17-Day Ultimate Family Journey through Ancient and Coastal Greece
Greece is more than just a history lesson; it is a sprawling playground where ancient myths come to life and turquoise waters provide the ultimate backdrop for family bonding. This 17-day itinerary is meticulously designed for families who want to experience the grandeur of the Parthenon and the serenity of the islands without the stress of a hurried schedule.
Focusing on stroller-accessible paths in Athens, gentle beaches in Naxos, and the historic charm of Nafplio, we ensure that every transition is smooth. With a budget-conscious approach of $70 per day, you will enjoy authentic taverna meals, efficient public transport, and unforgettable sunsets that will captivate both toddlers and parents alike.
The Itinerary
Day 1: Athens, Greece - Arrival and Plaka Stroll
Arrival at Athens International Airport
Touch down in the historic capital. The airport is modern and family-friendly with clear signage for the Metro or bus lines to the city center.
Check-in near Syntagma Square
Drop your bags at a centrally located apartment. Syntagma is the heart of the city and offers easy access to all major sites without long walks.
Exploring Plaka District
Walk through the oldest neighborhood in Athens. Its narrow streets are largely pedestrianized, making it a safe and charming place for children to explore.
Dinner at a Local Taverna
Enjoy your first Greek salad and souvlaki at a traditional spot like O Thanasis, known for its quick service and kid-approved kebabs.
Day 2: Athens, Greece - The Acropolis and Ancient Wonders
The Acropolis of Athens
Beat the heat and the crowds by visiting early. Use the elevator located on the north face for stroller access to the Parthenon level.
Acropolis Museum
This world-class museum is fully accessible and features a dedicated kids' area and Lego models of the Acropolis.
Lunch in Makriyianni
Eat at one of the many cafes facing the museum. These spots are used to families and offer great views of the citadel.
Temple of Olympian Zeus
Visit these massive columns which sit in a flat, grassy park where kids can burn off some energy safely.
Day 3: Athens, Greece - Parks and Changing of the Guards
Syntagma Square Guard Change
Watch the Evzones in their traditional uniforms. The synchronized movements are fascinating for children to observe.
National Garden
This lush oasis in the city center features a duck pond, a small playground, and plenty of shade for a mid-day break.
Athens Happy Train
Take this toy-like street train for a loop around the historic center. It is an easy way to see the sites without tired little legs.
Panathenaic Stadium
Visit the birthplace of the modern Olympics. The wide-open track is perfect for a family race.
Day 4: Athens to Nafplio - Journey to the Peloponnese
Pick up Rental Car
Collect a comfortable family car for the drive south. The roads to Nafplio are modern highways and easy to navigate.
Corinth Canal Stop
Take a quick break to see the breathtakingly narrow canal that separates the Peloponnese from the mainland.
Arrival in Nafplio
Check into your accommodation in the most romantic city in Greece. The Old Town is largely car-free and very stroller-friendly.
Arvanitia Promenade Walk
Walk the paved path along the sea wall. It offers stunning views of the Argolic Gulf and is perfectly flat for strollers.
Day 5: Nafplio, Greece - Castles and Cannon Fire
Palamidi Fortress
Drive to the top instead of climbing the 999 steps. The views are incredible, and children will love exploring the bastion walls.
Lunch at Syntagma Square (Nafplio)
The main square is paved in marble and surrounded by cafes, providing a safe space for kids to run while you eat.
Bourtzi Castle Boat Trip
Take a short, 10-minute boat ride to the tiny island fortress in the middle of the harbor.
Gelato at Antica Gelateria
Visit this famous Italian-style gelateria for a treat after a day of exploring.
Day 6: Nafplio, Greece - Epidaurus Day Trip
Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus
Visit one of the most well-preserved ancient theaters. Demonstrate the amazing acoustics to the kids by dropping a coin at the center.
Sunken City of Epidaurus
Head to the coast nearby where you can snorkel over ruins just a few meters from the shore.
Karathona Beach
A shallow, sandy beach near Nafplio that is ideal for young children to paddle in safely.
Dinner in the Old Town
Enjoy fresh seafood at the harbor-front restaurants as the sun sets over the Bourtzi.
Day 7: Nafplio to Chania (Crete) - Flying South
Return Car to Athens Airport
Drive back to Athens (approx 2 hours) to catch a quick domestic flight to Crete.
Flight to Chania
Avoid the 9-hour ferry with a 50-minute flight, which is much easier for young travelers.
Arrival in Chania
Pick up a new rental car or take a taxi to the Venetian Harbor area of Chania.
Chania Harbor Walk
Stroll along the historic lighthouse wall. The area is vibrant and filled with street performers.
Day 8: Chania, Greece - Venetian Harbor and Old Town
Chania Market (Agora)
Explore the cross-shaped market hall for local cheeses, olives, and handmade wooden toys.
Maritime Museum of Crete
Located at the entrance of the Firka Fortress, this museum features model ships that fascinate kids.
Beach Time at Nea Chora
A short walk from the harbor, this local beach is sandy and has plenty of sunbeds and umbrellas.
Dinner in the Jewish Quarter
Find a quiet taverna tucked away in the backstreets for a more relaxed family dining experience.
Day 9: Chania, Greece - The Pink Sands of Elafonisi
Drive to Elafonisi Beach
Start early for the scenic drive. The shallow lagoon and pink-tinted sand are a dream for families.
