We had an amazing family vacation on the Greek islands of Naxos, Ios, and the famous Santorini this summer. It was a trip full of exploration yet wonderfully relaxing, with plenty of beach time too. If you’re planning to visit the Greek islands with kids and are looking for the best Greek islands for families, I’ve shared our itinerary in the blog post below. Feel free to get inspired and plan your own incredible family adventure to the Greek islands!
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Best Greek Islands for Families
As we planned our family vacation, we looked for several important aspects that guided our search for the best Greek islands for families. We specifically looked for a Greek island with:
- The Best Beaches for Families: A great, swimmable beach with calm waters close to the town center.
- A Relatively Quiet Island: A location away from the crowds, making it more family-friendly and peaceful.
- Charming and Vibrant Town Centers: An island with a lively town center suitable for family exploration, offering local shops, cafes, and cultural experiences.
- Compact Size: An easily navigable island that allows us to reach both the beaches and town center on foot or by using public transportation.
- A Slower-Paced Trip: Unlike other vacations where we rented a car and explored extensively, we desired a more relaxed experience, focusing on unwinding and enjoying the beach atmosphere with our family.
As a result of our search for family-friendly Greek islands based on the preferences I listed above, two lesser-known Cycladic islands emerged: Naxos and Paros. Unlike their world-renowned neighbors, Mykonos and Santorini, these islands are not frequented by cruise ships, making them quieter and somewhat more affordable.
Some travel bloggers have even listed Naxos as the Greek island with the most beautiful beaches. Consequently, we focused our research on Naxos and Paros, ultimately deciding on Naxos for its stunning beaches and beautiful sea. After our trip to Naxos, I can confirm that this beautiful island truly lived up to all our expectations for the best Greek islands for families.
Our Greek Islands with kids itinerary
In addition to Naxos, we wanted to do some Greek island hopping as a family to experience different islands with unique vibes. Since we were traveling to the Cyclades, we, of course, wanted to visit the world-renowned and most popular island of all: Santorini.
Yes, Santorini is famous as a romantic holiday destination, but is traveling there with kids a good idea? Why not?
At the last minute, we also added the lesser-known, budget-friendly island of Ios to our itinerary, located conveniently between Naxos and Santorini, to help balance our budget. Ios is known for its party atmosphere and stunning beaches. Visiting a youth party island as a family? Why not?
We eventually visited the Greek islands of Naxos, Ios, and Santorini over a total of nine days. We spent five days in Naxos, two days in Ios, and lastly two and a half days in Santorini, before flying to Athens on a late evening flight.
How to Get to Naxos
Naxos Island has one airport that serves only domestic flights. To reach Naxos from the US or Europe, you first need to fly into Athens International Airport. From there, you can either take a domestic flight or a ferry to get to Naxos.
The flight to Naxos takes approximately 40 minutes. In contrast, ferry travel time varies depending on the type of ferry, typically taking between 3 to 6 hours. While flying is the faster option, taking the ferry offers a more leisurely experience. You can stroll around on board, enjoy the ferry deck, and take in breathtaking views of the Greek islands and the Aegean Sea.
We chose to take the fast ferry from Athens to travel to Naxos for our Greek islands family trip. If you want to check out the fast ferry timetables, compare prices, and purchase your ferry tickets online in advance (which is advisable since ticket prices increase significantly based on availability), you can visit www.ferryhopper.com. We also booked our ferry tickets through this website and simply showed our online tickets when boarding the ferries during our Greek islands hopping adventure.
- You can read about our detailed ferry experience in my blog post, “How to get to Naxos“.
Is Naxos Good for Families?
Naxos is a Greek island with stunning sandy beaches and calm, crystal-clear waters. It really far exceeded our expectations for a perfect beach holiday. Thanks to its shallow, wave-free sea, I can confidently recommend it to anyone planning to visit a Greek island with kids and toddlers.
We visited Naxos during one of the busiest months, July, yet it wasn’t overly crowded. You could comfortably stroll through the streets, easily find a sunbed at the beach, and reserve a table at restaurants either on the same day or a day in advance—it had the perfect balance of calm and relaxation.
With its historic town center, photogenic villages, and beautiful beaches, Naxos is an island that’s delightful for both families and couples—a place you’ll want to visit again and again.
For a more detailed guide, check out my blog post: The Best Places to Visit in Naxos with kids.
