Santorini for kids

The moon-like shape of the island

Before you come to Santorini draw your kids’ attention to the peculiar shape of the island. Maybe they will be able to figure out that Santorini’s moon-like shape is a result of the devastating volcano eruption that affected the island a very long time ago. Did you know that you can actually visit the volcano while in Santorini?!

The pretty town of Oia

When in Santorini, everyone wants to see the island’s landmark: the white village of Oia. This pretty village of never-ending narrow streets, nooks and crannies is a great place to explore. Even if walking the streets is not your children’s favourite thing to do, here in Santorini they may be excited to play hide-and-seek.

The village will attract everyone’s attention with its blue and orange rooftops, colourful windows, small doors, decorated walls, and funny sculptures. The views in Oia are spectacular and its a great place to watch the sunset.

Ancient Ruins

If you crave for more adventure, then definitely visit Akrotiri – the oldest prehistoric settlement in the Aegean Sea. Your kids will feel they went back in time as they step into the ancient city ruins. The town looks gloomy as if it has just been struck by a huge earthquake. In fact, it was devastated by Santorini’s volcano.

Beaches in Santorini

The beaches on the East coast of the island are safer, longer and more family-friendly than on the other sides of Santorini. You can take the kids to Red Beach, located on the southern part of the island near Fira. The red rocks give the beach its unique reddish colour and the water is warmer due to the constant volcanic activity. However, the access to the beach is rough and steep so you may as well just decide to admire it from the cliff.

Families should know

• Santorini gets crowded and it is easy to lose track of your children, especially when you visit Oia in the summer.
• The western part of the island is rocky where huge cliffs and deep waters make it almost impossible for kids to swim. If you do decide to have a swim in Oia, monitor your little ones at all times as the water gets dramatically deep just after a few meters from the shore.