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The Best Time to Visit Greece for Good Weather, Fewer Crowds, and Affordable Prices

Greece is calling your name.

best time to visit greece october

Greece has long beckoned travelers with its beauty. From the crystalline waters in the surrounding Mediterranean Sea and the rich historical sites that dot the nation's map to the divine cuisine and stellar hotels, the European country deserves a spot high on travelers' wish lists.

Travelers flock to Greece year-round, but some months are better to visit than others, especially if you're keen to explore beaches, avoid the masses, or score a deal on a hotel room. Here are the main tourist seasons to keep in mind:

  • High Season:  June to September
  • Shoulder Seasons:  April to May and October
  • Low Season:  November to March

Ready to plan your trip? Here are the best times to travel to Greece, whether you're after good weather, affordable prices, or fewer crowds.

Michela Buttignol/Travel+Leisure

Best Times to Visit Greece for Smaller Crowds

Unsurprisingly, the most popular times to visit Greece are the late spring, summer, and early fall months. This is when the weather is ideal, and all the venues open their doors, inviting guests to stay, eat, and drink.

According to CEIC Data , Greece received 3.64 million tourists in June 2022. In July of the same year, that number rose to 5.27 million, and in August, a whopping 5.86 million enjoyed a Greek getaway, making it by far its busiest month to visit. Numbers dropped in the fall, with 4.56 million visitors in September and 2.75 million in October.

If you don't plan on hitting the beaches, consider a trip to Greece during the winter. While the weather is cooler (the average temperatures hover around 50 degrees Fahrenheit), the crowds are much thinner. In 2023, around 635,000 people visited Greece in January, and a mere 572,500 came in February. In fact, the nation didn't crack one million visitors until April, making the winter much more manageable if you're trying to avoid crowds. However, many venues and hotels close for the winter, so search for accommodations in your intended destination to see what's available and when.

Alessandra Amodio

Best Times to Visit Greece for Good Weather

If you're after warm weather but want to avoid the sweltering heat, plan a trip in late spring or early fall (April through June or September through October). In May, the average temperature in Athens, the nation's capital, ranges from a high of 74.8 degrees Fahrenheit to a low of 61.5 degrees Fahrenheit. In June, things warm up to an average high of 82.6 degrees Fahrenheit — perfect for taking a dip in the ocean.

In September, the average temperatures drop a little in Athens to a high of 80.6 degrees Fahrenheit and a low of 69.6 degrees Fahrenheit. October is even chillier, with an average high hitting 71.4 degrees Fahrenheit and an average low around 62.1 degrees Fahrenheit. Yes, it's cool, but nowhere near cold enough to feel uninviting. Just remember, the country is relatively large, especially if you include the best islands in Greece , so check your exact destination for average temperatures before booking.

Best Times to Visit Greece for Lower Prices

Visiting Greece on a budget is possible. All you need to do is plan accordingly. According to Skyscanner , the cheapest months to book a flight to Greece are October, November, March, and April. The website notes that July tends to be the most expensive month to fly to Greece, so it's best to avoid the middle of the high season if you're trying to save money.

While April is a less expensive month to fly, it's worth noting that hotel prices increase slightly during Greek Orthodox Easter, which sometimes falls at the end of April. The end of December and the beginning of January see a similar spike. Hotels tend to be pricey during July and August, so avoid these busy months if you're looking for lower room rates.

Best Time to Visit the Greek Islands

Again, the best time to visit depends on what you're after, but generally speaking, for the most delightful weather, plan a trip to the Greek islands in the late spring, early summer, or beginning of fall. Yes, you can visit in midsummer if you don't mind the heat (and being shoulder-to-shoulder with other travelers).

For example, in Santorini, the average high in July hits 84 degrees Fahrenheit, while the average low is 73 degrees Fahrenheit. The upside is the ultra-warm water at this time of year, with an average sea temperature of 75 degrees Fahrenheit. In July, the island typically only experiences one or two rainy days, making your chances of basking in the sun pretty good.

September is considered one of the best months to visit the Greek islands, as the weather is still sunny and warm, and the crowds have thinned out. However, you'll want to research the island you plan to visit since temperatures vary across the archipelagoes.

Worst Times to Visit Greece

There's no bad time to visit Greece. However, July and August can be uncomfortably hot and humid — especially in Athens — with temperatures often soaring above 86 degrees Fahrenheit. The capital city and Cycladic islands (including Mykonos and Santorini) are also at their most crowded and expensive during these months, so it's best to avoid midsummer if you're looking for more elbow room, lower prices, and a relaxed atmosphere.

On the flip side, January is the coldest month in Greece, with temperatures hovering around 55 degrees Fahrenheit. While the cool weather is ideal for exploring historical sites, shops, and art galleries in Athens , it will likely be too chilly to swim in the ocean. If your dream vacation in Greece includes beach time, avoid visiting during the winter months.

best time to visit greece october

The best time to go to Greece

Helen Iatrou

Jul 3, 2023 • 6 min read

best time to visit greece october

Greece’s most significant spiritual holiday, Orthodox Easter, takes place in either April or May ©Hector Christiaen/Shutterstock

Greece is famed for its crystalline seas, ancient attractions, and warm hospitality.

Summer is when most travelers choose to explore its countless islands , while spring and fall are the best times of year to marvel at the myriad of archeological sites dotted around the country.

Winter can be cool and occasionally rainy but for those conscious about budget or interested in seeing how the locals live, the vibrant capital of Athens still delivers history, culture, and good times in spades, even when the sunshine starts to fade.

Whether you’re dreaming of the southeast Mediterranean nation’s dreamy beaches , ancient allure, or buzzing city life, these are the best times to visit Greece.

Mother and daughter sailing together in Greece as the sunsets in the background

May to October is best for island-hopping

Orthodox Easter, Greece’s most significant spiritual holiday, lands in April or May and unofficially debuts in the island-hopping season. In the final month of spring, the seas only just start to lose their winter chill and are still too cool for swimming, at least by local standards. In May, the average daily high is a warm 77°F and days are normally sunny.

Keep in mind that the deep cobalt waters of the Aegean, in the north and south, take longer to warm up than the shallower, turquoise seas of the Ionian , west of mainland Greece. The further south you sail through the Aegean archipelago, the hotter it gets, at least on land, and so the longer the warm weather season. Islands such as Rhodes and Crete are ideal for a sunny shoulder season getaway in May, September, or October when beaches are empty of schoolkids (with the exception of UK mid-term holidays).

June affords the longest days of sunshine, peaking in the second fortnight. It’s also an opportune time for your first, refreshing dip of the summer. July and August are the busiest months of the year on the islands, so expect high airfares, peak season hotel rates, crowded beach bars, bustling main towns, and packed restaurants in popular destinations like Mykonos , Santorini , and Paros , among others. Southern Europeans, including Greeks retreating to their second homes, gravitate toward the islands at this time of year.

July and August are also the hottest and driest months in Greece, with average temperatures often exceeding 86°F, and there is the potential for stifling heatwaves. Thankfully, the Meltemi, a welcome north wind that makes its appearance mostly between June and September, tempers the heat. Still, if you’re intent on visiting during July and August, be sure to book a good six months or more in advance to secure slightly better airfares and hotel rates.

By September, Greece’s seas have thoroughly warmed through and school holidays are over, meaning that you’ll have more room to yourself at that idyllic beach and a peaceful night’s sleep. Airfares and hotel rates are also more affordable. As a result, it’s now one of the most popular months of travel for those who want to enjoy a more relaxing island or mainland holiday.

By about mid-October, Greece’s seas start to pick up swell, and air temperatures begin to fall, while the majority of hotels stay open until the end of the month. It’s still an excellent time of year to visit, as long as you come prepared, with warmer clothing for cooler evenings.

Asian woman looks out at view of three blue domes, Oia island, Greece

See the ancient sites in spring or fall

From the Vergina Royal Tombs Museum dating to the times of Alexander the Great in Macedonia to the Minoan-era Palace of Knossos in Crete , ancient marvels and historical monuments liberally dot the landscape, wherever you journey throughout Greece. Stonebuilt temples, palaces, and castles act like a magnet for sunlight, so the best times of the year to plan your history geek-out is March, April, or October. The weather is comfortably cool and the crowds are noticeably thinner. As an added bonus, you can expect to pay less for flights and accommodation .

Layers of clothing, such as short-sleeve shirts and a light fleece jacket, are vital to ward off the chill but also to peel off as you hike between ruins and landmarks. Pack a water-resistant jacket and hiking shoes because showers are a real possibility, while March also brings occasional snowfall in mountainous mainland areas such as Central Greece .

Scratch below the surface of Greece’s archaic attractions and museums by booking a small group or private tour, led by a state-licensed guide. Rather than wander around the sacred ancient temples of Delphi on your own, seek out an on-the-ground expert, many of whom are also qualified archeologists or historians. It’s not just about the specific details they impart but the fascinating anecdotes you would never find in a history book. The best guides are usually booked up in the height of summer, so take advantage of their availability and deep knowledge by scheduling a visit in March, October, or November.

A young woman smiles above Athens

Fall and winter are the best times to experience Athens like a local

Greeks, the majority of whom live in Athens, return to base no later than October to resume their normal routines. But that doesn’t mean the city goes quiet. Quite the contrary.

You’ll still be able to sit outdoors at cafes and restaurants and soak up the insouciant vibes of city life. At the same time, the queues to visit the Acropolis and other ancient sites around town disappear, Monastiraki’s flea markets are quieter, and it’s easier to snag a table at a rooftop restaurant for dinner with views of an illuminated Parthenon .

And November and December, with the exception of the Christmas and New Year period, offer some of the most tempting airfare and hotel deals to be had. Between November 1 and March 30, entrance fees at ancient sites and state-run museums, like the treasure-filled National Archaeological Museum , are significantly reduced, making a December vacation a more appealing option for families on a budget.

Temperatures are still comfortably warm in November, with average highs of around 65°F. In December, the mean temperature drops to about 58.46°F, and average monthly rainfall hovers around 65mm. As winter takes hold, Athenian night owls congregate indoors at bars and clubs in inner-city Gazi, Keramikos, and Metaxourgio , where they listen to alt-rock bands, notable jazz artists on tour, and electronic music.

Best of all, Athens regains its true identity. Whether you’re walking the cobblestoned streets of old town Plaka on a Sunday afternoon, checking out the bookshops in the intellectual Exarhia neighborhood or even scaling the verdant heights of Lycabettus Hill (the city’s best vantage point for views of the capital’s vast urban sprawl) you’ll find yourself among locals going about their day-to-day lives. Most Greeks, particularly younger generations, will take every opportunity to dust off their English skills, so don’t be shy to strike up a conversation and ask for insider tips.

This article was first published April 2021 and updated July 2023

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These Are the Best Times to Visit Greece

Anthony Grant

Finally ready for that dream trip to Greece ? With a coastline longer than the United Kingdom's and thousands of islands, the country is a great place to visit any time of year. But absent a last-minute flight deal (and they do come up, though nonstop options from the US are still limited), planning ahead is the way to go in order to make the most of your time in Greece.

The urban attractions of Athens thrum at full tilt all year long, while most Greek islands are at their best once winter has left the picture. Whether it's sultry Mediterranean breezes you seek or the cheapest time to book that hotel room with a sea view in Mykonos, consider this your essential guide to planning a perfect trip to Greece.

The Best Weather in Greece

best time to visit greece october

Generally, the best weather in Greece is what you'll experience in May, June and September. Plenty of sunny days that aren't too hot make May an ideal time for long, leisurely walks in Athens. By June, the beaches of the Aegean islands are warm enough for swimming and popular islands like Mykonos aren't crowded yet.

July is when things get toasty and sometimes uncomfortably humid in Athens, and the city is crowded with tourists then, too. August, naturally, means great beach weather, and if you like your big cities to yourself then it's also a fine time for Athens, as most Athenians ditch the capital.

September has lots of advantages (namely: fewer tourists), but the days are still long and warm and better yet, it's less humid than in July and August. In Crete, the southernmost Greek island, you can go swimming well into October.

