Table of Contents
Top 5 Family Hotels in Greece: Ultimate Guide for 2024 Vacations
Family friendly hotels and resorts in Greece are in abundance, but that doesn’t mean we’ll book just anywhere. I have a strict criteria when it comes to booking a vacation across the Greek mainland and islands. The resort must offer airport transfers with car seats included, be within an hour from the airport (easy to get to), have restaurants that allow for early dining, large luxury hotel rooms or suites, with an option of a separate bedroom (so everyone doesn’t have to sit in the dark once the baby has gone to sleep), loads of activities for toddler age upwards, variety of pools including splash pad for babies…
TL;DR:
- Greece offers guaranteed sunshine and exceptional family-friendly resorts across its mainland and islands
- Top 5 resorts: Sani Resort, Costa Navarino, Daios Cove Luxury Resort, Ikos Olivia, and Porto Elounda Golf & Spa Resort
- Key features include kids’ clubs, family activities, multiple pools, and diverse dining options
- Prices range from €250 to €600+ per night, depending on the resort and season
- Book early, especially for summer months, to secure the best rates and availability
1. Sani Resort, Halkidiki: A Family Paradise
Nestled in the Kassandra peninsula of Halkidiki, overlooking the crystal waters of the Aegean Sea, Sani Resort is a sleek and spacious eco-reserve that offers a luxurious and family-friendly experience.
You may land in Thessaloniki airport feeling a little frazzled after a c.4 hour flight with your young child(ren), but that feeling evaporates the second your driver picks you up from the airport in your private car (a complimentary bonus of booking direct with Sani).
Every.Single.Detail at Sani has been designed to make your life as a parent as joyous and relaxed as possible, and every element of keeping your child happy has been considered. Whether it’s the children’s menus across the resort designed by nutritionist Annabel Karmel. The strollers you can hire for free so you don’t need to pack your own. The creche. The baby consultant Carol Mae to help you manage baby jet lag… Or the endless pools and list of activities to keep everyone entertained, you’ll feel like you never want to leave. Check out my in-depth review of Sani here.
Key Features:
- Five distinct hotels within the resort, each catering to slightly different family needs
- kids’ clubs for various age groups, from toddlers to teens
- Babewatch service: 30 minutes of free childcare per day on the beach if you fancy a dip in the sea
- Extensive range of activities including water sports, tennis academy, eco-adventures, yoga, pilates, and personal training sessions
- Over 40 restaurants on the resort, including Michelin-starred restaurants. The ‘dine around programme means you have all inclusive dining options, and this includes nutritionist Annabel Karmel’s kids’ menu and baby purees.
Why Families Love It:
The number one reason for me, and why I will keep going back is that the staff. Nothing is ever too much trouble, and every day there is as relaxed as parenting can get. When it comes to activities, the array of fun things kids can do is vast, and the resort’s private beaches and multiple indoor and outdoor pools mean there’s always a spot for family fun or relaxation.
Price Range:
€250 – €600+ per night, depending on the hotel choice and season.
2. Costa Navarino, Peloponnese: Where History Meets Family Fun
Located in the southwest Peloponnese, Costa Navarino is the result of a vision from billionaire Vassilis Constantakopoulos, who dedicated his life to regenerating the Peloponnese peninsula where he grew up. The eco-focused estate which combines hotels, villas, golf courses, kids’ clubs, and restaurants provides a really unique combination of luxury with Greek history and culture.
Key Features:
- Two distinct resorts: The Romanos (more reserved) and The Westin Resort (more family friendly). Despite being separate, they share everything- all restaurants, pools, beaches, spas, loungers…
- Extensive children’s programs including gardening at the hotels’ vegetable patch, rock climbing, football coaching, archaeology workshops and eco-activities
- Multiple sports facilities including golf courses, tennis courts, and water sports centers
- Diverse dining options featuring local and international cuisines
Why Families Love It:
Costa Navarino stands out for its commitment to immersing families in Greek culture and history, and it’s very prominent focus on being eco-friendly. Children can participate in unique activities like olive oil tasting and philosophy walks, while parents enjoy the world-class amenities of the resort. The location also allows for easy exploration of nearby archaeological sites, which is pretty cool for a family break?!
Price Range:
€200 – €500+ per night, varying by resort and time of year.
3. Daios Cove Luxury Resort & Villas, Crete: Cliffside Family Luxury
Perched on a hillside overlooking its own private sandy beach in Crete, Daios Cove is a luxurious family retreat with stunning views. The closest international airport is Heraklion, which is a 50-minute drive away.
