13-Day Ultimate Family Travel Guides Route in Greece
Greece is more than just an open-air museum; it is a playground for families seeking a blend of history, myth, and Mediterranean relaxation. This 13-day route is designed for families traveling with children, focusing on accessible paths, short travel times between major hubs, and engaging activities that bring legends to life without exhausting the little ones.
From the iconic marble heights of the Acropolis to the turquoise waters of Crete and the volcanic cliffs of Santorini, we have curated a classic route that respects the pace of family travel. Expect comfortable transitions, stroller-friendly districts, and plenty of space for children to explore the cradle of Western civilization.
The Itinerary
Day 1: Athens, Greece - Arrival & First Steps
Arrival at Athens International Airport
After landing, take the Metro Line 3 or a private transfer to your hotel. The airport is well-organized for families with luggage.
Stroll through Plaka
Explore the oldest neighborhood in Athens. Its narrow, paved streets are largely car-free, making it perfect for a relaxed family walk.
Monastiraki Square
Watch the street performers and enjoy a fresh Greek yogurt while taking in the views of the Acropolis from the square.
Welcome Dinner in Psiri
Enjoy kid-friendly souvlaki at a local taverna. Many restaurants here offer high chairs and a lively atmosphere.
Day 2: Athens, Greece - Ancient Wonders
The Acropolis Visit
Visit early to beat the heat. There is an elevator for stroller access; just ensure you call ahead to confirm it is operational.
Acropolis Museum
The museum is fully accessible and features a family trail with activity packs for children to explore ancient history.
Greek Picnic in Filopappou Hill
Grab local cheeses and olives for a picnic. The shaded paths offer great views of the Parthenon without the crowds.
Syntagma Square Guard Change
Kids will love watching the Evzones guards in their traditional uniforms performing their unique synchronized march.
Day 3: Athens, Greece - Parks and Pits Stops
Athens National Garden
A lush oasis with a small duck pond, a children’s library, and a large playground perfect for letting kids burn off energy.
Zappeion Hall Exploration
An architectural gem next to the gardens with wide-open spaces for children to walk safely away from traffic.
Hellenic Children's Museum
Located in the Plaka area, this museum offers interactive exhibits specifically designed for toddlers and school-aged children.
Lycabettus Hill Sunset
Take the funicular (cable car) to the top for a spectacular sunset view—a much easier alternative for families than the steep hike.
Day 4: Athens to Nafplio, Greece - Coastal Drive
Pick up Rental Car
Renting a car is the most comfortable way for a family to reach the Peloponnese, allowing for flexible nap stops.
Corinth Canal Stop
A quick 15-minute stop to see the impressive narrow canal that separates mainland Greece from the Peloponnese.
Arrival in Nafplio
Check into your accommodation in this romantic seaside town, widely considered one of Greece's most beautiful cities.
Arvanitia Promenade Walk
A stunning, paved seaside path that is fully stroller-accessible and leads to a small pebbly beach.
Day 5: Nafplio, Greece - Castles and Cannonballs
Palamidi Fortress
Drive to the top instead of climbing the 999 steps. The views are incredible, and the flat sections are manageable for kids.
Syntagma Square Nafplio
A large, marble-paved square where children can run freely while parents enjoy a coffee at the surrounding cafes.
Bourtzi Castle Boat Trip
Take a small boat from the harbor for a 5-minute ride to the water fortress—a short and exciting trip for children.
Gelato at Antica Gelateria
Indulge in some of the best Italian-style gelato in Greece, a local favorite for families in the Old Town.
Day 6: Nafplio, Greece - Day Trip to Epidaurus
Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus
Test the incredible acoustics by dropping a coin at the center—a classic activity that always fascinates kids.
Lunch in Palaia Epidaurus
A quiet seaside village nearby with many beachfront tavernas offering fresh fish and plenty of space to play.
Sunken City Snorkeling
In Kalymnios beach, older kids can snorkel over the ruins of an ancient Roman villa just meters from the shore.
Return to Nafplio
Relax at the waterfront and enjoy the evening sea breeze as the town lights up.
Day 7: Nafplio to Crete, Greece - Island Transition
Drive to Athens Airport
Return your car and catch a short 50-minute domestic flight to Heraklion, the capital of Crete.
Arrival in Heraklion
Crete is Greece's largest island and very family-oriented, with excellent infrastructure for kids.
