Athens is world-famous for its rich history, striking architecture and vibrant culture. But did you know that Athens is also a great destination for families with kids?
From ancient ruins and modern museums to fun activities, there are plenty of attractions that will keep children entertained and engaged. In this article, we've rounded up 15 of the best attractions for kids in Athens.
Whether your kids are interested in history or science, or just want to have fun, there's something for everyone in this ancient and modern city. Grab your kids and let's go!
1. Figoures kai Koukles Puppet Theater
Figoures kai Koukles puppet theater is not only an exciting event for children! Adults can also experience entertainment and a piece of Greek history during a visit to the traditional shadow theater. The performances revolve around the main character Karagiozis, whose funny adventures are told.
Although the performances are held in Greek, this does not detract from the experience. Uniquely, the characters are made of brightly colored leather in the so-called silhouette technique, and date back to the time of Ottoman rule in Greece.
2. Allou! Fun Park
An activity that makes children's hearts beat faster is Allou! Fun Park amusement park. Greece's largest amusement park offers fun and entertainment for big and small children. A number of attractions await them here, such as carousels, roller coasters, a Ferris wheel and exciting rides like the Shock Tower.
3. Hellenic Cosmos
A wonderful way to immerse children in the culture and history of Greece is Hellenic Cosmos. The museum offers a number of interactive exhibits that allow children to take virtual trips to ancient Olympia and experience the Agora of ancient Athens. A fun and educational activity for kids...
4. National Garden
Due to its location in the central Syntagma Square, the National Garden offers an idyllic respite from all the museums and attractions. While parents relax from sightseeing, children can frolic and get some fresh air in the spacious area with a playground.
The highlight is the enclosure with wild animals and the zoological garden, where children can discover 400 animal species. The fountain, where turtles cavort, is also a popular spot for the little ones. In addition, there is also a charming café and a children's library.
5. Acropolis Museum
The Acropolis Museum houses breathtaking cultural treasures and is a must-see on any trip to Athens. Thanks to the "Family Backpack" that can be borrowed on site, the museum tour also becomes an exciting experience for the little ones. It provides activities and games for children to explore the museum. The Acropolis model made of Lego bricks is a particular source of enthusiasm...
6. Family Trip to the Beach
Take a break from the many archaeological sites and museums and take a beach day. The sandy beaches of the Athens Riviera can be reached in about an hour with public transport. A child-friendly beach is Akti Vouliagmeni, for example. Alternatively, you can take a day trip to the islands near Athens. Children can swim extensively in the sea, build sand castles, and simply relax.
7. Museum of Illusions
During a family vacation, it is recommended to visit the Museum of Illusions on the popular Ermou shopping street. During this museum visit, children can freely explore the exhibits without fear of destroying a valuable artifact. Instead, fascinating installations, educational games and illusions provide high fun factor.
8. Planetarium
A trip to the starry world is a highlight for young or old. At the interactive Eugenides Foundation Planetarium in the Athens suburb of Palaio Faliro, you can watch films and cartoons on a huge 360-degree projection screen. Young and old can embark on an adventurous journey into the depths of the universe here.
9. Attic Zoological Park
A popular destination for families is the Attic Zoological Park east of Athens. It can be reached from the city center in just under an hour by public transport. The 20-hectare site is home to more than 2,000 animals and 400 species. Highlights include the dolphin and bird shows and the world's largest bird collection.
10. Goulandris Natural History Museum
An attraction that offers education and excitement for children as well as adults is the Goulandris Natural History Museum in the Athens suburb of Kifissia. The largest natural history museum in Greece is very kid-friendly. It captivates the little ones with audiovisual and interactive exhibits as well as exciting exhibits such as stuffed animals. The highlight is the replica of the 7.16-meter-long dinosaur Triceratops.
11. Flisvos Marina
At Flisvos Marina, children up to 12 years can romp in "Volta Fun Town" children's play paradise. Several entertainment options await the little ones here. These include a children's castle, a maze, trampolines, baby go-karts, a climbing wall, a swimming pool and much more. Adults can watch their children's fun from a café.
12. Toy Museum
Greek traditional puppet hanging against a white wall of a house in Santorini, Greece
A perfect program item for children is the Toy Museum in Paleo Faliro. Here the little ones can marvel at countless traditional toys, ranging from antique toys to dolls and puppets from modern times. At the same time, they learn what children from different parts of the world once played with.
13. Lycabettus Hill
The Lycabettus Hill in the center of Athens offers a relaxing change from an often hectic city trip. A leisurely ride on the cable car takes the whole family to the top of the 277-meter-high hill without any effort.
Once at the top, a sensational panoramic view of the entire city area down to the sea awaits you. In addition, on Lycabettus there is a café and a restaurant where you can linger over refreshments and food, as well as a small church and an open-air theater.
14. National Observatory
For your vacation with children in Athens, the National Observatory is a wonderful sight. It takes both young and old visitors into the world of astronomy. A highlight are the nightly guided tours. Since the headquarters of the observatory is located on the Nymph Hill in the center of Athens, you can also enjoy a magnificent view of Athens.
15. Museum of Cycladic Art
This museum, dedicated to Cycladic art, is not only a fascinating museum for adults. Thanks to the numerous children's activities, ranging from children's competitions to family activities, children can also get an exciting insight into this early Greek culture.