Destination: Crete

Crete is a magical little island located at the eastern end of the Mediterranean Sea and just off the southern coast of Greece. Although it actually forms part of Greece, like many of the other islands dotted around these waters, it has such a diverse and fascinating culture that you could be forgiven for thinking it’s a country in its own right. It’s also a beautiful island to visit, with an abundance of palm trees, beautiful sands, hidden grottos and clear blue waters. Dotted amongst the mountain ranges are the idyllic little villages, where locals still handpick olives and transform them into olive oil using traditional methods and on the shorelines, fishermen still catch fresh fish for selling in the market daily.

This fabulous little dot of land is popular with us sun seekers because our flight times and costs are usually short and small, at least in comparison to a lot of other places we’d need to fly to for that kind of sunny weather. And aside from the obvious climate benefits, there are plenty of things to do here, so that everyone, young and old, can be kept entertained for hours.

We love the Aquaworld Aquarium at Hersonissos where most of the animals were rescued due to injury or illness. It’s a brilliant day out for the whole family. The Manousakis Winery is a great stop on any sightseeing trip (for the adults obviously) and you can pick up some excellent organic wine made on the premises. We might not normally suggest a wine tour with children, but these tours are by appointment only and they’re happy to have children come along, run around the vineyards and have a light lunch. We also love the Finikia tours on horseback which kids tend to love. Don’t worry if you’re a horseback riding novice. These guys are professionals – they give you a saddle and everything!

Things to do in Crete with kids

Enjoy a boat ride in one of Crete’s most scenic areas, the Mirabello Bay, and take a dive in its clear waters. This is easily one of the most popular excursions on Crete. Visit the infamous island of Spinalonga and uncover the island’s mysterious past. More details...

Limnoupolis offers plenty of family fun, and educational games. There is a central pool which is 1500 m2 with an artificial island. The highlights of the water park is the artificial river, the "lazy river" which is 206 meters total length and the water slides offer two freefall rides, a black hole and a triple twist. The park is located only six kilometres from Chania. More details...
 

Recommended family friendly hotels in Crete

Candia Park Village resembles a traditional Cretan village, the unique waterfront location of this 4-star complex offers panoramic views of Mirabello Bay and is ideal for families. The childrens club for ages of 4 and 12 years provide fun and entertainment all day long with stimulating activities, competitions and games that guarantee youngsters a memorable experience. More details...

Albatros Spa & Resort Hotel Crete is an environmentally friendly hotel. Every year, it welcomes a great number of returning guests, in particular couples and families with children. More details...

Eco Friendly Holidays in Crete

Enjoy panoramic views over the medieval village of Achlada from this hotel and villas near Heraklion. This is an idealplace for a family holiday, where you will feel trabsported from the stress and strain of urban living, while enjoying all the comforts and amenities of modern life all set in beautiful and medieval surroundings. Collaborating with a local company in Crete who specialise in activities for children, means there is planty of fun available for the kids. More details...

Family friendly holidays in Crete

Families with young children are extremely well catered for in the leading resorts, with hotels often offering childcare, organising family entertainment and featuring pools and play areas. All inclusive beach holiday deals in Crete are worth considering if you don’t want the hassle of cooking and seeking services beyond your luxury hotel.

The Sensatori Resort in Crete has it all, a huge range of facilities, entertainment, Kids programs, a wide choice of restaurants. rooms to suit all families, and babies and toddlers are catered for too. More details...

Hundreds of free child places and no flight supplements on thousands of summer holidays in Crete, when you book with Thomas Cook.