Planning a trip to Athens, Greece and are thinking about what to do with your kids? Keep scrolling for my list of the best things to do in Athens with kids worth adding to your Greece itinerary!
This list of things to do in Athens with kids was written by family travel expert Marcie Cheung and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, I may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog.
If you have kids who love history, visiting Athens should be at the top of your bucket list!
There are so many fascinating things to do for the whole family, including a blend of ancient history and modern attractions.
Keep scrolling for my top kid-friendly Athens activities, ancient sites, and ways to learn about Greek gods in a cool way!
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17 Awesome Things to do with Kids in Athens, Greece
Explore the Acropolis and the Parthenon
Don’t miss the Acropolis and the Parthenon, two amazing spots where history feels alive! These ancient structures are more than just old stones; they’re where legends happened.
Imagine standing where Greek gods were worshipped and great philosophers walked. To make it even cooler for kids, family-friendly guided tours are available.
These tours are super fun and help bring those old stories to life. Kids can learn, ask questions, and see history right where it happened. It’s like a time machine adventure back to ancient Greece!
Athens Mythology Tour for Families
Go on an exciting Athens Mythology Tour designed just for families! Discover the legends of powerful gods and heroic figures like Zeus, Athena, and Poseidon.
Your guide will bring the ancient Theater of Dionysus, the magnificent Parthenon, and other iconic sites to life with captivating myths. Then, journey to the ancient Pnyx, where you’ll jump into more tales about mythical figures like Theseus and Aphrodite.
The tour isn’t just listening; it’s interactive! Engage in a fun group activity that lets everyone, from kids to parents, interact with these legendary stories.
By the end, you’ll take home not just memories, but a personal piece of history created together as a family. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure into Greek mythology!
Visit the Acropolis Museum
Make sure to stop by the Acropolis Museum! It’s not just any museum; it’s a place where history jumps off the pages, especially for kids.
With interactive exhibits and cool activities, children can touch, play, and learn. They’ll get to see ancient artifacts up close and personal.
And the museum itself? It’s a marvel! Its modern design, with glass floors and walls, lets you see ancient ruins beneath your feet and all around you. It’s like stepping into a history book that’s come to life, fascinating for both kids and adults!
Olympic Games Workout
Don’t miss out on the Olympic Games Workout! Imagine running on the same track as champions at the Panathenaic Stadium, where the 1896 Olympics took place.
It’s not just a run; it’s a journey through history, learning about the ancient Olympic Games and their significance. Then, explore the Zappeion, the first modern Olympic facility, and feel the spirit of the games.
For a fun twist, take your kids to a historic 19th-century gym and have a mini workout session. It’s a unique way to combine fitness, fun, and history in one unforgettable experience!
Discover the National Garden of Athens
Looking for a green escape in the heart of Athens? The National Garden of Athens is a lush oasis perfect for families! And there’s a cool Treasure Hunt Tour you can do with your kids!
Imagine spreading out a picnic blanket while the kids play amidst nature. It’s not just a garden; there’s also a small zoo where kids can meet some friendly animals. Plus, there’s a playground where they can run and play to their heart’s content.
The garden is also a living classroom with its amazing botanical features. Trees, flowers, and plants from all over the world turn this park into an adventure of discovery right in the city center!
Catamaran Cruise with Light Lunch and Wine
Set off on an exciting catamaran cruise with your family and discover the breathtaking beauty of the Athens Riviera!
As you sail, relax and enjoy sipping drinks and tasting delicious Greek meze, a perfect start to your adventure. Your first swimming stop is the secluded Hydroussa islet, a hidden gem only accessible by sea.
Next, sail to the chic Vouliagmeni Bay, another fantastic spot for a swim. After your ocean exploration, relish a freshly prepared light Greek lunch on board, surrounded by the serene beauty of the coast.
This catamaran cruise offers a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and a taste of Greek culture, making it a memorable outing for the whole family!
Experience the Changing of the Guard
Visiting Syntagma Square in Athens? Don’t miss the Changing of the Guard! And there’s a private Athens walking tour that includes this impressive event.
