The Greek islands are a fantastic family-friendly destination, boasting a balance of captivating history, stunning natural beauty, and a welcoming culture. Each island has its unique charm, with activities and attractions that cater to a vast array of family needs and interests. Whether your family adores beach relaxation or thrilling adventures, there is a Greek island that is just right for you. This guide will help you navigate these diverse offerings, providing tailored recommendations for different types of families to ensure you select the perfect island for your next memorable family getaway.
Best All-Round Greek Islands for Families
When seeking a complete, well-rounded experience for the entire family that combines safety, a diverse range of activities, and family-friendly accommodations, Corfu and Zakynthos are the standout choices.
Corfu: A Mix of Cultures and Activities
Set in the Ionian Sea, Corfu offers a unique blend of British, French, and Venetian influences, seen in its architecture, food, and culture. Its rich history combined with a myriad of family-friendly attractions makes it an ideal destination. From exploring the old fortress in Corfu town to swimming in turquoise waters, the island caters to all family interests. Children-friendly beaches, such as Glyfada and Agios Gordios, and the renowned Aqualand Water Park provide assurances for a fun-filled family holiday.
Zakynthos: Pristine Beaches and Marine Life
Also in the Ionian Sea, Zakynthos is known for its stunning beaches and marine parks, making it a great choice for families with nature lovers. The island’s top attraction, Navagio Beach, is a stunningly beautiful cove, ideal for bonding family excursions. Moreover, the Zakynthos Marine Park in the Bay of Laganas is a haven for endangered sea turtles and provides an excellent opportunity for families to explore marine life, combining fun with educational value. The island also boasts a variety of family-friendly resorts, offering a comfortable and safe stay.
Best Greek Islands for Teenagers
For families with teenagers, the ideal Greek island provides a mix of adventure, independence, and cultural enrichment. Here, we present two standout choices that tick these boxes: Crete and Rhodes.
Crete: Adventure Awaits
The largest of the Greek islands, Crete is a dream for families seeking action-packed holidays. The island is renowned for its adventure parks, where teenagers can enjoy a range of activities from zip-lining through lush forests to off-road buggy explorations. The island’s natural beauty provides endless opportunities for memorable adventures like hiking through the Samaria Gorge or exploring the mesmerizing caves of Matala.
Rhodes: History Comes Alive
For teenagers with a sense of curiosity and fascination for history, Rhodes is an exceptional choice. This island is home to the well-preserved medieval city of Rhodes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site teeming with historical artifacts, and stunning architecture. Whether it’s exploring the Palace of the Grand Master or strolling the cobblestone streets of the old city, teens will find themselves immersed in a captivating historical narrative. Additionally, the island’s beautiful beaches offer the perfect venue for a variety of water sports, offering fun and relaxation after a day of exploration.
For teenagers seeking independence and a dose of adventure on their family holiday, the Greek islands of Mykonos and Ios offer an ideal mix of exciting activities, youth-oriented tours, water sports, and cultural festivals.
Mykonos: Vibrant Atmosphere and Nightlife
Famed for its vibrant atmosphere, Mykonos is a top choice for teenagers seeking both excitement and a taste of Greek culture. The island offers numerous beaches, such as Paradise and Super Paradise, where young visitors can partake in a variety of water sports or simply soak up the sun. As the sun sets, these beaches transform into lively venues with music, dance, and entertainment, offering teens a safe and enjoyable taste of the island’s famous nightlife. For those interested in culture and history, Mykonos Town presents a labyrinth of narrow streets lined with quaint white houses, trendy boutiques, and art galleries. The town also hosts numerous festivals and events throughout the summer, providing an excellent opportunity for teens to immerse themselves in local traditions.
Ios: Water Sports and Hiking Trails
Also nestled in the Cyclades island group, Ios is another fantastic choice for teens, offering an ideal balance of outdoor activities and cultural experiences. The island’s long sandy beaches, notably Mylopotas and Manganari, provide excellent conditions for water sports like windsurfing, stand-up paddleboarding, and diving. For teens who enjoy hiking, Ios offers numerous scenic trails leading to hilltop chapels, ancient ruins, and panoramic views of the Aegean Sea. The island also hosts several music and cultural festivals during the summer, where teens can experience local music, dance, and traditional cuisine. With its mix of active pursuits and cultural richness, Ios guarantees an unforgettable and enriching holiday experience for teenagers.
