Family-Friendly Adventures in Crete, Greece!

Marathi Beach

Why Visit?

Welcome to the serene Marathi Beach, a perfect family getaway located on the stunning eastern coast of Crete, Greece. Renowned for its crystal-clear waters and gentle, sandy shores, Marathi Beach is a paradise for families seeking both relaxation and adventure.

Morning Arrival

Start your day early by driving or taking a bus from Chania, which is approximately 16 kilometers away. The journey offers scenic views of Crete’s majestic landscapes. On arrival, indulge in a beachside breakfast at one of the local tavernas offering fresh, local cuisine and panoramic views of the Souda Bay.

Mid-Morning: Sun and Sand

Spend your morning basking under the Mediterranean sun while the kids build sandcastles or paddle in the calm, shallow waters. Marathi Beach is known for its family-friendly environment, ensuring a safe playground for children.

Lunch by the Sea

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at another seaside taverna. Sample local dishes like Dakos and freshly grilled fish, providing a taste of Cretan culinary traditions.

Afternoon Exploration

Post lunch, take a short drive or a guided boat tour to the ancient city of Aptera. Just 15 minutes away, this site offers a glimpse into Crete’s rich history with ruins dating back to the 4th century BC. Engage the kids with stories of ancient civilizations and enjoy the breathtaking views of the White Mountains.

Late Afternoon: Snorkeling Adventure

Return to Marathi Beach for a snorkeling session. The clear waters are home to an array of marine life, perfect for exploring the underwater world. Equipment can be rented from local vendors along the beach.

Evening Wind Down

Conclude your day with a sunset walk along the beach, capturing the picturesque moments on camera. Dine at a beachfront restaurant, with the Cretan sunset providing a perfect backdrop, before heading back to your accommodation.

Marathi Beach is not just a beach but a gateway to exploring the rich culture and natural beauty of Crete, making it an ideal location for a family holiday.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Frangokastello

Why Visit?

Frangokastello, located on the south coast of Crete, Greece, offers a delightful blend of historical intrigue and natural beauty, making it perfect for a family getaway. Here’s a compact itinerary to make the most of your visit:

Day 1: Explore Frangokastello Castle

Start your journey by visiting the iconic Frangokastello Castle. This well-preserved fortress dates back to 1371 and was built by the Venetians to protect against pirates and rebels. The castle is easily accessible by car and there is ample parking. Take a guided tour (available in multiple languages) to learn about the legendary ghosts of Drosoulites, said to appear annually in late May. After exploring, enjoy a relaxing family picnic on the nearby pristine beaches, where kids can play in the shallow, crystal-clear waters.

Day 2: Hike the Imbros Gorge

On your second day, take a short drive to the entrance of Imbros Gorge, located about 20 minutes from Frangokastello. This 8 km hike is one of the most accessible and family-friendly in Crete, offering stunning views and an exciting adventure through Cretan flora. The walk takes approximately 2-3 hours, ending in the quaint village of Komitades, where you can savor a delicious Cretan meal at a local taverna before heading back.

Day 3: Snorkeling and Local Cuisine

Conclude your visit by spending a day at one of the nearby beaches such as Orthi Ammos, famous for its fine sand and dunes. It"s an ideal spot for snorkeling where families can explore marine life. Later, dine at one of Frangokastello’s local eateries, offering fresh seafood and traditional Greek dishes perfect for a family feast.

This itinerary blends history, adventure, and relaxation, ensuring a memorable trip for families looking to experience the richness of Crete at Frangokastello.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Maritime Museum of Crete (Nautical Museum of Crete)

Why Visit?

Family Itinerary: A Day at the Maritime Museum of Crete

Morning: Arrival at Maritime Museum of Crete

Begin your day at the beautiful harbor of Chania, where the Maritime Museum of Crete is prominently located, right at the entrance of the historic Firka Fortress. You can easily reach this spot by public transport, taxi, or a pleasant walk if you"re staying within Chania town. The museum opens at 9:00 AM, perfect for an early start.

Exploring the Exhibits

Start your museum tour by exploring the diverse exhibits that cover the maritime history of Crete from ancient times to the modern era. Highlights include detailed models of ships, maritime instruments, and the fascinating World War II and Battle of Crefe section. Engage the kids with stories about sea voyages and legendary battles!

Interactive Fun

Visit the second floor for interactive exhibits, where children can try their hand at naval communication tools like Morse code, or engage with the electronic periscope. It"s not only fun but also educational!