It’s a special ceremony outside the Presidential Mansion, where the Evzones guards, in their unique and colorful uniforms, march in perfect sync.
These guards wear traditional Greek outfits, complete with pom-pom shoes and skirts, making them look like figures from a history book!
Watching them perform their precise steps is fascinating, and it happens regularly, so you have many chances to see it. It’s not just a treat to watch; it’s also a perfect photo opportunity to remember your family trip to Athens!
Museum of Illusions
Visit the Museum of Illusions in Athens for an adventure that’s perfect for the whole family! With over 60 visual and interactive illusions, you’re guaranteed a day filled with fun and amazement.
Step into the infinity room and see yourself stretch on forever, or turn your world upside down in the inverted room. You can even try sitting on the chair illusion and watch as it defies gravity!
Learn how your brain works with fun holograms and mind-bending perspectives that challenge your view of reality.
Don’t forget to bring your camera! You and your family can become part of the illusions and take home some of the coolest photos.
Get ready for a day where seeing is not always believing, and your imagination runs wild at the Museum of Illusions!
Enjoy Greek Mythology at the Hellenic Children’s Museum
The Hellenic Children’s Museum in Athens is a fantastic spot where kids can enter into the magical world of Greek mythology and culture.
It’s not your usual museum; here, kids can touch, play, and learn through interactive exhibits and workshops. Imagine dressing up like ancient Greek heroes or crafting your own mythological tale!
The museum offers special programs where kids can get hands-on, making learning about Greece’s rich history and legends both fun and memorable. It’s a place where every child becomes part of the myth and leaves with their own legendary story to tell!
Treasure Hunt to Save Magas with Food Stops
Join the “Save Magas” treasure hunt for a thrilling adventure in Athens with your family! Get ready to explore, solve puzzles, and savor delicious Greek treats.
Your mission starts in the vibrant districts of Psyri, Varvakios, and Monastiraki, where ancient monuments like Hadrian’s Library blend seamlessly with lively markets and colorful graffiti.
Along the way, indulge in a handpicked selection of traditional Greek snacks and capture memories with photos of the Acropolis and unique local finds.
Help the princess save Magas and learn fascinating stories from both ancient and contemporary Greek history. Complete your heroic quest and win golden wreaths and special discounts from local shops.
Explore this exciting mix of history, mystery, and delicious food, and make your family trip to Athens unforgettable!
Take a Day Trip to Sounion and the Temple of Poseidon
A day trip to Sounion to see the Temple of Poseidon is an unforgettable adventure for families in Athens.
As you drive along the coast, you’ll see the stunning Aegean Sea sparkling under the sun. The temple, perched high on a cliff, offers breathtaking views.
It’s not just an old building; it’s a place wrapped in myths. Kids can imagine the powerful god of the sea, Poseidon, watching over sailors from this very spot.
It’s a perfect mix of natural beauty and exciting stories from the past, making it a hit with young explorers eager for adventure!
Hellenic Motor Museum
Zoom into the fascinating world of cars at the Hellenic Motor Museum in the heart of Athens!
This museum showcases over 110 extraordinary cars, taking you on a journey through the evolution of the automobile. From ancient times to the modern era, you’ll see unique exhibits that tell the story of the wheel’s progress.
The museum spans three floors in the Capitol Mall, featuring a collection that rotates regularly. You’ll see rare masterpieces from car manufacturers that have vanished and classic models from brands we know and love today.
It’s not just a museum; it’s a time machine on wheels, ready to take kids and adults on a thrilling ride through automotive history!
Have Fun at Allou! Fun Park
Allou! Fun Park is a thrilling spot for families visiting Athens, offering a variety of rides and games for kids of all ages.
From heart-racing roller coasters for the brave to gentler options for the little ones, there’s fun around every corner. Safety is a top priority, so parents can relax knowing that the park takes great care to keep everyone secure.
Plus, with family-friendly facilities and plenty of spots to grab a snack or a meal, it’s easy to spend a whole day here, creating happy memories and sharing laughs on ride after ride. It’s a must-visit for a day full of smiles and excitement!
