Crete with Children: A Family Holiday Guide
Crete combines everything families look for in a Greek holiday: long warm summers, sandy beaches with shallow water, friendly tavernas that welcome children, and enough myths, ruins and wildlife to keep curious minds busy. It is the largest Greek island, so choosing the right base makes a big difference to how your holiday feels.
Why Crete suits families
- A long season. The island is one of the warmest parts of Greece, with reliable sunshine from late spring to autumn.
- Plenty of family beaches. Many north-coast resorts have sandy beaches that shelve gently into the sea.
- Lots to do beyond the beach. Ancient palaces, gorges, boat trips, an aquarium and water parks give you options for every age.
- A child-friendly culture. Greek families eat out together late into the evening, and children are welcome almost everywhere.
Where to stay
Crete is long and thin, and driving from one end to the other takes several hours. Pick an area that matches your plans rather than trying to see the whole island from one base.
Chania and the west
The west is greener and more mountainous, with the pretty Venetian harbour town of Chania at its heart. Resorts such as Platanias and Agia Marina have long sandy beaches and easy access to the town. Day trips to the famous lagoons at Balos and Elafonisi are possible from here. Chania airport is close by.
Rethymno
Rethymno sits in the middle of the north coast, with a long sandy beach running east of the town and a charming old quarter with a Venetian fortress. It is a good central base if you want to explore both east and west.
Heraklion and the central north coast
The area around Heraklion is the most developed, with many large family resorts and water parks, and the palace of Knossos close by. Be aware that some resorts on this stretch, notably parts of Malia, have a lively nightlife reputation, so read up before you book.
Agios Nikolaos, Elounda and the east
The east around the Gulf of Mirabello is known for its sheltered bays, a more relaxed pace and many upmarket family hotels around Elounda. Boat trips run to the island of Spinalonga, and the far east around Sitia is quieter still.
Beaches for families
- North-coast resort beaches are generally sandy, with sunbeds, lifeguards in many places and facilities nearby.
- Elafonisi in the south-west has shallow water and patches of pink-tinged sand. It is beautiful but gets very busy in high summer.
- Balos lagoon in the north-west is stunning, though reaching it involves a boat trip or a rough road and a walk, which suits older children better.
- Sheltered bays in the east around Elounda and Agios Nikolaos are often calmer when the summer winds blow on the north coast.
Always check the flags, keep an eye on younger swimmers and take shade for the middle of the day, as many beaches have little natural cover.
Family activities
- Knossos, near Heraklion, linked to the legend of King Minos and the Minotaur. Go early, as it is hot and exposed.
- The archaeological museum in Heraklion, for frescoes and treasures from the Minoan civilisation.
- CretAquarium, east of Heraklion, a good option for a very hot or windy day.
- Water parks along the north coast, mostly open in the summer season.
- Boat trips to Spinalonga, to the Balos lagoon or along the coast. See our guide to boat trips with children before you book.
- Gorge walks. The Samaria Gorge is a long, demanding hike best kept for fit teenagers, but there are shorter, gentler gorges elsewhere on the island.
For a few stories to share on the way, read our 10 interesting facts about Crete.
Getting there
Flights from the UK to Crete take about four hours. The two main airports are Heraklion, in the centre of the north coast, and Chania, in the west, so choose the one nearest your resort to keep the transfer short. Most direct flights operate in the summer season, with fewer options in winter. For help with the journey, see our tips for flying with young children.
When to go
| Season | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Spring (April to May) | Warm, sunny days and wild flowers. The sea is still cool, so heated pools are a bonus. Good for sightseeing. |
| Summer (June to August) | Hot and dry, often well into the 30s °C in July and August. Warm sea, busy beaches and the highest prices, especially in school holidays. |
| Autumn (September to October) | Still warm, with the sea at its warmest in early autumn. A great choice for families with pre-school children. |
| Winter (November to March) | Mild but changeable, with rain and many resorts closed. Better for touring than a beach holiday. |
Practical tips
- Money: Greece uses the euro. Cards are widely accepted in resorts, but carry some cash for small tavernas and beach sunbeds.
- Health: UK residents should take a GHIC, but it is not a substitute for travel insurance. Read our family travel health checklist before you go.
- Driving: traffic drives on the right. Mountain roads can be narrow and winding, so allow extra time. Hire car seats vary in quality, so check what you are given or consider bringing your own.
- Sun: the summer sun is strong. Plan outings for the morning and late afternoon and rest in the shade at midday.
- Travel advice: check the latest GOV.UK foreign travel advice for Greece, including entry requirements, before you travel.
Choose a base that suits your children's ages, plan a couple of days out and leave plenty of time for the beach. For more on keeping everyone happy by the sea, see our guide to beach holidays with children.