You cannot beat the charm of a Greek Island for a family holiday. Islands like Corfu, Rhodes, Santorini, and Crete are blessed with warm weather, historical sites, inspiring views, and activities that all combine to make for a memorable family holiday. This is a look at what makes these islands so great for a family getaway.
Corfu
In Avlaki, in the north of Corfu, it’s all about families having fun on the water. The waters are calmer, which makes it an ideal area for kids to learn to windsurf or sail a dinghy, or even just go for a gentle swim. If you’re staying in the center of the island in Agios Ioannis, a little west of Corfu Town, you can take the kids to Acqualand waterpark and splash around in the sun all day. Fish spotting is also a fun activity you can do with the kids in Corfu. The Kalypso Star is a glass-bottomed boat that leaves the harbor of Corfu Town, giving you the chance to see marine life from a different vantage point.
Rhodes
Rhodes offers families a combination of nature and history to enjoy. The village of Lindos is extra safe, because being pedestrian only, there is little traffic, if any at all. Kids will be mesmerized by the Acropolis, which stands tall overlooking the village. They will also enjoy the donkey ride up the hill on which it stands. Go early to avoid both the crowds and the high temperatures at midday.
The opportunity to explore nature comes in the form of a visit to the Valley of the Butterflies, in Petaloudes. From June to September, the butterflies come out in force, delighting the tourists with the vivid colors. This trip is also ideal if you are looking to take a break from the coast.
Santorini
It’s all about the views and exploration in Santorini. One good way to do this is by taking a walk down the magical hidden pathways and the stairwells of Oia and appreciating the views from among the gleaming white houses. Take some time to have a nice meal in one of the fine restaurants and also visit the maritime museum in Oia to learn a little about Santorini’s seafaring past.
The other way to explore Santorini and marvel at the splendid views is to take the cable car, which runs every 20 minutes, from the old port to Fira. You can also make this journey on donkey back. These options will allow you to take in some of the glorious views along the way.
Crete
Crete is a perfect place to holiday with the family, especially because of its aquariums. In Heraklion you can visit the modern Cretaquarium, where you can see lobsters, octopus, sea horses, and turtles. If you are staying in Hersonissos you can see pythons, crocodiles, giant turtles, and other sea creatures at the Aquaworld Aquarium.
Of course, this is Crete and there are plenty of lagoons and nice beaches that accommodate families to a tee. The Balos Lagoon is one of the best, because of its shallow waters, ideal for children of all ages to bathe in, while Elafonissi Beach is clean, has shallow turquoise waters, and is family friend with changing facilities, chair and umbrella rentals, and toilets.
The different Greek Islands are an excellent choice for your Greece holidays. A stay on them is truly relaxing for all of the family!
Images by matita2073, snowfish2014, and Sarah and Jason, all used under Creative Commons license.
I’m planning on taking my mom to Greece in the fall for her 65th birthday! Great post, thanks for sharing 🙂
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