Finding the perfect place for your family vacation can be quite tricky. The numerous Greek islands offer tourists a large selection of places to go for a relaxing vacation with their family. Even though Mykonos and Rhodes are mostly known for the non-stop parties that go on all summer, there are several lesser-known islands in the Aegean and Ionian Sea, which are perfect for families.
Crete, the largest Greek island, is located in the south. It is has three significant airports in Chania, Heraklion and Sitia so it is easily accessible by airplane. There are many archaeological sites to be found in Crete, such as Knossos and Phaistos from the Minoan era and don’t forget to visit the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, while families can also benefit from a visit to Cretaquarium where children will have the chance to explore the Mediterranean sea world.
Kea, or Gia is a beautiful island in the Aegean Sea, just 60 miles off the coast of Athens. It can be accessed by a quick one-hour trip via ferry-boat. The island is very quiet with family friendly beaches where children can enjoy themselves while playing water sports. Furthermore, in Tinos, Cyclades, families will have the chance to visit the Museum of Marble Crafts in Pyrgos, a small village famous for its sculptors, or even go rock climbing in Exomvourgo and bouldering in Volax.
Another island which is part of Cyclades, Naxos, is easily accessible by boat and airplane. Apart from the amazing beaches, Naxos offers a vast selection of cultural activities such as a visit to the Olive Press Museum, several ancient sites and of course its famous medieval towers. Moreover, the volcanic island of Milos has a breathtaking coastline, which can be explored via kayaking excursions through the island’s caves, rock pools and the numerous uninhabited islands that lie just off the coast.
Antiparos, is a tiny island right next to Paros, which has evolved in the last decade. It has now become a major tourist destination offering activities for all ages. Older children will be excited to visit the deep cave of Agios Ioannis, while teenagers can relax on a beach and have fun with watersports. Meanwhile, the adults of the family should be sure to take an evening stroll through the town’s narrow streets.
While in Ithaca, in the Ionian Sea, you can swim at the family-friendly beach Filiatro or snorkel round Kritami Bay searching for the underwater shipwreck. Furthermore, children can get a thrill in discovering the legend of Odysseus on Homer’s Walk. Next to Ithaca, you will find Lefkada, one of Greece’s most beautiful islands. It is very close to the mainland and therefore can be accessed by car. Children and teenagers, can enjoy themselves on the beach of Agios Ioannis, which is one of Europe’s main spots for kite surfing, while there is also a mountain bike trek that reaches Nidri, perfect for a family excursion.
Lemnos may not be one of the more well-known tourist destinations in Greece, but the island offers various activities for all members of the family. Children and teenagers can busy themselves with surfing, kite surfing and wind surfing, while parents can enjoy beautiful beaches and the amazing local cuisine. Last but not least, Chios, is famous around the world for its local production of mastic. The numerous bike treks and the Citrus Museum are just a few of the activities this tourist destination has to offer.
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