Family-Friendly Activities in Athens: A Guide to Unforgettable Adventures
June 3, 2024
Athens, the vibrant capital of Greece, is a city where ancient history and modern charm coexist beautifully. For families visiting this iconic city, there is an abundance of activities that cater to all ages, ensuring an enriching and enjoyable experience for everyone. From exploring ancient monuments to indulging in culinary delights, here are some top family-friendly activities in Athens.
1. Explore the Acropolis
A visit to Athens wouldn’t be complete without a tour of the Acropolis, one of the most famous historical sites in the world. This ancient citadel, perched high on a rocky hill, offers stunning views of the city and a fascinating glimpse into Greece’s storied past. Families can join a guided tour tailored for children, where engaging storytellers bring the history to life with myths and legends that captivate young minds. Walking around the Parthenon, the Temple of Athena Nike, and the Erechtheion, kids will be thrilled to learn about ancient gods, heroes and the significance of these monumental structures.
2. Cooking Classes: Learn to Make Traditional Greek Dishes
What better way to immerse your family in Greek culture than through its delicious cuisine? Athens offers a variety of family-friendly cooking classes where you can learn to prepare traditional Greek dishes together. These hands-on experiences are not only educational but also incredibly fun. Kids will love making (and tasting!) dishes like moussaka, tzatziki, and baklava. Many classes also include a market tour, where families can explore local produce and learn about the ingredients that make Greek food so flavorful and unique.
3. Visit the Athens Planetarium
For a more modern adventure, the Athens Planetarium offers a range of shows and exhibits that are perfect for children and adults alike. Families can enjoy breathtaking visual journeys through space, learning about the stars, planets and the universe. The planetarium also hosts interactive exhibits that make learning about astronomy a captivating experience for young minds.
4. Stroll Through the National Garden
In the heart of Athens lies the National Garden, a lush oasis perfect for a family outing. This sprawling park features winding paths, small lakes, a playground, and a mini-zoo, making it an ideal spot for children to play and explore. Parents can relax in the shade of the trees while kids enjoy feeding the ducks or spotting the various birds and animals that inhabit the garden. It’s a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city, offering a serene environment for a family picnic.
5. Discover the Museum of Greek Children’s Art
The Museum of Greek Children’s Art is a delightful place where the creativity of young artists is showcased. This unique museum features artwork created by children, for children, and offers a variety of workshops and activities that encourage kids to express themselves through art. Families can spend time exploring the colorful exhibits and participating in interactive sessions that inspire imagination and creativity.
6. Take a Day Trip to the Beach
Athens is not only about history and culture; it’s also close to some beautiful beaches. A day trip to the nearby coastline can be a wonderful way to relax and have fun as a family. Beaches like Vouliagmeni and Glyfada offer crystal-clear waters, sandy shores and plenty of amenities. Kids can build sandcastles, swim in the sea, or even try some water sports. Many beach areas also have playgrounds and family-friendly restaurants, making it easy to spend a whole day enjoying the sun and sea.
7. Boat Rentals – Perfect Family Adventure
For an unforgettable family adventure in Athens, renting a boat to explore the nearby islands is an experience not to be missed. With our boat rental services, you can embark on a semi-private tour to discover the picturesque islands of Ydra, Poros, and Aigina. Each island boasts unique attractions and stunning landscapes, perfect for creating lasting family memories. For those seeking a more luxurious outing, our private yacht tours offer an exclusive journey around the islands close to Athens and the Athenian Riviera, complete with a delicious lunch and refreshing drinks.
Athens offers a multitude of family-friendly activities, and at Athens Manor Houses, we ensure your stay is just as enjoyable and convenient. For families visiting the city, we recommend our Family Suite (for up to five people) , our Junior Suite and our Junior Suite with Balcony (for up to four people) and our Suite and Superior Room (for up to three people).