The Times names the best Greek islands for family holidays

Planning a family trip to Greece? With 227 inhabited islands, the choice can feel overwhelming. From toddler-friendly beaches to activities that keep teens entertained, finding the right destination is a balancing act.

You want safe swimming spots, space to relax, and something more exciting than screen time—ideally with a good taverna nearby.

Fortunately, The Times of London has published a list of the 17 best Greek islands for families, highlighting destinations that combine comfort, culture, and child-friendly fun.

Ionian standouts

Lefkada tops the list with its turquoise waters, yacht-friendly coves, and spacious villas—perfect for multi-generational stays. Zakynthos appeals to nature lovers with turtle-nesting beaches, while Kefalonia enchants with fishing villages and quiet sapphire coves around Fiskardo. Corfu mixes Venetian heritage with sandy bays and family favorites like Aqualand Waterpark.

Cyclades favorites

Naxos is a clear winner for families thanks to shallow, lifeguard-patrolled beaches, watersports, and even horse riding. The group also includes Amorgos, Sifnos, Milos, and Paros, offering pottery workshops, pirate coves, catacombs, and ancient sites—family-friendly alternatives to Mykonos and Santorini.

Hidden gems

For a slower pace, Meganisi and Halki provide nostalgic, back-to-basics holidays with tavernas, harbors, and simple swimming spots. Skopelos, famous as the Mamma Mia! island, offers sparkling seas and excursions to Alonissos, home to Europe’s largest marine park. Paxos and Symi bring colorful harbors, secret beaches, and neoclassical charm.

Big names still shine

Crete remains the all-rounder with Minoan ruins, aquariums, beaches, and hiking trails, while Rhodes offers medieval castles, butterfly-filled valleys, and resorts with splash parks and childcare. Even Santorini earns a mention, proving it’s more than a honeymoon spot with volcanic boat trips and black-sand beaches.

Why Greece works for families

What unites these islands, The Times notes, is their blend of accessibility, variety, and genuine Greek hospitality. In a country where family is central to life, children are not just welcomed—they are celebrated.

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