Halkidiki, Crete, Rhodes - these destinations have become classic family vacations. But you can't forget about the hundreds of Greek islands either. And especially the Cyclades, with nearly 300 days of sunshine a year, superb sandy beaches and activities that will appeal to all generations.
Naxos
Naxos is the largest island of the Cyclades, which means that there are plenty of opportunities for family holidays here. Among the guests of Naxos, horseback riding, snorkeling in clear sea waters, cycling and mini-cruises along the coast of the island are popular. In the capital, the whole family can spend time in the open-air cinema Cine Naxos. Sessions are held every evening, after 19:00. And tourists with children should visit the Aqua Fun water park in Stelida. It is small, but will give the child 3-4 hours of fun.
Among the attractions for family leisure, you can choose the ancient temple of Demeter, the Museum of Geology and the impressive Aya Tower of the 17th century. But the main reason to choose Naxos for holidays is its beaches. Plaka, Agios Prokopios and Maragas can boast of unconditional beauty and purity of sand. Among the popular ones is the beach of Ayia Anna. All of them are well organized, but not crowded even in high season.
How to get there: from Piraeus by ferry or high-speed catamaran. Athens is connected to Naxos by air.
Kea
Kea is not a mass destination at all, and therefore families who go to Greece for a relaxing holiday surrounded by the traditional atmosphere of this country will like it here. The island is immersed in the greenery of vineyards and olive forests. Here you can diversify your journey with culinary master classes in the preparation of national Greek delicacies. For families, there are special hiking trails and all kinds of water sports are available, and it is also an island of excellent beaches. For holidays with children are best suited:
- Kambi is a beach located in an area with impeccable ecology. It is surrounded by hills, covered with small pebbles, and the seabed here is sandy;
- Yaliskari is a small but picturesque and popular beach with cafes and water activities. It is located in a bay protected from winds and waves in any weather;
- Koundouros is a sandy beach, protected from the northern winds and absolutely safe for children. Nearby there are taverns and several apartments for rent.
How to get there: there are ferries from Athens or Lavrion to the island of Kea.
Milos
Although Milos has earned a reputation as an island for romantics, it has several features that have made it an ideal destination for families. The first reason is the lack of noisy nightclubs and a relaxed atmosphere. The second reason is more than 70 beaches, including sandy bays where you can relax with the whole family. For example, Provatas, Pollonia, Papakino, Paleochori and Firopotamos. And, finally, one more reason: a lot of entertainment for all ages. Especially popular among families are boat trips along the coast with a stop in bays inaccessible from land. Children will certainly be interested in visiting the caves of the island and the ruins of the ancient city of Melos, as well as trying the watermelon pie, which is traditionally prepared only on Milos.
How to get there: Milos is connected by ferry to Athens and other Cycladic islands. The island has an airport. It receives flights from Athens and seasonal charters from Thessaloniki.
Amorgos
From the first minutes, Amorgos fascinates with its nature: crystal-clear bays, hills, bizarre rocks, sandy coast - it is not for nothing that lovers of secluded relaxation away from noisy resorts choose the island. The Greeks especially appreciated it, and we have no reason not to trust their taste. In the capital of the island, Chora, you can take a pleasant walk. It is built up with white houses typical of the Cyclades, cozy cafes and chapels. In Chora, it is worth going up to the ancient castle, which has preserved traces of the Byzantine and Venetian presence. From its height, a breathtaking view opens up.
Those who seek new discoveries should contact diving and snorkeling instructors. They work with both adults and children. If a leisurely vacation is more to your liking, Amorgos has dozens of beaches for this. Families are better off choosing Aegiale - a long sandy beach with an abundance of greenery, cafes and hotels. An excellent choice would be the beaches of Katapola and Kalotaritissa.
How to get there: the most convenient way is by ferry from the Athenian Piraeus, but ships from other islands of the Cyclades archipelago also go to Amorgos.
Ios
Ios is an island for all kinds of holidays. Lively party resorts coexist peacefully with secluded beaches and family villages. With children, it is better to choose the town of Manganari with an excellent sandy beach, clear sea and a playground right on the coast. By the way, many Manganari hotels are family-oriented: they have animation, entertainment and babysitting services. One of the most beautiful beaches of Ios is Ayia Theodoti. It will delight you with the absence of waves, the purest golden sand, developed infrastructure, but at the same time solitude.
How to get there: by ferry from Piraeus, Rafina, Paros, Naxos, Mykonos or Santorini.