Daios Cove boasts 129 private saltwater plunge pools, a dazzling spa, loads of water based activities, a beautiful sandy beach, child friendly menus at the restaurants… Can’t ask for much more!
Key Features:
- Spacious family rooms and villas, many with private pools
- Kids’ club and crèche facilities for children from 4 months to 12 years
- Heated seawater infinity pool and private sandy beach
- Four different restaurants, including child-friendly menus
- Loads of watersports on offer, including snorkeling and sailing
Why Families Love It:
Book Daios Cove if you’re looking for a secluded, upscale vibe with excellent activities for the whole family. The private beach and crazy amount of pools make this a dreamy resort for water babies of all ages!
Price Range:
€600+ per night, depending on accommodation type and season.
4. Ikos Olivia, Halkidiki: All-Inclusive Family Bliss
Another Halkidiki haven, Ikos Olivia can be reached by flight to Thessaloniki and then a 45 minute drive. As you’d expect from the Sani/Ikos group, the hotel offers free private airport transfers (including car seats) when you book with them directly. What I love about this place is that it brings the concept of all-inclusive to a whole new level. As soon as you arrive at the sparkling marble reception, the staff swoop in to make sure your trip from there on is pure relaxation, with unlimited leisure activities, and incredible dining options.
Key Features:
- All-inclusive resort covering gourmet dining, alcoholic drinks, activities, and selected spa treatments
- Huge choice of luxury accommodation to suit all budgets and family sizes
- Multiple pools and a dedicated family pool
- Extensive kids’ club and teenage program
- Multiple pools and a dedicated family pool
- Dine-out program allowing guests to eat at local restaurants as part of the all-inclusive package
Why Families Love It:
Ikos Olivia completely takes the stress out of family vacations. There are high-quality dining options and an extensive premium alcohol list. Children are kept entertained for the entire duration of the stay, and the whole family can enjoy the beautiful beach, pools, and activities.
Price Range:
€250 – €500+ per night, all-inclusive, varying by room type and season.
5. Porto Elounda Golf & Spa Resort, Crete: Family Wellness and Relaxation
Situated in the picturesque Gulf of Mirabello in Crete, Porto Elounda is all about those views. Ahhhhh. It’s a perfect family resort with Crete’s only private golf course, a kids club for babies 4 months and up, and a child friendly spa. This is the place for you if your dream is a wellness focused family break where even the little ones can be treated to some relaxation therapies.
Key Features:
- Dedicated kids’ ark with its own pool and playground
- Family suites and villas with private pools
- Six Senses Spa offering family spa experiences
- Kids’ golf academy and various water sports activities
- Loads of baby sitting and baby/kids/teen clubs
Why Families Love It:
Porto Elounda stands out for its focus on family wellness. You can enjoy the spa facilities whilst even the youngest guests are looked after by a team of qualified child minders, or kids age 5 and up can experience spa treatments for themselves. The resort’s spacious accommodations and beautiful setting creat a perfect backdrop for a real relaxing family getaway
Price Range:
€250 – €500+ per night, depending on accommodation type and season.
Choosing the Perfect Family Resort in Greece
When selecting from these top family resorts in Greece, consider the following factors:
1. Location: Decide whether you prefer mainland Greece or a specific island, and what your journey will look like to get there
2. Amenities: Look for resorts with features that match your family’s interests, such as water sports, cultural activities, or spa facilities. Those that provide car seats in your airport transfers are a game changer (Thank you, Sani and Ikos!).
3. Accommodation Type: Choose between hotel rooms, suites, or villas based on your family’s size and preference for space.
4. Age-Appropriate Activities: Always check out the kids club and childcare to make sure they’re suitable for your child’s age group.
Most of these family resorts in Greece offer early booking discounts or special packages for families, so definitely check out their websites or contact them directly for the best deals.
Finding Your Greek Haven
Greece is an incredible choice of country if you’re looking for a family-friendly resort that won’t break the bank but still delivers on sunshine, luxury, comfort, and kid friendly activities. From the luxurious all-inclusive experience of Ikos Olivia, to the cultural immersion at Costa Navarino, there’s a perfect Greek family resort waiting for you!
These are the best 5 family resorts in Greece that I have found to provide not just family-friendly luxury accommodation, but experiences and views that create unforgettable memories and make you feel like you never want to leave…