How to keep your kids happy in Crete
Planning a family holiday is not an easy feat. In case you are wondering whether Crete is a good place for kids, the answer is simply YES! Crete, the largest and most versatile Greek island, has something for everyone, including your little darlings. It always ranks among the top choices for families all over the world, and that’s for good reason. Mild climate, a wide array of activities and facilities suited for families, safety, short driving distances, exquisite food and top hospitality make Crete an excellent family-friendly destination.
Entertainment might be one of your main concerns: How to keep your children occupied, amused and interested? Fortunately, in Crete it will be easy to find something to suit your children’s age and interests. Here are some ideas:
Water fun
The island boasts a huge variety of beaches. Long sandy stretches with shallow, crystal clear, warm waters are ideal for youngsters. On a windy day, you can always search for the closest sheltered cove. Many beaches are lined with facilities, equipped with umbrellas and sunbeds and manned with lifeguards. Apart from swimming, older children can also test their skills in water sports, such as snorkelling, kayaking or paddle board.
Extra tip: Plan to spend a day in a water park: kids of all ages will just love it!
History and culture
The intriguing history of Crete can spark the imagination of all kids, including the youngest toddlers: ancient sites, kids-friendly museums, historical towns, castles and fortresses can be both entertaining and educating. Among the highlights is a visit to the Palace of Knossos, home to the legend of powerful King Minos and the fearsome Minotaur. Children of all ages will love the theme parks, which are also inspired by the Minoan civilization or dinosaurs.
Extra tip: Visit the Natural History Museum in Heraklion, where kids will find numerous interesting interactive displays.
Nature & sports
In Crete, your children will find plenty of opportunities to get closer to nature and to use some of their never-ending energy reserves. Get them ready to hike gorges, explore caves, go cycling or horse riding, visit a farm or a botanical park. These are excellent ways for the whole family to explore the unique Cretan landscapes and fill your lungs with fresh air. On a rainy or extremely hot day, go underwater –but indoors- at the Cretaquarium, where sharks and other sea creatures will leave your children amazed.
Extra tip: Go pedal boating in Kournas Lake, the only freshwater lake on the island.
Urban adventures
There are no huge urban centres in Crete. Even the largest city, Heraklion, can be very kids-friendly, just like the bigger or smaller Cretan towns. Hop on a little train or a double-decker bus to combine sightseeing with fun, let your kids frolic in the parks, squares and playgrounds, visit museums and fortresses, stroll the old towns and promenades, take a boat trip or explore the marine life on a glass bottom boat.
Extra tip: Seek some shade in the municipal gardens, such as the ones in Chania or Rethymno. These are public parks with free entrance where you will find lush green vegetation in the heart of the town, playgrounds and cafés to bask while your kids play merrily.
Extra tip: Seek some shade in the municipal gardens, such as the ones in Chania or Rethymno. These are public parks with free entrance where you will find lush green vegetation in the heart of the town, playgrounds and cafés to bask while your kids play merrily.
By Nikki Stavroulaki