14-Day Ultimate Family Travel Guides Route in Greece
Greece is more than just ancient ruins and sunset views; it is a sprawling playground for families. This 14-day epic journey is designed with a 'Family Travel Guide' philosophy, prioritizing accessible routes, shorter travel times between major hubs, and activities that capture the imagination of children while allowing parents to soak in the Mediterranean atmosphere.
From the marble heights of the Acropolis to the pink sands of Crete, we have balanced the itinerary to include educational stops and plenty of 'beach time' breaks. By choosing kid-friendly transport and centrally located stays, your family will experience the best of the Hellenic Republic at a pace that feels like a true vacation.
The Itinerary
Day 1: Athens, Greece - Arrival & Plaka Wanderings
Arrival and Airport Transfer
Touch down at Athens International Airport and take a pre-booked taxi to your hotel in the Plaka district. This area is largely pedestrianized and stroller-friendly.
Lunch in Plaka
Enjoy your first Greek salad and gyros at a traditional taverna. Many places have high chairs and outdoor seating perfect for families.
Stroll through Anafiotika
Explore the tiny, white-washed alleys of this hidden neighborhood that looks like a Cycladic island nestled under the Acropolis.
Sunset at Aeropagus Hill
A gentle climb provides a stunning view of the city as the lights come on. It is a great spot for kids to run around safely.
Day 2: Athens, Greece - Ancient Wonders
Acropolis & Parthenon
Visit early to beat the heat. Use the elevator located on the north face for stroller access to the top of the marble plateau.
Acropolis Museum
A modern, air-conditioned space with a dedicated Lego model of the Acropolis that kids find fascinating.
Temple of Olympian Zeus
Marvel at the massive columns in this wide-open park area where children can stretch their legs.
National Garden
A lush escape in the city center featuring a small duck pond and a playground.
Day 3: Athens, Greece - Modern Magic & Markets
Changing of the Guard
Watch the Evzones guards in their traditional uniforms at Syntagma Square. The synchronized movements are a hit with children.
Monastiraki Flea Market
Browse for souvenirs like leather sandals and evil eye bracelets. It’s a vibrant, sensory experience for all ages.
Hellenic Children's Museum
Located in the Saroglion Mansion, this museum offers interactive exhibits specifically for toddlers and young kids.
Dinner in Psiri
A trendy yet family-friendly neighborhood known for its whimsical decor and dessert shops.
Day 4: Athens to Nafplio, Greece - Peloponnese Drive
Pick up Rental Car
Start your scenic drive south. Having a car allows you to manage your own schedule and stop for snack breaks whenever needed.
Corinth Canal Photo Stop
A quick stop to see the incredibly narrow and deep canal that separates the Peloponnese from the mainland.
Check-in at Nafplio
Arrive in one of Greece’s most romantic and historic seaside towns. The streets are flat and paved with smooth marble.
Arvanitia Beach Promenade
A stroller-friendly paved walk along the coast that leads to a small, calm pebble beach.
Day 5: Nafplio, Greece - Castles & Gelato
Palamidi Fortress
Drive to the top instead of climbing the 999 steps. The views are incredible and kids love exploring the bastions.
Syntagma Square Nafplio
Let the kids play in the wide-open square while you enjoy a coffee at one of the surrounding cafes.
Peloponnesian Folklore Foundation
A manageable museum for children showcasing traditional Greek costumes and toys.
Gelato Tour
Nafplio is famous for its Italian-style gelato. Visit 'Antica Gelateria di Roma' for a family treat.
Day 6: Nafplio, Greece - Myths of Mycenae
Ancient Mycenae
Visit the Lion Gate and the Tomb of Agamemnon. The site is rugged, so a baby carrier is recommended over a stroller here.
Lunch in Mykines Village
Stop for a slow lunch in the local village before heading to the next archaeological site.
Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus
Test the incredible acoustics by whispering from the center of the stage—a fun 'magic' trick for children.
Evening in Nafplio Harbor
Watch the sunset behind the Bourtzi Castle located in the middle of the harbor.
Day 7: Nafplio to Heraklion, Greece - Heading South
Drive back to Athens
Return your rental car at Athens Airport before catching a short domestic flight to Crete.
Flight to Heraklion
Flying is much faster and more comfortable for children than the long ferry from Athens to Crete.
Check-in & Cretan Dinner
Settle into your hotel and enjoy authentic Cretan cuisine, famous for its olive oil and dakos (barley rusks).
