Greece is a welcoming destination for families, offering a blend of ancient history, sun-drenched beaches, and a culture that embraces children. The country provides a relaxed atmosphere where family travel is accommodated and celebrated. This combination of engaging activities and a supportive social environment makes Greece an ideal choice for a family vacation. This guide offers practical insights and specific recommendations for planning a successful trip.
The Cultural Welcome
The Greek attitude toward children is perhaps the greatest factor contributing to a positive family travel experience. This cultural warmth is rooted in philotimo (a love of honor) and extends to hospitality, or philoxenia, where guests, especially those with children, are treated with kindness and consideration.
Children are universally welcomed in public spaces, including restaurants and cafes, where their presence is seen as a sign of life and family rather than a disruption. Locals often interact positively with young travelers, offering a smile or a small gesture of attention. This societal acceptance creates a relaxed environment for parents, removing the pressure often felt when dining out or navigating busy areas.
Kid-Friendly Destinations and Activities
Selecting the right location is important for a successful family trip, and Greece offers diverse options beyond the famous caldera views. Islands like Naxos, Crete, and Corfu are excellent choices for their family-oriented infrastructure and geography. Naxos is known for its long, sandy beaches and shallow, calm waters, such as those found at Agios Georgios and Plaka. Crete offers a mix of history and stunning shores like Elafonisi Beach, famous for its pink sand and warm, shallow lagoon.
On the mainland, historical sites can be made engaging through interactive experiences designed for younger visitors. The Acropolis Museum in Athens provides Family Backpacks filled with activities and trails to help children explore the exhibits. The museum also features a detailed LEGO model of the Acropolis and digital games in its Kids Corner. Beyond the ancient ruins, the National Garden in Athens offers a large, central green space with playgrounds and a small zoo, providing a necessary break from city sightseeing.
Navigating Greece with Children
Navigating the country requires planning, particularly concerning transportation. While island hopping is popular, families should weigh the convenience of short domestic flights against ferry travel, which can be lengthy but offers more space for children to move around. Strollers are challenging to use in many areas due to uneven cobblestones, narrow sidewalks, and numerous steps, especially in older towns and on islands like Santorini. A sturdy baby carrier is often a more practical alternative for infants and toddlers.
For mainland travel or exploring larger islands, renting a car provides flexibility, but families must adhere to strict car seat laws. Children under 12 years old or shorter than 1.35 meters must use an appropriate child restraint system. It is advisable to reserve car seats well in advance with the rental company, as availability can be limited, or consider bringing a travel-approved seat from home. Tavernas are welcoming and offer fresh fare like grilled meats, pasta, and bread that appeal to most children.
Essential Health and Safety Tips
Proactive health measures are required, especially during the summer months. High-SPF sunscreen, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses are necessary for all family members, and sightseeing should be avoided during the peak sun hours of midday. Hydration is also important. While tap water in major cities like Athens and Thessaloniki is safe, quality can vary on smaller islands, making bottled water a common and affordable alternative.
Road safety is important, as traffic can be fast-paced and sidewalks are often narrow or non-existent outside of main city centers. Parents should hold children’s hands firmly when crossing streets and walking near traffic. For minor health concerns, pharmacies, marked by a green cross (Farmakeio), are widely available and staffed by knowledgeable professionals who can offer advice and over-the-counter remedies. Greece is a safe country, but maintaining awareness of the environment is the best approach to a healthy family trip.