Athens works well for families. Ancient sites spark young imaginations, the museums are easy to enjoy with children, and parks and beaches are never far away. Here are some ideas for a family visit.
The Acropolis and its museum
A visit to the Acropolis is a highlight for all ages. Several operators run family tours that use stories of gods and heroes to keep children interested, and the views from the top are worth the climb.
Afterwards, the Acropolis Museum lets families see the Parthenon sculptures up close. The museum runs activities for families, so check its website before you go.
Museums for children
The Hellenic Children’s Museum is designed around learning through play. It is housed in the Athens Conservatoire building, admission is free, and visits are booked in advance through its website.
The War Museum covers Greece’s military history from ancient times to the modern day, with uniforms, weapons and aircraft on display.
Parks and picnics
The National Garden, in the heart of the city, has shaded paths, a small zoo and a playground. Pedion tou Areos is one of the largest parks in Athens, with wide lawns and plenty of space to run. The park at the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center has open lawns, Mediterranean planting and playgrounds.
Flisvos Park on the coast has sea views and a playground. Attica Zoological Park, outside the city, combines animals with a playground and educational programmes.
Eating out as a family
Greek tavernas are relaxed places to eat with children. Order a few meze to share, so everyone can try a little of everything, and ask the staff for dishes children usually like.
Workshops and hands-on activities
Look out for pottery, mosaic and cooking workshops aimed at families. Many draw on ancient Greek crafts or simple dishes such as tzatziki and spanakopita, and they are a fun way for children to learn.
Beaches near Athens
Glyfada has a seafront promenade, cafés and water sports. Vouliagmeni Beach has organised facilities, and nearby Vouliagmeni Lake has warm, mineral-rich water. Schinias, in a national park near Marathon, has a long sandy beach with pine trees for shade. Always check sea conditions and keep a close eye on children in and around the water.
Evenings out
Summer is the season for open-air cinemas, a favourite with Athenian families. The Planetarium at the Eugenides Foundation has shows about space, and an evening stroll through Plaka, with dinner at a taverna, is an easy way to end the day.
A family day at sea
Our day cruise welcomes children aged 3 and over, travelling with a parent or guardian, and runs daily from April to October. It leaves Marina Zeas in Piraeus at 09:00 for free time on Agistri and Aegina and a swim stop, with snorkelling gear and water noodles on board, a Greek lunch, fresh fruit and soft drinks. It returns around 19:00. The boat is not wheelchair accessible.