Santorini, Greece: Best Family-Friendly Stays & Can’t-Miss Attractions

Thinking Santorini is just for honeymooners? Think again! This stunning Greek island offers incredible experiences for families too. Those iconic white buildings with blue domes, breathtaking caldera views, and black sand beaches aren’t just for couples’ Instagram feeds—they’re waiting to create magical memories for your whole family. In this Santorini Greece Travel Guide, I’ll show you how to navigate this gorgeous island with kids in tow, from the best family-friendly hotels to must-visit attractions that will wow visitors of all ages. Let’s turn that dream Greek island vacation into reality! 🌞

Getting to Santorini with the Family

Before diving into all the amazing places to stay and things to do, let’s talk about getting your crew to this slice of paradise. You’ve got two main options: flying or taking a ferry.

By Air: Quick but Pricey

Flying directly to Santorini Airport (JTR) is the fastest option, especially with little ones in tow. During summer, you’ll find direct flights from major European cities. Year-round, you can connect through Athens with a quick 45-minute flight. Pro tip: Book window seats for that jaw-dropping aerial view of the caldera as you approach! 🛬

By Ferry: An Adventure in Itself

For a more affordable option (and a bit of adventure), catch a ferry from Athens or nearby islands. The high-speed ferries take about 5 hours from Athens, while conventional ferries take 7-9 hours. Heads up: if anyone in your family gets seasick, pack some motion sickness remedies—the Aegean can get choppy! The upside? Kids usually love the boat journey, and the approach to Santorini’s towering cliffs is absolutely spectacular.

Best Family-Friendly Accommodations in Santorini

Finding the right place to stay can make or break your family vacation. While Santorini is famous for romantic cliffside suites, there are plenty of fantastic options that welcome little travelers too! Here are my top picks for family-friendly stays across the island:

Santorini Palace Hotel

Located in Firostefani, just a short walk from Fira town, this 4-star hotel offers the perfect balance of luxury and family-friendliness. Kids will love the large swimming pool (one of the biggest on the island!), while parents will appreciate the spacious family rooms and proximity to restaurants and shops.

• Large family rooms that can accommodate 4-5 people
• Huge swimming pool with separate children’s section
• Buffet breakfast with kid-friendly options included
• Walking distance to Fira town for easy dining options

Check Availability

Kamari Beach Hotel

If beach access is your priority, this family-friendly hotel sits right on Kamari’s famous black sand beach. The location is perfect—step right onto the beach in the morning and retreat to the pool when the sand gets too hot (and trust me, that volcanic sand can really heat up!).

• Beachfront location with direct access to Kamari Beach
• Family rooms with connecting options available
• Kids’ pool and playground on property
• Restaurants and shops within walking distance

Check Availability

Perissa Family Resort

Located in the more laid-back area of Perissa, this resort offers apartment-style accommodations that are perfect for families needing more space. The relaxed vibe of Perissa makes it ideal for families wanting to escape the crowds of Fira and Oia.

• Apartment-style rooms with kitchenettes
• Multiple swimming pools including a shallow kids’ pool
• 5-minute walk to Perissa’s black sand beach
• Family-friendly tavernas nearby

Check Availability

Family-Perfect Vacation Rentals

Sometimes hotels just don’t cut it when traveling with family—especially if you’ve got multiple kids or are traveling with grandparents too. Vacation rentals offer more space, kitchen facilities (hello, midnight snack prep!), and often better value for larger groups.

Having your own space means leisurely family breakfasts with million-dollar views

Top Family-Friendly Attractions in Santorini

Santorini isn’t just about romantic sunsets and wine tasting (though parents should definitely squeeze those in too!). There are plenty of activities that will keep kids of all ages entertained while experiencing the island’s unique beauty and culture.

The ancient city of Akrotiri offers an exciting glimpse into the past for curious kids

1. Beach Day at Perissa or Kamari

Santorini’s black sand beaches are a hit with kids! The contrast of the dark volcanic sand against the blue Aegean makes for a unique beach experience. Both Perissa and Kamari beaches offer organized facilities with sunbeds, umbrellas, water sports, and plenty of family-friendly tavernas lining the shore. Pro tip: The sand gets SUPER hot in the afternoon—bring water shoes for little feet! 🏖️

2. Ancient Akrotiri Archaeological Site

Turn history into an adventure at this incredible Bronze Age settlement often called “Greece’s Pompeii.” Buried under volcanic ash for centuries, the remarkably preserved ruins include multi-story buildings, drainage systems, and pottery. Kids will be amazed imagining the people who lived here 3,600 years ago! The site is covered, making it a perfect activity for escaping the midday heat.

