Platia Eleftheriou Venizelou (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Platia Eleftheriou Venizelou?
What makes it 72% Kids-Friendly: Children enjoy watching water spout from the lions and joining free scavenger hunts on a car-free plaza, but there is no playground and toilets or changing tables require café patronage.
Positives:
- Pedestrian-Friendly Area: The square is traffic-free, making it safe for kids to run and explore.
- Free Water Access: Use the fountain’s spouts to refill water bottles and cool down.
Challenges:
- Limited Restroom Facilities: No public toilets in the square; plan restroom breaks at nearby cafés.
- Crowds During Events: Cultural festivals can close sections of the square and add noise.
What is Platia Eleftheriou Venizelou?
- A public square in central Heraklion created by Venetian authorities in the 17th century
- An open, pedestrianized plaza dominated by the Morosini Fountain, a 1628 marble monument featuring four sculpted lions
- A cohesive architectural ensemble of Venetian-era structures, including the former St. Mark’s Basilica (now the Municipal Art Gallery) and adjacent neoclassical façades
What is so special about Platia Eleftheriou Venizelou for with kids?
- Safe, traffic-free square for kids to run and play
- Interactive water fountain with gushing lion heads
- Free historic sights like glass panels and art gallery
- Easy snack breaks with local pastries overlooking the fountain
- Short walking distance to cafés, shops, and other landmarks
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Enough time for kids to play by the fountain, explore landmarks, and take snack breaks without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Platia Eleftheriou Venizelou
Morosini Fountain Splash Play:
Kids can run around and watch water spout from the four lion mouths.
Tip: Bring a small towel and let them feel the water up close under supervision.
Pavement Glass Panel Exploration:
View the old Venetian water ducts through glass panels in the square floor.
Tip: Point out the hidden ducts on a map to make a mini history lesson for kids.
Printable Scavenger Hunt:
Download a free family scavenger hunt to visit landmarks around the square.
Tip: Start at the fountain and check off five stops for small prizes at home.
St. Mark’s Basilica (Municipal Art Gallery):
Explore free art exhibitions in a former Venetian church building.
Tip: Visit on weekdays or Saturday morning; check online for opening hours.
Fountain-Side Snack Break:
Enjoy local bougatsa pastry and juices at a café overlooking the fountain.
Tip: Order shareable portions and sit early to secure a table with the best view.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Platia Eleftheriou Venizelou
- Combine with Nearby Ice Cream Stand: Visit the gelato shop on Chandakos Street after the square to keep kids happy.
- Use Audio Guide App: Download the free MyTours app for short historical stories to engage kids.
When is the best time to visit Platia Eleftheriou Venizelou (Heraklion, Greece)?
Summer days can be hot and sunny. Visit early morning or late afternoon, and bring sunscreen and hats. In winter, the square can be windy; pack a light jacket. Check local festival dates as events may close parts of the square.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Bougatsa pastries and drinks for 4 | EUR 16 |
| Gelato treats for 4 | EUR 12 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 28 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Platia Eleftheriou Venizelou
Address: Pl. El. Venizelou, Iraklio 712 02, Greece
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