The Best Times to Visit Cities in Greece

The two biggest cities in Greece are the capital, Athens , and Thessaloniki. Both are destinations in their own right and for culture vultures there is really no bad time to go. In the peak summer season, major attractions in Athens such as the Acropolis Museum are more crowded than in wintertime, when on many days you'll have even iconic places like the Acropolis largely to yourself. Winter in Athens is also a great time to check out lesser-known museums, tune up your Instagram or warm up in a luxe Turkish bath .

best time to visit greece october

Generally speaking, think of April to June as the ideal times to explore Athens and other Greek cities including historic Nafplio. Thessaloniki is a vibrant city with a wealth of cultural attractions, but in the height of summer it gets so humid they actually have public fans in places to keep the air circulating.

Choose shoulder season months like October and May for an optimal experience there. Most island towns are empty of tourists from November until around the time of Greek Easter, but the main town in Corfu and the Cretan cities like Heraklion are up and running all year long.

When to Visit Greece for Events

From religious holidays to cultural festivals, there are plenty of events worth attending throughout the year.

Spring Events

Greek Orthodox Easter is the most important holiday in the Greek calendar by far. In 2019, Greek Easter falls on Sunday, April 28, but festivities actually begin the week prior on the Saturday of Lazarus. Easter is celebrated in different ways throughout the country, with many variations on the candlelit processions of Good Friday and Easter Sunday celebrations themselves — but you can count on plenty of lamb roasts and fireworks. Easter in Corfu is one of the most famous, but wherever you are in Greece during this time you can expect to experience at least some of the country's very rich and colorful Easter traditions.

Summer Events

Summer is when most music and arts festivals are in full swing. The Athens and Epidaurus Festival is the country's most prestigious annual summer arts festival, with events taking place at the ancient stone Odeon of Herodes Atticus theater (the Herodion) below the Acropolis as well as south of Athens at the amphitheater of Epidaurus, the best-preserved theater of the ancient world. Events include a mix of classic and contemporary (last summer, Bill Murray recited poetry in the Herodion) and are usually scheduled from late June to early August.

The Athens Festival in Epidaurus, Greece. (Photo by Giannis Alexopoulos/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

On the day of the August Full Moon Festival in Athens, museums and ancient sites are open in the evening free of charge until midnight.

Assumption is Aug. 15. It's a public holiday in Greece and considered the "Summer Easter." On this day, life in Athens pretty much grinds to a halt as Athenians dash off to the countryside or the islands. If you want to make sure you have a good place to stay anywhere outside of Athens on Aug. 15 or in the two weeks following, it's increasingly essential that you plan and reserve ahead of time.

Fall Events

The prestigious Thessaloniki International Film Festival is usually held during the first part of November. And while they're not exactly going to enrich anybody in cultural terms, Black Friday shopping events in November have recently taken Greeks by storm.

Winter Events

Christmas in Greece is nowhere near as big a deal as Greek Easter, but there are festive lights in the center of big cities like Athens. Also in Athens, New Year's Eve means festive fireworks over the Acropolis.

Fireworks explode over the Parthenon temple atop the Athens Acropolis hill during New Year's day celebrations, in Athens on January 1st, 2017. (Photo by Panayotis Tzamaros/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

The Best Times to Explore the Greek Islands

The best times to visit mykonos and santorini.

What ultimately draws visitors to Santorini is the views over the volcanic caldera and not the beaches, and that appeal has fueled the island's rise as a year-round destination. May and June are the best times to dodge the crowds but also enjoy some sun. Otherwise, it's probably better to wait until after mid-September.

Mykonos is a bit trickier: in May and June (and again in September) you'll have more elbow room at the island's many beaches and posh beach bars, but to get a taste of the international razzle dazzle for which the place is most famous, July and August do rock to that inimitable Mediterranean island vibe. But it's also a very expensive vibe. Unlike in Santorini, by the end of September it's already very quiet again in Mykonos.

Santorini, Greece. (Photo by Cosmic Timetraveler/Unsplash)

The Best Times to Visit Other Islands

Whether it's Corfu in the Ionian Islands, Rhodes and Patmos in the Dodecanese archipelago, Paros and the other islands that make up the Cyclades or Crete, the best time of year for an island visit is generally going to be in June, July or September. Prices are lower and hotel rooms are more readily available in June and September, and you can count on warm weather in those months, too.

Loads of Greeks and other Europeans on summer holiday can make island travel in August a real challenge — and sometimes a downright headache. And many islands have their off-season charms: For example, the Saronic Islands near Athens like Hydra and Aegina are easy and fun to visit any time of year (but beach time is mainly May through September).

When to Visit Greece to Avoid Crowds

The tourism season in Greece typically gets going after Greek Easter, with shoulder season ramping up in May and the peak season stretching from the latter part of June into July and all of August. Increasingly, in places like Athens and Crete, September is now considered a high season month.

If you want to avoid crowds in Athens, time your summer travel for June or August instead of July. In the Cycladic archipelago (which includes Mykonos and Santorini), avoid July and August unless you don't mind crowded ferries and higher prices.

In Crete, you can expect crowds at many beaches and in the cities of Heraklion and Chania from June right up until October, so consider June or early fall for Crete. By contrast, in Corfu where the beach season is not quite as long as in Crete, you'll have an easier time avoiding crowds in September.

Winter in Athens tends to be cold and damp, but there are still many sunny days and exploring museums and ancient ruins in the absence of crowds and big tour groups can be quite cool.

The Cheapest Times to Visit Greece

best time to visit greece october

Traveling to Greece is usually priciest during peak season, so if you're looking to save, wait until the off-peak or shoulder seasons. The best hotel deals in Athens are going to be from early January through March, but weather is not at its best at that time. You can generally find good hotel deals in April, May, the first part of June and sometimes in September (but less so in Crete).

The shoulder seasons in Greece run from April through the first part of June, and then from about mid-September through mid-October.

Affordable Airfare

Unsurprisingly, airfare is at its most expensive during the summer. July, specifically, is the priciest month when, according to the farecasting app Hopper, long-haul flight prices are around $1,090 round-trip. In May, that dips to $930 round-trip. But during the shoulder seasons and in winter, prices plunge accordingly.

Currently, all American airlines offer only seasonal nonstop flights to Athens and they tend to be expensive, but there's often a workaround. Find a cheap ticket to either London Heathrow (LHR) or London Gatwick (LGW) and then find a flight that fits your schedule with Greek carrier Aegean : a Star Alliance member with several flights a day from London to Athens International Airport (ATH). Plus, you'll typically get better service than you would from the British low-cost carriers, plus meals are included.

Affordable Hotels

best time to visit greece october

The most expensive time to book a hotel room in Athens is generally in the summer. The cheapest times are January (after the New Year holiday) and February. The most expensive time to book rooms in popular islands like Mykonos and Santorini is July and especially August.

According to Booking.com , based on bookings made between January 2018 and December 2018, hotels in Athens are 33% more affordable in February than compared to the most expensive month of the year, which (for Booking.com ) is June. Hotels in Santorini in January are 51% more affordable than they are in August, and for Mykonos, March is 73% more affordable than August.

If you're planning to visit Mykonos in the summer, you should plan ahead as much as possible and if you find a deal (paid or points), grab it. Expect hotels on many Greek islands — not just Mykonos and Santorini but also ones like Syros and Sifnos — to be completely sold out over the Aug. 15 Assumption holiday and do not assume you'll be able to find a deal, or anything really, on the spot during that extremely busy time.

In Crete's largest city of Heraklion as well as elsewhere on the island, the high season now effectively runs through the whole month of September, making it wise to book ahead in Crete even for early fall travel.

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Best and Worst Times to Visit Greece 2024

Best and Worst Times to Visit Greece 2024

Greece is famous for its stunning islands, deep history, and warm hospitality, which makes it a popular destination for summer vacations, honeymoons, and anniversaries.

For the best weather conditions, the best times to visit Greece are during spring (April to early June) and autumn (September to October) outside the summer peaks (July to August). These periods offer warm and sunny weather at around 24°C (75°F), without swarming crowds and the highest prices.

While planning a trip to Greece , read on to find out more detailed information about visiting Greece for different purposes and travel guides by month.

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1. best times for greek island-hopping (santorini, mykonos...), 2. best times for the cheapest prices and fewest crowds, 3. worst times to visit greece, 4. greece travel guide by month.

Greek islands make up most of its stunning scenery, not limited to the Cyclades and Dodecanese.

The best time for Greek island hopping is between late May and early October as there are more sunny days and the weather is warm enough to swim — the seawater's temperature exceeds 22°C (72°F).

During this period, the Aegean Sea shows its full beauty with crystal-clear seawater and stunning beaches as well as warm breezes bringing salty and fresh smells, making for a perfect summer vacation. Ferries and flights are also more frequent than at other times, so you can maximize your schedule. 

But you would not be alone to enjoy this perfect time. Expect big crowds during the peak season from June to August , along with rising temperatures and prices.

To get the best prices and avoid crowds during this period, late May to mid-June and late September to mid-October would be your best choices. Most hotels and venues on the islands are already/still open and you could save at least 50% on costs without waiting in long queues and hot weather, with average highs exceeding 35°C (95°F).

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While spring and autumn are the shoulder seasons in Greece, winter (November to March) is considered to be the low season with the cheapest prices and fewest crowds. This is because of occasional rain or snow and cool weather averaging 12°C (54°F).

Most hotels and venues on the islands are closed during this period and it might be too cold to swim. But on the bright side, it won't make a significant difference to visiting historic sites and ancient ruins with a weather-smart schedule, and you won't encounter large crowds and long queues.

If you're planning to travel during festivals , such as Christmas and New Year, these are exceptions, with a sudden rise in prices of accommodation and flights from 40%. Making reservations 3–6 months prior to your trip would be helpful to get a better deal for your trip and avoid unreasonable costs.

Looking for a hassle-free vacation? Simply reach out to us at Global Highlights. Your needs would be taken care of in every respect by your professional consultant, and we would personalize a smooth and stress-free private tour just for you.

Generally speaking, Greece is a year-round destination and could offer something whenever you pay a visit, with the worst time depending on where your interests lie.

If your itinerary includes a lot of outdoor sightseeing and hiking, then you should avoid July and August because of the uncomfortably hot weather with average highs exceeding 35°C (95°F), along with the highest prices and biggest crowds of the year.

However, if islands and beaches are a must for you, then November to March would be your worst time to visit Greece. During this period, most businesses on the islands close and the weather tends to be gloomy with occasional rain/snow, making it uncomfortable to engage in water activities. 

Are you having trouble balancing island beach time with outdoor sightseeing? Late May, June, and October would be your best times to visit Greece when the crowds and prices are relatively lower and you could participate in everything you want to make the most of your vacation in Greece.

Need more advice to plan a perfect trip to Greece? Contact us now at Global Highlights and together we would customize a hassle-free private tour for you.

Click the link for each month to check out detailed travel guide information.

  • Jan. and Feb.
  • Jul. and Aug.

Greece in January and February

Greece in January and February is similar, with gloomy days and chilly weather averaging 10°C (50°F). 

Despite the fact that it might be uncomfortably cold/wet to spend a long time on outdoor sightseeing, these months offer distinct advantages, such as fewer tourists and lower prices. Imagine having renowned attractions, such as the Acropolis in Athens and the White Tower of Thessaloniki, all to yourself.

Besides visiting ski resorts, such as Metsovo and Arachova, for winter leisure, January and February also offer festivals that let you experience warm hospitality and local culture.

You could celebrate the New Year holiday and enjoy fireworks at Athens' Syntagma Square, witness the inspiring cross retrieval ceremony during Epiphany for blessings, and join in the joyful Patras Carnival. With an array of exciting events, you would not lack interesting things to do.

Greece in March

While most island destinations remain closed, March in Greece brings cool yet sunnier weather, with temperatures averaging about 15°C (59°F). 

Santorini offers tranquil moments in the warmth of the sun and the Meteora region offers awe-inspiring spring landscapes during a weather-smart itinerary.

Moreover, Greece celebrates its Independence Day on March 25th , a time when people gather to cherish hard-won victories. Join in the parades, dances, and toasts — foreign travelers can easily blend into the joyful atmosphere.