Best Greek Islands for Kids and Toddlers
When planning a holiday with young children, it is essential to consider the availability of attractions and facilities designed specifically for them. Islands with kid-friendly museums, parks, and activities can greatly enhance the holiday experience, making it enjoyable and educational for the little ones. Let’s explore two Greek islands, Samos and Thassos, that are particularly suitable for families with kids and toddlers.
Samos: Educational Attractions
Located in the eastern Aegean Sea, Samos is a treasure trove of educational attractions that can spark children’s curiosity and foster a love for learning. One such attraction is the Natural History Museum of the Aegean, where children can learn about the island’s rich biodiversity through a range of interactive exhibits. The museum’s Paleontology Department, with its impressive collection of fossils, is a particular hit among young visitors. Additionally, Samos offers several archaeological sites, such as the Heraion and Pythagoreion, providing an enriching historical perspective. The island also features numerous child-friendly beaches, such as Tsamadou and Lemonakia, where families can enjoy a relaxed day by the sea.
Thassos: Calm Beaches and Nature Trails
Known for its lush green landscapes and calm beaches, Thassos is another fantastic Greek island for families with children. The island’s sandy beaches, such as Golden Beach and Paradise Beach, offer safe swimming conditions for kids. Thassos is also renowned for its nature trails, providing families the opportunity to explore the island’s beautiful forests and hills at a leisurely pace. The island is home to the Thassos Horse Club, where children can enjoy horse riding under the guidance of experienced instructors. With its combination of nature and beach activities, Thassos ensures an enjoyable and active holiday for families with young children.
Best Greek Islands for Families Blending Adult and Teen Interests
While all Greek islands offer a unique allure, finding that perfect blend of attractions to satisfy both adults and teenagers can be a challenge. However, a couple of destinations stand out for their ability to appeal to both age groups: Santorini and Naxos.
Santorini: Unique Geography and Water Activities
Renowned globally for its breathtaking sunsets and unique geography, Santorini provides an excellent balance of adventure, relaxation, and cultural exploration. The island’s volcanic landscapes offer thrilling hikes for adventurous families, leading up to the famous volcano and hot springs. Water-loving teenagers can indulge in various exciting activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and diving. For cultural enrichment, families can explore the archaeological site of Akrotiri, a Minoan Bronze Age settlement, or visit the beautiful traditional houses in Oia and Fira.
Naxos: Blend of Beaches and Historical Sites
As the largest island in the Cyclades group, Naxos is a goldmine for families seeking variety. Its extensive sandy beaches like Agios Prokopios and Plaka are perfect for relaxation and water sports. For history enthusiasts, the island is dotted with important archaeological sites. Visitors can explore the Portara (a massive 2,500-year-old marble doorway), the ruins of the ancient city of Naxos, and the Venetian-era Kastro. Whether it’s enjoying beach activities, immersing in history, or exploring traditional villages, Naxos ensures an enriching island experience that adults and teenagers alike can enjoy.
Best Greek Islands for Young Families
Choosing the right Greek island for a family with young children revolves around safety, child-friendly activities, and convenient facilities. Consider the tranquil beauty of Paros and Alonissos, which cater perfectly to the needs of younger families.
Paros: Gentle Beaches and Parks
In the heart of the Cyclades, Paros is an ideal destination for families with young children. The island boasts gentle sandy beaches with shallow waters, such as the Golden Beach and New Golden Beach, providing a safe environment for children to enjoy the sea. Furthermore, Paros offers several parks and recreational spaces, where children can play freely and engage with nature in a safe setting. With a wide range of family-friendly accommodations and restaurants that cater to children’s preferences, Paros ensures a stress-free holiday experience for the entire family.
