There are more than two hundred inhabited islands in Greece, where you can have a great vacation with your family. Choosing one of them is not an easy task. The gentle sea, pretty villages, the richest historical heritage are perfect for any vacation, but there are several islands that stand out especially for their abundance of beaches suitable for children, entertainment and housing. In our review you will find everything you need to know about the eight best Greek islands for family holidays, from popular Crete to peaceful Naxos. You just have to decide what to take with you on the road.
Corfu
At the sight of the idyllic beaches of Corfu, you will surely feel tempted to stretch out on the sand and do nothing else. However, there is something to do on the island. Together with your family, you can go to the Old Town of Corfu, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to visit the Palaeopolis Museum in the Monrepos Palace, view antique exhibits and stroll through the gardens, and also visit the Achillion Palace and admire its ceiling frescoes, impressive works of art and sculptures of Greek mythology characters.
For lovers of active recreation, there is plenty of space here: hiking trails and day hikes, cycling in nature, kayaking, snorkeling or scuba diving in the Ionian Sea.
Crete
Crete, the largest Greek island in the Mediterranean, is the best destination for families who love history and outdoor activities. No one will be able to ignore the archaeological excavations of the ancient city of Knossos, hiking in the stunning national park in the Samaria Gorge and the Historical Museum of Crete in Heraklion, the capital of the island. On the island, you can also go horseback riding in the mountains at the Deres Riding Center, rent a kayak and swim along the coast, take a glass-bottomed boat tour in search of octopuses and visit the Aquaworld Aquarium.
Naxos
Naxos is suitable for those who prefer a quiet family vacation. It is quite sparsely populated compared to the more famous Greek islands. Fans of ancient history can explore the ruins of the Temple of Apollo or visit the Venetian Museum, located in an 800-year-old Venetian building. And for lovers of active recreation, you can go hiking on Mount Zas (the highest in the Cycladic Islands) or go windsurfing and kiteboarding on Mikri Vigla Beach. Alternatively, you can wade through the shallow waters of Agios Georgios Beach or take a day trip to the nearby island of Delos, the birthplace of Apollo according to Greek beliefs, to explore the well-preserved ancient ruins.
Rhodes
In Rhodes, all members of your family will find something to their liking: young people will bask on the beach, and young history lovers will be able to wander around the ancient ruins. Stroll through the cobbled streets of the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site; visit the Grand Master’s Palace, a medieval castle turned into a museum with antique furniture, sculptures and mosaics; or go on a 3.8 km hike to the Lindos Peninsula to admire the beautiful views of the beach and the bay.
Paros
Paros, a small but pleasant island of the Cycladic archipelago, is another great choice for families who want to relax and unwind. Visit the Byzantine temple of Panagia Ekatontapiliani, where you can see the magnificent mosaics and frescoes without the usual crowd; visit the fishing village of Piso Livadi and taste seafood dishes right on the shore; or take a walk through the Paros Park with an area of over 80 hectares, located in the coastal zone, with impressive rock formations, hidden coves and a protected beach.
Santorini
Santorini is a place where newlyweds traditionally come on a romantic trip. But even those who travel with the whole family will find activities to their liking. Refresh your knowledge about the history of the island in Akrotiri, one of the best preserved ancient settlements on the Aegean islands, completely destroyed by a volcanic eruption in the XVII century BC; go on a catamaran cruise to the nearby volcanic islands of Nea Kameni and Palea Kameni to discover hot springs, volcanic craters and much more; or spend time on the sandy beach of Perissa Black Sand Beach, the calm, crystal clear waters of which are ideal for toddlers.
Skiathos
Spend time on Skiathos, relaxing on the beaches (most families with children prefer the shallow beach of Kukunaries) and walking through the picturesque villages that dot the entire coast. Go on excursions to historical places, such as the Evangelistria Monastery, built in the XVIII century, which now houses a small church museum.
Zakynthos
In Zakynthos, you can snorkel in the emerald waters of the Blue Caves, go hiking on Mount Skopos or go to Navayo Beach, a sandy bay with shipwreck wrecks, which can only be reached by boat.