Family Photography Athens Guide

Essential Tips for a Stress-Free Family Photo Session in Athens

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The Ultimate Guide to Family Photography in Athens: Logistics, Safety, and Strollers

There is something truly magical about Athens in the golden light.

As a photographer based in Athens, I have had the privilege of capturing countless families against the backdrop of the Acropolis.

However, I also know that for parents, the logistics can feel overwhelming.

This is especially true if you are arriving by cruise ship, flying in with toddlers, or managing jet lag.

To help you prepare for a seamless and beautiful experience,

I have compiled this Family Photography Athens Guide.

It covers my top advice for families visiting our historic city.

Recently, I’ve been chatting with a family about the “Classic Package” session in the Acropolis area.

A few questions come up about his son, who is eleven years old:

“How would you suggest we get to the city center? Do you have Uber in Athens? Are kids allowed to be in an Uber without a car seat? Do you suggest we bring our stroller? My mom said she could help pack things, but I’d hate for us to pack ALL of this and not need it. And vice versa, need it and not have it!“

This Family Photography Athens Guide is designed to answer those exact questions so you can travel with confidence.

Choosing the Right Location and Time

For families, I almost always recommend the Classic Package.

This session takes place specifically in the Acropolis area, and here are the reasons why:

• It is incredibly photogenic: Beyond Areopagus Hill, we often explore nearby gems such as Filopappou Hill, the scenic Areopagitou Street, the island-like alleys of Anafiotika, and the historic charm of Plaka.
• Safety for Kids: Most of our route, especially along Dionysiou Areopagitou Street, is pedestrian-only. This means your children can walk or run safely without us worrying about traffic.
• Visual Variety: In just 60 minutes, we can capture the grandeur of ancient ruins, the greenery of the hills, and the colorful “village vibe” of Plaka. You get three different “looks” without ever needing to get in a taxi.
• Built-in Break Spots: Because we are right next to Plaka, we are never far from a kiosk for water, a bench for a rest, or—crucially—an ice cream shop for a post-shoot reward!

These spots are perfect because they offer that iconic view of the Parthenon, and in some spots, without the intense crowding of the archaeological site itself.

Regarding timing, we have two excellent options. Early Morning is great to beat the heat and crowds.

The light is soft, and the kids are usually fresh. Alternatively, Late Afternoon offers the “Golden Hour.”

This provides a warm, cinematic glow that looks stunning in print. We always keep a close eye on the weather forecast.

While heavy rain in Greece is usually brief, we can stay flexible. If you are staying in Athens overnight, we can adjust the schedule to maximize our chances.

The Big Stroller Debate: Should You Bring It?

One of the most common questions I address in this Family Photography Athens Guide is:

“Do you suggest we bring our stroller?” My answer is a resounding yes.

I highly recommend bringing your stroller for convenience.

This is crucial if you plan to explore the city center before or after our shoot with a small child

(generally, anyone under age 5 who might get tired legs after a long day of walking).

First, it offers mobility. It makes moving around the city much easier.

Even if your child walks well, a 60-minute session plus sightseeing is tiring.

Second, it provides storage. It doubles as a cart for your bags, diaper supplies, and water bottles.

Finally, it ensures comfort. If your little one needs a quick nap, a change of clothes, or a snack break, the stroller is a mobile base camp.

Having a stroller makes it easy to move between locations. This means happier smiles for the camera!

Navigating Piraeus Port: Taxis, Ubers, and Car Seats

If you are arriving via cruise ship at the Piraeus docks, the arrival area can be chaotic.

Having a plan before you disembark is vital, especially regarding child safety.

Important Safety Note

Standard taxis and Ubers in Athens do NOT carry child car seats.

If you hail a taxi from the line at the port – airport, or call a standard Uber, you will have to hold your child on your lap (which is legal in taxis in Greece) or use your own portable seat.

However, I know many parents (myself included) prioritize safety above all else.

Arriving at Athens Airport (El. Venizelos)

Just like the port, arriving at Athens International Airport (El. Venizelos) requires some planning.

The drive from the airport to the city center is approximately 35–45 minutes.

Because this is a long highway drive, safety is even more critical.

Standard taxis at the airport arrivals rank do NOT provide car seats.

Furthermore, Uber drivers generally do not carry them either.

To avoid being stuck at the curb with luggage and a toddler, you must plan your transfer in advance.

Your Best Options for Transfer (Port & Airport)

If you require a car seat, you must pre-book a private transfer. Do not rely on finding one on the spot.

• Option 1: Pre-Booked Private Transfer (Recommended)

Services like Welcome Pickups or Baby Taxi are excellent. This is the only way to guarantee a driver will meet you at the dock or the arrivals hall with the correct car seat already installed. It costs about €15-20 more than a standard taxi, but it saves you the stress.

• Option 2: Uber / Taxi (Freeway) Apps

There is no specific “Car Seat” filter in the Athens Uber App or the Taxi Freenow App. You would need to book a ride and immediately call the driver to ask if they have one. 99% of the time, the answer is no, and you will have to cancel. I do not recommend this method.

• Option 3: Standard Taxi Ranks

Yellow Taxis wait in the rank at the Port and the Airport. You can ask the coordinator if anyone has a seat, but availability is extremely rare.

Pro Tip: When booking a transfer from the Port, know your Gate Number (e.g., E1, E2, E9).

If you don’t know it yet, enter your ferry vessel’s name in the booking notes so the driver can track your arrival.

Relax and Enjoy the Moment

The logistics of traveling with kids can be tricky.  But once you arrive at Areopagus Hill, I want you to let that stress go.

Whether your mom is coming along to help with the bags (which is great!) or it is just us, my goal is to make the session fun.

Pack the essentials—milk, water, a change of pants—but don’t feel the need to bring your entire hotel room with you.

Thank you for reading my Family Photography Athens Guide and trusting me with your memories.

Let’s Capture Your Family’s Story

Are you ready to plan a stress-free and beautiful session in Athens? I would love to hear from you.

Please fill in the contact form to check availability for your dates.

I know that when you are traveling, time is of the essence, so I promise to answer your request within 24 hours.