Naxos Beaches for Kids
Agios Georgios beach is an incredible spot just a five-minute walk from the Naxos town center. When we first saw it, we immediately thought, “Perfect, there’s no need to go anywhere else!”
The beach features fine sand and crystal-clear, shallow waters that only reach your knees, even after walking quite far into the sea—perfect for little ones. And great news for tiny toddler feet: the sea bottom is sandy too. With the nearby island of Paros acting as a natural breakwater, the water is as calm as a swimming pool, making it ideal for families with children.
There are plenty of places along the beach where you can rent sunbeds and umbrellas, with prices around €20-30 for two sunbeds and an umbrella. Some even offer food and drink service right to your sunbed! What more could you ask for in a relaxing family vacation?
One day, we took public transport to Agios Prokopios and Plaka beaches. In this area, the price for two sunbeds and an umbrella was around €15-20. Along the way, we came across several inviting seaside tavernas that looked very pleasant.
Plaka beach, often regarded as the most beautiful beach on the island, was incredibly stunning. It’s the kind of beach that becomes deep with just a step or two in. The sea was crystal clear and very calm. Along the long stretch of Plaka beach, several small boutique hotels lined the shore. However, even for those of us who prefer a tranquil atmosphere, it felt a bit too quiet.
Where to Stay in Naxos for Families
While researching family-friendly accommodations on Naxos, I stumbled upon the Maisonette at Naxos Center Houses, and it immediately caught my attention! Nestled in the heart of Naxos Town, this charming traditional Greek island house offered everything we needed for our family of four. With two cozy bedrooms, a spacious living and dining area, and a well-equipped kitchen, it felt like a home away from home.
The highlight, however, was the loft terrace, boasting breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea, the picturesque old town, the historic Naxos castle, and the iconic Portara. Waking up to those views each morning made it a truly unforgettable stay. Its central location meant we could easily explore the vibrant town, while still being close to family-friendly beaches and restaurants. It was the perfect spot for a relaxing yet enriching family getaway!
The Maisonette at Naxos Center Houses, has a Booking.com score of 9.1 based on over 170 reviews. It was a wonderful accommodation, and we couldn’t be more pleased with our choice.
- Check out the prices at Naxos Center Houses
- For other family-friendly hotel options in Naxos, click here.
How to get from Naxos to Ios island
We easily reached Ios Island from Naxos with the Sea Jets high-speed ferry. On the day we traveled, there was only one ferry trip from Naxos to Ios, and since it was a high-speed ferry, the ticket was a bit expensive. (For more details, check out my post: How to Get to Ios Island?)
We bought our tickets online from ferryhopper.com. Without the need to print the ticket, we simply showed it on our phone and scanned it at boarding. The ferry went directly from Naxos to Ios without stopping anywhere else, and we arrived in Ios in just 30 minutes. For ferry ticket prices and schedules, click here.
Ios Island for a Family Vacation
We had heard about the stunning sea of Ios Island, and since it was on our route from Naxos to Santorini, we decided to add it to our itinerary for a bit more beach time. While Ios has a reputation as a party island for the young crowd, we thought, “No problem! We’ll enjoy the sea, relax, and experience a beautiful Greek island at affordable prices.” Excited for the adventure, off we went!
Upon arrival, we immediately noticed the island’s youthful energy, with most visitors around 18 years old. Even the 25-30-year-olds seemed on the older side. However, any concerns we had about vacationing on an island full of youngsters quickly disappeared when we arrived at the gorgeous Mylopotas Beach.
While one end of Mylopotas beach is famous for its lively party scene, we found a peaceful spot on the quieter northern side. We were pleasantly surprised to discover that the sunbeds weren’t fixed-price like in Naxos but available with a minimum spend. We settled into a cozy cabana as a family, enjoying delicious food, refreshing drinks, and the incredible sea.
For a more detailed travel guide to Ios Island and highlights from our trip, click here.
Where to Stay in Ios Island with Kids?
Since Ios Island was a last-minute addition to our itinerary and it was high season, there weren’t many accommodation options left. In the end, we stayed at Corali Hotel, a family-run hotel close to the ferry port and easily accessible on foot. The hotel has its own beach with free sunbeds for guests (rated 8.7 on booking.com with over 300 reviews). We chose this hotel because it’s family-friendly, has both a pool and a beach, offers family rooms for four, and features a popular pizza restaurant on-site that visitors love.
