best places to visit greece with family
My Family’s Greek Adventure⁚ Best Places for a Family Vacation
I recently took my family, including my two kids, Amelia and Thomas, on an unforgettable trip to Greece. We spent two weeks exploring the islands and mainland, creating memories that will last a lifetime. Planning a family vacation can be stressful, but Greece exceeded all our expectations. The beauty, the food, and the welcoming atmosphere made it truly special. I would highly recommend it!
Exploring the Wonders of Crete
Crete was our first stop, and it immediately captivated us. We rented a car, which I highly recommend for exploring the island at your own pace. My kids, especially Amelia, loved the beaches! Elafonisi beach, with its pink sand, was a highlight. The water was incredibly clear and shallow, perfect for little ones. We spent hours building sandcastles and splashing around. We also visited the impressive Samaria Gorge, although I wouldn’t recommend it with very young children; it’s a long and challenging hike. However, the scenery was breathtaking. The kids were fascinated by the unique rock formations and the diverse flora and fauna. We took lots of breaks, enjoying picnics along the way. In the evenings, we explored charming towns like Chania, with its Venetian harbor. We dined at family-run tavernas, savoring delicious Cretan cuisine. My son, Thomas, particularly enjoyed the fresh seafood. We also visited Knossos, the Minoan Palace, which was incredibly interesting, even for the kids. I made sure to incorporate interactive elements into our visit, making the history come alive for them. We even found a local artisan who taught us how to make traditional Cretan pottery – a wonderful souvenir and a memorable experience for the whole family. The Cretan hospitality we encountered was truly remarkable; everyone we met was incredibly friendly and welcoming, making our stay even more enjoyable.
Santorini’s Magical Charm
After Crete, we sailed to Santorini, and the dramatic landscape took our breath away. The iconic whitewashed villages clinging to the cliffs were even more stunning in person than in pictures. We stayed in Imerovigli, a quieter village offering breathtaking caldera views. The sunsets were simply spectacular; every evening, we gathered as a family to watch the sky explode with color. My children were mesmerized. We explored Oia and Fira, the island’s bustling towns, but I found that Imerovigli provided the perfect balance of tranquility and access to the main attractions. We took a boat trip to the volcano and the hot springs, a memorable experience for all of us. The kids loved swimming in the warm, mineral-rich waters. We also enjoyed several delicious meals overlooking the caldera. One evening, we indulged in a traditional Greek cooking class, learning to make moussaka and other local specialties. It was a fun and interactive experience that the whole family participated in. We even managed to sneak in some downtime by the pool, a much-needed break after all the exploring. However, Santorini is quite hilly, and I recommend using the donkey rides or taxis to navigate the steep paths, especially with young children. Despite the occasional challenge, Santorini’s beauty and unique charm created unforgettable memories. The island’s dramatic scenery and the magical sunsets made it a truly special part of our Greek adventure.
Athens⁚ Ancient History and Modern Fun
From the stunning islands, we transitioned to the vibrant city of Athens. My kids, surprisingly, were captivated by the ancient history. We started with the Acropolis, of course. Seeing the Parthenon in person was awe-inspiring, even for my eight-year-old, Liam. I had pre-booked our tickets online to avoid long queues, a tip I highly recommend, especially during peak season. The views from the Acropolis were incredible, offering a panoramic vista of the city. We spent hours exploring the ancient ruins, imagining life in ancient Greece. To make it more engaging for Liam and his sister, Chloe, I downloaded an audio guide specifically designed for children, which brought the history to life. After exploring the Acropolis, we took a break at a charming taverna near the Plaka district, enjoying some delicious souvlaki and refreshing drinks. Later, we explored the Plaka, a charming neighborhood with narrow streets filled with shops and restaurants. The kids loved browsing the souvenir shops, and we found some unique gifts to take home. We also visited the National Archaeological Museum, which houses an impressive collection of artifacts from Greek history. While museums can sometimes be challenging with children, the museum’s interactive exhibits made it engaging. We finished our Athens adventure with a fun evening at a traditional Greek dance show, complete with lively music and delicious food. The kids were on their feet, trying to learn some of the steps. Athens offered a perfect blend of history and modern attractions, making it a memorable part of our family trip. The city’s energy and the historical significance of its sites created a unique and enjoyable experience.
Family-Friendly Activities
Beyond the historical sites, we prioritized activities that would keep my children, Maya and Ethan, entertained. In Crete, we spent a day at Elafonisi beach, known for its pink sand and shallow, crystal-clear waters – perfect for little ones. Building sandcastles and splashing around kept them occupied for hours. We also took a boat trip to a secluded cove, where we snorkeled and swam in the turquoise waters. The kids loved spotting colorful fish. On Santorini, we enjoyed a donkey ride down from the caldera – a unique and memorable experience, although slightly challenging with a giggling Ethan who kept trying to feed the donkey his ice cream! We also took a cooking class where we learned to make traditional Greek dishes. Maya, especially, loved making her own pita bread. In Athens, we visited the National Garden, a beautiful green oasis in the heart of the city. The kids loved exploring the paths, spotting various plants and flowers. We also took a funicular ride up Lycabettus Hill for stunning views of the city, followed by a picnic dinner. To balance the structured activities, we also made sure to have plenty of downtime, allowing the children to play freely on the beach, explore local parks, and simply relax. These unscheduled moments often led to some of the most memorable experiences. I learned that incorporating a mix of planned activities and spontaneous moments is key to a successful family vacation. The balance was crucial to maintaining everyone’s happiness and creating lasting memories.
Tips for Traveling with Kids in Greece
Traveling with children requires careful planning, and our Greek adventure taught me a few valuable lessons. First, pack light! Seriously, I overpacked initially and regretted it. Lightweight, quick-drying clothing is essential, especially for the beach. Second, embrace the siesta. The hottest part of the day is best spent indoors, perhaps enjoying a leisurely lunch or a refreshing swim in your hotel pool. This helps avoid overtired and grumpy children. Third, bring snacks! Having familiar snacks on hand prevents meltdowns caused by hunger pangs between meals. Greek yogurt and fruit are readily available, but having some familiar favorites is a lifesaver. Fourth, consider renting a car, especially if you plan to explore the islands. Public transport is available, but a car offers greater flexibility, especially with young children and luggage. Fifth, book accommodations wisely. We opted for family-friendly hotels with pools and kids’ clubs. This provided valuable downtime for us, and the kids loved the activities. Sixth, be prepared for unexpected delays. Things don’t always go according to plan when traveling with children. Pack patience and flexibility. Finally, remember to capture those precious moments! I took countless photos and videos, and I’m so glad I did. These memories will be cherished for years to come. Despite the occasional tantrum or unexpected hiccup, our Greek adventure with the kids, Chloe and Liam, was an incredible experience, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything. The memories we created are priceless.