Cretaquarium (Thalassocosmos)
One of the largest aquariums in Europe, located a short drive from Heraklion. It is fully accessible and air-conditioned.
Dinner at 25th August Street
A long pedestrian street leading to the harbor, perfect for a safe family stroll and dinner.
Day 8: Heraklion, Greece - Minotaur Myths
Palace of Knossos
Explore the lair of the Minotaur. Hire a family-friendly guide who specializes in telling myths to keep children engaged.
Heraklion Archaeological Museum
The museum houses the original frescoes from Knossos and is spacious and easy to navigate with a stroller.
Morosini Fountain
Located in Lions Square, this is the heart of the city where you can grab a 'bougatsa' (custard pastry) for a snack.
Koules Fortress
Walk the long harbor wall to the Venetian fortress. The sea wall is wide and offers a great view of the fishing boats.
Day 9: Rethymno, Greece - Venetian Charm
Transfer to Rethymno
A 1.5-hour drive west leads to Rethymno, known for its well-preserved Old Town and sandy city beach.
Rethymno Old Town
Wander through the floral alleys. The town is mostly pedestrianized, making it very safe for children to walk.
The Fortezza
Visit the massive Venetian fortress overlooking the sea. It has large open spaces and ramparts that children love to explore.
Rethymno City Beach
A long sandy beach with shallow water, ideal for young children to paddle safely while you enjoy the sunset.
Day 10: Crete to Santorini, Greece - Volcanic Views
High-Speed Ferry to Santorini
Take the ferry from Heraklion. The 2-hour journey on a large catamaran is comfortable and exciting for kids.
Arrival in Santorini
Arrive at Athinios Port and take a pre-arranged transfer to your hotel to avoid the chaotic bus terminal.
Fira to Imerovigli Walk
A scenic cliffside path. While there are some steps, large sections are paved and offer the world's best caldera views.
Sunset in Firostefani
Less crowded than Oia, this spot offers a peaceful environment for a family sunset dinner.
Day 11: Santorini, Greece - Oia Exploration
Oia Morning Walk
Visit Oia early to avoid the cruise ship crowds. The marble-paved main street is beautiful and easy to walk.
Atlantis Books
A world-famous, charming bookshop in Oia with a wonderful children's section and a quirky atmosphere.
Lunch in Ammoudi Bay
Take a taxi down to the bay to eat fresh seafood by the water. Watching the octopus dry in the sun is a highlight.
Maritime Museum
A small museum in Oia that tells the nautical history of the island, perfect for a quick, educational stop.
Day 12: Santorini, Greece - Beach & History
Akrotiri Archaeological Site
The "Greek Pompeii" is fully enclosed under a modern roof, making it cool and stroller-accessible—perfect for families.
Kamari Black Sand Beach
A family-friendly beach with a long pedestrian boardwalk, sunbeds, and plenty of restaurants right on the sand.
Perissa Beach
Another black sand option with calmer waters. The sand gets hot, so make sure the kids have water shoes!
Open Air Cinema Kamari
Watch a movie under the stars in one of the world's most beautiful outdoor cinemas—a magical family experience.
Day 13: Santorini to Athens, Greece - Departure
Last Souvenirs in Fira
Grab some local honey or volcanic stone jewelry before heading to the airport for your return flight to Athens.
Flight to Athens
Catch a quick flight back to Athens International to connect with your international departure.
Athens Airport Lounge
Relax in the family-friendly lounges at AIA while waiting for your flight home.
Final Departure
Board your flight home with a camera full of memories and a new appreciation for Greek history.
Best Time to Visit Greece
The best time for a family trip to Greece is during the shoulder seasons: May to June and September to early October. During these months, the weather is pleasantly warm but not scorching, and the major sites are less crowded. July and August are very hot and busy, which can be challenging with young children and strollers.
Currency & Money
Greece uses the Euro (€). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in cities, hotels, and most restaurants. However, it is always wise to carry some cash for small purchases at kiosks (periptera) or in smaller villages. Tipping is not mandatory but rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% for good service is appreciated.
Getting Around Greece
For intercity travel, a combination of rental cars and domestic flights is recommended for families. Driving in the Peloponnese is straightforward and allows for flexible stops. Between Athens and the islands, domestic flights (Aegean/Olympic) save significant time compared to long ferry rides. Within the islands, high-speed ferries are a fun and efficient way to move between Crete and Santorini.