Despite being a bit dated, Corali Hotel was impeccably clean. The garden and pool area were particularly well-maintained, creating a lovely atmosphere for the kids to enjoy. There was a breakfast service where we found plenty of food options each morning. The hotel’s location was conveniently within walking distance to the harbor and its restaurants.
- Check out the prices of Corali Hotel
The beach in front of Corali Hotel was sandy, shallow, and picturesque. However, since the ferries turned around just across from the beach, it didn’t feel particularly inviting, especially after experiencing the wonderful beaches in Naxos. As hotel guests, we enjoyed free sunbeds, while outside visitors had to pay a fee of €7 for them. To fully experience the incredible beaches that Ios Island offers, we decided to travel to Mylopotas Beach. As I mentioned earlier, spending a day as a family at Mylopotas Beach was truly incredible.
Chora, the main town of Ios Island, is a few kilometers inland from the harbor. We could easily reach the town center and the island’s famous beaches by taking the buses that depart from the harbor.
Staying around Mylopotas Beach on Ios Island
After exploring Ios Island, I can confidently say that the best area to stay for families is around Mylopotas Beach.
For a simple and affordable family-friendly stay, Hotel Aegeon (rated 9.4 on booking.com with over 160 reviews) is a fantastic choice. Located just behind the beach, this highly regarded hotel features a pool and offers a relaxing atmosphere with easy access to Mylopotas Beach. For Hotel Aegeon prices, click here.
For those seeking a more luxurious experience, Dionysos Seaside Resort Ios (rated 9.2 on booking.com with over 400 reviews) is another excellent option. Located right on Mylopotas Beach, this resort features rooms with private pools, offering a Santorini-style luxury stay but at more affordable prices. For Dionysos Seaside Resort Ios prices, click here.
- For other hotel options on Ios Island, click here.
How to get from Ios to Santorini
There were both fast and slow ferry options available for traveling from Ios to Santorini. The fast ferry cost €60 and took only 40 minutes to reach the neighboring island of Santorini, making it a quick and convenient option for those short on time.
However, we opted for the slower ferry, which was a more affordable option at €15. It took about two hours, but the journey was a scenic one, stopping at other nearby islands such as Sikinos and Folegandros. We enjoyed a relaxing cruise across the Aegean Sea before finally arriving in Santorini. (For more detailed information, check out my “How to Get to Santorini?” post).
Santorini with Kids
Santorini may not be the first destination that comes to mind for family travel, but with our teenager and pre-teen, it turned out to be a fantastic place to explore together.
When most people picture Santorini, they envision the iconic view of whitewashed houses perched on hilltops, with blue domes scattered in between. Having heard so much about its beauty and popularity, we wondered if it would truly live up to the hype. Upon our arrival, we quickly discovered that it absolutely did—it was breathtaking. Santorini is the kind of place you need to visit at least once in your lifetime.
The island’s villages, with their traditional architecture perched on the cliffs of the Caldera, offer dramatic vistas and stunning views. Santorini’s Caldera is a large volcanic crater formed by a massive eruption 3,600 years ago, now filled with water and surrounded by steep cliffs. Villages like Fira and Oia sit along these cliffs, offering breathtaking views of the sea and volcano.
Hiking from one village to another along the famous Caldera was a delightful family adventure, allowing us to soak in the scenery at our own pace. The carefully preserved villages atop the cliffs, combined with the deep blue sea surrounding them, create a sight that can only be fully appreciated in person.
However, along with its beauty, Santorini is incredibly crowded and expensive due to overtourism. Knowing this ahead of time, we were prepared for the crowds. Still, the level of congestion in Oia—the most popular and photogenic spot on the island—was astonishing during the half-hour before sunset, when all the tourists gathered to watch the sun dip below the horizon.
In contrast, early in the morning, before the cruise ships arrived, the atmosphere in those same spots was much more enjoyable and peaceful. That’s why staying in Santorini is essential to experience it at its best. During those early hours, we found it much easier to explore and truly appreciate Santorini’s beauty in a calm and serene setting.
Santorini Beaches
While we heard about Santorini’s unique beaches, such as the black beach and the red beach, we didn’t feel the need to visit any of them since we had already enjoyed our beach time on other islands. In my opinion, Santorini is not a destination to visit for its beaches alone.
Instead, it’s all about the one of a kind geographic landscapes, picturesque villages, and scenic walking paths that connect them. The real joy lies in exploring these villages and soaking in the breathtaking views of the sea and cliffs.