Greece in April

April is considered to be the start of the best times to visit Greece, with sunny days and warm temperatures of about 19°C (66°F), which is great for outdoor sightseeing or hiking but may still be too cold for water activities.

Since April also signals the start of the shoulder season, you won't encounter hordes of tourists in most regions. The exception is during Greek Orthodox Easter , which falls on May 5th in 2024. 

Tourists from all over the world travel to Greece and gather in Athens to celebrate Easter, resulting in a brief surge in travel activity and prices.

Greece in May

May marks the month for the full opening of island destinations before the summer season. With warm temperatures averaging 23°C (73°F), it could be a great time for sunbathing and swimming on one of these sun-soaked paradises. Furthermore, this is the last opportunity to seize low-season discounts on popular islands, such as Santorini, Naxos, and Paros.

Not limited to islands alone, mainland Greece also shines in May. Gorgeous wildflowers blanket the mountains and plains, painting an idyllic scene that would captivate your eyes.

Greece in June

June brings about an increase in temperatures, rising to about 28°C (82°F), alongside the increasing crowds and prices. As the coolest month of the summer season, June offers perfect conditions for visiting your desired destinations. 

Hike in the Parnassos National Park in Delphi , explore the charming streets of the old town in Nafplio , or unwind on the captivating pink sands of Elafonisi Beach in Crete . Greece in June gives a warm welcome wherever you want to visit.

Greece in July and August

July and August in Greece form the peak of summer, both with scorching daily high temperatures averaging about 32°C (90°F) and swarms of holiday-makers from all over the world. Islands like Mykonos and Santorini beckon with their crystal-clear waters and lively atmosphere, inviting you to relax on stunning beaches and enjoy the vibrant nightlife.

If you prefer history and culture, explore the indoor sites to escape the heat. The Acropolis Museum or the National Archaeological Museum in Athens could be great options. To avoid crowds and the summer heat, visiting at less popular times of the day would be helpful, such as in the morning before 8am or at lunchtime between 11am and 1pm.

Greece in September

September in Greece brings milder weather, with temperatures averaging about 27°C (81°F). It's an ideal time for exploring Greece without the intense summer heat or the large crowds of tourists.

Enjoy pleasant seaside temperatures on the Greek islands, embark on boat trips to explore the volcano and hot springs in Santorini, or indulge in water sports, such as snorkeling and windsurfing, in Crete.

On the mainland, consider attending one of the local wine festivals that take place in September, such as the Anhiolos Wine Festival in Thessaloniki. It would add extra fun to your journey and you could experience the rich wine culture of Greece.

Greece in October

The weather tends to be mild in October in Greece, with high temperatures averaging about 22°C (72°F) and sunny days, making it an ideal month to explore Greece.

The Greek islands have a quieter ambiance without crowds and such high prices. Most facilities would still be operating, allowing you more space to savor their beauty and tranquility.

With such good weather, October is also an opportune time to delve deeper into Greece's cultural heritage. Marvel at the Heraklion Archaeological Museum in Crete or explore the Sanctuary of Asklepios at Epidaurus, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Greece in November

November is the start of the low season for visiting Greece, bringing cooler temperatures averaging about 17°C (63°F). Most islands close from this month until May since it is too cool for most to relax on the beaches.

While visiting islands may not be a good choice, you could explore mainland Greece during this month as it offers a different kind of charm. Take leisurely walks to explore the bustling cities and towns, appreciate the changing of the guard at Syntagma Square, and enjoy the opportunity to connect with the locals on a more personal level.

Greece in December

December in Greece is considered to be the festive month of the low season and temperatures average about 14°C (57°F). 

While the weather may be cooler than other months, Greece is still warmer than most countries in Europe. The cities come alive with enchanting decorations and a joyful atmosphere, attracting people there to celebrate Christmas.

Explore the Christmas markets in Athens or Thessaloniki, where you could enjoy the dazzling lights, festive music, the warmth of Greek hospitality, and even find unique gifts for your loved ones.

Keep in mind to reserve your accommodation and flights 3–6 months before your trip for a better deal. Or you could simply reach out to us now at Global Highlights and we would personalize the perfect private tour for you.

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best time to visit greece october

Greece In October: Weather & Travel Tips

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Wondering about the weather in Greece in October? Read on for a run-down through everything you need to know on that very subject. Here we cover everything from average air and sea temperatures, to what to expect in terms of costs and crowds, along with inspired itinerary suggestions that’ll help you make the most of your trip.

Is October a good time to visit Greece?

Air and sea temperatures in greece in october, can it rain in greece in october, what about the crowd and cost, what to wear in greece in october, unforgettable, fully customisable greece itineraries, what to do in greece in october, planning your october trip to greece, visit greece in other months.

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Capital & islands - Athens, Mykonos, Santorini and Crete

Experience a diverse Greek holiday exploring Athens, Mykonos, Santorini, and Crete. Enjoy daily excursions and the freedom of a rental car in Crete, immersing yourself in rich history, picturesque landscapes, and local charm.

If you’re not keen on crowds and super-scorching weather, October is definitely a good time to visit Greece. In fact, many return visitors to the country hail early autumn as their favourite time to go to Greece.

And the reasons? While the weather is mild (all the better if you’re planning an active holiday), you can expect 6-8 hours of sunshine a day.

Visiting Greece in October is also all the better for exploring top attractions, which draw colossal queues during the peak summer season. In addition, fewer crowds and lower costs means you have a bigger chance of bagging yourself the best accommodation at a better price.

Thinking of visiting Greece in October? Embark on your dream trip hassle-free with the help of our Greece travel experts.

Acropolis-Athens-shutterstock_156966542

Wondering about the weather in Greece in October? Warm, sunny days are still on the cards. Akropolis, Athens © Shutterstock 

The weather in Greece in October allows you to swim, sunbathe and enjoy al fresco dining to your heart’s content. However, as the month draws on, you might need a light cover-up to stave off evening chills.

In northern ( Thessaloniki ) and Central Greece ( Athens ), the daytime temperature rises to 20°C - 23°C (68°F - 73°F), with cooler evenings and mornings.

Southern Greece and the Greek Islands ( Crete , Santorini , Mykonos ) are on the warmer side, with air temperatures reaching 23°C to 26°C (73°F - 79°F) and pleasant evenings and mornings.

As for the sea temperatures in Greece in October, the average falls between 21°C - 23°C( 70°F - 73°F). Just be aware that by mid-October the Ionian and Aegean seas will cool quickly. So, if you’re keen on swimming, it’s best to visit earlier in the month.

Browse our inspirational Greece itineraries to start planning your perfect trip.

Balos lagoon on Crete island, Greece © Shutterstock

Dreamy blues abound in Greece — Balos lagoon, Crete © Shutterstock

At the start of October, there’s little chance of rain in Greece. Come the third week of the month, you’ll encounter more cloudy days, and the chance of rain rises to one in three days. 

Simply come armed with a light raincoat and brolly to soak up the warm temperatures, sights and scenery without getting soaked to the skin.

For more detail on the weather in Greece around the year, read up on best time to go to Greece. 

Melissani Cave, Kefalonia Island, Greece © Shutterstock

If rain strikes, take shelter in a cove or cave! Melissani Cave, Kefalonia © Shutterstock

Being shoulder season, visiting Greece in October means the crowds of peak summer season have departed. At the same time, the hiked costs of flights and accommodation also drop off. 

Just be aware that while you can bag some bargains when it comes to booking flights and ferries, operators are likely to run reduced services to all but the most popular spots. This means you might have a little less choice when it comes to deciding when to travel. 

Overall, coupled with the weather in Greece in October being clement, the smaller crowds and lower costs make it a mighty fine month to visit!

Set on taking an autumn break? For further inspo, discover more of the best places to visit in October .

Lycabettus hill at Athens, Greece © Shutterstock

Lycabettus hill, Athens, Greece © Shutterstock

For the day, you can pack pretty much what you’d bring for a summer break. So, if you’re heading to a beach or island, come armed with beach and swimwear. 

Wherever you’re heading, pack cool, comfortable clothes for daytime exploration e.g. shorts and sun dresses. You'll also want to pack light layers and longer garb for the evening, when it can become a little cool.

Aerial view of Vikos Gorge, a gorge in the Pindus Mountains of northern Greece, lying on the southern slopes of Mount Tymfi, one of the deepest gorges in the world. Zagori region, Greece © Shutterstock

October is a top time to vist Greece to hike Vikos Gorge, Zagori © Shutterstock

Longing for an October break that serves stacks of natural beauty, unique history, and sensational food? Take inspiration from our  Greece itineraries .

What’s more, these suggestions can be customised to your exact needs, with a local Greece travel expert on hand to offer insider tips, and take the hassle out of planning and booking.

  • Athens — City of the Gods (4 days): if you’re short on time and big on culture, this 3-night trip offers immersive insights to Athens’ ancient wonders and modern verve. From taking in the Classical charm of the Acropolis and the Parthenon, to indulging in the city’s thriving food scene in local tavernas, it’s a feast for the senses.
  • Epirus and Athens — the Ancient Sites (8 days): shrouded in myths and legends of Greek gods and Roman and Byzantine warriors, sites in the Epirus region of Greece have fascinating tales to tell. Add to that exploring Athens and the magic of mountainous Zagori, and this amounts to a diversely exhilarating experience.
  • Coast of Crete — a stunning self-drive experience (10 days): if you’re longing for awe-inspiring scenery, ancient culture, and a sense of freedom, this self-drive trip along Crete’s coast has your name all over it. Crete , Greece's largest island, delivers thousands of years of unique culture and rich history alongside untamed natural beauty.

Knossos Palace ruins. Heraklion, Crete, Greece © Shutterstock

Knossos Palace, Heraklion, Crete © Shutterstock

Visiting Greece in October is the ideal time to take advantage of seeing top cultural attractions unhindered by crowds, and to get back to nature in temperatures that are easier to handle.

With those general points in mind, along with a run-down of some October festivals, read on for ideas for what to do in Greece in October.

Enjoy October festivals

Spetses mini marathon.

Held in the first weekend of October, this family-friendly, two-day event features several running and swimming races, including kids’ events.

Held on 28 th October, this national holiday presents parades, folk dancing and speeches to commemorate Prime Minister Metaxas’ one-word reply to Mussolini’s 1940 ultimatum. Namely, Ohi! (“No!”).

Chestnut Festival

Held across the last weekend of October, one of Crete’s liveliest festivals features folk music, dancing, and a whole lot of lots of chestnuts to chomp on!

Take a wine tour

Greece has a rich winemaking tradition, and October is an excellent time to visit its vineyards. From the vineyards of Santorini and Nemea to those of northern Greece, you can enjoy wine tastings and learn about the local wine production.

Visit Athens without crowds

October is a great time to see some of the top sites in Athens without having to queue for hours.

From the Acropolis  and Parthenon, to the Temple of Athena Nike and the National Archeological Museum, Athens’ cultural treasures are abundant, and very popular. To see them without the hassle of queuing for hours and having to deal with huge crowds, October is an awesome time to visit the capital.

Acropolis Parthenon Athens, Greece © Shutterstock

Parthenon, Athens © Shutterstock

Agioi Anargyri beach in Spetses island, Greece © Shutterstock

Agioi Anargyri, Spetses island, Greece © Shutterstock

Feeling inspired to visit Greece in October, or any other time of the year, for that matter? Get yourself a copy of  The Rough Guide to Greece to start planning your dream trip. 

Alternatively, if the idea of planning leaves you cold, browse our customisable Greece itineraries.

Love the sound of exploring Greece away from the mainland? Read up on the best Greek Islands , and get yourself The Rough Guide to the Greek Islands . 

The Rough Guides to Greece and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

The Mini Rough Guide to Athens

Travel advice for Greece

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Greece

  • Culture and Etiquette in Greece
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Find even more inspiration here

Souvlaki © Shutterstock

written by Joanne Owen

updated 6.12.2023

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Joanne is a Pembrokeshire-born writer with a passion for the nature, cultures and histories of the Caribbean region, especially Dominica. Also passionate about inspiring a love of adventure in young people, she’s the author of several books for children and young adults, hosts international writing workshops, and has written articles on the Caribbean and inspirational community initiatives for Rough Guides. Follow her @JoanneOwen on Twitter and @joanneowenwrites on Instagram.

