If you’re in search of an island less well-known than Santorini and more suitable for families, look no further than Sifnos. With beautiful beaches and several family-oriented hotels to choose from, Sifnos will not disappoint!
Highlights include the Asklepion Complex (dedicated to Asclepius, the god of medicine) and its church with 100 doors; plus its forest full of peacocks and geese!
Crete
Crete is the ultimate Greek holiday, offering relaxed beaches and vibrant towns filled with activities. Even though Crete is large, most can be explored within two weeks.
Chora beaches are particularly ideal for kids, being shallow and sheltered with lifeguards and some offering sand-bottomed pools. Elafonisi Beach stands out with its pink sand. Children can either play in the waves or explore an underground maze of caves.
There are also a host of family-oriented hotels throughout Crete; we recommend the Domes of Elounda with its magnificent poolside views of both sea and uninhabited island of Spinalonga – making this an excellent spot from which to explore Chania, hidden beneath lush pink bougainvillea blooms.
Greece offers many restaurants that are welcoming of families with young children; though some cater more towards mature clients, children are still generally accepted at most establishments. Some, particularly on Santorini and Mykonos may not provide high chairs so if you have young ones you should bring one along as soon as possible.
We suggest visiting mainland Greece, particularly the Peloponnese region, with your children if you want to feel more off the beaten path and combine history and nature into one adventure. Beaches here tend to be quieter while many ruins tend to be less congested compared to main islands.
Kos
Attracting tourists, Kos is well known among Cyclades islands for its stunning beauty; yet its laidback appeal makes it one of the best Greek islands for families. Smaller and less well known than its well-known neighbours, it provides a more authentic family environment complete with sandy beaches, breathtaking coastal views, and activities designed to keep kids busy.
Capri is an ideal location for snorkelling and windsurfing, with several schools providing lessons in both sports. Exploring on foot allows visitors to discover Kastro – the oldest village on the island – while boat trips along its coastline allow visitors to discover some of its unspoilt coves and beaches.
Kos is best visited between June and September when its heat has subsided and less visitors are on the island. Hotels on Kos are designed with families in mind and resorts may even offer all inclusive packages which take away any worries of finding high chairs for toddlers or babies when dining out (although I recommend against this in Kos town as it has caused damage to traditional tavernas). Children will especially love exploring Asklepion Hospital or discovering some of its ancient ruins such as Knossos Palace that once housed King Minos who created his legendary labyrinth!
Sifnos
Sifnos stands out among Greece’s many islands as an idyllic family getaway, boasting stunning Ionian beaches with perfect sand for every day of summer, an incomparably charming coastal village that feels like something from another world, and rich ceramic history (with pottery workshops to boot).
Once off the ferry in Kamares, your children can quickly stretch out on soft sands with water lapping at their feet. Head for Vathi Beach on the west coast for an idyllic setting or take in Taxiarches’ church overlooking the sea for some incredible sights and experiences.
Cycladic island Syros is quickly emerging as an appealing alternative to Santorini with its picturesque hilltop villages and golden beaches void of crowds. Furthermore, there is an exceptional luxury resort which features kid-friendly lounge pool access as well as babysitting services and family-oriented menu options – perfect for visitors with kids!
Families with older children will enjoy hiking Cephalonia’s scenic trails, while exploring Asklepion, an impressive temple complex dedicated to healing that features historical medical treatments as well as ruins from bathhouses and clinics. Foodies flock to Cephalonia; its reputation has earned it the nickname ‘Foodie Island’ thanks to chefs and cookbook authors born and bred here; especially Fiskardo which boasts postcard villages that give way to stunning, unspoiled bays; rent a car if possible to make the most out of it all!
Ithaca
Captain Corelli’s Mandolin made Ithaca an incredible family destination, boasting picture-postcard fishing villages and picture-perfect beaches. To experience all it has to offer without peak season crowds and accommodation shortages, I suggest planning your visit outside peak season, when accommodation availability will be easier to come by and ferry rides won’t be so crowded. Plus there are great hiking routes suitable for parents as well as their young charges!
Crete, Greece’s largest island and an ideal family destination, boasts everything from beaches and coastline to historical landmarks and mountain trails – not to mention bustling towns such as Chania. There is an array of hotels, but our favorite hotel choice would have to be Sani Resort near Elounda for an exceptional stay!
June and September are ideal months for family holidays in Greece – with great weather that provides ample sunshine while not too much heat. By mid-September, crowds have subsided, making it easier to hop on a ferry or find seating at restaurants.
Yacht chartering can be a fun and educational way to explore Greece with your family. Take your pick between Ionian and Aegean Seas, choosing from various itineraries available to you. Look for companies offering children’s clubs or educational programs specifically aimed at keeping young ones busy while you relax by the water – some may even provide food and beverage provisions so you don’t need to pack all the supplies yourself!
Corfu
Corfu, one of the largest Ionian Islands, makes for an ideal family destination. Secluded from the hectic island-hopping routes of Cyclades, it provides an opportunity to unwind and explore with your kids in peace and safety. From scuba diving and boat trips to climbing Mount Pantokrator for breathtaking views over Ionian Sea; as well as many activities including Vrika and Paleokastritsa beaches that provide ample relaxation in the sun!
Kefalonia (sometimes spelled Cephalonia) is another top choice among Greek islands for families. This idyllic Ionian Sea jewel boasts a laid back atmosphere, reasonable pricing structure and stunning beaches tucked into secluded coves – making this island paradise. Be sure to visit in its quieter season when chances are good you may have all of its beaches to yourself!
Kos is one of the best Greek islands for families, offering stunning beaches, charming towns and delicious food. Kids will love snorkeling off its crystal clear waters while parents can soak up some sun while reading a book or simply taking in the view. When dinner rolls around head over to one of Kos’ many tavernas for some delicious local seafood or visit Knossos’ UNESCO World Heritage Site to gain more knowledge on its ancient Minoan city and labyrinthine labyrinthine system!
Rhodes
Rhodes, Greece’s Dodecanese group’s largest island, is an idyllic holiday hotspot boasting a UNESCO World Heritage Old Town, castlelike palaces and the relics of an ancient city. Rhodes’ medieval Street of Knights and Grand Master Palace provide testament to its longstanding history – still visible today throughout Rhodes city and other towns on its sprawling terrain.
The southern part of the island is well known for its beautiful beaches, such as Kiotari, Gennadi, Plimmyri and Prasonisi (popular among windsurfers and kitesurfers). Additionally, Elafonisi Beach – commonly referred to as Pink Beach – and Falarssana Beach are both worth a visit early or in the afternoon as these spots can get quite busy during summer.
Rhodes’ interior mountains and gorges boast beautiful forests, low hills, valleys and villages that preserve traditional Rhodian style and dialect and provide perfect hiking opportunities. Flora includes pine-cypress trees, oleanders and various wildflowers – the perfect environment for adventure.
The island boasts an impressive collection of religious buildings – mosques, churches and monasteries – that offer visitors a glimpse into its past. If the kids need a break from all that culture, Aqualand waterpark offers slides and pools. When ready, take on Tsambika Monastery; its Byzantine monastery perched 240 meters up a mountain offers 360 degree views that make climbing worthwhile.
