Athens with Kids: Family-Friendly Activities from City to Coast
Interactive museums, open-air adventures, and the best things to do with kids in Athens and Piraeus
Staying in a spacious apartment in Piraeus or one of Renty’s centrally located apartments in Athens gives families the space and flexibility to explore the city in comfort. Athens is full of family-friendly experiences, from hands-on museums and historic sights to seaside walks and magical outdoor cinemas. Here’s how to spend your days with kids in a way that’s fun, enriching, and easy.
🏛️ The Acropolis: Ancient Wonders That Speak to All Ages
The Acropolis isn’t just for history lovers. Kids are often fascinated by the sheer size of the Parthenon, the myths behind the temples, and the panoramic views from the top. Bring water and snacks, wear hats, and plan an early morning visit to avoid the sun.
Pair it with the nearby Acropolis Museum, where little ones can peek through glass floors, hunt for ancient creatures in sculptures, and enjoy kid-friendly audio guides or family-focused tours.
📍 Info: theacropolismuseum.gr
🏘️ Wandering Plaka
The pedestrian streets of Plaka, just beneath the Acropolis, are made for gentle wandering with kids. You’ll find frozen yoghurt shops, street musicians, handmade crafts, and plenty of places to stop for breaks.
Enjoy a relaxed lunch at Yiasemi, known for its homemade pies and garden terrace, or grab koulouri (sesame bread rings) from a street vendor and enjoy a picnic on the steps.
🌀 Museum of Illusions + Nearby Sights
For something interactive and unexpected, the Museum of Illusions in Monastiraki delivers fun for both kids and parents. Step into upside-down rooms, walk through a vortex tunnel, and test your brain with optical tricks. It’s great for ages 5+, and a perfect way to escape the heat or fill a free afternoon.
Since it only takes about an hour to visit, pair it with a walk through Monastiraki‘s lively square and flea market or continue to the Ancient Agora, just a few minutes away. The Agora’s open space, shady trees, and ruins to explore make it ideal for younger visitors.
📍 Info: museumofillusions.gr
🌊 Flisvos Marina & Stavros Niarchos
If you’re staying in Piraeus accommodation, a short ride brings you to Flisvos Marina, where kids can run, scoot, or enjoy the sea breeze. There’s a shaded playground, waterfront cafes, and casual spots like Napolitivo for a relaxed meal with views of the yachts. There’s also the Floating Naval Museum Averof, a real battleship kids can explore, anchored nearby.
Nearby, the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center offers free outdoor activities, weekend art workshops, and plenty of space to roam. The hilltop lighthouse and canal boat rides are family favourites. In summer, the great lawn hosts open-air cinema screenings under the stars, often featuring family-friendly films.
📍 Info: snfcc.org
🍇 Family Food Tour: Tastes, Stories & Little Adventures
If you’re looking for a guided activity that’s both fun and filling, try the Fruit & Spicy Family Food Tour by Athens for Kids. Designed especially for younger travellers, it includes market visits, interactive tastings, and local treats — all at a relaxed pace. A delicious way to explore the city together.
📍 Details & bookings: athensforkids.com
🛏️ Where to Stay with Kids
Travelling with family means comfort matters. Renty’s apartments in Athens and Piraeus apartments are ideal for longer stays, offering full kitchens, extra bedrooms, and easy access to public transport and key sights.
Whether you’re exploring ancient history, strolling by the sea, or enjoying the city’s creative spaces, Renty offers accommodation in Athens that works for real life—with thoughtful design and plenty of room to relax.