3. Santorini Water Park

Located near Perissa, this water park offers slides, pools, and splash areas perfect for cooling off on hot summer days. It’s not massive compared to water parks in other destinations, but it provides a welcome break from sightseeing for water-loving kids.

A boat tour offers a different perspective of Santorini’s dramatic geography

4. Caldera Boat Tour

See Santorini from a different angle with a family-friendly boat tour around the caldera. Most tours include stops for swimming in the hot springs, visiting the volcanic islands in the center of the caldera, and lunch onboard. Kids love the adventure aspect, and it’s a great way to appreciate the island’s unique volcanic formation. Heads up: some hot springs have sulfur that can stain swimsuits, so bring older ones!

5. Explore Traditional Villages

Beyond the famous Oia and Fira, villages like Pyrgos and Megalochori offer a more authentic glimpse of Santorini life. The maze-like streets are perfect for a family treasure hunt (spot the blue domes, find the oldest door, etc.). These villages are less crowded and often more welcoming to families with energetic kids.

Getting Around Santorini with Kids

Local buses are an affordable way to explore the island with kids

Navigating Santorini with children requires a bit of planning, but don’t worry—you’ve got options! Here’s how to get your crew around the island efficiently:

Private Transfers

For hassle-free transportation, especially from the airport or port to your accommodation, pre-book a private transfer. Many companies offer vehicles with car seats upon request. This is particularly helpful when arriving with tired kids and luggage.

Walking

Within villages like Fira and Oia, walking is often your best bet. Just be aware that Santorini’s caldera towns involve lots of steps and narrow pathways that can be challenging with strollers. Consider bringing a baby carrier for little ones and comfortable shoes for everyone!

Family-Friendly Dining in Santorini

Greek cuisine is surprisingly kid-friendly with options like souvlaki and Greek yogurt

Greek food is wonderfully family-friendly, with simple grilled meats, fresh seafood, and dips that even picky eaters can enjoy. Here are some restaurants where both parents and kids will leave happy:

Lucky’s Souvlaki (Fira)

This casual spot serves up the best gyros and souvlaki on the island—perfect handheld food for kids! Affordable prices make it great for family budgets, and the fast service works well with impatient little ones. You’ll find locals and tourists alike lining up for these delicious pita wraps.

Tranquilo (Perissa Beach)

Right on Perissa’s black sand beach, this laid-back restaurant offers a kids’ menu alongside Greek and international dishes. The relaxed atmosphere means no one minds if the kids get a little noisy, and there’s plenty of space for them to play nearby on the beach while waiting for food.

Metaxi Mas (Exo Gonia)

For a more authentic experience away from tourist crowds, this traditional taverna serves incredible homestyle Greek food. They’re very welcoming to families, and the generous portions are perfect for sharing. Make reservations in advance—it’s popular with locals!

Practical Tips for Families Visiting Santorini

Find a good sunset viewing spot early to avoid the crowds, especially with kids

Stroller Considerations

If you’re visiting the caldera towns (Fira, Oia, Imerovigli), be prepared for lots of steps and narrow pathways. A baby carrier works better than a stroller in these areas. If you do bring a stroller, make it a lightweight, easily foldable one for the beach towns and airports.

Water Safety

Tap water in Santorini isn’t recommended for drinking. Buy bottled water or bring refillable bottles and purchase large jugs for your accommodation. Most restaurants will happily refill water bottles.

3-Day Family Itinerary for Santorini

The maze-like streets of Oia become a fun adventure for kids to explore

 Beaches & Relaxation

• Morning: Arrive and settle into your accommodation
• Afternoon: Head to Kamari or Perissa Beach for swimming and lunch at a beachside taverna
• Evening: Early dinner in Fira with a gentle stroll to see the lights come on across the caldera History & Adventure

• Morning: Visit the Akrotiri archaeological site before it gets hot
• Afternoon: Take a family-friendly boat tour around the caldera with swimming stops
• Evening: Dinner in a traditional village like Megalochori

Day Caldera Villages

• Morning: Explore Oia early before the crowds arrive (great for photos!)
• Afternoon: Pool time at your hotel or water park visit
• Evening: Sunset farewell dinner with caldera views

Creating Lasting Family Memories in Santorini

Capture those perfect family moments against Santorini’s iconic backdrops

Santorini might be famous as a romantic destination, but it offers so much more for families willing to look beyond the honeymoon hype. From the wonder in your children’s eyes as they step onto black volcanic sand for the first time to their excitement exploring ancient ruins older than fairy tales, this magical island creates the kind of family memories that last a lifetime.

With the right accommodation, thoughtful planning, and an adventurous spirit, your family Santorini vacation will be filled with both those picture-perfect postcard moments and the small, special experiences that make family travel so rewarding. So pack those sunhats, charge the camera, and get ready to show your kids one of the most beautiful places on earth! 🇬🇷