Finally off of work and ready for that long-awaited holiday with the family in Greece? Before heading to the islands, why not take advantage of all the capital has to offer? Of course, a day at the beach or the park is perfect – and while many museums offer special visits or exhibits, there are plenty of activities you can all do together. Here are the 10 things to see and do with children in Athens.
The puppetry theater Ergastirio Mairivi (Workshop Mairivi), located in Psirri, was launched in 1999 for the research, deployment and expansion of the art of puppet theater in Greece. It is the place to be to watch dynamic puppet plays and work, with puppet workshops and productions presented to the public. Although in Greek, you can be sure that your kids are still going to enjoy the show as it often involves two- or three-dimensional animation techniques and more.
Ergastirio Mairivi, Sarchtouri 14, Psirri, Athens, Greece +30 21 0522 2181
The Athens Planetarium is an impressive facility that is often overlooked when it comes to sightseeing. This imposing structure boasts a central dome of 25 metres in diameter and has a surface area of 935 square metres. Offering a stunning visual trip to the stars and into the Universe, the planetarium is an excellent day trip option for children once they’re tired of the sea or ancient ruins.
Eugenides Foundation Planetarium, 384 Syggrou Avenue, Palaio Faliro, Athens, Greece +30 21 0946 9600
Based in an old factory in Athens, Cado Paradiso is made of 90% upcycled material. The playground features trampolines made of tires, plastic bottle puzzles, and PVC tube slides. Children can have fun with DIY toys and learn geography, physics, or biology as well as take part in politics though a series of workshops aiming to foster learning in an unconventional environment. At Cado Paradiso, even adults can have fun as age doesn’t matter, all you need is a little bit of imagination.
Perivoli Sti Vari is a permaculture farm where children (and adults too) can learn about natural waste management, permaculture, recycling and even use a solar toilet. Combining fun with learning, the Perivoli hosts regular workshops throughout the year as well as cooking lessons, and is an excellent attraction to learn but also relax. The place also has a restaurant where you can enjoy Greek cuisine.
Perivoli Sti Vari, Kyrgion 15, Vari, Greece +30 210 896 3 000
This may be a no-brainer, which is why it holds the last position in this list. Athens and its plethora of sightseeing also work for children, and The Acropolis and its accompanying museum are an absolute must. Children can have fun visiting the ancient ruins of the Parthenon, or in the Archaic gallery of the museum. But if that is hardly inspiring, know that the museum also offers family backpacks filled with activities or family trails to make the visit more interactive and dynamic.
Acropolis & Acropolis Museum, Dionysiou Areopagitou 15, Athens, Greece +30 21 0900 0900