Travel to Crete with Kids
Planning a family trip to Crete? Discover top tips for traveling with kids, the incredible island of Crete has so much to offer you and it is often voted one of the most popular and safe destination for family holidays. Crete has plenty of beaches to choose from, from sugar-fine sand to pebbles, and hidden coves to public stretches. Add to this coral-blue waters aglimmer with sunken ships to snorkel, and fun boat trips to be had. Crete is the biggest island of Greece known for its rich culture and amazing scenery. You will discover stunning sunny beaches with crystal clear waters, rocky coves in idyllic landscapes, endless groves, delicious food and of course, the unsurpassed Cretan hospitality.
 Τhings to do in Crete with kids
Hikes, Bikes & Horses
 Apart from the more strenuous gorge and mountain walks, such as the Samaria Gorge, there are numerous options to suit the family. The same goes for cycling, while most horse-riding outfits are excellent at tailoring sessions to all ages. Â
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Museums & Attractions
- Dinosauria Park
Dinosauria Park offers the chance to experience a unique, prehistoric family adventure! A huge selection of model dinosaurs from all periods of the Mesozoic era are on display as well as other prehistoric animals; it really is a one-of-a-kind destination. Wander through the huge space (2500 m2) and marvel at a large number of exhibits, including amphibious dinosaurs. Be aware, the dinosaurs move and make noises! Children can learn about the lives of dinosaurs through interactive displays and educational games. There is also the opportunity to excavate fossils!
For more information, you can visit:https://dinosauriapark.com/
- Cretan caves
 Another adventurous activity you can do with your kids is to explore the many mountainous caves that are of both archaeological and folkloric interest.
Dikteon Cave, one of the most important caves of Crete, is situated on the slope of the mountain range Dikti in Eastern Crete. The cave is full of stalagmites and stalactites and is also an important habitat rich with fauna; at the entrance, you’ll see wild pigeons and other birds while the cave itself is home to the vampire Mediterranean Ear Bat and other arthropods.
 According to legend, Zeus was born and raised by the goat Amaltheia here. Another version of the myth says that Dikteon Andron was the place where Zeus carried Europe after he kidnapped her from Foiniki.
 Another popular cave to visit is Sfentoni in Zoniana village. It is easily accessible, with stalactites and stalagmites of different colours and shapes decorating the cave’s chambers.
- Visit the Minoan Palace of Knossos
Travel back in time to ancient Crete of the Bronze Age at the archaeological site of Knossos. The beautiful Knossos Palace is located near Heraklion and it is the most important archaeological finding in Crete. Knossos is connected with great legends such as the story of Daedalus and Icarus, the fearsome Minotaur, and the love story of Theseus and Ariadne.
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You can explore the ancient palace on a tour or go by yourself. The site is open from April until October, every day from 8am to 7.30pm. The entrance price is 6,00€ for adults and 3,00€ for kids. Don’t forget to bring water, hats and sunscreen as the sun can be strong.
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- Iraklio’s Natural History Museum
- Cretaquarium where youngsters will love the shark tank, jellyfish tank and hands-on pool.
For more information, you can visit:http://www.cretaquarium.gr/
- Amazonas Park
Amazonas Park is a small, family-friendly zoo located near Kourounes village in Crete, Greece. It focuses on conservation, featuring exotic animals and endangered bird species from around the world. Visitors can enjoy interactive experiences like feeding animals, making it an educational and enjoyable outing for kids and adults alike.
 Is Crete a good place for a family holiday?
As the largest of the Greek islands, Crete is a great choice for a family vacation. Almost every part of the island is suitable for families.
Is Crete worth visiting with kids?
Crete is the largest and most southern Greek island. It has a wide range of activities and points of interest, making it a great destination for families. There are two major airports on Crete as well as ferry ports, giving it easy access from other Greek islands and European countries.
Do children need a car seat in Crete?
It is compulsory for all inside the vehicle to wear a seatbelt. Children between 3 and 11 years, measuring less than 135cm must be seated in an appropriate child restraint for their size.

Exploring Crete by Car: A Scenic Journey from Heraklion
Crete is a stunning island with an excellent road network, making it a breeze to explore. From Heraklion, you can head in any direction—east, west, or south—and discover equally beautiful landscapes.
If you’re driving, be aware that although most of Crete’s roads are well-maintained and easy to navigate, driving through Heraklion can be challenging, even in quieter winter months. The inner city is filled with narrow lanes where "anything goes" seems to be the rule, so drive carefully and be prepared for the unexpected.
West of Heraklion: Scenic Coastal Drives
A short drive west of Heraklion offers some of the northern coast's most stunning scenery. Starting from the Heraklion waterfront, follow the coastal road westward. The route takes you over a headland with panoramic views of Heraklion and winds through picturesque bays, beaches, tourist villages, and dramatic headlands. This scenic road is perfect for a short day trip with kids.
If you stick to the western highway instead of the coastal road, you’ll reach Rethymnon in about two hours. This drive takes you through mountains and along pretty coastal stretches. Rethymnon itself is a charming day out with kids. While the beach in the town center may not be the most beautiful in Crete, it’s long, wide, and ideal for kids to play. The town also offers many restaurants, bakeries, and historical sites like the ancient lighthouse and fortress.
East of Heraklion: Agios Nikolaos and Beyond
One of the favorite day trips from Heraklion is the 1.5-hour drive east to Agios Nikolaos. The route is scenic, taking you through lovely mountain landscapes, quaint villages, and past Crete’s famous windmills. Agios Nikolaos is one of the prettiest towns on the island, surrounded by clear water and steeped in mythology. The lake area is lined with cafes and restaurants, perfect for a relaxing meal while kids enjoy the playground and boats.
In summer, Agios Nikolaos hosts an outdoor cinema by the lake, often showing family-friendly movies. The town also has calm, rocky beaches right in the center with shallow water that’s perfect for kids. From here, you can take boat trips to nearby islands or visit the sunken city of Olous near Elounda. While you can drive to Elounda and explore the ruins yourself, a guided tour may be more helpful in finding the best viewing spots.
Mountain Drives and the Southern Coast
For those who enjoy mountain drives, the trip from Heraklion to Timbaki on the south coast makes for a picturesque day outing. This route takes you through scenic inland villages, and while Timbaki itself may not be as captivating, its local markets are enjoyable, and some nearby beaches are stunning.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Journey
To fully appreciate Crete’s breathtaking southern and far western coasts, consider renting a car for several nights. Weekly rentals offer good discounts, especially in the offseason. While many areas can be reached as day trips from Heraklion, staying a few nights allows you to explore Crete’s hidden gems and more remote landscapes at a relaxed pace.
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Have a pleasant stay in Crete !!
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