Athens with Kids: The Ultimate Family Guide to Logistics, Safety & Smart Hacks

Hello friends! This guide to traveling to Athens with kids comes to you from me, a Greek mum living in the UK, visiting Greece with my two under-five several times a year.

Over time, I’ve gathered my top tips and things to watch out for, so I’m excited to share this friendly guide with you. Athens is a beautiful city, but there are definitely a few quirks you should know about beforehand. So here I am, sharing them with you in this in-depth guide to help you plan a smooth, safe, and stress-free family trip to Athens!

Save this for later 🩵

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive commissions if you choose to purchase through links I provide (at no extra cost to you). I only recommend products and services I love.

1. Start right at the Airport

Seamless Airport Transfers

For a family of four, the Athens metro is a very affordable option: each one-way ticket at the time of writing costs €10 per adult and only 50 cents for kids 6-18 (under 6s ride free). The train ride from the airport to Syntagma station in the centre takes roughly 40 minutes.

If that sounds like too much of a hassle, you can pre-book your airport transfer. When we’re not picked up by family or friends, we use Welcome Pickups. (Never in my life had I opted for a taxi over public transport, up to the point I had kids 😂.)

This service offers personalised meet-and-greet options so you and your family can quickly get straight to your apartment for naps and showers. This option might be especially appealing if you’re traveling with lots of luggage, strollers or little ones who could do with a more comfortable and stress-free ride. As a bonus, you will know the exact cost upfront so you can budget accordingly.

​Just a quick update about pick-ups at Athens International Airport: the parking restrictions at pick-ups have changed recently. Drivers now get only 10 minutes of free parking in the arrivals area; after that, fees kick in and they have to move to a new parking area a little further out. To avoid any hiccups, add your driver on WhatsApp or Viber beforehand so you can coordinate in real-time and pinpoint the exact spot to meet. Double check they’re happy with extended waits in case of delays and whether the potential parking fees are included.

At the time of writing in 2025, a transfer with Welcome Pickups for 4 passengers and 4 pieces of luggage from Athens airport to the popular neighbourhood of Koukaki in central Athens costs £44, with a car seat and booster seat provided. (Note night-time rates will likely cost more.)

Wait, why not just hail a cab from the airport taxi rank?

I mean, yes of course you can. But:

• The availability is not guaranteed.
• There will be no child seats.
• You will never know the final cost until you arrive (even though the airport transfer fare is supposed to be regulated). Some drivers have the habit of coming up with extra costs like luggage, or start running the meter when hitting the city limits until you get to the door.
• Welcome Pickups drivers are carefully vetted to have good conversational English, polite demeanour and strictly smoke-free vehicles (good luck with the last one when hailing random old-school cabbies in Athens 😠).

2. Choosing the Best Neighbourhoods to Stay In

The Best Family-friendly and safe areas

Athens is a city of neighbourhoods – each with its own character and vibe. If traveling with family, look for areas that are both safe and convenient.

I initially planned to include a quick guide on choosing the best neighbourhood for your family stay in Athens within this post. However, I realised that the topic deserved a more in-depth exploration. So, I’ve dedicated an entire article to help you navigate the various neighbourhoods and find the perfect fit for your family’s needs.

You can read all about it and discover which area suits you best here.

Read more: The Best & Safest Neighbourhoods for Exploring Athens with Kids

3. Groceries and Delivery Apps

If you’re at a self-catering accommodation, check this!

After a long day of exploring, sometimes the easiest dinner solution is ordering in. Athens is big on food delivery apps like Wolt and efood, which not only deliver restaurant meals but also groceries and snacks straight to your accommodation.

When staying in a self-catering apartment in Athens with kids, arranging grocery deliveries can save you some serious hassle and time. The primary platform for this service is efood, Greece’s leading online delivery service. Through efood, you can order from various supermarkets, including Sklavenitis, My Market, AB Vasilopoulos and MarketIn, and have your groceries delivered shortly after your arrival.​

Setting Up Your efood Account:

1. Create an Account: Visit efood’s website or download the app from the App Store or Google Play. Register using your email address and set up a password.​
2. Gather accommodation details: To ensure a smooth delivery, you’ll need:​
   • Exact address: Street name and number.​
   • Floor number
   • Name on the buzzer: To assist the delivery person in locating your apartment.​
   • A phone number you can be reached at: Just in case

Request these specifics from your host before your trip.