Heraklion Venetian Harbor
Take a relaxing walk along the sea wall to the Koules Fortress to enjoy the sea breeze.
Day 8: Heraklion, Greece - Minotaurs & Museums
Palace of Knossos
Explore the labyrinthine palace of King Minos. It is colorful and partially restored, making it easier for kids to visualize.
Heraklion Archaeological Museum
See the original frescoes and the mysterious Phaistos Disc in this world-class, accessible museum.
Natural History Museum of Crete
A fantastic spot for kids, featuring an earthquake simulator and life-sized models of prehistoric animals.
Morosini Fountain
A central meeting point in the city where kids can watch the lions sprout water while you grab a coffee.
Day 9: Heraklion to Chania, Greece - Venetian Charm
Intercity Bus to Chania
The KTEL bus service is reliable and comfortable, offering a scenic coastal route across the north of Crete.
Lunch at Chania Old Harbor
One of the most beautiful spots in Greece. The harbor path is wide and perfect for an afternoon walk.
Chania Lighthouse Walk
A long but rewarding walk to the lighthouse providing the best panoramic views of the Venetian city.
Splantzia Square
A local favorite with large plane trees providing shade and plenty of space for kids to play.
Day 10: Chania, Greece - Pink Sands of Elafonisi
Day Trip to Elafonisi
Rent a car for the drive through the mountains to reach this world-famous lagoon with pink sand and shallow water.
Swimming & Sandcastles
The water is extremely shallow for a long distance, making it the safest beach in Greece for small children.
Chrysoskalitissa Monastery
A brief stop on the way back to see this white monastery perched on a high rock overlooking the sea.
Dinner in Topolia
Stop in a mountain village on the drive back for traditional Cretan lamb chops.
Day 11: Chania to Santorini, Greece - The Famous Blue Domes
Ferry to Santorini
Take a high-speed catamaran. The journey takes about 2-3 hours and offers a great view of the caldera upon arrival.
Check-in at Fira
Fira is more central and has better paved paths for families than the steeper Oia.
Cable Car to Old Port
A fun and exciting ride for children that saves you from the 600-step walk down the cliff.
Sunset Dinner in Firostefani
A quieter alternative to Fira with equally stunning views of the volcano.
Day 12: Santorini, Greece - Exploring Oia
Oia Village Exploration
Visit early before the cruise ships arrive. The iconic blue domes are located here, but be prepared for some steps.
Maritime Museum
A small, interesting stop for children that showcases Santorini's nautical history.
Lunch at Ammoudi Bay
Take a taxi down to the bay for the freshest fish right at the water's edge.
Relax by the Pool
Santorini afternoons are hot; enjoy some downtime at your hotel's pool to recharge.
Day 13: Santorini, Greece - Volcanic Beaches
Ancient Akrotiri
The 'Greek Pompeii' is fully enclosed in a climate-controlled building with walkways, making it perfect for families.
Perissa Black Sand Beach
The black pebbles are unique. Many beach clubs offer sunbeds and have kid-friendly menus.
Santo Wines
While parents enjoy a tasting, the kids can enjoy the wide terraces and the stunning view of the caldera.
Open Air Cinema Kamari
A beautiful garden setting to watch a movie under the stars—a perfect family final night activity.
Day 14: Santorini to Athens, Greece - Departure
Souvenir Shopping in Fira
Pick up some local volcanic stone jewelry or Santorini tomato seeds as a memory of your trip.
Final Greek Feast
One last meal of moussaka or pastitsio at a family-run taverna near the airport.
Flight to Athens
Connect back to the capital for your international departure home.
Airport Transfer
Ensure a smooth end to your journey with a reliable shuttle back to the departure terminal.
Best Time to Visit Greece
The best time for a family trip to Greece is during the shoulder seasons of late spring (May to June) or early autumn (September to early October). During these months, the weather is pleasantly warm but not scorching, making the archaeological sites much more enjoyable for children. Most importantly, the crowds are significantly smaller than in July and August, meaning less wait time for transport and attractions.
Currency & Money
Greece uses the Euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, larger restaurants, and shops. However, it is essential to carry some cash for small purchases at kiosks (peripteros), public transport, and smaller tavernas in remote areas. Tipping is not strictly 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 methods works best for families. Between Athens and the Peloponnese, a rental car is ideal for flexibility. For island hopping, domestic flights are the most time-efficient choice, though high-speed ferries are a great experience if the sea is calm. Within cities like Athens, the Metro is efficient and many stations double as mini-museums with ancient artifacts on display behind glass.