Alonissos: Tranquility and Natural Beauty
For those seeking a quieter, more natural environment, Alonissos, in the Sporades island group, is a fantastic option. The island’s serene landscapes and slower pace of life provide a peaceful retreat for families. Alonissos offers calm, pebble beaches like Chrysi Milia and Agios Dimitrios, suitable for young swimmers. The island is also home to the National Marine Park of Alonissos, where families can explore diverse marine life and might even spot a Mediterranean monk seal. Offering a range of comfortable accommodations, including villas with private swimming pools, Alonissos presents a perfect mix of relaxation and exploration for families with young children.
Best Greek Islands for Families and Beaches
Choosing the perfect beach destination for your family involves considering several factors: safety, cleanliness, and nearby amenities. Two Greek islands stand out for their exceptional family-friendly beaches – Lefkada and Skiathos.
Lefkada: Sandy and Shallow Beaches
Situated in the Ionian Sea, Lefkada is particularly famous for its sandy, shallow, stunning beaches that are ideal for families with children. Porto Katsiki and Agiofili beaches, known for their turquoise waters and fine sand, offer a safe swimming environment for kids. The beaches on this island are renowned for their cleanliness and easily accessible amenities, such as family-friendly resorts and restaurants serving delectable local cuisine.
Skiathos: Array of Family-Friendly Beach Options
Located in the Sporades group, Skiathos boasts an impressive variety of child-friendly beaches. Koukounaries Beach, with its calm, shallow waters and golden sand, is considered one of the safest beaches for children. The island ensures high standards of cleanliness across all its beaches. Adjacent to many of these beaches, families will find a range of amenities, including cafes, restrooms, and water sports centers. With its numerous beach options, Skiathos guarantees a memorable beach holiday for families.
Best Greek Islands for Extended Family Holidays
When it comes to planning an extended family holiday, the islands of Kos and Lesvos stand out for their abundance of family-friendly accommodation options, a wide array of activities, and easy accessibility, ensuring an unforgettable vacation experience for families of all ages and sizes.
Kos: All-Inclusive Resorts and Variety of Activities
Part of the Dodecanese island group, Kos is particularly renowned for its all-inclusive resorts, offering families a hassle-free holiday experience. These resorts offer a range of facilities from kids’ clubs and swimming pools to entertainment programs, and they usually include meals and drinks, reducing the stress of daily planning. Beyond the resorts, Kos presents a variety of family-friendly activities. The island’s long sandy beaches, such as Tigaki and Mastichari, are ideal for beach games and water sports. For those interested in history, Kos Town offers fascinating ancient ruins, including the Roman Odeon and the Asklepion. And for cycling enthusiasts, Kos’s flat terrain and many bike rental shops make it an ideal island for family biking trips.
Lesvos: Cultural Richness and Natural Beauty
The third-largest Greek island is Lesvos, which offers an enriching blend of cultural experiences and natural beauty, making it ideal for families seeking a more authentic Greek island experience. The island boasts several traditional villages, like Molyvos and Plomari, where families can immerse themselves in local culture and try the famous local ouzo. For nature lovers, Lesvos offers a range of outdoor activities. Families can explore beautiful hiking trails, relax on the island’s many beaches, or visit the unique Petrified Forest. With a wide selection of family-friendly accommodations, from traditional guesthouses to luxury resorts, and its convenient accessibility by ferry and plane, Lesvos ensures a memorable and comfortable family holiday.
To conclude, each Greek island offers a unique blend of experiences catering to different family types and age groups. Kos, with its sandy beaches and historical ruins, provides a wealth of family-friendly activities, while Lesvos’ cultural richness and natural beauty make for a more authentic Greek experience. Samos and Thassos, with their educational attractions and calm beaches, are ideal for families with younger children. For adventure-seeking teenagers, the vibrant atmosphere of Mykonos and the array of outdoor pursuits on Ios are sure to provide an unforgettable holiday.
When planning your next family vacation to the Greek islands, consider the unique preferences and interests of your family members. Whether it’s history, nature, adventure, or culture, there’s a Greek island that matches your family’s needs. Remember, the key to a memorable and enjoyable Greek island family vacation lies in taking the time to research and plan, ensuring the chosen island aligns with everyone’s interests. So, use Ferryscanner to book your ferry tickets and enjoy the magic of the Greek islands with your family!