3. Place your order:

• Log In: Access your efood account.
• Select Supermarkets: Click on the apple icon labeled “Supermarkets” to view available stores in your area.​

• Choose Items: Browse and add desired products to your cart.​

• Schedule Delivery: Pick a convenient time slot. Same-day deliveries are often available (but booking in advance is advisable).​

Beyond Groceries: Athens’ Delivery Culture

There’s nothing particularly special about having your groceries delivered, but Athens’ delivery culture goes way beyond that – and I don’t just mean take-out meals.

Through the Wolt app, you can order a wide array of items for delivery within the hour, including:​

• Prepared Foods: Good classic takeaway food of every local and international cuisine including breakfast and desserts.
• Beverages: Coffee, fresh juices, bottles of wine and antipasti to go with them.
• Everyday Essentials (or not that essential): Art supplies, books, baby products, play dough, condoms, the sunscreen you left in the taxi, Covid tests, today’s newspaper. Our WiFi was playing up once and I ordered a LAN cable which arrived at the door in 25 minutes.

Considerations

While the convenience is undeniable, especially when traveling with kids, be thoughtful when using those services in the summer. Delivery couriers have fallen ill before due to extreme temperatures, so do avoid placing an order between 2pm and 5pm.

Read more: The time of the day that only exists in Greece

4. Beating the Heat (advice for the Summer)

Stay Cool in the Mediterranean Sun

You have already heard this a million times, but here it is again. The summer heat in Athens is insufferable. You have to take this into account.

Quite a few travellers arrive in Greece from grey and cold countries so hungry for sunshine that they gravely underestimate what a big danger the sun poses.

I will spare you from generic advice you already know like keep hydrated, wear sunscreen, stay in the shade, wear breathable clothes etc. Instead, I will focus on one thing only: plan your day.

There is a reason neighbourhood shops close for a 3-hour “lunch break”. There is a reason you will not see any locals, not even one, on a sunny café terrace at 2 pm between July and September.

The thing that will mostly save you from the midday sun is dividing your daily schedule into mornings (early-1pm), quiet time (1pm-5pm) and evenings.

What should you avoid doing with kids during quiet time?

• Visit the Acropolis, Panathenaic Stadium or other open air archaeological sites.
• Go for lunch al fresco.
• Wander aimlessly in the hot streets.
• Go to the beach 😱.

What can you do with kids during quiet time?

• Go back to your air-conditioned apartment / hotel for lunch.
• Take naps.
• Have cool, refreshing showers.
• Watch a film.
• Make a few notes in your travel journals.
• Do some research about where you should go to dinner later.
• Hide inside the Acropolis Museum (AC, restaurant, kids’ corner)

5. Reconsider you kids’ bedtime

​But wait, I hear you say. If I stay inside until 5pm, that’s the whole day gone! No friends, it’s not. In Greece, the rhythm of daily life differs from what you might be used to. Since everyone takes a break until roughly 5pm, all activities and meals are pushed later into the evening. (I have written a whole article about this that you can read here.)

Very set family routines can potentially get in the way of making the most of your trip. In Greece it’s quite common for families to dine and socialise well into the night, with children included in these gatherings, especially during the holidays. Unlike in the UK, where certain venues will turn you away if they see your kids, Greek establishments generally welcome kids at all hours. So why not embrace a more Mediterranean rhythm and include your kids in your evening outings?

That’s easy for you to say

6. Passive smoking

What you need to know

There’s been a smoking ban in indoor public places since 2010. Enforcement is is not guaranteed everywhere, but truth be told I have not encountered any smoking indoors in Athens for a few years now. However, Greece is the country with the most regular smokers in the EU (source) so you are likely to experience second-hand smoke in various other spots: outdoor seating, ferry boats, bus stops.

A few tips to help you and your family breathe easier:​

• Consider indoor seating: A little twist – sitting indoors might actually be your best bet for avoiding smoke. I know it feels a bit counterintuitive, especially when the weather’s gorgeous, but many locals tend to smoke at outdoor tables. So, grabbing a spot inside can often mean cleaner air.
• Avoid peak times: Greeks usually have lunch around 2-3pm and dinner from 9pm onwards. If you dine outside these peak hours, you’ll likely find fewer Greeks and, consequently, less smoke.
• Speak Up: When you’re out and about, it’s totally okay to chat with the staff about their smoking policies. Ask if there’s a smoke-free outdoor section – some places do have them. If you see someone smoking indoors – which is technically against the law – don’t hesitate to mention it to the staff. They risk hefty fines for allowing it, so they’ll likely appreciate the heads-up. Oh and if there’s someone puffing away in your general direction please do tell them off, or at least give them a dirty look.

