Santorini offers things to do as well as many opportunities for you to soak up some culture which is sure to fascinate the kids, from the formation of volcanoes to Greek mythology. So if you get a cloudy day, head to one of the island’s fascinating museums or world famous archaeology sites. Wondering how to do Santorini with kids? The honeymooner’s paradise is not necessarily the first place you would think of for a family holiday, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t visit with your kids. This stunning Greek island has so much to offer families, especially those who love the outdoor lifestyle. Spend your days snorkelling in secret coves, discovering beautiful hilltop towns and tasting the freshest tomatoes from the food markets. Consider visiting in low or shoulder seasons to avoid the largest crowds and hottest days.

So let’s go and explore all these great things to do in Santorini with your kids.


Family Friendly Hotels & Holiday Homes in Santorini

Kids Friendly Restaurants & Cafes in Santorini


1. Visit a Church

Santorini is famed for its blue domed churches, so it’s worth stepping inside to see what treasures they hold. Orthodox metropolitan cathedral, fira. Plain, whitewashes interiors hides its ornate, gilded interiors.

Or, Sunday mass is in both Greek and English, if you want a real immersion in the country’s traditions. Up a steep hill though!

2. Akrotiri Archaeological Site

This must see sight in Santorini is actually all undercover. These ruins belong to an ancient civilization that was buried by an earthquake in the middle of the second millenium BC and began to be excavated in 1867.

The museum at this site was opened only a few years ago and reveals a number of buildings and artifacts that remained intact.

Address: Thera 847 00, Greece

Opening Hours: Open daily 8am – 3pm / 8pm (winter / summer)

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things to do in santorini with kids
Source: www.santorini-view.com

3. Museum of Prehistoric Thira

The museum is compact but filled with interesting artefacts from Akrotiri. A perfect size for kids. And alternative is the Museum of Archaeology.

Address: Thera 847 00, Greece

Opening Hours: Open Weds to Mon 8:30am – 4pm

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4. Naval Maritime Museum

Admire model ships, ancient maps and artefacts from sea-faring travels in this small maritime museum in Fira. Small, but worth a visit to escape the crowds and searing daytime heat.

Closed on Tuesdays.

Address: 25ης Μαρτίου 405, Thira 847 00, Greece

Opening Hours: Open Weds to Mon 10am-2pm and 5pm – 7pm

Source: Pixabay

5. Atlantis Bookshop

This famous cave-like bookshop is stuffed, floor to ceiling with English, French, Italian, Spanish, German, Chinese, and, of course, Greek literature, including children’s books. Considered one of the best looking bookshops in the world, you could spend at least an hour in here discovering your next read. A great activity in Santorini for families who want to hide from the sun for an hour or 2!

Address: Nomikos Street, Oía 847 02, Greece

Opening Hours: Open daily 12pm – 8pm

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Atlantis Bookshop - Santorini Activities
Source: Atlantis Books / Facebook

6. Kayak in the Caldera

A must do activity for families who love the outdoors, this is one of the best ways to admire Santorini’s breathaking scenery – the island’s caldera is one of its most prominent features, formed after a massive volcanic eruption. From your kayak you can discover places the large cruise ships can’t get to – seek out hidden coves and sea caves, swim, snorkel, and jump from cliffs.

There are numerous tour operators offering kayak hire in the main towns such as Oia, Fira and Kamari.

Source: Shutterstock

7. Catamaran Cruise

Another great way to explore the beautiful sights of Santorini is by catamaran. Book a small boat trip for an intimate feel, which includes stops at the famous Red and White Beaches where the kids can swim and snorkel, and a enjoy a relaxed barbeque lunch.  Choose a morning cruise to make the most of the sunshine or a sunset cruise for an idyllic end to your day.

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Source: GetYourGuide

8. Red, White and Black Beaches

Beaches should not be the main reason for your visit to Santorini with kids, as many of them have coarse, volcanic sand which are not ideal for sunbathing or building sandcastles. However there are some simply stunning ones which make for a lovely day out and some amazing photos too (like most places on the island!)

Kamari Beach is popular with families as there are plenty of sun loungers on the wide bay and a promenade lined with cafes and shops.

The Red Beach at Akrotiri is a striking spot, sheltered by looming cliffs and lapped by deep indigo waters, it is a favourite photo opportunity for many visitors.

The best sand and swimming in Santorini can be found at Perissa and Perivolos beaches, which are right next to each other on the East of the island.

Source: Pixabay 

9. Road Trip

Let your adventurous spirit lead the way and hire a car to explore quieter towns away from the tourist hotspots. Firstly, having a car gives you total freedom, negating the need to tackle hectic public transport with little ones. And more importantly, you can admire some beautiful scenery along the way. So don’t miss hilltop towns like Pyrgos, which has an ancient castle at its peak.

Source: Santorini Feelings

10. Watch the sunset in Oia

Perhaps Santorini’s most famous town, Oia is the best place on the island to watch the sunset. Firstly, arrive early and browse Oia’s art galleries, boutiques and restaurants to shelter from the heat. Later, emerge to breathtaking views as the sun melts into the Aegean Sea.

BabyBreaks Tip: Don’t try to navigate steep steps and narrow cobbled streets with a buggy, pack the baby sling or backpack instead.

Source: Pixabay

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