7 Greek islands for family vacations

Are you looking for the best Greek island for family vacations? Do you need it to be quiet, easy to get around, affordable, and kid-friendly?

Have a look at some of the best family holiday destinations in Greece and book the cheapest ferry tickets online on Ferryhopper!

7 Greek islands for kid-friendly holidays

Here are the top 7 family-friendly islands in Greece based on travel distances, beaches, activities, and available amenities. Enjoy!

1. Rhodes
2. Corfu
3. Crete
4. Syros
5. Naxos
6. Andros
7. Chios

Check out our island recommendations for family vacations in Greece below and choose the best destination for you. 

Sandcastles on a beach in Crete

Rhodes, the cosmopolitan

The island of Rhodes in the Dodecanese is an ideal destination for family holidays, as it has numerous resorts and big hotels with facilities and activities for children. In Rhodes, there are many sandy beaches that are perfect for family time as well as water sports. Saint Paul's Bay, a family-friendly sandy beach, is one of our favorite beaches in the Greek islands.  

Rhodes has a long history and a beautiful natural landscape that will charm you straight away. We recommend exploring the old Medieval town of Rhodes, the impressive aquarium and the unique Butterfly Valley. 

Windmills at the port of Rhodes during sunset

Corfu, the classy

Corfu is a popular destination for family vacations. The island’s beaches and amenities are perfect for kids, and it also has many family-friendly resorts. Moreover, the cultural heritage of Corfu will impress travelers of all ages.

Don’t miss the chance to visit Achilleion, a beautiful palace in the village of Gastouri. You can also take the ferry from the old port of Corfu to Vidos island and discover its beautiful nature and old fortress (it is often called “the Alcatraz of Corfu”).

The beautiful, verdant bay of Paleokastritsa in Corfu

Crete, the gracious

Crete is a unique destination with stunning beaches across its long coast. The island is perfect for family holidays, as it has many kid-friendly beaches. Crete is also ideal for family trips and excursions to mountain and seaside villages.

Don’t miss the chance to visit the big aquarium with your kids or the famous Samaria Gorge if you want something more adventurous. Moreover, top attractions include the ancient Minoan sites, such as Knossos and Phaistos with their magnificent palaces. Both archaeological sites are easy to access and offer organized guided tours.

The crystal blue waters of Loutro on the south coast of Crete

Syros, the elegant

Syros is the capital of the Cyclades and it has one of the most impressive towns in the Aegean: Ermoupolis. The combination of Venetian architecture, traditional Cycladic style and the deep blue sea make Syros ideal for family holidays.

It has beaches with umbrellas and sunbeds, seaside tavernes and traditional cafes, as well as many accommodation options. Your family will love the delicious local products and the elegant atmosphere of the island!

Tip: Syros is also one of the best islands in Greece for travelers with reduced mobility.

The seaside of Ermoupolis in Syros

Naxos, the adored

The largest island of the Cyclades combines a variety of elements from the Aegean culture and lifestyle. Arriving at the port of Naxos, you cannot help but notice the impressive Portara, the entrance of an ancient temple built on the top of a hill, as well as the castle of the town of Naxos.

The island has beautiful, kid-friendly beaches, such as Agia Anna and Agios Prokopios, as well as picturesque mountain villages that look like they came out of a fairytale.

Tip: the local products, such as cheese and potatoes, make Naxos one of the best Greek islands for food-lovers.

Breakwater at the picturesque port of Naxos

Andros, the traditional

Andros is the second-largest island of the Cyclades after Naxos. It’s a destination that combines impressive beaches, rich cultural heritage and great food. Located just 2 hours from the port of Rafina in Athens, Andros is an ideal family holiday destination, especially if you are on a low budget and you're after peaceful holidays in Greece.

It has sandy and pebbly beaches with lots of space for beach games. Moreover, you can easily find natural shade on the beach, as there are trees and rocks. We recommend exploring the island’s hiking trails and visiting the museums and cultural sites, such as the castle of Chora, the monument of the Anonymous Sailor and the Museum of Contemporary Art.

 The beach Tis Grias to Pidima on the southeast coast of Andros

Chios, the untouched

Chios, the island famous for its mastic, is an ideal destination for relaxation. Here, you can enjoy the sea, the delicious local products and the beautiful nature of the northeast Aegean Sea. Chios has more than 90 beaches with crystal-clear blue waters, many of which have umbrellas. 

The surrounding nature is magnificent with wild lilies growing everywhere. We suggest visiting the so-called "mastic villages" of Chios. Wander around their picturesque alleys and taste the traditional local products.

Traditional alleys at the village of Pyrgi in Chios

Choose your favorite destination, see all the latest Greek ferry offers, book ferry tickets online with just a few clicks, and enjoy your holidays in Greece! 

Tip: if you want to bring your family doggo to Greece, have a look at the top dog-friendly Greek islands.