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Greece in October

Greece in October: Best Places to Visit in Autumn

Last Modified: December 4, 2023 //  by  Anda //   Leave a Comment

By virtue of its location – in southeastern Europe – Greece enjoys a milder climate than the rest of the continent. While in most parts of Europe the weather starts to get miserable in October, in Greece fall time offers the best of all worlds. Temperatures are still warm, prices are lower, and the herds of tourists are gone.

Greece in October

October marks the transition from summer to autumn, but many people consider it the ideal month for a vacation in Greece. But can you still swim and sunbathe in October? Keep reading to find out what to expect if you travel to Greece in the fall, as well as what are the best places to visit at this time of year.

Table of Contents

What Is the Weather Like in Greece in October?

Where to go in greece in october, aegean vs. ionian sea: which islands are warmer in october, rhodes island, the downside of traveling to greece in october, how to pack for greece in october.

Although it’s considered the shoulder season in Greece, the month of October feels more like the “Indian Summer , “ or “St. Martin’s Summer,” as they call it in Europe. It’s period of abnormally warm weather, with clear skies and cool nights. The sun is still shining all day and the sea is pleasantly warm for swimming.

Autumn is colder in the northern part of the country and in the mountains, but in most parts of Greece the first half of October can be really warm.

Boating in Greece in the fall

At the beginning of the month you can expect daily highs up to 82ºF (28ºC) and 10-11 hours of daylight per day. As the month progresses the temperatures will start falling and you’ll may see occasional showers. However, the average rainfall in October doesn’t exceed 5-6 days in Greece.

During the day-time the average temperature rarely falls below 20ºC (68ºF) in October, although mornings and nights are cooler (14ºC – 16ºC at). Even so, evenings are still warm enough for dining outside, but you may need a light jacket.

October is arguably the best month for visiting the top cultural sites in Greece. Besides good travel deals, the temperatures are pleasant for walking and you’ll have fewer visitors to compete with at the archeological sites and major museums. If you want to stay on Greece’s mainland, October may be a great month for taking a road trip in the Peloponnese .

taking a road trip in Greece in October

But autumn is also the best season for island hopping in Greece, when the crowds have dissipated but the beach life still continues into late October. Whatever your taste, you’ll find plenty of fantastic destinations to choose from at this time of year.

The Greek islands are beautiful year-round, but the temperature varies quite a bit between the seasons. Although the weather is still pleasantly warm in October, some islands will experience higher temperatures than others. So which islands are warm enough for swimming and sunbathing in October, the Aegean or the Ionian?

Greece - Zakynthos Island in October

As a general rule, the earlier in the month you travel the warmer weather you are likely to get. But there is also a distinction between the the Aegean and Ionian Sea islands , when it comes to their fall climate.

The Aegean islands are known for their dry year-round weather, but the average annual temperature of the water is lower in the Aegean than in the Ionian Sea. There are however a few exceptions, like the islands of Crete or Rhodes, which have an average sea temperature much higher than any of the ones in the Ionian Sea.

paddleboarding in the Ionian Sea

Another factor to consider when choosing between the Aegean and the Ionian Sea islands is the wind. Generally, the tender winds of the Ionian Sea in combination with the relatively low sea depths make these islands an ideal place for sailing. While the stronger winds in the Cyclades are suited for the more experienced sailors.

Best Islands in Greece to Visit in October

That being said, here are the best Greek islands to visit in October: 

When compared to other islands in Greece, Crete gets the highest fall temperatures, which will last till the end of October. That’s mostly due to its geographical location in the South Aegean Sea, close to North Africa. 

Fall brings fewer crowds and quieter beaches, while the sea is still warm for swimming and the air temperature is just perfect for walking and sightseeing. The average day-time temperature in October is 25ºC, while the evening average is 18ºC.

view of a beach Crete, Greece

In the second part of the month the temperature begins to decrease – after all, it’s autumn in Greece! You can expect some clouds and even a bit of rain, occasionally. But unless you are really unlucky, you should have mainly sunny days in Crete in October. That’s especially true for the southern part of the island.

Autumn landscape in Crete, Greece

Crete is a pretty large place – 300 km long – so depending on where you are you may see some differences in climate, but not significantly big. The island is full of archaeological sites, beautiful lagoons, caves and quaint villages that are a lot of fun to explore at this time of year.

Autumn is a great month in Rhodes as well. We visited the island on the first week of October and everything was still open, although the places seemed much quieter. We enjoyed 30ºC (86ºF) all week, but usually the temperature here ranges from 70—76°F (21—25°C) in October.

Mandraki harbour, Rhodes, Greece

In ancient times, Rhodes was famous for being the home of one of the Seven Ancient Wonders of the World – the Colossus of Rhodes. Sadly, no trace of the huge statue remains today.

Rhodes island, Greece

However, there is still a lot to see and do on this Greek island in October. Like visiting the city of Rhodes, the Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes, taking a boat tour around the island, or going on a wine tasting tour.

Although there is really no “bad” time to visit the Ionian Islands, the best season is still in October, when the weather is mostly warm and sunny, but not too hot. As opposed to the Cyclades which are dry and barren, the Ionian Sea Islands are covered in vegetation and still very green in October. And Zakynthos is no exception.

Zakynthos island

Zakynthos is one of Greece’s most popular destinations, a paradise for snorkeling, sailing and hiking. Covered with olive groves and vineyards, the island is surrounded by secluded beaches and fantastic caves. Zakynthos is the ideal place for renting a boat and sailing around.

Boating in Zakynthos

We visited the island in mid October, when the tourist season was winding down. This gave us a perfect opportunity to explore the rustic villages and enjoy the beaches without having too many people around.

Being the largest of the Ionian Islands, Kefalonia never feels too crowded. Even so, in October the island becomes a paradise for those who love private escapes in Greece. Some of the beaches can be virtually empty, although the temperature stays in the high 70s (20ºC) till mid November.

The port of Fiskardo, Kefalonia

Some hotels and restaurants close in mid October, but even so you’ll still find plenty of lodging and enough traditional tavernas that stay open year round.

best time to visit greece october

One of the main events that takes place in Kefalonia every year on October 20 is the Feast of St. Gerasimos, the island’s patron saint. The saint’s remains are paraded in a glided case throughout the streets of the island. After the parade, the locals party into the early hours of the morning with music, dancing, drinking, and eating.

Corfu is beautiful year-round, but we prefer it off-season when it’s more laid back and has so much quieter beaches. During October you can expect 11 hours of daylight with 6 hours of sunshine each day. The average day temperatures in Corfu is 24ºC.

Beach in Corfu

The sea temperature is one of the best things about traveling to Greece in late fall and Corfu is no exception. The water starts to get cold only at the beginning of November, so October is still a great month for swimming.

As far as rain, the first part of October is still dry but towards the end of the month you’ll begin to see more clouds and even some rain. Nonetheless, storms are short and usually clear quickly leaving behind sunny skies.

Corfu historic town

That being said, you should plan both beach days and sightseeing days and be ready to modify your itinerary as you go. You’ll have plenty of fun things to do in Corfu, no matter what the weather is. And although some places close in mid October, most resorts are quite active throughout November and even year round.

Other Destinations in Greece to Visit in October

If you are a beach lover but want to stay on Greece’s mainland, here are some places that make great beach destinations for October:

Although Athens is famous mainly for its sightseeing, there are many beautiful beaches to explore all along the Attica peninsula.

October average temperature in this area is 24ºC during the day and 14ºC at night. The weather is just perfect, whether you want to visit the archeological sites, tour some museums, or dine out at any of the tavernas, or visit the beaches.

Sunio Beach near Athens, Greece in October

And if you have more than just 3 days in Athens, you can head to Delphi to check out the sanctuary of the Greek god Apollo and his priestess, Pythia . Or you can visit some of the wineries in the Attica region, Ancient Corinth, or the Temple of Poseidon. Whatever your interests, thre are plenty of easy day trips to take from Athens .

Visiting Greece in October

Athens is also home to some exciting art and culture festivals in October, so you can plan your autumn trip to Greece around them.

The Monasteries of Meteora are one of the most astonishing religious sites in Greece, second in importance only to Mount Athos. Whether you visit Meteora for religious reasons or simply because you like to travel, the monasteries will leave a long lasting impression on your heart.

view of the Holy Monastery in Meteora

The utter immensity of Meteora’s towering rocks gives you a sense of grandeur that is hard to put into words. This mystical landscape has an atmosphere that feels almost surreal and gives you a sense of peace and tranquility.

Meteora is a year-round destination and can be beautiful at any time of year. Even in winter. But if you come in summer, expect to walk shoulder to shoulder (literally!) with hundreds of other tourists. The best time to visit Meteora is in spring (April-May) or fall (October to mid-November). After November the weather changes dramatically and you can get a lot of fog.

One of the most memorable places in Greece to visit in October is the citadel of Monemvasia . Hanging on the side of a solitary rock on a small island, the fortress is an absolute marvel!

October temperatures in Monemvasia range from 23ºC (73°F) to 19ºC (66°F), so this is one of the best fall destinations in Greece. 

image depicting the Castle of Monemvasia, Greece

In Ancient Greece, the citadel of Monemvasia was probably home to thousands of inhabitants, but today only a handful of people reside here full time. Most of the old houses on the island are now boutique hotels or expensive weekend homes, making it an ideal choice for those who wish to stay within the castle citadel. 

Outside of the castle of Monemvasia there is a hidden corner from which you can enjoy swimming in deep crystal clear waters of the Ionian Sea. Water temperature in October is around 24ºC, which is just pleasant for swimming.

Located on the Argolic Gulf on the eastern side of the Peloponnese, Nafplio is an incredibly picturesque seaside town. It’s beautiful beaches, buzzing squares, and vibrant port make it an ideal fall destination in Greece.

seaside promenade in Nafplio

The small town is also home to two hilltop castles and an offshore island fort, which are very easy to explore when it’s not too hot outside. October temperature in this part of Greece is very pleasant during the day, measuring around 23.5°C (74.3°F). At night the temperature goes down to around 14.2°C (57.56°F), which is still very pleasant.  

Although overall we prefer Greece in autumn or in the spring, there are some inconveniences for traveling to off season.

• Many hotels and restaurants will close from mid October to April, so you’ll have fewer lodging and eating options.

image depicting a restaurant that is closed for the season

• Ferries change their schedule in fall and some routes may not even be available. For instance, during high season (June – September) there are 95 scheduled ferry crossings per week between Kefalonia and Lefkada. While during low season (October – May) there are only 7 ferry crossing per week. This may be an inconvenience.

• Daylight hours are shorter, as the sun rises around 7:30 am and sets at 6:45 pm.

• Water temperatures are obviously lower in fall. For instance, around the Ionian Islands they may not exceed 74ºF (23ºC) in October. I still consider that temperature comfortable for swimming, but many people prefer the water warmer.

Packing for Greece is generally easy, as you won’t need any fancy clothing or special attire, like when you pack for Patagonia for instance. But if you travel to Greece in the fall, I recommend packing both summer and autumn clothes, as the weather can be a mixed bag at this time of year. So here are some items that shouldn’t be missing from your luggage:

Lightweight clothes to pack for Greece in October

Light weight clothes

Greece is just the right place for wearing cotton and linen clothes. I alway pack a couple of long-sleeve tee shirts, some tank tops, a skirt and a few summer dresses. For my husband I pack shorts, tee-shirts and some white slacks.

Even though temperatures will be in the upper 70s (24-25ºC) in October, I definitely recommend that you bring a raincoat if you travel to Greece in fall. The chance of rain is fairly high, so a lightweight raincoat is a good idea.

Swimsuits and a hat  

Chances of having mostly sunny and warm days in October is pretty high in Greece. As average temperatures are above 20ºC, you’ll most likely spend a lot of time on the beach, so make sure you bring swimsuits and a hat.