Lunch Break

Around noon, take a break and grab lunch at one of the local eateries by the harbor, offering delightful views and delicious Cretan cuisine. Try the "Kalitsounia", a cheese-filled pastry, a hit among kids.

Afternoon: Naval Simulation Room and Lighthouse Visit

Post lunch, head back to the museum for the Naval Simulation room, where you can experience being a captain navigating through the Cretan seas. Then, walk up to the top of the Firka Fortress for a visit to the lighthouse, where you can enjoy panoramic views of Chania.

End of Day

Wrap up your visit by 4:00 PM and spend some leisure time strolling along the old harbor, perhaps with some ice cream as you enjoy the sunset.

This engaging blend of education and fun at the Maritime Museum of Crete ensures a memorable family day out packed with learning and laughter.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Old Venetian Harbor

Why Visit?

Embark on a captivating day at the Old Venetian Harbor in Chania, a picturesque gem that promises a blend of history, culture, and scenic beauty, ideal for a family outing.

Morning Stroll and Breakfast

Start your day with a leisurely stroll along the charming cobblestone paths of the harbor. As you wander, marvel at the iconic lighthouse, a defining feature of the harbor. This 21-meter-high lighthouse, originally built by the Venetians in the 16th century, offers a perfect backdrop for family photos. For breakfast, stop at one of the quaint cafes lining the waterfront. Enjoy a traditional Greek coffee and some freshly baked pastries while soaking in the serene view of the sea.

Visit the Maritime Museum

Located near the Firkas Fortress at the west end of the harbor, the Maritime Museum is a treasure trove of nautical history, ideal for curious minds. Open from 9 AM to 4 PM, the museum showcases an impressive collection of maritime artifacts, models of ships, and exhibits about Crete’s naval history. Admission is affordable, making it a great educational stop for kids and adults alike.

Lunch and Leisure

For lunch, choose from one of the many family-friendly restaurants along the harbor. Savor dishes like fresh seafood or Greek mezze. Post-lunch, enjoy some leisure time—perhaps a boat ride from the harbor to experience the coastline from a different perspective, or simply let the kids play near the water as you relax.

Shopping and Exploring

In the afternoon, explore the local shops. The narrow streets behind the harbor are lined with boutiques selling local crafts, including handmade jewelry and traditional Cretan products. It’s a great opportunity to pick up souvenirs.

Evening Wrap-up

Conclude your day with a delightful dinner at the harbor, where you can enjoy the sunset and reflect on your day’s adventures. The harbor’s evening ambiance, with softly lit pathways and live Cretan music from nearby tavernas, provides a perfect end to your family day-out.

This itinerary offers a balance of education, relaxation, and fun, ensuring that each family member leaves with memorable experiences and a deeper appreciation for Chania’s rich heritage.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Ancient Aptera

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary to Ancient Aptera

Morning Arrival

Start your adventure to Ancient Aptera by driving from Chania, which is roughly a 15-minute journey. Renting a car is the most convenient way to explore at your own pace. Aim to arrive early to beat the crowds and the heat!

Roman Cisterns

Your first stop is the impressive Roman cisterns. Kids will be fascinated by how these ancient structures were used to collect and store rainwater. It"s a great practical lesson in ancient engineering!

Ancient Theater

Next, head to the remains of the ancient theater. While much of it is still to be excavated, the size and shape are visible and it’s a wonderful spot to let children explore and imagine the spectacles that once took place here.

Monastery of Saint John Theologian

A short walk from the theater, visit the beautifully renovated Byzantine monastery. Its serene atmosphere and intricate icons provide a peaceful contrast to the grand ruins.

Picnic with a View

Pack a picnic to enjoy on the sprawling site. There are several spots with panoramic views of the sea and surrounding mountains, perfect for a family lunch.

Fortress Exploration

Finish your tour at the Turkish fortress. It’s a bit of a climb, but the views from the top are rewarding. Kids will love wandering through the ruins and playing "king of the castle".

Departure

Head back to Chania in the late afternoon or explore more depending on the family"s interest and energy levels. Don’t forget to stop at a local taverna on the way back for some traditional Cretan food!

Interesting Fact: Did you know that Aptera was named after the mythological Sirens, defeated in a musical contest by the Muses? It"s a place where myths and history blend beautifully!

This itinerary blends education, excitement, and relaxation, ensuring a memorable visit to Ancient Aptarka for the entire family.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.