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Discovering Athens with children

Lots of history, monuments, and myths to learn about as a family in the Greek capital, a starting point for island vacations

By Diego Paiva

If you’re planning a family adventure through Greek lands, prepare to be captivated by the gateway to this fascinating country: Athens. While the sparkling islands of the Cyclades may be the highlight of social media posts, it’s in the capital that you’ll find a treasure trove of history and mythology waiting to be unveiled. Despite not boasting the idyllic landscapes of the islands, Athens compensates with its cultural and architectural richness, inviting travelers to explore its ancient streets and legendary archaeological sites.

Be prepared to be enchanted by monuments that witnessed the rise and fall of empires, and dive into the mystical aura of gods and heroes who inhabited these lands. Before setting sail toward the golden sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters of Mykonos, Santorini, or Naxos, reserve at least one day to uncover the secrets of the city that gave birth to Western civilization. Athens may not be the most obvious destination for family vacations, but it’s certainly an essential starting point for an unforgettable journey through the wonders of Greece.

Acropolis

The most irresistible and emblematic place in the Greek capital generates curiosity and enchantment in children. After all, it’s one of the most famous buildings of the ancient world: erected on a hill 150 meters above sea level, today it’s an archaeological site with various monuments in ruins, especially the impressive Parthenon. It’s worth knowing that the Acropolis must be explored on foot – which can be more challenging for small children and parents with babies, because of access: strollers aren’t allowed and must be left in a specific “parking area” near the entrance. You might want to bring a baby carrier for this occasion. Don’t miss visiting the temple of Athena Nike, Erechtheion and the Caryatids, the Greek Theater, and the Parthenon, of course, while telling the little ones about myths and ancient Greek civilization.

Tickets can be purchased online: www.odysseus.culture.gr

Acropolis Museum

After exploring the Acropolis, it’s worth complementing the visit with a trip to the museum, which is located just below the mountain. It’s one of the most beautiful museums in the world, with an archaeological collection of artifacts and objects found at the Acropolis from the Greek Bronze Age to Greece’s Roman and Byzantine periods. Super-modern, it has glass floor sections, as it’s also located over an excavation site, and during the visit, it’s possible to understand – and observe the incredulous eyes of little ones – the way of life of that era and observe their art, games, clothing, and beliefs: a true and original journey through time.

The Museum has a very spacious restaurant with views of the Acropolis. It also offers a kit for children to discover the museum in a playful way and various interactive activities for little ones.

Tickets can be purchased online: www.theacropolismuseum.gr

Athens Happy Train

With younger children, it’s a good transportation option as it’s an urban hop-on hop-off train that passes by various tourist attractions. You can take the entire 40-minute route or get off, visit something, have lunch, and board the next one. One of the stops is in front of the Acropolis Museum. Children under 3 don’t pay.

Information: www.athenshappytrain.com

Exploring the Plaka Neighborhood

Colorful, full of narrow streets and flowered balconies. It’s close to the Acropolis, so it can be a good choice for lunch there, with views of the monument. We suggest Anafiotikia, which has a balcony and outdoor garden, or the traditional Psaras Taverna, which has existed since 1898! It’s charming to have a Greek lunch on the steps.

Watching the changing of the guard in front of the tomb of the unknown soldier

It’s interesting to show a distinct culture, with official guards dressed very differently and specifically: in skirts/dresses, like ancient Greek clothing, and with shoes with pompoms. It’s intriguing to see the ceremony, watch them march in a solemn and respectful manner. The changing of the guard happens every hour.

National Garden

Initially built as a private garden for the Greek royal family, it’s located right behind the Parliament building and offers a lush path among trees, flowers, and shrubs, statues, lakes with ducks and fish, and some playgrounds, plus a cafe and shaded areas – summer days are scorching in Greece – as well as other friendly animals that roam freely there like turtles, goats, donkeys, and cats.

Exploring Athens with children is not just an exciting adventure, but also a unique educational opportunity. By immersing themselves in the city’s rich history and mythology, children expand their knowledge and develop a more profound understanding of the world around them. A visit to Athens can enrich not only family vacations but also children’s school curriculum, connecting academic concepts with tangible experiences.

By walking through ancient archaeological sites like the Acropolis and the Temple of Olympian Zeus, children have the opportunity to visualize firsthand the concepts learned in the classroom, making learning more engaging and memorable. Additionally, immersion in Greek culture and the city’s daily life offers children a global perspective and appreciation for different cultures around the world. Therefore, when planning your next family trip, consider including Athens in the itinerary and providing children with an experience that will not only enrich their vacation but also their academic and cultural growth.