11 Family-Friendly Things To Do in Athens

The Greek capital is packed with historical sites dating back to antiquity, but the Acropolis, towering above the city, is—inevitably—the highlight. Atop the Acropolis hill, you can marvel at the iconic Parthenon, the intricate carvings of the Erechtheion temple, and the smaller Temple of Athena Nike. The Acropolis is also among the top family outings in Athens and is sure to leave kids spellbound as Greek mythology comes to life through the ancient ruins.

Chief among family-friendly activities in Athens is the Acropolis Museum, where you can get the lowdown on the landmark’s history and even see part of the Parthenon Frieze. Perfect for younger visitors, the Acropolis Museum is packed with immersive multimedia displays and even boasts a LEGO Acropolis made of 120,000 bricks. The Acropolis Museum offers plenty of family-friendly activities, including summer programs with workshops for children and free “family backpacks” filled with games and special guides for a fun, interactive museum experience.

Insider tip: Avoid waiting in line for Acropolis Museum tickets with an Acropolis Museum tour that includes admission.

Who says you have to choose between a city break and a beach getaway? Spend the day on the shores of the Athens Riviera, recommended as some of the best family attractions in Athens for their calm, shallow waters (perfect for young swimmers) and soft sands. What’s more, many beaches even offer playground and beach sports to keep children—and the young at heart—occupied. Kid-friendly beaches such Glyfada, Voula, and Varkiza are staples in any Athens family travel guide, and they're easily accessible from the city via tram, metro, bus, or hop-on hop-off bus.

Chief among fun things for kids in Athens is watching the iconic Evzones in action outside the Hellenic Parliament Building on Syntagma Square. Clad in traditional uniforms of pleated skirts and tasseled shoes, these ceremonial guards are a living link to the past. It’s hard not to be riveted by the soldiers’ meticulous choreography, as they switch places with their replacements in a ceremonial changing of the guard every hour. For an extra dose of pomp, visit at 11am on a Sunday to witness the Evzones, accompanied by a military band, march to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

Spanakotiropita and moussaka may be delicious, but loukoumades usually win out as the favored local delicacy among younger visitors. These golden, crispy-on-the-outside, fluffy-on-the-inside doughnuts are drenched in honey or syrup, often dusted with cinnamon or topped with nuts. For the ultimate sweet treat, some spots even let you drizzle them with melted chocolate. Consistently among the top family destinations in Athens, Lukumades is known for customizable twists on the classic, with options including loukoumades stuffed with cherry—meaning even the fussiest eaters among us can find a variety to love.

Related: 15 Traditional Greek Foods and Drinks To Try on Your Next Trip

Step into the Kotsanas Museum of Ancient Greek Technology for a hands-on experience with history and innovation. Here, the whole family can discover the genius of ancient Greek inventors who worked on everything from alarm clocks to cars and cinemas—yes, really. Thanks to the nearly 300 working models of these ingenious inventions, one thing’s for certain: You’ll leave the museum with the impression that the ancient Greeks were way ahead of their time.

Don’t be misled by the name: The Hellenic Children’s Museum isn’t filled with exhibits and artifacts. In reality, it’s an interactive play zone where kids (ages 0-12, but with younger children especially well catered for) can dive into activities, such as learning geometry with Pythagoras, managing a mini marketplace, and blowing huge bubbles in the dedicated bubble room. While most activities are in Greek, English-speaking staff are on hand to assist. Plus, it's totally free, making it perfect for families traveling on a budget.

The Panathenaic Stadium is not only a historic venue, playing host to the first modern Olympic Games, but also an architectural marvel: It’s the only stadium in the world built entirely of marble, giving rise to its nickname “Kallimarmaro” (with “marmaro” meaning “marble”). It’s highly recommended among things to do with kids in Athens, thanks in part to the ultra-engaging audio guide which will capture kids’ imaginations and help them imagine being a competing athlete. For the ultimate experience, the whole family can feel the thrill of racing on the legendary track, all the while learning about ancient training methods.

At the National Gardens of Athens, you’ll find an urban oasis in the heart of Athens—and a great place for kids to let off some steam by running through the shaded paths or climbing, swinging, and sliding in the playground. If the weather is in your favor (as it so often is in Athens), this is a prime spot for a picnic—or a gentle stroll with a freddo espresso in hand—though little ones might be more enamored with the ponds packed with koi and terrapins.

Insider tip: Keep your eyes peeled for the resident tortoises that roam the garden.

Theater played a central role in ancient Greek culture and society, and that age-old tradition is still going strong. Today, visitors to Athens can step back to antiquity by watching a tragedy unfold at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, or opt for amusing modern takes on the ancient Greek theatrical tradition. A particular hit with families with older children, the al fresco Koilon Theater recounts classical myths with a healthy dose of comedy—and all with stunning views of the Acropolis.

No guide to Athens for families could fail to mention Mt. Lycabettus, from where you can find some of the best views in the Greek capital. Towering above the Acropolis at more than 900 feet (277 meters) tall, Mt. Lycabettus is the highest point in Athens. The viewing area at the top is a must-visit, particularly at sunset, when the city below is painted in dusky pink hues. Active kids can climb the steep (but relatively easy) paths, while tired little legs will enjoy a ride on the funicular instead.