Lagoon Swimming
The water is rarely deeper than knee-high for hundreds of yards, making it perfectly safe for toddlers.
Chrisoskalitissa Monastery
Stop at this nearby white monastery on a rock for great views of the Libyan Sea.
Relaxed Evening in Chania
Enjoy a slow dinner and let the kids play in the pedestrianized squares.
Day 10: Chania to Rethymno - Venetian Charm
Drive to Rethymno
A short, easy 1-hour drive east along the northern coast of Crete.
Rethymno Fortezza
This massive star-shaped fortress has wide paths and plenty of space for children to run around.
Rethymno Beach
The town beach is long and sandy, extending for miles to the east of the harbor.
Rimondi Fountain
A quick stop at this historic fountain before heading into the narrow streets for dinner.
Day 11: Rethymno, Greece - Arkadi Monastery and Pottery
Arkadi Monastery
Visit this historic site that is both a beautiful garden and a significant monument to Cretan freedom.
Margarites Pottery Village
Watch local artisans at work. Many shops allow kids to try their hand at the pottery wheel.
Melidoni Cave
A short trip underground to see impressive stalactites and stalagmites in a cave steeped in history.
Harbor Dinner
Rethymno’s Venetian harbor is smaller and quieter than Chania’s, perfect for a peaceful meal.
Day 12: Rethymno, Greece - Nature and Farm Life
Biotopoi Nature Park
A great spot for kids to learn about the flora and fauna of Crete in an interactive environment.
Agreco Farm Lunch
Experience a traditional farm-to-table lunch where kids can see how bread is baked and olives are pressed.
Old Town Exploration
Spend the afternoon finding the best hidden shops for handmade leather goods and honey.
Farewell Crete Dinner
Savor one last meal of Dakos and Kalitsounia (sweet cheese pastries).
Day 13: Crete to Naxos - The Family Island
Drive to Heraklion Port
Drop your rental car at the port for your ferry departure.
High-Speed Ferry to Naxos
Enjoy the views of the Aegean. High-speed ferries are stable and offer comfortable seating for families.
Arrival in Naxos Town (Chora)
Naxos is known as the best Greek island for families due to its shallow beaches and agricultural abundance.
Portara Sunset
Walk across the causeway to the massive marble gate of an unfinished temple for a world-class sunset.
Day 14: Naxos, Greece - Beach Bliss at Agios Prokopios
Agios Prokopios Beach
Considered one of the best in Europe, the golden sand and calm water make it a paradise for children.
Lunch at a Beachfront Taverna
Try the famous Naxian potatoes, widely considered the best in Greece.
Agia Anna Stroll
Walk along the coast to the neighboring beach of Agia Anna to see the tiny church on the rocks.
Chora Nightlife
The waterfront of Naxos Town comes alive at night with families and locals alike.
Day 15: Naxos, Greece - Mountain Villages and Ancient Giants
Village of Chalki
Explore the former capital of the island. It’s famous for its kitron distillery and charming paved streets.
Apeiranthos Marble Village
A stunning village built entirely of marble. The alleys are pedestrianized and perfect for exploration.
Kouros of Melanes
Visit the 'sleeping giant,' an ancient statue left unfinished in a beautiful garden setting.
Plaka Beach Relaxation
Finish the day at Plaka beach, known for its wide sandy dunes and crystal clear water.
Day 16: Naxos to Athens - Returning North
Naxos Old Town Shopping
Pick up local olive oil, honey, and Naxian cheese to take home as souvenirs.
Flight to Athens
A quick 40-minute hop back to the capital to avoid a long ferry ride on your penultimate day.
Last-Minute Souvenirs in Monastiraki
Visit the flea market for everything from Greek sandals to replica ancient coins.
Farewell Dinner with Acropolis View
Choose a rooftop restaurant like Savvas for a final view of the illuminated Parthenon.
Day 17: Athens, Greece - Departure
Breakfast at the Hotel
Enjoy one last Greek yogurt with honey and nuts before heading out.
Syntagma Shopping
Walk down Ermou street for any final needs before your flight.
Airport Transfer
Take a pre-booked taxi or the Metro directly to the airport for a stress-free departure.
Departure
Board your flight home, carrying memories of an epic family journey through Greece.
Best Time to Visit Greece
The ideal time for a family trip to Greece is during the shoulder seasons: late spring (May to June) or early autumn (September to early October). During these months, the weather is pleasantly warm but not scorching, making it comfortable for kids to explore ruins and stroller-bound toddlers to stay cool. The sea is warm enough for swimming, and the major tourist sites are significantly less crowded than in the peak of July and August.
Currency & Money
Greece uses the Euro (€). While credit and debit cards are widely accepted in cities like Athens and popular islands like Crete and Naxos, it is always wise to carry some cash. Small tavernas in mountain villages or remote beaches may only accept cash. Tipping is not mandatory but rounding up the bill or leaving a 5-10% tip for good service is standard and appreciated.
Getting Around Greece
For intercity travel, a combination of domestic flights and ferries is best. Flying from Athens to Crete or Naxos saves hours of travel time, which is crucial when traveling with children. Within the Peloponnese or on larger islands like Crete, renting a car is the most comfortable and flexible option. In Athens, the Metro is efficient and many stations are equipped with elevators for strollers, making it the preferred way to navigate the city center.
