Crete is the largest island in Greece and the fifth largest in the Mediterranean Sea, an island of extraordinary diversity where ancient civilizations, rugged mountains, fertile plains, and some of Europe's finest beaches converge. Home to the Minoan civilization, Europe's oldest advanced culture, Crete offers millennia of history alongside world-class natural beauty.
Family activities
Engaging experiences for travellers of every age.
Crete Aquarium (Thalassocosmos)
One of the largest aquariums in the Mediterranean with 35 tanks of Mediterranean sea life. Touch pool, shark tank, rays, and sea turtles. Half-day activity suitable for all.
Water City (Acqua Plus)
The largest water park in Crete with 36+ slides — kamikaze runs for teens, lazy rivers for families, and a full children's water playground.
Limnoupolis Water Park
The best water park in western Crete set in natural landscape with a real lake centrepiece, wild river slides, and a dedicated toddler section.
Dinosauria Park
240 life-size model dinosaurs on a walking trail through Mediterranean vegetation. Adjacent to the Natural History Museum — combine both for a full science day.
Elafonisi Beach
The shallow turquoise lagoon — rarely more than knee-deep — is exceptional for young children. Pink sand, calm warm water, and extraordinary scenery.
Dikteon Cave and Lassithi Plateau
The mythological birthplace of Zeus — a cave with stalactites and underground lake. A mule ride from the car park to the entrance is fun for children.
Sea Kayaking with a Guide
Half-day guided sea kayaking exploring sea caves and snorkelling in clear water. No prior experience needed; children 10+ with swimming ability manage easily.
Samaria Gorge Full Hike
The full 18km gorge is a genuine physical achievement for active teenagers. The Iron Gates narrows, kri-kri wild goats, and the Libyan Sea at the end are all memorable.
Family-friendly hotels
Accommodation designed with families in mind.
Grecotel Amirandes
A top family resort on the north coast east of Heraklion with excellent kids club, multiple pools including children's areas, water sports, and a beautiful private lagoon beach.
Where: Gouves, Heraklion
Family features: Kids club, Children's pools, Baby-sitting service, Water sports
Aldemar Cretan Village
Large all-inclusive family resort near Hersonissos with spectacular free-form pool, mini club for children, and easy access to Water City water park.
Where: Hersonissos, Heraklion
Family features: Mini club, All-inclusive, Large pool complex, Private beach
Hotel Avra Imperial
Family-friendly resort on a private beach near Chania with calm protected bay ideal for young swimmers, kids club, and excellent facilities.
Where: Kolymvari, Chania
Family features: Kids club, Private beach, Calm swimming bay, Baby-sitting
Dining with kids
Eating out as a family.
Greek culture is very child-friendly — children are welcome in almost all restaurants even late in the evening
Order mezedes (shared small plates) for the table — children can pick what they like and try new things
Greek cuisine is naturally family-friendly: pasta, grilled chicken, moussaka, and grilled fish are universally available
Greek meal times are late (21:00–22:00) — bring snacks for young children if eating at traditional local restaurants
Loukoumades (honey doughnuts) and ice cream shops are found everywhere and universally popular with children
Ask waiters for simple dishes (grilled chicken, plain pasta) — Greek tavernas are accommodating with children's requests
Supermarkets (Sklavenitis, Lidl, AB Vassilopoulos) stock familiar European food brands for self-catering
Beach tavernas allow you to order for children while adults relax — no rush, children running around is welcomed
Family travel tips
Practical advice for stress-free family trips.
Build downtime into every day — over-scheduled kids melt down faster than tired adults.
Carry snacks, water, and a small first-aid kit at all times.
Many attractions offer discounted family tickets — ask at the ticket window.