitsada, sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
- Transportation: Renting a car or using local buses can be convenient ways to discover Corfu’s charming villages, ancient ruins, and hidden coves.
- Activities and Excursions: From the waterpark adventures at Aqualand to the mythological allure of the Achilleion Palace, Corfu is packed with experiences that engage and enchant children and adults alike.
- Safety and Convenience: With its well-established tourism infrastructure, Corfu ensures a comfortable and safe environment for families, complete with modern amenities and healthcare facilities.
- Local Culture and Education: Delve into Corfu’s Venetian past in Corfu Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, or participate in family-friendly workshops that celebrate Greek traditions.
See our comparison of Corfu vs Crete.
Rhodes
The Sun-Kissed Historical Haven
Rhodes, an island where history and natural beauty converge, offers families an enriching and enjoyable holiday experience.
- How to Get There: Reach Rhodes via a direct flight from Athens or by ferry from several Dodecanese islands and the Turkish coast. The island’s strategic location makes it an accessible family destination.
- Distance from Athens: Positioned about 430 km (267 miles) southeast of Athens, Rhodes stands as a majestic gateway to the Dodecanese.
- Accommodation: Rhodes boasts a range of family-friendly accommodations, from all-inclusive resorts with extensive facilities to cozy hotels in the Old Town, ensuring comfort for the whole family.
- Dining: The island’s dining scene caters to families with a variety of tastes, offering everything from fresh seafood by the Aegean to international dishes that kids will love.
- Transportation: Exploring Rhodes by rental car or local buses is ideal for families looking to discover its ancient sites, scenic villages, and stunning beaches at their own pace.
- Activities and Excursions: Visit the medieval Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, or enjoy a day at the beach at Tsambika, Faliraki, or Lindos, where water sports and sandy shores await.
- Safety and Convenience: Rhodes is well-equipped to host families, with modern amenities and healthcare facilities readily available to ensure a safe stay.
- Local Culture and Education: Engage with the island’s rich history through its ancient ruins, castles, and museums, offering educational and entertaining outings for children and adults alike.
See our comparison of Rhodes vs Crete.
Paros
The Cycladic Sanctuary of Sun and Sea
Paros, with its blend of traditional charm and family-friendly amenities, offers a relaxing yet engaging getaway for families.
- How to Get There: Paros is reachable by ferry from Piraeus and other Cycladic islands, offering a scenic journey into the heart of the Aegean. Flights from Athens to nearby Naxos followed by a short ferry ride is another convenient option.
- Distance from Athens: Approximately 160 km (100 miles) southeast of Athens, Paros is nestled in the central Cyclades, making it a perfect spot for families seeking island charm.
- Accommodation: The island features a variety of family accommodations, from beachside resorts with activities for kids to quaint hotels in Parikia and Naoussa that offer a taste of local life.
- Dining: Paros’ culinary offerings are perfect for family meals, with seaside tavernas serving up fresh, local dishes that appeal to all ages.
- Transportation: Renting a car or using public buses allows families to easily explore Paros’ picturesque villages, golden beaches, and historical sites.
- Activities and Excursions: The island is a playground for families, with water sports at Golden Beach, exploring the Butterfly Valley, or sailing around the small island of Antiparos.
- Safety and Convenience: Paros is equipped to welcome families with children, offering a safe, comfortable environment with all necessary amenities close at hand.
- Local Culture and Education: Immerse your family in Greek culture with visits to the ancient marble quarries, Byzantine footpaths, and traditional pottery workshops, where learning comes alive.
Kos
The Island of Endless Discoveries
Kos is a delightful blend of sandy beaches, ancient history, and family-friendly resorts, making it an excellent choice for families seeking both relaxation and adventure.
- How to Get There: Accessible by ferry from Piraeus and nearby islands, as well as direct flights from Athens, Kos is well-connected, ensuring a smooth journey for families.
- Distance from Athens: Kos is about 366 km (227 miles) southeast of Athens, nestled near the Turkish coast, offering a mix of Greek and international influences.
- Accommodation: The island boasts a variety of family accommodations, from luxurious resorts with kids’ clubs and pools to cozy, budget-friendly apartments.
- Dining: Kos’ restaurants and tavernas provide a family-friendly dining atmosphere, with menus that cater to all tastes, highlighting local Greek cuisine and international favorites.
- Transportation: Exploring Kos by bike is a popular and fun option for families, thanks to its flat terrain and cycling paths. Car rentals and public buses are also available for longer excursions.
- Activities and Excursions: Families can enjoy a day at the beach, visit the ancient Agora, or explore the island’s natural beauty at Plaka Forest, where peacocks roam freely. The thermal springs at Therma Beach offer a unique swimming experience.
- Safety and Convenience: With its laid-back atmosphere and well-developed tourist infrastructure, Kos is a safe and convenient choice for families, providing easy access to healthcare and amenities.
- Local Culture and Education: Engage with the island’s rich history by visiting the Castle of the Knights and the ancient ruins, or learn about local agriculture at a traditional farm, making for an educational and enjoyable family day out.
