Explore the Glorious Greece with Kids: Planning & Best Places to Visit
Greece, a land of ancient wonders, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture, offers a wealth of experiences for travelers of all ages. While the country is often associated with its rich history and archaeological sites, it’s also an excellent destination for families looking to immerse themselves in its natural beauty, delicious cuisine, and the welcoming atmosphere.
This article will guide you through the planning process and highlight some of the best places to visit in Greece with your kids, ensuring you get that unforgettable family adventure.
Planning Your Trip & Choosing the Right Time to Visit Greece
As you plan your family vacation to Greece, there are several factors that you need to consider to ensure that you have a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.
Packing Essentials
If you are planning to travel to Greece with kids, be sure to pack essentials such as sunscreen, hats, swimwear, comfortable walking shoes, insect repellent, and any necessary medications.
If you’re traveling with infants or toddlers, don’t forget to pack items such as diapers, wipes, bottles, and baby food. It’s also a good idea to bring along entertainment for the kids, such as books, toys, and games, to keep them occupied during downtime.
Weather in Greece
You should also keep in mind that Greeks tend to enjoy a Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The peak tourist season typically runs from June to August when temperatures are at their highest and crowds are at their thickest.
If you are traveling with young children, it is crucial that you consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to June) or autumn (September to October) when the weather is still pleasant, and attractions are less crowded.
Selecting Family-Friendly Accommodations in Greece
Greece also offers a wide range of accommodation options, including hotels, resorts, villas, and apartments. When traveling with kids, it is important that you look for family-friendly accommodations that offer amenities such as swimming pools, playgrounds, and proximity to attractions and beaches.
There are many hotels and resorts in Greece that offer special services for families, such as childcare, kids’ clubs, and family-friendly dining options.
Moreover, as you think of accommodations, it is vital that you keep transportation in mind. Greece has an extensive and reliable public transportation system, including buses and ferries. However, when traveling with kids, it’s often more convenient to rent a car. This provides flexibility and allows you to explore at your own pace, especially when visiting remote or less touristy locations.
Planning Kid-Friendly Activities in Greece
Again, Greece is known for its historical sites and cultural attractions including plenty of activities that are perfect for families with kids. You can thus consider including activities such as beach days, boat tours, water sports, and visits to amusement parks and animal sanctuaries in your itinerary.
Many museums and archaeological sites also offer family-friendly tours and activities designed to engage younger visitors.
As for the food, Greek cuisine is known for its fresh ingredients and delicious flavors. While the Mediterranean diet is generally healthy, it’s essential to consider your child’s preferences.
Most restaurants are accommodating to children, but it’s advisable to check menus in advance for kid-friendly options.
Best Places to Visit With Kids in Greece
The beauty is that Greece is home to countless family-friendly destinations, each offering its own unique attractions and activities.
Let’s take a sneak peek into some of the best places to visit with kids:
Athens
You can start your family adventure in the capital city, Athens. The city has some of the finest ancient landmarks and museums such as the Acropolis and the Parthenon where you can visit as a family and with Kids. You can explore the National Archaeological Museum which houses an extensive collection of ancient Greek artifacts. The museum offers an immersive experience that takes visitors on a fascinating journey through various periods.
You and your kids can marvel at sculptures, pottery, and jewelry, gaining insight into the evolution of Greek civilization.
You can also immerse yourselves in the tranquility of the National Garden of Athens, a green oasis, nestled in the heart of the city, features shaded pathways, vibrant flowers, and a small zoo. Your kid will certainly love the playgrounds scattered throughout the park.
Make sure that you get your Athens city pass to save valuable time and money, and explore Athens to the fullest. Yes, you’ll save a lot compared to purchasing individual tickets for various attractions. The Athens city Pass includes a diverse range of attractions suitable for families, such as museums, parks, and cultural sites like the Temple of Olympian Zeus, delve into the history of the Ancient Agora, and enjoy city views on a Hop-On, Hop-Off bus tour.
Crete
The largest of the Greek islands, Crete is a paradise for families with its beautiful beaches, charming villages, and rich history. You can enjoy this island by spending your days building sandcastles on beaches like Elafonissi and Balos, exploring ancient ruins at sites like Knossos and Phaistos, or hiking through the stunning Samaria Gorge.
Also, don’t miss the opportunity to sample delicious Cretan cuisine, including fresh seafood, local cheeses, and honey-soaked pastries.
Santorini
Furthermore, famous for its whitewashed buildings, blue-domed churches, and breathtaking sunsets, Santorini is sure to captivate visitors of all ages. You can take a boat tour of the island to explore its volcanic landscape and swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean Sea.
Make sure that you also visit the picturesque village of Oia, known for its stunning views and charming alleyways, or relax on the black sand beaches of Perissa and Kamari.
Rhodes
Rhodes is another must visit place that you should have in your bucket list. With its medieval old town, ancient ruins, and beautiful beaches, Rhodes offers something for everyone in the family. You can explore the cobblestone streets of Rhodes Town and visit the Palace of the Grand Master and the Archaeological Museum.
Additionally, spend a day at the Valley of the Butterflies, where you can see thousands of butterflies in their natural habitat, or enjoy water sports and snorkeling at Faliraki Beach.
Peloponnese
Home to ancient ruins, traditional villages, and beautiful coastline, the Peloponnese peninsula is worth exploring. You can visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Olympia, the birthplace of the Olympic Games, explore the ruins of Mycenae and Epidaurus, and relax on the sandy shores of Nafplio and Voidokilia beaches.
You can also enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and horseback riding in the region’s scenic countryside with your family.
Wrapping up
Greece, with its rich history, diverse landscapes, and welcoming culture, provides an excellent backdrop for a family vacation. Whether your kids are fascinated by ancient mythology, captivated by crystal-clear waters, or simply seeking adventure, Greece has something to offer every member of the family. Planning ahead and choosing family-friendly destinations can help ensure a memorable and enjoyable experience for both children and adults alike. So, pack your bags, embark on a journey through the wonders of Greece, and create cherished memories that will last a lifetime.