Boating in Greece in the fall

Snorkeling gear

No matter where you are in Greece you’ll never be too far from the sea, so bringing your snorkel is a must. The crystal clear waters around the Greek island are just perfect for snorkeling!

Lightweight Jacket

Evenings are definitely cooler in October and many tavernas have only outside seating. So, if you like to dine outside or stroll around in the evenings, I strongly recommend bringing a long pair of pants and some warm clothes. Sometimes it gets pretty chilly after the sun goes down.

Light jacket you can wear in Greece in October

Comfortable shoes  

If you travel to Greece in autumn you’ll most likely do a lot of walking, so you should bring some comfortable shoes. Also, you should be prepared for pebble beaches. Besides sandals, I also carry of pair of choral shoes which come in very handy if I need to hike a short dirt trail (to/from the beach).

GREECE IN THE FALL pin

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Anda is an award winning travel writer, avid globetrotter and passionate photographer. She is the voice behind "Travel Notes & Beyond," a collection of stories and travel impressions from her wanderings around the world. When she is not busy writing, traveling, or editing photographs, you can find her hiking in the foothills behind her house together with her husband and their dog.

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6 Places to Go in Greece in October 2024

Greece in October offers the perfect escape, boasting comfortably warm weather and inviting seas still basking in the afterglow of summer. Take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters of Rhodes, Crete, or Kos, where swimming remains delightful well into the month. And with the heat dialed down, October unveils Greece’s true adventurous spirit.

best time to visit greece october

Hike through breathtaking landscapes, explore ancient ruins like Delphi and Mystras, or marvel at the sky-high monasteries of Meteora, all without breaking a sweat. Immerse yourself in vibrant local festivals, indulge in delicious seasonal cuisine, and discover the magic of Greece beyond the peak summer crowds.

Great Meteoron in Meteora Monasteries, Greece in October.

Don’t forget the financial benefits of traveling in October! Hotels shed their summer prices, offering significant savings. Plus, with fewer crowds, expect exceptional service and genuine interactions with locals who have more time to share their culture and recommendations. It’s a win-win!

* Some of the links below are affiliate links. That means I may make a commission if you click and buy. The commission comes at no additional cost to you.

Best Things to Do in Greece in October

Athens quick reference.

  • Where to stay in Athens with stunning Acropolis view : Niche Hotel or The Foundry Suites
  • Book your ferry tickets with no-hidden-fees at FerryScanner or FerryHopper
  • Rent a car with  Discover Cars  for reliable new cars at affordable prices

My Latest Video for Greece

1. Visit Classy Spetses Island

After island hopping through the Aegean for years, Spetses surprised me with its unique blend of charm and sophistication.

Spetses Greece Travel Guide, Spetses town

Unlike its lively neighbors, this “aristocratic island” in the Argosaronic boasts elegant 19th-century mansions lining cobbled streets, whispering tales of its rich maritime history.

Spetses Greece Travel Guide, xylokeriza in Spetses Island

Relax on secluded beaches, explore hidden coves by kayak, or wander through charming boutiques – Spetses has something for everyone seeking a laid-back yet refined Aegean escape. And the best part? Poros , Hydra , and Aegina are just a short ferry ride away, making Spetses an ideal base for island-hopping adventures.

Ferry Tip: The ferries in October are not as frequent as they are during the summer. Book your trip with no hidden fees at FerryScanner .

Where to Stay in Spetses

Here are some of the best places to stay in Spetses, depending on your budget and preferences:

Spetses Greece Travel Guide, poseidonion hotel exterior in Spetses Island

  • Poseidonion Grand Hotel Spetses (luxury):  This iconic hotel is the epitome of luxury in Spetses, offering stunning sea views, private balconies, a spa, and multiple restaurants.
  • Armata Boutique Hotel Spetses Greece ( mid-range) :  This charming boutique hotel is located in the heart of Spetses, just steps from the beach and the harbor. It features beautiful gardens, an outdoor pool, and a rooftop terrace with panoramic views.
  • Ethereal Stay (budget): A fantastic property in an excellent location right next to the old port and main activities with beautifully decorated rooms.

2. Discover Andros Island

best time to visit greece october

For a change of pace, consider Andros – just a 2-hour ferry ride from Athens’ Rafina port. Unlike its sun-scorched Cycladic neighbors, Andros boasts verdant landscapes nurtured by 7 mineral water springs, the most famous being Sariza. This green oasis offers a refreshing escape in October, ideal for hiking amidst lush valleys, or charming villages without the summer crowds.

Andros Greek Island main Chora, Greece in October.

Chora, the island’s main town is the star, with its mix of fancy neoclassical buildings and cute whitewashed houses. Picture strolling down narrow streets lined with cafes and art galleries, then exploring the cool Venetian Castle for epic sea views. Art lovers? Andros has museums overflowing with treasures, from Picasso and Matisse at the Goulandris to ancient finds at the Archaeological Museum.

best time to visit greece october

If history isn’t your thing, no worries! Hike up the impressive Tourlitis Lighthouse for jaw-dropping Aegean panoramas. And let’s talk beaches – Andros boasts some of the best in the Cyclades, perfect for soaking up the sun or splashing in the turquoise waters.

But if you’re more of an active explorer, lace up your boots! Andros boasts a whopping 170 km of hiking trails, many of them well-marked and interconnected. The crown jewel is the 100 km Andros Routes network, linking north and south for epic adventures.

Andros has a wealth of things to do and see in an elegant and peaceful environment.

Where to Stay in Andros

Greece in October, hotel Andros by the sea

Aegean Castle Andros ( luxury, adults only, buffer breakfast ) is a lovely mansion with amazing views, very friendly and attentive staff, and delicious food, in a secluded green area of Agia Eleousa in Andros for an unforgettable experience!

Blue Bay Resort Village ( mid-range, child and pet-friendly, buffet breakfast) is located in a stunning location in Batsi Andros, the Blue Bay Resort offers heartwarming hospitality with finely decorated rooms and a classy environment.

Villa George (budget, family-friendly) in Batsi Andros is perfectly located in front of the sea with a fantastic beach to swim in, quiet, super clean with friendly and helpful staff. Batsi village is just a 5-minute walk from Villa George.

3. Explore Santorini’s Magic in October

best time to visit greece october

Imagine ditching the shoulder-to-shoulder summer crowds and having Santorini practically to yourself! October paints the island in a whole new light with comfy sunshine, perfect for chilling in cute villages and snapping epic cliff pics without melting.

The Aegean Sea is still warm enough for a dip, and the markets are bursting with colorful harvest goodies, making every meal a feast. Plus, forget waiting in line for that perfect caldera view – October means fewer tourists and more epic moments just for you.

best time to visit greece october

Whether you’re chasing epic sunsets, sipping delicious local wine, or conquering those Insta-worthy hiking trails, Santorini in October is all about affordability, chilled vibes, and soaking up the real island charm. So, pack your swimsuit, and your sense of adventure, and get ready to discover Santorini’s hidden gems – October is waiting!

Where to Stay in Santorini with Caldera Views

Here are some hotels in Santorini, categorized by budget and all offering caldera views, perfect for your October trip:

best time to visit greece october

Katikies Hotel (luxury):  Arguably one of the most iconic hotels in Santorini, Katikies boasts breathtaking caldera views from its private balconies, infinity pools, and Michelin-starred restaurant. It’s known for its luxurious amenities, exceptional service, and romantic atmosphere.

Canaves Oia Luxury Suites :  This boutique hotel offers stunning cave suites carved into the caldera cliffs, each with its own private plunge pool and balcony overlooking the Aegean Sea. Guests can enjoy personalized service, a world-class spa, and gourmet dining experiences.

Dana Villas & Infinity Suites (mid-range): Located in Firostefani, Dana Villas offers charming cave houses with private balconies and hot tubs, all with amazing caldera views. The property boasts a beautiful pool, friendly staff, and a delicious breakfast included in the stay.

White Pearl Cavalieri (mid-range):  Situated in Imerovigli, this hotel offers stunning views of the caldera and the Aegean Sea from its rooftop terrace and infinity pool. Guests can enjoy spacious rooms with balconies, a delicious breakfast buffet, and a relaxed atmosphere.

Kokkinos Villas (budget):  Located in Akrotiri, Kokkinos Villas offers traditional cave houses with balconies and shared terraces, all with caldera views. The property boasts a friendly atmosphere, affordable rates, and a basic breakfast included.

Are you looking for the best Santorini budget hotels ? Check out this informative post.

4. Enjoy a 3-Day Trip to Delphi and Meteora

Delphi Oracle ancient theater

Greece is a mountainous country so some sites are much more difficult to get to them than others especially if you are visiting during the heat of the Greek summer. Two great examples are the steep uphills of the Delphi and the endless steps to get to some of the Meteora Monasteries .

A man standing and looking at Meteora Monasteries

Delphi and Meteora are best visited when the weather is much cooler like October to April and on a 3-day trip, spending a night in Delphi and one night in Meteora. A draft of the itinerary can be:

Day 1: Athens – Ancient Olympia in the Peloponnese – Galaxidi seaside town, 30 km away from Delphi. Spend your evening in the beautiful Galaxidi and stay at the best Boutique Hotel in town with the most delicious handmade marmalades: Ganimede Hotel, Galaxidi .

Meteora Monasteries Varlaam

Day 2: Visit the Delphi Archaeological Site, stroll Arachova town, go to UNESCO Osios Loukas Monastery, drive to Meteora, and stay overnight in Kalambaka town. The best Hotel to stay at in Kalambaka is Archontiko Mesohori Suites & Apartments .

Day 3: Visit UNESCO Meteora Monasteries .

5. Explore Athens in October

best time to visit greece october

Athens in October is simply amazing. The vast majority of tourists are gone, and you will mostly find the locals hurrying around to their busy schedules. This is the best time to visit in a relaxing way the most famous Greek landmarks in the world: the Acropolis Hill and the Parthenon.

best time to visit greece october

If you head toward Athens Riviera you will realize that Athenians continue to swim even in October.

Athens is also perfect as a city break destination. If you are traveling to Europe you can fly for a long weekend to Athens and get the best of what the city has to offer.

My favorite things to do and visit in Athens are:

  • Travel the Athens Riviera to the Temple of Poseidon in Cape Sounion and watch the stunning sunset there
  • Choose any of the numerous beaches in the Attika region and swim in the clear waters. One of the best beaches and nearest in Athens center is in Vouliagmeni or Kavouri beach, where you can also find some of the best waterfront restaurants in Athens
  • Go to the Chocolate Festival organized in Technopolis in the Gkazi area in mid-October
  • Watch the OCHI DAY, a military parade in central Athens, celebrating the refusal of Greeks to surrender to the Italians back on 28th October 1940. It’s celebrated nationwide and all the sites /museums will be closed for that day.

Greece in October, Greek parliament special guerds - evzones

If you would like to get a full tour of Athens, check my full Guide on the Best Athens Monuments so that you do not miss a site!

Where to Stay in Athens

best time to visit greece october

You can find all types of hotels in Athens from super luxury hotels like Grande Bretagne in Athens center and seafront Four Seasons Astir Palace to the best hotels and apartments near old Athens Plaka and Acropolis Parthenon in my complete list below:

  •   Where to Stay in Plaka, Athens’ Old Town (Hotels and Apartments)
  • Acropolis View Hotels & Apartments in Athens
  • Best Athens Beach Hotels (By the Athens Riviera Coastline)
  • Central Apartments in Athens (near Acropolis)
  • Athens Budget Apartments
  • Athens Budget Hotels

6. Hike in Pelion Mountain

best time to visit greece october

Greece is made for walking, so the answer is almost everywhere in the country. There is a mountain or a hill or a nearby forest or a river or a lake to hike, climb, or cross, wherever you go in Greece.

My favorite place to hike in Greece is Pelion Mountain located in mid-eastern Greece.

Zagora village in Pelion Mt

Imagine a deeply forested peninsula with 28 traditional, beautiful villages full of old mansions and monuments, trees laden with pears, apples, chestnuts, planes, streams, and centuries-old bridges.