7. Don’t take highchairs and changing facilities for granted

Not all Greek restaurants, especially the charming traditional ones, come equipped with highchairs or changing facilities. It’s not that they aren’t family-friendly; they are! it’s just that some of these spots have been around for ages and might not have updated their amenities.​

So, to make things smoother:

• Booster cushion: If you know you’re heading out to eat, bringing a portable booster seat or pillow can be a lifesaver and you won’t have to worry about the restaurant’s seating arrangements.​ Maybe an inflatable one?
• Changing mat: Always have a compact changing mat in your bag. That way, if there’s no dedicated changing area, you can manage nappy changes more easily, whether it’s in a restroom or another suitable spot.​

• Potty seat: I have never seen a kids’ toilet seat or a kid-sized toilet in any public bathroom in Athens. My eldest is scared she’ll fall inside so we have added a foldable loo seat to out kit. Might be an idea if you’re out and about in Athens with kids.

8. Baby Carrier vs. Stroller

Conquer Athens’ subpar (to put it politely) sidewalks

​While Athens isn’t particularly stroller-friendly, if you’re out exploring all day, it’s always good to have the option of a stroller, which can conveniently serve as a changing mat or a bed for nap times.

In some neighbourhoods in the historic centre like Thiseio, you’ll find wide pedestrian zones making it relatively easy to get around with a stroller. However, be prepared for some challenges.

• Plaka: This charming area has its fair share of steps and uneven paths, which can be tricky to navigate with a stroller.​
• Monastiraki: OK step-wise, but too busy to push a stroller through.
• Psyrri: Sidewalks here are quite narrow so maneuvering a stroller might require a bit more patience.​
• Thiseio: Actually not bad, if you’re planning to stay in the area for the day.
• Normal residential neighbourhoods: Sidewalks are often obstructed by parked motorcycles, unexpected tree stumps, and the occasional kiosk A-board.
• Metro: Lifts seems to be out of order all the time.

If you’re comfortable using a baby carrier, it can make exploring these areas much smoother. A backpack-style carrier is especially handy for visiting sites like the Acropolis, where using a stroller is impossible.

Renting baby gear

If you don’t want to lug all your baby equipment from home, services like Baby Traveller or Babonbo offer rentals for strollers, scooters, and more, delivering them right to your accommodation.

Acropolis Museum Amenities

If you’re planning a visit to the Acropolis Museum, it’s useful to know they offer strollers for loan at the ground floor cloakroom (and there’s a parent’s room on the first floor for baby care.)

9. Local Public Transport Tips

Get Around Like a Local

Metro: Your Best Bet

The Athens Metro is your best friend for zipping around the city. It operates daily from 5 am to midnight, with trains every 5-6 minutes during peak hours. On Fridays and Saturdays, Lines 2 and 3 run until 2 am. ​It is quite a challenge to squeeze a stroller in there, especially during peak times.

Tickets: A standard ticket costs €1.40 and is valid for 90 minutes across all modes of transport (except airport services). Kids up to 6 years old travel free, and those aged 7-18 pay €0.60. It is quite a challenge to squeeze a stroller in there though, especially during peak times.

Here’s a quick breakdown:​

• Line 1 (Green Line): This is the oldest line, connecting Piraeus port to Kifisia. It’s above ground for most of its route and tends to be busier. Some trains on this line might lack air conditioning, so brace yourself during the summer months.
• Lines 2 and 3 (Red and Blue Lines): These newer underground lines are more modern and most trains are air-conditioned, offering a nice cool ride.

Buses and Trolleybuses:

Honestly, I’d skip these. Traffic in Athens can be unpredictable, turning a short ride into an ordeal. Save your time and sanity and avoid!

Trams: Slow but Scenic

Trams are leisurely but offer scenic routes, especially if you’re heading to the coast. They connect the city centre (Syntagma Square) to the Athenian Riviera, making them a pleasant choice for beach outings.

Handy Transport Guide:

Here’s a quick reference for getting to key spots:

• Beach: Hop on the tram from Syntagma Square towards Voula. It’s a scenic route that takes you along the coast.
• Piraeus Port: Take Line 1 (Green Line) directly to Piraeus station. From there, it’s a short walk to the port.​
• Airport: Line 3 (Blue Line) runs from the city centre to Athens International Airport.​
• Acropolis: Both Lines 2 and 3 have stops near the Acropolis. Alight at ‘Acropoli’ on Line 2 or ‘Monastiraki’ on Line 3.​
• The Mall Athens: Located near ‘Neratziotissa’ station on Line 1.
• Rafina or Lavrio Port: This one’s a bit trickier. There’s no direct metro or tram. Your best bet is to catch a KTEL bus (intercity coach) from Mavromateon Terminal in central Athens.​ (Tickets from the kiosks along Mavromateon street).