Naxos
The Aegean’s Alluring Giant
Naxos, the largest of the Cycladic islands, is a paradise for families, offering golden beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a welcoming atmosphere.
- How to Get There: Easily accessible by a short 40-minute flight from Athens or a 4-hour fast ferry from Piraeus, making your journey to Naxos straightforward and part of the adventure.
- Distance from Athens: Situated about 166 km (103 miles) southeast of Athens, Naxos is perfectly poised for family exploration in the heart of the Aegean Sea.
- Accommodation: Naxos caters to families with a range of lodging options, from seaside resorts perfect for beach days to cozy inns in the charming hinterlands, ensuring comfort for every family.
- Dining: The island’s culinary scene is a delight, with tavernas set in lush gardens or by the sea, allowing parents to relax while kids play. Fresh, local ingredients make every meal a joy, from seaside Paradiso Taverna to garden-set Kastraki Paradise.
- Transportation: Renting a car is recommended for families wishing to explore the island’s diverse landscapes, from mountainous terrains to seaside villages, at their own pace.
- Activities and Excursions: Naxos is brimming with activities, from marble sculpting workshops in the shade of olive trees to historical excursions in the marble village of Apeiranthos. The island’s beaches, like Saint George and Agia Anna, are perfect for young swimmers, with shallow, warm waters and life-guards on duty.
- Safety and Convenience: With a focus on family well-being, Naxos offers peace of mind through readily available healthcare in village clinics and a main hospital in Naxos Town. Pharmacies are also easily accessible for minor needs.
- Local Culture and Education: Immerse your family in Naxos’ rich history and culture with visits to ancient sites and educational tours, enhancing your holiday with learning and discovery.
Zakynthos
The Turquoise Treasure
Known for its turquoise waters and sandy beaches, Zakynthos is a haven where families can unwind and create lasting memories.
- How to Get There: Zakynthos is accessible via direct flights from Athens or by ferry from the Peloponnese. The island’s connectivity makes it an easy pick for a family holiday.
- Distance from Athens: Lying about 300 km (around 186 miles) west of Athens, Zakynthos invites families for an idyllic retreat in the Ionian Sea.
- Accommodation: From beachfront resorts with kid-friendly pools to quieter boutique hotels, Zakynthos offers a variety of places to stay that cater to families.
- Dining: The island’s culinary scene is rich with local flavors, offering everything from casual beachside snacks to traditional Greek meals in family-friendly tavernas.
- Transportation: Exploring Zakynthos by car or using the island’s public transport system can be convenient for visiting its famous beaches and attractions.
- Activities and Excursions: Don’t miss a boat trip to the mesmerizing Shipwreck Cove or a visit to the Turtle Island, where children can learn about and even spot the endangered Caretta-Caretta turtles.
- Safety and Convenience: Zakynthos is well-prepared to welcome families, providing a safe and comfortable environment with all the necessary amenities.
- Local Culture and Education: Engage with the island’s culture through visits to its museums, monasteries, and experiencing local festivals that are sure to enchant visitors of all ages.
Santorini
The Caldera’s Captivating Charm
Often celebrated for its romantic vistas, Santorini also unfolds as a wonderful island for families, offering unique experiences that cater to all ages.
- How to Get There: Direct flights from Athens or ferries from Piraeus and other Cycladic islands bring you to this iconic destination. The journey itself is part of the adventure, revealing stunning Aegean views.
- Distance from Athens: About 300 km (186 miles) southeast of Athens, Santorini is a volcanic gem in the Cyclades that’s more accessible than you might think.
- Accommodation: Santorini provides a range of family-friendly lodgings, from spacious villas with caldera views to hotels with pools that kids will love.
- Dining: The island’s eateries welcome families with open arms, offering a taste of Mediterranean cuisine with dishes that will delight even the youngest gourmets.
- Transportation: To fully embrace Santorini’s beauty, consider renting a car or using the efficient local bus service, making stops at child-friendly beaches and cultural sites.
- Activities and Excursions: Beyond the famous sunsets, explore ancient Akrotiri, take a boat tour to the volcanic islands, or enjoy the sandy stretches of Perissa and Kamari with their shallow waters perfect for children.
- Safety and Convenience: Santorini is well-prepared for its visitors, ensuring a safe and comfortable environment for families with all the necessary conveniences.
- Local Culture and Education: The island’s history and natural wonders provide a fascinating backdrop for educational exploration, from the story of Atlantis to volcanic formations.
Keep in mind that Santorini is one of the most expensive Greek islands.
See the 10 cheapest greek islands to visit and our comparison of Santorini vs Crete.
Choose the Best Greek Island for Your Family Vacation
Now you are ready to make the best decision for your family’s escapade to the Greek islands. Remember, the beauty of Greece lies in its diversity, and you can always combine visits to several islands on the same trip to experience this first-hand. Set sail on a journey tailored to your family’s desires – your perfect Greek holiday awaits.
For those who crave a deeper dive into planning your Grecian odyssey, our extensive articles on crafting the ultimate Greek getaway are at your service.