Greek Souvlaki Pita Gyros Cooking Class with a Local
Join a scrumptious adventure in Athens with a Greek Souvlaki Pita Gyros Cooking Class!
Led by a local expert in a cozy family home near the seaside, this hands-on experience lets you and your kids enter into the world of Greek street food.
Learn to whip up mouth-watering appetizers, perfect the art of making pita bread, and discover five different ways to cook Gyros. As a sweet finish, you’ll even learn to make Greek Style Cheese Cake or Patsabouropita.
After cooking, sit back and enjoy your delicious creations while soaking in fascinating stories about Greek traditions and cuisine.
Plus, you’ll leave with recipes to recreate these tasty dishes at home, making this experience a treat for your future family meals!
Explore the Eugenides Planetarium
The Eugenides Planetarium is an out-of-this-world destination for families!
As you step inside, you’re transported into the depths of space, where stars and planets come to life in stunning astronomy shows. The huge dome screen makes you feel like you’re really traveling through the galaxy.
What’s even cooler is that the planetarium has special educational programs designed just for kids. They can learn about the mysteries of the universe in a super fun and interactive way.
It’s not just about watching; it’s about becoming a part of the cosmic adventure. A visit here is like grabbing a front-row seat to the wonders of space!
Visit the Athens Zoo (Attica Zoological Park)
The Athens Zoo, also known as Attica Zoological Park, is a must-visit for families! With a huge variety of animals from all over the world, kids can see their favorite creatures up close.
The zoo doesn’t just house animals; it helps protect them through conservation efforts. Kids will love the interactive experiences like feeding some of the friendly animals and joining educational tours where they can learn fascinating facts.
It’s not just a fun day out; it’s a chance to discover the importance of caring for our planet’s wildlife. Every visit is an adventure and a learning experience wrapped into one!
Enjoy the Beaches Near Athens
Athens is not just about history; it’s also about fun in the sun!
Family-friendly beaches like Vouliagmeni and Schinias are perfect for a day out with the kids. These beaches offer clear, shallow waters and are known for their safety, making them great for swimming and paddling.
Plus, there are plenty of water sports to try, like paddle boarding or kayaking. Parents can relax knowing there are lifeguards on duty and facilities like showers, changing rooms, and snack bars.
Pack your sunscreen, build a sandcastle with your kids, and enjoy a refreshing day at these beautiful Athens beaches!
Visiting Athens with Kids FAQs
How many days to spend in Athens with kids?
About 3 to 4 days in Athens is great for families to explore the city’s main attractions and enjoy some local experiences.
What is there to do in Athens for kids?
Kids in Athens can visit ancient landmarks like the Acropolis, enjoy interactive exhibits at the Hellenic Children’s Museum, and have fun at Allou! Fun Park.
Is Athens good for kids?
Yes, Athens is fantastic for kids with its mix of historical sites, kid-friendly museums, and beautiful parks.
What Greek food items are worth trying?
Try delicious Greek foods like souvlaki (grilled meat skewers), spanakopita (spinach pie), tzatziki (yogurt dip), and of course, Greek salad.
What are the top attractions that highlight ancient Athens?
Top attractions in ancient Athens include the Acropolis, Parthenon, Ancient Agora, and the Temple of Olympian Zeus.
How far is central Athens from the Athens Airport?
Central Athens is about a 30 to 40-minute drive from Athens Airport, depending on traffic.
Is it easy to get to the Greek Islands from Athens?
Yes, it’s easy to get to the Greek Islands from Athens, with regular ferry services and flights available to many islands.
What are some historic neighborhoods in Athens?
Historic neighborhoods in Athens include Plaka, with its charming streets and ancient sites, and Monastiraki, known for its flea market and lively atmosphere.
Visiting Athens for Families Wrap-Up
As you can see, there are tons of cool activities available in Athens for families with kids.
Athens is not only a city of ancient history but also a place where modern families can learn, play, and create lasting memories together.