The most famous Pelion villages are:

  • Damouchari (Mamma Mia’s Film Location) and

Greece in October, Agioi Saranta beach in Pelion Mount

As if that was not enough, the peninsula is surrounded by endless golden sandy beaches, some of the best in Greece. In autumn the forest leaves take red and orange hues creating magnificent landscapes that you would just love to hike!

Join the October Pelion Festivals

Greece in October, Tsagarada escape festival in pelion Mt

In the first week of October in Tsagkarada the locals organize the Escape Festival .

The Festival is a fully outdoor activity celebration that includes canyoning, hiking, rock climbing, archery, sea kayaking, horse riding, flying fox, and yoga. All participation and events are free of charge.

Greece in October, chestnuts Festival in Pelion

2. On The last days of October, usually between the 26-28 of the month, in a small village close to Tsagkarada, in Xourichti, the “delicious” Chestnut Festival is organized by the local authorities.

There is no entrance fee and the visitors can taste boiled and baked local chestnuts (Pelion is huge in chestnut production), food cooked with chestnuts, dance with the locals, and enjoy an authentic local Greek feast (the poster says that free wine is included as well!).

best time to visit greece october

The last and very important reason to visit Greece in October? Prices and rates are low and the local businesses devote a lot of quality time to offering their guests the best experience in their place.

So that when you go back home, Greece will stay in your heart forever.

Where to Stay in Tsagarada Pelion

best time to visit greece october

12 Months Luxury Resort :  Immerse yourself in ultimate luxury at this 5-star resort, featuring an infinity pool with breathtaking Aegean Sea views, a spa, gourmet dining, and elegant suites with private balconies.

Amalthia Traditional Guesthouse (mid-range):  Enjoy a warm and welcoming atmosphere at this traditional guesthouse, offering comfortable rooms, a swimming pool, and a delicious homemade breakfast. Explore the beautiful gardens and soak in the serene mountain views.

Stilvi (budget): Find affordable comfort at this family-run hotel, offering clean and basic rooms with balconies or terraces. Enjoy the friendly atmosphere and convenient location within walking distance of restaurants and shops.

FAQs for Traveling to Greece in October

best time to visit greece october

What is the Weather Like in Greece in October?

If you can’t stand the crazy hot temperatures of Greek summers (30-45 C in July and August) then October is your ideal month to explore Greece. Summer meltemia (Aegean Sea north winds) have stopped blowing everyone’s hair and it is now much more enjoyable to sail in Greece.

The daily temperature in Athens in October is usually around 25 to 26 C while in the evening drops around to 17 C. Toward the end of October, it might get a bit cooler but nothing too dramatic. There might be some rain for 4-5 days of the month. Greek nature and forests are beautiful with red and orange colors making the hikes in the hills one of the best things to do in Greece in October.

What to Wear in Greece in October

Greece in October, Me Evgenia Pelion Milies November

Athens October’s highest temperatures varied between 16 and 26 C and the lowest between 10 and 18 C. For this kind of weather, you need to pack a smart combination of light (t-shirts and light long pants) and warmer clothes for cooler nights or a sudden change of weather.

For a smart outfit for your night outs, a smart jumpsuit is perfect and you can combine it with a different jacket. Another essential item is Spyder Women’s Encore Fleece Jacket (amazon), warm, classy, and convenient for any outdoor activity or the chillier nights in Greece.

Read my Detailed Packing List for Greece here

Are there any festivals or events happening in October?

Yes! Some notable events include:

  • Vinsanto Festival (Santorini):  Celebrate the island’s renowned wine production with tastings, events, and cultural performances.
  • Oia Film Festival (Santorini):  Immerse yourself in independent cinema under the stars.
  • Dionysia Festival (Athens):  Witness ancient theatrical performances in a unique setting.
  • Kastoria International Dragon Boat Festival:  Enjoy adrenaline-pumping races and cultural festivities.

Should I book accommodation in advance?

While October is less crowded, it’s still advisable to book accommodation in advance, especially for popular destinations and during events. Early booking might also secure better deals.

How do I get around Greece?

A: Greece has a good public transportation system with ferries, buses, and trains connecting major islands and cities. Renting a car is also an option for flexible exploration.

Plan My Trip to Greece

Do you need a custom travel itinerary for Greece? Are you traveling solo, with your family or friends and need a tailor-made multi-day tour or a transfer within Greece?

If yes, please visit my dedicated Plan My Trip Page for a free itinerary!

How to Get to Pireaus Port from Athens Airport

Bus X96 Peiraias Port to Athens Airport

  • Bus: If you are arriving at Athens International Airport you can travel straight to the port by taking the X96 express bus (€5.5, children <6 yo, free entrance) , which departs every 40 minutes and the average trip lasts 1 hour – runs 24/7.
  • Metro : (€9) is easily found across airport arrivals (blue line – M3) going directly to Piraeus port. The average trip to Piraeus lasts 1 hour.
  • Taxis are available in front of the airport (around €40 to Athens, €55-60 to Piraeus (depending on the traffic in Kifisos), and take up to 3 or 4 people with small luggage)
  • Rent a car with Discover Cars to rent reliable new cars at affordable prices
  • You don’t like driving but love hassle-free solutions? Book a Private transfer with an English-speaking driver from Athens International Airport to Piraeus Ferries, or anywhere else in Greece
  • Are you looking for domestic flights in Greece ? Check out the official Aegean Airlines Website.

Where is your dream summer destination? Would you go to Greece in October?

I’d love to hear about where you’re spending your vacation this year, especially if you have any exciting travel plans! There are so many things to do in Greece in October. I hope that you get the chance to try as many as possible. Till next time, Evgenia❤️

My Most Popular Articles

  • Greece Packing List – What to pack for a 10-day trip to Greece
  • Mamma Mia Greece Locations – All the mainland and island shooting areas in Greece
  • Salamina Island – So close to Athens, so unknown to the mass tourism
  • Kefalonia Island – Belonging to the Ionian group like Corfu island
  • First Time in Greece? All the info you need to know!

Essential Greek Travel Info

  • ‘Hello’ and ‘Thank You’ in Greek: “Ya sou” and “Efharisto”
  • Booking.com : I use Booking.com because I can get the best deals on hotels and apartments, free cancellations, and great prices!
  • All-Inclusive Resorts in Greece
  • FerryScanner to book f erries to the Greek Islands
  • Rent an Affordable Car in Greece
  • Athens Metro Website (timetables and ticket info)
  • Map of Athens Metro
  • Trains (Hellenic Train)
  • Public Buses KTEL
  • Get Your Guide : For all your day or multi-day tours and city guide needs, I use Get Your Guide
  • Emergency Numbers Anywhere in Greece: AMBULANCE 166 – FIRE 199 – POLICE 100 – EMERGENCY NUMBER 112

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The Best Time To Visit Greece [By Seasons and Interests]

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The Best Time To Visit Greece [By Seasons and Interests]

Greece: At a Glance

Spring (march, april, may), summer (june, july, august), fall (september, october, november), winter (december, january, february), the best time to visit the greek islands, the best time to visit mykonos, the best time to visit santorini, the best time to visit crete, the best time to visit corfu, the cheapest time to travel to greece, final thoughts.

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Greece is a bucket-list destination for many travelers. This Mediterranean country offers incredible historical sites like the Acropolis, iconic views in places like Santorini, and lively nightlife in Mykonos, along with plenty of art, culture, and breathtaking scenery throughout the country.

A question many people ask is: “What’s the best time to visit Greece?” While there’s no definitive answer to this question, there are some guidelines you may want to follow based on what you’re looking for (great weather, no crowds, etc.).

In this post, we’ll go over the benefits and drawbacks of visiting Greece in each season and look at the best times to visit based on your interests.

Map of Greece

Greece is located in southeastern Europe, boarded by Albania, North Macedonia, Bulgaria, and Türkiye. While you may be familiar with some of the country’s more famous islands like Crete, Santorini, and Mykonos, there are actually thousands of islands scattered throughout the Ionian and Aegean Seas, giving the country one of the longest coastlines in the world.

Greece thrived in ancient times and is often called the cradle of Western civilization. Perhaps its most famous landmark is the Acropolis , which includes the Parthenon and the Temple of Athena Nike. These sites have enormous architectural and historical significance and can draw 16,000 visitors in a single day .

Greece has a Mediterranean climate, meaning it’s hot and dry in the summer and cool and wet in the winter. During the summer, it can be very hot and there’s little rainfall. Summer heat in Greece is no joke — Athens is often cited as the hottest capital city in Europe. In the winter, northern and mountainous regions can see snow while southern islands remain mild.

Hot Tip: The currency in Greece is the euro, so be sure to have some handy. We also recommend using a credit card without foreign transaction fees whenever possible.

The Best Time To Visit Greece by Season

Greece in the spring

If you’re looking for mild weather and smaller crowds, consider visiting Greece in the spring. April and May are great times to visit as long as the beach isn’t the first priority on your to-do list (it’s still a little chilly for the beach during these months). Average daytime temperatures range from about 60 degrees in March to about 77 degrees in May.

Most of the Greek Islands are fully open by May for the summer tourism season.

Holy Week and Easter (March or April, depending on the year) are important times in the country, so you may see prices increase during these events.

  • Apokries (February or March)
  • Orthodox Easter and Holy Week (March or April)
  • Salsa Spring Festival (May)

Zakynthos Greece

It probably comes as no surprise that summer is the most popular time to visit Greece . Unfortunately, this also means it’s the most crowded time in Greece.

July and especially August are the hottest and busiest months in the country. If you’re planning on visiting historical sites in Athens or popular islands like Santorini or Mykonos, be prepared for extreme heat and huge crowds.

Average daily temperatures range from about 86 degrees to 90 degrees, but it’s not uncommon to see days that exceed 100 degrees.

  • Athens Epidaurus Festival (all summer)
  • Kalamata International Dance Festival  (July)
  • Rockwave Festival (July)
  • Olympus Festival  (July to August)
  • Sani Festival (July to August)
  • Vovousa Festival (July to August)
  • Molyvos International Music Festival (August)

Hot Tip: If you enjoy unique accommodations, check out these boutique hotels in Athens .

Mykonos Greece

Early fall — especially September — can be a great time to visit Greece since it’s still warm but crowds start to thin once kids are back in school.

September has an average daily temperature of 83 degrees, but after that, cooler days start to appear. The average daily temperature in October is 73 degrees and it drops to 64 degrees in November.

While October might be a little too cool for swimming, it’s a wonderful time for sightseeing. The rainy season starts around the end of September, so keep that in mind when you’re visiting Greece in the fall. And don’t forget to pack a travel umbrella or rain poncho !

  • Athens International Film Festival (September to October)
  • Athens Marathon. The Authentic  (November)
  • Thessaloniki International Film Festival (November)

Acropolis and Parthenon in Athens Greece

Winter is the low season in Greece , with crowds and costs at a minimum beginning in November all the way until March. Many tourist attractions have shorter hours and some islands can even close for the whole season.

Winter can actually be a decent time to visit Athens, though. While the weather can be chilly, it’s not frigid, with average daily temperatures hovering around 55 degrees. There are lots of Christmas festivities throughout the city in December, making it a fun time to visit the capital.

Popular attractions like the Acropolis will be less crowded during the winter and it can also be a great time for cheaper airfare and hotel prices. According to Google Travel , December is the least expensive month to visit Greece.

  • Christmas in Athens (December)

The Best Time To Visit Greece by Interest and Island

Greek flag in Mykonos

Greece is known for its islands. The best times to visit the Greek Islands are the summer months of June and July . August is a popular month to visit but it can be incredibly crowded. Some islands are also great to visit as early as April or May and as late as September.

Generally, winter is not a great time to visit the Greek Islands. The weather can be cold and wet and many hotels, restaurants, and shops shut down for the season. This is especially true on the smaller islands. Ferry schedules are also reduced during winter, so travel between the islands can be more difficult.

Hot Tip: No matter what month you visit, you can use points and miles to fly to Greece .

The best times to visit Mykonos are the late spring or early fall . During these times, temperatures are still warm, but it’s less crowded and hotel prices are lower.

