Family-Friendly Things to Do in Heraklion: Beaches, Museums & Fun Activities for Kids

Traveling with kids to Crete? Heraklion is a fantastic destination for families, offering safe beaches, interactive museums, and plenty of fun activities that keep children entertained while parents relax. Here’s your guide to the best family-friendly things to do in Heraklion.

Fun & Educational Museums

Natural History Museum of Crete
A big hit with kids thanks to interactive exhibits, lifelike dinosaur models, and an earthquake simulator. Perfect for a mix of learning and fun.

Heraklion Archaeological Museum (short visit)
While this museum is mostly geared towards adults, children often enjoy the colorful Minoan frescoes and stories of the Minotaur. Keep the visit short and focused for young attention spans.

Cretaquarium (Thalassocosmos)
One of the largest aquariums in Europe, about 15 km from Heraklion. Kids can marvel at Mediterranean sea life — from tiny seahorses to big sharks. It’s stroller-friendly and has a café for breaks.

Family-Friendly Taverns & Food

Heraklion’s food scene is perfect for families: fresh, healthy, and full of variety. Many tavernas welcome kids warmly.

• Ippokambos (by the sea): Relaxed atmosphere, kids can play nearby.

• Krasas (Old Town): Known for souvlaki and quick, tasty meals.

• Local bakeries: Kids love bougatsa (sweet cream pastry) and koulouri (sesame bread rings).

Tip: Greek culture is very family-oriented — children are welcome almost everywhere, even in the evenings.

Kid-Friendly Beaches

1. Amoudara Beach
Just 5 km from the city, this long sandy beach has shallow waters perfect for children. Families love its easy access, lifeguards, and organized facilities like umbrellas and sunbeds.

2. Karteros Beach
A wide sandy beach with plenty of space for kids to play. It’s lined with casual beach bars, so parents can relax while children enjoy the safe shallow sea.

3. Kokkini Hani
A family-favorite village beach about 15 minutes east of Heraklion. Calm, shallow waters and tavernas right on the sand make it especially convenient with little ones.

Tip: Mornings are best for calm seas and avoiding the stronger afternoon winds.

Other Fun Activities

• Stroll along the Venetian Harbour – Kids love exploring Koules Fortress and watching the fishing boats.

• City Parks – Georgiadis Park is a great central spot with a playground and shade.

• Day trips – Head to Archanes village for a slower pace and traditional sweets.

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