Making the Most of Your Family Holiday in Crete, Greece

If you’re planning a family holiday in Crete, Greece, you’re in for a treat. This beautiful island in the Mediterranean Sea offers a wealth of activities and experiences that will delight both kids and adults alike. As a charity with 20 years of experience hosting summer camps on Crete, we’re excited to share some of our favorite things to do and see on this breathtaking island.

First and foremost, Crete is known for its stunning beaches. With crystal-clear waters pebbles and soft sand, they’re the perfect place to relax and soak up the sun. Kids will love building sandcastles, swimming, and snorkeling in the shallow waters. Some of the most popular beaches on the island include Elafonisi, Balos, and Falassarna, but don’t forget the less popular but equally stunning beaches to the east and south of the island.

But there’s more to Crete than just its beaches. The island is rich in history and culture, with ancient ruins, traditional villages, and vibrant cities to explore. One must-see attraction is the Palace of Knossos, the largest and most elaborate palace of the Minoan civilization. Kids will be fascinated by the myths and legends surrounding the palace, from the Minotaur to Theseus and Ariadne.

Also near the capital Heraklion there are two visits your kids will love: the Aquarium of Crete which is part of Thalassokosmos (the largest complex for marine research, technology and entertainment in the Mediterranean area) and it is home to 2000 sea animals, and Acquaplus, justly the most popular water park on the island of Crete, much fun for the whole family.

For a more active adventure, consider hiking one of the many beatiful paths in Crete and in particular the Samaria Gorge, one of Europe’s longest and most impressive gorges. The hike is suitable for older children and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Just be sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water!

Of course, no visit to Crete would be complete without trying the local cuisine. From fresh seafood to delicious cheeses and honey, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Be sure to try some traditional dishes like moussaka, souvlaki, and tzatziki. And for a sweet treat, don’t miss the chance to sample some baklava or galaktoboureko.

With so much to see and do, a family holiday in Crete is an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re looking for relaxation, adventure, or culture, you’ll find it all on this beautiful island. And as a charity with a long history of working with children and young people in Crete, we’re proud to support the local community and share the beauty and magic of this special place with the world.