Where to Stay in Santorini with kids
Staying in one of those iconic Caldera-view spots we see in Santorini photos would be wonderful. However, given the island’s high prices and our family’s travel needs, that dream isn’t realistic for an average budget. While we couldn’t find an affordable option in the famous village of Oia, we were fortunate to discover a fantastic accommodation within walking distance.
We specifically searched for places not far from the picturesque village of Oia, ideally within easy walking distance. Ultimately, we found our dream spot in Finikia, a historic village just a 10-minute walk from Oia. This charming location featured traditional architecture and even an outdoor spa, providing a relaxing atmosphere for our family. Plus, we didn’t need to rent a car, allowing us to stroll to Oia in the morning and enjoy the peaceful streets before the crowds arrived.
Hotel we stayed in Santorini as a family
In Finikia, we found a fantastic and more affordable option at Lotza Studios, which offers traditional cave house stays (rated 9.3 on Booking.com with over 400 reviews). Compared to the options in Oia, Lotza Studios provided much better value for our family. We stayed in a two-bedroom studio that featured an outdoor jacuzzi, a spacious terrace with sea views, and a kitchenette.
Every morning, we enjoyed a delightful breakfast delivered to our terrace at our preferred time. The staff were also very accommodating, allowing us a late checkout on our departure day since the room was available. For more information on accommodation options and prices at Lotza Studios, click here.
- For more accommodations in Finikia, please click the link
Restaurant Recommendation from Santorini
As a family that enjoys exploring local cuisine, we made it a priority to savor the flavors of the Greek islands. The seafood was incredibly fresh, and while some dishes didn’t fully meet our expectations compared to the exceptional meals we’ve had in Italy, we still enjoyed many memorable experiences featuring local cuisine. The highlight of our culinary journey was undoubtedly our visit to Dimitris Ammoudi Taverna in Santorini, which left a lasting impression on us.
After making our reservation, we discovered the seaside restaurant nestled at the very end of Ammoudi Bay. Yes, we climbed down all those hundreds of stairs from the top to the bottom of the cliff to reach Ammoudi Bay!
At Dimitris Ammoudi Taverna, we indulged in a fantastic seafood meal while enjoying breathtaking views of the sea and the stunning red cliffs surrounding us. In our opinion, this taverna truly deserves all the praise it receives! Dining on fresh fish in such an incredible location like Santorini—and being completely satisfied with every dish, despite the island’s prices—made our Santorini experience even more unforgettable.
How to get from Santorini back to Athens
After our Greek island-hopping adventure, we returned to Athens to spend a few more days there. Instead of taking a ferry, we opted to fly back. Since Santorini is the southernmost of the Cyclades islands, ferry rides to Athens can be quite lengthy, typically taking between 5 to 8 hours. Additionally, ferry schedules usually run in the morning and around noon, meaning we would have to sacrifice our last day in Santorini for a timely arrival in Athens.
Fortunately, Santorini is a popular destination, offering numerous affordable flight options to various locations, including, of course, the capital city of Greece, Athens. By booking evening flight tickets, we were able to enjoy our final day on the island, pay a fare comparable to that of the ferry, and return to Athens easily and quickly.
Are Naxos, Ios, and Santorini Expensive?
In general, the Cyclades islands are popular holiday destinations and can be quite expensive. Among them, Santorini and Mykonos rank as the priciest options, especially during the summer months when the costs for accommodations and dining can be significantly high. Naxos tends to be more affordable compared to Santorini, while Ios is the least expensive among the three.
In general, starters and meze dishes at restaurants were around €10, while main courses ranged from €15 to €20, with Santorini prices being approximately €5 more for each dish. So, they weren’t exactly cheap places to eat.
However, beer and wine were quite reasonably priced; you could enjoy a liter of house wine for about €10. If you’re looking for something more casual, a gyro and drink is just €5. Additionally, at the beaches, you could get a beer, frappe, or freddo for around €4. To give you a better idea of the costs, I’ve included the menus from both Naxos and Ios beaches above.
As a final note, I hope our trip to the Greek Islands with kids has inspired you. It was truly an unforgettable adventure for me! I cherished every moment and look forward to exploring more Greek Islands with my family in the future. Or perhaps I’ll return to Naxos, relax by the sea, and enjoy some downtime at the beach—both options sound perfect! Just send me back there! 🙂
Have you been to any of the Greek Islands before? I’d love to hear your recommendations for a joyful summer family vacation!