Of course, if you’re after the iconic summer beach-party vibe the island is known for, you’ll need to brace yourself for heat and crowds if you visit during the popular summer months of June, July, and August. The summer weather is hot, dry, and windy with average temperatures peaking around 84 degrees in July and August. August also tends to be the most crowded month so try to avoid traveling then if you can.

It’s possible to visit Mykonos during the winter . The weather, while unpredictable, is relatively mild, with low temperatures only dipping into the upper 40s.

While you’ll avoid crowds and pay less for your trip, keep in mind that many restaurants, shops, and attractions may be closed and ferry service can be limited. However, if you’re interested in strolling the almost empty streets to take in all of the island’s beauty, winter can be a great time to visit Mykonos.

Santorini Greece blue domes

Santorini, also known as Thira, might be the most popular island to visit in Greece and is undoubtedly one of the most recognizable in all of Europe . Summer is the busiest time on the island, with most visitors coming in July and August. To avoid crowds, schedule your trip in the shoulder months of April, May, September, or October when crowds are thinner but the weather is still warm.

November through March are the coolest months with high temperatures between 57 and 60 degrees and lows ranging from 50 to 57 degrees. While winter is a good time to visit to avoid crowds, it’s also the wettest season in Santorini, so be sure to pack accordingly.

Hot Tip: Check out these boutique hotels in Santorini if you’re looking for a unique place to stay.

Crete is the largest of the Greek Islands , and as the southernmost island in the country, it’s one that can be visited year-round.

Generally, May, June, and September are the best months to visit Crete for the perfect balance of great weather and fewer crowds. As with most of the Greek Islands, July and August are the hottest and most popular times to visit, so crowding can be an issue.

Hot Tip: Not sure where to stay? Check out these boutique hotels in Greece (including the Greek Islands) .

Corfu is a Greek Island in the Ionian Sea known for its beaches. If you want to soak up some sun on the beach, the best time to visit Corfu is in the summer (July and August specifically) when the weather is hot and dry. However, that’s the most crowded time on the island, as well. If you’d like to avoid crowds as much as possible, try to visit in the shoulder months of May, June, and September for a nice balance of good weather and reasonable crowds.

The cheapest time to visit Greece is during the winter . This is a time when crowds are almost non-existent and prices for things like accommodations, flights, and even food are at their lowest. Keep in mind, though, that certain areas of Greece, especially the islands, will see many shops and restaurants close down for the season, so plan your trip accordingly.

Hot Tip: According to Kayak , February is the cheapest month to fly to Greece. To save money on flights, check out these booking websites .

Greece is an incredible country to visit and is high on many travelers’ bucket lists. In addition to famous ancient ruins like the Acropolis in Athens, there are thousands of islands to visit. You’ll find gorgeous beaches, delicious food, mountains for hiking, and plenty of small towns to explore.

The best time to visit Greece can vary based on what you’re looking for, but generally, you’ll want to shoot for the shoulder seasons of late spring and early fall. These time periods offer a nice balance between weather that’s not too hot and crowds that aren’t too thick. Whenever you decide to go, Greece is definitely a country you’ll enjoy visiting.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best season to travel to greece.

For the best balance of good weather and reasonable crowds, the best seasons to travel to Greece are spring and fall.

What is the best time to visit Greece to avoid crowds?

If you want to avoid crowds in Greece, visit in the winter. Tourists are few and far between during the winter months. However, if you’re visiting the Greek Islands it will be too cold for swimming and some shops, restaurants, and attractions may be closed for the season.

What is the best time to go to Greece for beaches?

If you’re going to Greece for the beaches, the best times to visit are July and August. The weather will be hot and dry — perfect for a day at the beach. June and September will also be warm enough for swimming, and these months have the benefit of slightly fewer visitors.

What is the off-season in Greece?

Winter is the off-season in Greece. From November to March, the weather can be chilly and wet, and many of the islands partially shut down since there are so few tourists.

Does Greece have a rainy season?

Yes, the rainy season in Greece lasts from the end of September until June. November and December are the rainiest months of the year. July and August are the driest months, with almost no rain.

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About Katie Seemann

Katie has been in the points and miles game since 2015 and started her own blog in 2016. She’s been freelance writing since then and her work has been featured in publications like Travel + Leisure, Forbes Advisor, and Fortune Recommends.

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When is the best time to visit Greece?

  • Month-by-month

The best time to visit Greece is outside the busy summer peaks, during spring (April to June) and early fall (September and October). Temperatures are warm but not stifling, and you’ll find that destinations are open but still relatively quiet.

The period from November to February tends to be colder, but city attractions remain open and are pleasantly quiet. Summer brings steamy, hot weather and hordes of visitors at the main sights and on the islands.

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Month-by-month guide for traveling in Greece

Meteora in winter, Greece

Visiting Greece in January - February

The year in Greece begins with cool temperatures and damp weather in some areas. Meteora and the Delphi area can even see snow. For the most part, seasonal destinations such as the Greek islands are closed down for the winter. But, cities like Athens remain open for business, and major sights are pleasantly uncrowded.

Events & Festivals

  • Epiphany on January 6 is celebrated by local priests blessing major bodies of water, and a chill-inducing tradition in which adventurous Greeks leap in to retrieve a cross thrown in by the priest in the hope of good fortune for the coming year.

Changing of the Guards, Athens

Visiting Greece in March

March marks the beginning of spring across the country. Although it’s still low season in most places, and many island destinations are yet to open, attractions across the mainland are open and much quieter than they will be in a few weeks’ time.

  • Greek Independence Day is celebrated on March 25 throughout the country with military parades and traditional folk dress and music.
  • March usually falls almost entirely within Lent and, starting with Clean Monday at the end of February or beginning of March, Orthodox Greeks traditionally observe this time by abstaining from meat, fish, dairy and eggs.

Greek Easter bread, Greece

Visiting Greece in April

Most years, the highlight of April is Greek Orthodox Easter, which occurs near the end of the month or in the first few days of May. The weather at this time is excellent for sightseeing or hiking, with plenty of sun and mild temperatures averaging around 68°F.

  • The celebrations of Holy Week and Easter, culminating on Easter Sunday, are usually the highlight of the month and mark the most important holiday of the year.

Local taverna, Greece

Visiting Greece in May

One of the best times to visit Greece, May is a good month to travel if you’re looking to experience both the cities and the islands. While sea temperatures can still be chilly, the weather is usually warm enough for swimming, and it’s not too hot for touring the cities. May marks the month when all the island destinations open fully for the summer season.

Theatre of Epidavros, Greece

Visiting Greece in June

June sees temperatures rising and crowds increasing but, overall, it’s a very pleasant time to be in Greece. Everywhere is open, the sun is warm, and plenty of festivals are taking place across the country.

  • Beginning in June and lasting throughout the summer, the Athens and Epidavros Festival showcases performances, including Greek plays, in ancient and modern venues across both cities, including the Theatre of Epidavros.

Kleftico, Milos

Visiting Greece in July - August

The heat of summer in July and August brings temperatures that can run north of 100°F and plenty of sunshine with very little rain. At this time of year, the cities can feel oppressive under the unrelenting sun and sights get extremely crowded, but it’s a good time for water activities, if you don’t mind the coastal towns and islands being busier.

  • The Feast of the Assumption on August 15 is a national public holiday, when people return to their hometown to enjoy the festivities.

Nafplio, Greece

Visiting Greece in September

September is a great time to visit Greece. The weather remains hot throughout the month, sea temperatures stay warm, and visitors start to thin out as children go back to school. While the main sights are still busy, September is usually better for touring compared with hotter and more crowded July and August.

Meteora, Greece

Visiting Greece in October

Visiting in October represents a good-value time to go, when you can enjoy cooler weather and fewer crowds. The islands start to wind down ahead of winter, but usually stay open until the end of the month. In central and northern areas, leaves turn to their autumnal hues.

  • Ochi (or Ohi) Day on October 28 commemorates the date in 1940 when the Greek Prime Minister Ioannis Metaxas said ohi (no) to Mussolini’s demand for the Axis forces to occupy parts of Greece.

Galaxidi, Greece

Visiting Greece in November - December

The final two months of the year bring cooler temperatures to Greece. Island destinations close down for the winter, while historical sites across the mainland remain quietly open.

  • Christmas, while not as important as Easter, is celebrated on December 25 as a joyful holiday shared with family.

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Best Time To Visit Greece In 2024 (And When To Avoid It)

Category Greece , Athens , Thessaloniki , Travel Updated on January 23, 2024

best time to visit greece october

Are you trying to figure out the best time to visit Greece?

You must be smart to research this before heading there! Why?

Greece is a stunning travel destination for all kinds of travelers – history lovers, foodies, beachgoers, island lovers and so much more. Even a beautiful country like Greece has its moments of the absolute best times to visit and…

…times you should avoid visiting it.

Even as one of our favorite countries we’ve visited (after visiting 30+ countries), we will avoid touring Greece during certain months. And it may not be the months you’re thinking!

In this guide, we are going to share the best and worst times to visit Greece, the cheapest months, the crowded months and everything in between.

Quick Answer: When’s The Best Time to Visit Greece?

✅ The best time to visit Greece is May, June, September and October.

These months are considered the shoulder season where the average temperatures are around 73.4 ° F (23°C). These months have warm weather and much fewer crowds so you can enjoy exploring the stunning country. The attractions, restaurants and tours are still open but it will be much quieter than if you visit in the peak months (July, August).

❌ The worst time to visit Greece is December, January, July and August.

These are the coldest and hottest months of the year. When it’s cold in Greece, a lot of the islands’ restaurants, tours, and cafes are basically closed. When it’s the peak months (July, August), you will have to hot weather, pay more for accommodation and battle the crowds, especially on the islands.

Quick Stats On Greek Weather & Seasons

A lot of these stats vary based on where you are in Greece but we just want to give you a quick snapshot of what the weather in Greece can be like on average.

  • Hottest month in Greece: August (89°F/31°C)
  • Coldest month in Greece: January (50°F/10°C)
  • Rainiest month in Greece: December
  • Driest month in Greece: August
  • Most crowded months in Greece: July, August
  • Least crowded months in Greece: December, January

The summer months are from late June till the end of September which are considered the peak tourist months… The winter months are from November till the end of March which means the entire country slows down.

cost of living in athens

Everything in between is the spring and fall seasons which is the best time to visit Greece for fewer crowds, the weather is warm (but not too hot) and activities are still being offered to travelers.

Best Time To Visit Greece

“When is the best time to visit Greece?”

It’s a question we’ve asked ourselves when we planned on spending our honeymoon and a few months living in Greece over the years.

After our personal experience of visiting the mainland and the islands over different months in the year, we concluded:

There is a RIGHT and a WRONG time to visit Greece.

Here’s a few things to consider before visiting Greece and a general overview of what you can expect.

5x Things To Consider First Before Choosing

The weather can affect your experience in a place, especially as a traveler. In addition to that, there are so many other factors to consider when deciding the best time to visit a certain country.

The sunshine shouldn’t be the only thing on your mind, here are 5 things to think about:

  • Price Fluctuations
  • Activities/Tours
  • On vs Off Season

Okay, that’s 6 things but they are all equally important when it comes to choosing a time to visit Greece. Ultimately, it’s up to you and the way you like to travel. Some things will bother other people but they might not affect you.

Matthew and I love visiting digital nomad destinations during the shoulder seasons, for example. When we did our 8-month stint across Europe, we avoided Paris, Amsterdam and Barcelona during the peak months. Instead, we went to lesser-known cities like Zagreb and Belgrade for July and August. That’s our personal preference because there are fewer crowds, it’s a calm vibe and that’s how WE like to travel!

restaurants in athens

After our honeymoon in Greece, we knew we wanted to be digital nomads in Athens for a few months but we needed to pick our timing. We arrived in mid-September till early November! The weather was just fantastic and there were much fewer people around (up until it hit November then we got cold lol).

Maybe you aren’t like us and you don’t mind the crowds if it means you catch all the sunshine! The best time to visit Greece might be in the peak season because you just want the peace of mind that all activities and dining options will be open.