Overall, public transport in Athens is generally safe and affordable. But do keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas.

10. Getting Around in a Taxi

Greek Taxi Culture:

Greek Taxi Culture

It’s not fair to generalise, but I’ve been inside a lot of Athenian taxis in my 40 years. Athens’ taxi drivers are known for their… let’s say, ‘assertive’ driving style. It’s all part of the local charm (not). That, paired with overcharging attempts and smoking in vehicles, means I basically never hail a random taxi now – I always use an app that allows me to give feedback and have control over the fare.

Is there Uber in Athens?

In Greece, Uber’s standard service using private drivers (UberX) was suspended in 2018 due to legal restrictions and protests from local taxi unions. The Uber app currently works, but it can only be used to hail licensed taxis.

FreeNow

Formerly known as BEAT, FREENOW is the go-to taxi app in Athens. It’s user-friendly: just input your location and destination, and a taxi will be on its way. Payment options include cash and credit card and you can check the driver’s reviews before booking.

Welcome Pickups

I’ve recommended this service for airport transfers due to their reliability and fixed pricing. For city rides, they are pricier than hailing a normal taxi. There are cases you might want to use a pre-booked transfer, like traveling to the port of Rafina or Lavrio, visiting Cape Sounio, going to the beach or other longer-distance trips that you are not comfortable making without proper child car seats.

Child Seat Laws for Taxis in Greece

In Greece, taxis are exempt from the usual child seat regulations. Children under three can travel without a seat belt and those aged three and above should use a normal seat belt if no child seat is available (same rules as in the UK). For you own family’s safety, it’s advisable to bring your own child seat or book a service that provides one. ​

A Word of Caution about Piraeus Port Transfers

​Traffic from Piraeus Port can be horrendous! During peak seasons, numerous ferries from popular islands dock at the same time. If you attempt to leave the harbour by car or taxi you could be stuck in a car without food or water for a couple of hours (real story). Don’t take that risk if you’re travelling with kids (or even if you’re not). Jump on the Metro instead (Piraeus Station, Line 1, going straight to Monastiraki.) Same goes for heading down to the port to catch a boat – I would use the Metro every time.

11. Beware of the Lack of Public Toilets

But don’t stress about it

Public toilets in Athens are a bit of a rarity, so don’t be surprised if you don’t spot many around. But honestly, it’s not something to stress over. When nature calls, just pop into a nearby café or restaurant. Most places are pretty relaxed about it and won’t mind you using their facilities, especially if you have kids in tow.

12. Toilet Paper Debacles

You might have heard the plumbing system in Greece isn’t quite like what you’re used to back home. The sewage pipes are much narrower – about only two inches in diameter. This means they can’t handle toilet paper being flushed down without risking some rather unpleasant blockages. There are small lined bins with a lid everywhere, and the practice is to empty them daily (waste collection is daily in Athens).

Remember to clue in your kids about this! Don’t flush the paper, or you might see it again…

13. Don’t Trust Pedestrian Crossings

Stay Alert When Crossing the Road

When I first moved to the UK I was astonished by how cars would come to a screeching halt the moment I even thought about crossing the street. I half-expected a red carpet to roll out too.

Greek drivers tend to view traffic rules as more of a suggestion than a mandate. So don’t make the assumption cars will stop and always make eye contact with the driver before crossing.

14. Useful Numbers & Emergency Info

• Police Hotline: 100
• Fire Brigade: 199
• European Emergency Service Line: 112
• Tourist Police: 1571 (Communication in Greek, English, French and German)
• Airport Police: +30 210 353 6901, -6902, -6909, -6919
• After Hours Pharmacies
• Medical Emergency & Ambulances: 166
• Hellenic Coast Guard: 108
• National Child Protection Helpline: 1056
• European Hotline for Missing Children: 116000
• Hellenic Poison Centre: 2107793777

In Conclusion

This is it friends! I hope none of the above put you off visiting Athens with kids. A family trip to Athens promises a quite unique mix of experiences, great for little travellers getting to know our world.

Outline your trip but stay reasonably flexible, and you will enjoy every moment in this timeless city.

If you found this information helpful save it for later! 🩵 ⤵️

Happy travels!

Until next time,

M.

Read more:

The Best & Safest Neighbourhoods for Exploring Athens with Kids

13 Fun Activities for Families with Kids in Athens (that don’t include ancient stuff)

The time of the day that only exists in Greece