Greece’s seductive shores and sparkling seas have long drawn visitors to its ravishing isles. But few appreciate its remarkable mix of incredible history, cultural depth, ingredient-forward gastronomy, and breadth of natural beauty that will take you from glorious summers on the beach, to wintry snow-clad mountaintops.

Admittedly, Greece is ruinous around the edges when it comes to its infrastructure and lack of efficiency. And yet, too polished, and perhaps you loose a little of its soulful hospitality, rugged handsomeness and unaffected charm. While there may not always be a high chair at every tavern you visit, here are eight reasons why it’s still a super option for family getaways:

1. 250 days of sunshine

We enjoy 360 days of sunshine in Singapore, to the envy of many in Greece. Truth be told, 250 days is better. Moderated by the climatic influence of the sea, herein lies the sweet spot of sublime Mediterranean weather. With clear blue skies and dazzling light that defines its legendary summers (time your trip wisely and rarely will your precious holiday week be disappointed by rain and cloudy skies), sunny days persist through crisp winters that are never too cold.

2. Natural playgrounds for every explorer

What you won’t find much of in Greece is shopping and skyscrapers. Instead, natural playgrounds so beautiful, bountiful and diverse offer entertainment for every age and interest.

Bounded by the Ionian, Mediterranean, and Aegean seas, near landlocked waters have the advantage of being relatively calm. Little paddlers will find natural infinity pools aplenty that glimmer dreamily in the light of the sun. Resplendent in every shade of turquoise and blue, such beautiful hues result from being particularly clear of aquatic vegetation due to an unusually low nutrient content. Large predatory sharks are rare, and poisonous jellyfish stings, unusual . Indeed, these are some of the most family-friendly waters you will find.

They are also not without adventure – seasonal north winds (“Meltemi”) that blow strongest in July and August turn coastal areas like Mikri Vigla in Naxos, Chryssi Aki in Paros, and Kolymbithres in Tinos into watersports paradise.

While ranking second in the world for the most number of Blue Flag beaches, Greece is not all just beach. 80 percent of its land is mountainous. The gentle slopes of Evia and the Peloponnese are perfect for a child’s first forest hike, while the iconic crags of Kalymnos draw sport climbers from around the world. Attracting artists and aficionados of the exotic, volcanic islands like Santorini, Milos and Nisyros feature unusual geological formations for spectacular sightseeing.

3. Ancient ruins to inspire young imaginations

Arrive at the Athens International Airport and there’s a museum of findings unearthed during its construction. Alight at Syntagma train station and an inbuilt museum showcases artifacts uncovered from the process of building the metro. Ancient history percolates through every sediment of its soil, and there’s always an archaeological site to amble through not far from the beach, guesthouse or village. Meanwhile, history enthusiasts are spoilt for choice with 18 UNESCO Heritage Sites, entire islands filled with ancient treasures like Delos and Keros, and even a newly-opened underwater museum in Alonissos marine park.

4. Cobblestone walks through enchanting villages lead to gelaterias, creperies and bakeries

Common to every inhabited Greek island, large or small, is the Chora – the center of village life where the Greek soul comes alive. Classically whitewashed Cycladic homes with blue shutters and church dome tops, stone-built Medieval walls leading to a hilltop castle, or colourful harbours with an Italianate feel, whether sleepy or bustling with holidaymakers, all carry a unique charm. Spirited and free, children to play well into midnight in village squares and playgrounds. Meanwhile, watchful parents grow less so with wine and gastronomy drawing from the rich produce of its land. Dinner, dialogues, and then perhaps an intoxicated dance, this ancient ritual and communal joy is a clear departure from modern eating habits with a penchant for Michelin-marked greatness.

5. God’s kitchen for children

Greece allows you to feast like a king, without his riches. And also in the reassuring comfort that the Mediterranean diet is comparatively healthy. With plentiful appetising vegetarian options in Greek cuisine: spanakopita (spinach and cheese pies), briam (baked vegetables, like ratatouille), fasolakia (green bean stew), fasolada (bean stew), domatokeftedes (tomato fritters), kolokythakia tiganita (zucchini chips), the variety should hearten any mother. And if you’re attempting the food prep yourself in an Airbnb, a bounty of quality raw material will make a chef of anyone.

6. Philoxenia (love of the foreign): beyond hospitality

Read through enough Airbnb accommodation reviews and you will find something in common – an unusual amount of praise for hosts who went through incredulous lengths to welcome their guests. The embodiment of hospitality, philoxenia (love of the foreign), philótimo (love of honour), and geneodoria (bravery at giving presence) is the wellspring of what we can only inadequately describe as “tourist-friendly”.

7. Not all is callous capitalism (except on Mykonos)

For now, the temporary accommodation scene is not dominated by the Ritz Carltons and Marriots of the world. Until recently, Greece has abstained from auctioning off the best of its coastline to the highest bidder. All beaches are public property, so wherever you choose to stay, you needn’t worry about beach access (as you may have to in other iconic islands like the Turks and Caicos). Popular beaches are often served by independent cafes offering sunbeds, food and refreshment – a welcome scene for parents with non-walkers and enough weight on their arms. 

8. Greece is always in season

Perhaps surprisingly, Greece is a year-round travel destination. Especially if you’re visiting for history and culture, mild Mediterranean winters make for beautiful walks through archaeological sites. Visit Meteora to see monasteries that reach the heavens. Or the mountain villages of Arachova and Kalavrita for ski holiday alternatives to the often overbooked Swiss and French Alps.

In this website, we share the places we love and how best to navigate them as a family. If you’re looking for more information to guide your journey, Greece Is and Discover Greece are good places to start.