Struggling to know which is the best time? Ask yourself these questions to help decide:

  • Which parts of the country do I want to visit (mainland vs islands)?
  • How many activities do I want to do?
  • Do crowds of tourists truly bother me?
  • What kind of activities do I want to do?
  • Does the humidity affect me?
  • Are there any events I can’t miss?

The answer to these questions can help share when the best time to visit Greece is for you. Make sure you think of the kinds of activities you want to do and how you want to spend your time in Greece.

The Best Time To Visit Greece

If you want good weather, fewer crowds and affordable prices – the best time to visit Greece is May, June, September and October. The temperature during these months can range from 73°F (23°C) to 82°F (28°C). “It’s not too hot and not too cold. All you need is a light jacket!” as Ms. Rhode Island from Miss Congeniality puts it.

Visiting in the early fall (September, October), you could still jump in the ocean for a swim! Matthew and I visited the Greek islands in mid-October and we went for a couple of dips ourselves.

matt ashley in crete greece

More than that, visiting Greece in the shoulder months also means you get better deals on accommodation and lower prices for activities. Most tourists visit Greece during July and August which is one of the most expensive times to visit! If you want to get good deals and value for money – this is going to be the best time for you too!

The downside to visiting Greece during the shoulder months is that a lot of the islands actually close during the low season.

acropolis from a distance

If you want to do all the activities and ensure all the bars, restaurants are open when you visit, the safest bet is to visit during peak season (July, August). However, the crowds can get very VERY overwhelming!

We visited Santorini in mid-October and the crowds were still pretty big at that time. If you visit during high season, you will be shoulder to shoulder with crowds of people, constantly fighting to reserve spots at bars and restaurants.

The Worst Time To Visit Greece

You could say, there’s never a bad time to visit Greece…

…but we aren’t so sure about that.

The worst time to visit Greece is July, August, December and January. During the peak summer months (July, August), you’ll have to constantly battle the crowds, line up for every restaurant and pay more for things. During the coldest winter months (December, January), there aren’t many tours or activities available during the lowest season in Greece. The temperatures also drop to 50°F (10°C). Most islands also tend to close during the winter!

Matthew and I visited Santorini near the end of October, we were lucky enough to book the very last Catamaran sunset tour of the season! We missed out on a couple of restaurants in Paros because they closed a tad earlier than low season. That’s going to happen if you visit but the tradeoff is that you don’t have to deal with huge crowds.

crowds of athens

Greece attracts tourists from all over the world and it’s such an iconic travel destination – you have to expect big crowds. But we didn’t truly understand ‘big crowds’ till we saw it first-hand and it quickly becomes not-so-fun anymore.

However, it might just be worth it because you get great weather during your whole trip. Summers in Greece are pretty beautiful as everything comes to life that is until you continuously bump into people navigating the narrow streets of Athens, Santorini or other islands.

Temperature Year-Round In Greece

What’s the temperature like in Greece on average? The chart below shows the average temperature for each month of the year. The annual average temperature in Greece is around 68°F to 73°F (20°C to 23°C).

average temperature greece

The reason Greece is such a popular destination (other than the food, history and stunning islands) is that the weather year-round is pretty great compared to other European countries like the Netherlands or France.

Precipitation Year-Round In Greece

The rainiest months in Greece are November and December. As the weather changes from fall to winter, it can start to get pretty wet having about 2-2.5 inches of rainfall.

average rainfall greece

We were in Athens in early November and there wasn’t much rainfall for us. It obviously depends but the rain seems to start around late November. The months with the least rainfall are the peak summer months, July and August!

Weather Seasons In Greece

Greece is an amazing country with diverse landscapes, delicious Mediterranean food and so many cool things to do. There’s a reason why nearly 30 million visitors to Greece every year (pre-pandemic). That’s a whole lot of people!

Greece has the full 4 seasons – spring, summer, autumn and winter. Every season in Greece is beautiful in its own way. Here’s what Greek weather is like throughout the year and the best things to do for each season!

Spring in Greece (April – June)

The flowers are booming, the cities are emptier than usual and the days are getting longer. Spring is one of the best times to visit Greece to enjoy the outdoors, go on picnics and wander the city admiring the pink bougainvillea flowers all around.

spring in greece

We suggest trying to visit later in the spring season for higher chance of things opening up. The islands tend to close in the low season so if you visit you might not get to do all the things on your bucket list!

Springtime in Greece also means that accommodation prices are going to cost less and more tourist activities are available at this time. If you want to save some money and have fewer crowds, the best time to visit Greece is going to be spring for you.

Summer in Greece (July – mid-September)

The sun is shining every day, there’s a buzz in the atmosphere and it’s the best time to jump in the blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea. Summer in Greece attracts the most amount of visitors (nearly 10 million total people) during July and August alone!

With huge crowds of tourists wanting to visit the same landmarks, it can get pretty overwhelming standing in line for the Acropolis for 30+ minutes. Prices also increase during the summer months for things like accommodation, tours and activities.

crowds on greek ferries

Summer in Greece can get very hot and steamy with temperatures rising to as high as 104°F (40°C). During these months, you’ll barely get any rain which means you can definitely plan all your activities without worrying about the rain ruining your day/

Autumn in Greece (mid-September – November)

Fall is one of my favorite seasons because the leaves begin to change, the huge crowds start to leave and still some of the best weather. Greece is no exception to having a great fall season!

The autumn season in Greece is part of the shoulder months that we suggest visiting. The skies are clear, there are fewer crowds, accommodation prices begin to drop and it feels like you can breathe again.

autumn in greece

The weather in Greece during fall is around 77°F (25°C), isn’t that just perfect?! The only downside of visiting Greece in autumn is that things are starting to close down for the low season. You might not get all the opportunity to do the things you want but there are fewer crowds of people you’ll have to stand in line with for the Acropolis.

Winter in Greece (December – March)

Oh, winter…

…Some love it and some hate it! The cold is freezing, the sun is barely shining and it’s just a season to get through. Matthew and I literally chase the sun as digital nomads fleeing countries that get just a bit too cold.

matthew ashley in thessaloniki

Temperatures reach as low as 50°F (10°C) which isn’t actually too bad for a European winter. However, if you’re thinking you are going to jump in the blue waters – you might have to think again!

December is also the rainiest month in Greece. If you don’t like the cold or the rain can negatively affect your time, don’t visit Greece during the winter. On the other hand, it’s also the least crowded period season which means you won’t have to battle the crowds for any of the landmarks or activities.

FAQs – The Best Time To Visit Greece

Got some more questions about the best time to visit Greece? I would too 😉!

Here’s some quick frequently asked questions to help guide your decision on when is the best time for you to visit.

When Is The Best Time To Visit Mainland Greece?

The best time to visit mainland Greece is any time of the year. Lots of the major attractions don’t close as they do on the islands. Restaurants, cafes and bars will stay open throughout the year, too! It’s up to you whether you want warm weather or cold weather.

rooftop views athens

The top destinations on the mainland are Athens, Thessaloniki and Meteora. If you’re trying to decide between the 2 cities, we’ve written a guide on choosing between Athens vs. Thessaloniki !

These cities have similar weather throughout the year. We visited Thessaloniki in mid-October and it was already pretty cold compared to when we were in Athens in mid-October, the year before! In our experience, Thessaloniki got colder much earlier in the year.

Best Time to Visit the Greek Islands?

One of the best ways to figure out the best time to visit the Greek islands is actually to figure out the kind of activities you want to do. A popular reason to visit the picturesque islands is to swim in the clear, blue glimmering waters.

crete goat beach

The best time to visit the Greek islands is the summer season. You can’t beat getting into the refreshing water when it’s super hot and steamy out!

If it’s 50°F (10°C), the chances are pretty low you are going to be laying down your beach towel and jumping in the water. If you want to visit the Greek islands, don’t go in the early spring, winter and late fall seasons.

Most Popular Time to Visit Greece?

The most popular time to visit Greece is during the summer season, specifically the month of August. Lots of Europeans have vacation days in August, making it one of the top destinations for a week or weekend getaway. We would avoid Greece in August due to the massive crowds but it’s also the hottest month of the year!

Least Crowded Time to Visit Greece?

Hate crowds? Us too! The least crowded time to visit Greece is the low season (December, January, February). You won’t be shoulder to shoulder with other tourists and the lines for major attractions will be much less in the winter. But that means it’s cold so there’s that too.

Cheapest Time to Visit Greece?

Looking to visit Greece on a budget? We have seen some insane price cuts if you visit during the low season in Athens, Thessaloniki and even the islands. The cheapest time to travel to Greece is the winter season (December, January, February).

Best Time to Visit Greece For A Honeymoon?

You’re honeymooning in Greece? What a dream!

Matthew and I also spent our honeymoon across Greece in Athens, Paros and Santorini! We went during the shoulder month of October which we loved for several reasons – fewer crowds and more value for money. But we did miss out on some restaurants that closed early for low season. So if we had to choose again?

matthew ashley santorini view

The best time to visit Greece on your honeymoon is September. The huge summer crowds have left and it’s a lot quieter in the city/islands. The sunny weather is still going strong in September and a lot of the tourist activities (restaurants, bars and tours) are still available to book.

Bottom Line: When Is The Best Time To Visit Greece?

The best time to visit Greece is during the shoulder season months of May, June, September and October. You still get to enjoy beautiful weather, have fewer tourist crowds around and it’s going to be much more affordable!

We love visiting Greece – I mean we have been 3 times in the last 4 years! But…we will avoid Greece in the peak season months of July and August because we do not want to deal with such huge crowds of people.

Greece is a stunning travel destination for any kind of travel experience you could be looking for. The most important thing is that you just visit Greece whenever you have the opportunity!

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Home » Europe » Greece » Best Time to Visit Greece – MUST READ • 2024 Guide

Best Time to Visit Greece – MUST READ • 2024 Guide

Greece probably needs no introduction to you. It was the one-time centre of the ancient world, the cradle of western civilisation and in 2024 remains perhaps THE ultimate dream travel destination.

Indeed, intrepid travellers have been exploring the Ionian peninsula since antiquity and today, the nation welcomes some 30 million visitors each year. It’s easy to why – Greece packs in ancient wonders, classical cities, glorious weather, wine, food and siren song. Best of all, Greek visitors get to choose from hitting the mainland or hopping between the paradise of the Greek Islands.

But, in high season Greece can get seriously busy and pricey. High summers can be punishingly hot and winters unexpectedly frigid.

In this guide, we will not focus on the why or the where, but on the when. So read on to find out just when is the best time to visit Greece taking into account weather, crowds, expense and more!

Best Time To Visit Greece – The classic time to visit is May-Aug. My preference is March or September.

Best Time To Go To Athens – Spring (Mar & April)

Best Time For The Greek Islands – June-July if you like the action.

Best Time For The Beach – May-October

Best Time For Sightseeing – Mar, Apr & October

Cheapest Time To Visit Greece – Winter (Nov-Feb)

When is the Best Time to Go to Greece?

Where to stay in greece, when to visit greece – a month by month breakdown, final thoughts on the best time to visit greece.

Greece’s main tourist season runs from between May and September and heavily peaks in the high season of July and August. This is typically the best time to explore Europe . At this time, you can expect the idyllic Mediterranean summers you were always dreaming about with blue skies, hot days and scarcely a drop of rain.

Greek’s really do come to life during the summer months and the country is an infectious and fun place to be – expect long nights of ouzo fuelled Zorba dancing. Many a backpacker in Greece falls in love with the country during their summer trips.

best time to visit greece october

Of course, the flip side is that at this time Greece can get seriously busy. Popular islands like Crete and Rhodes tend to be thronged with package tourists during the summer holidays and you may struggle to find a spot of beach over which to cast your towel. Santorini can also get HORRIBLY crowded during the summer to the extent that you may find it impossible to enjoy it.

Also note that the heat in cities like Athens can be a bit stifling and oppressive during July and August. It can also make taking day trips from Athens a bit manic if there are heaps of other people with the same idea!

Accommodation and flight prices also tend to increase substantively in summer. To give you some context, I just did a quick skyscanner search and a return flight from London to Athens is $60 in April, but $150 in July.

My personal preference is to hit Greece during the shoulder seasons of April (you can maybe push to mid-may) and between late September and October. The weather is warm and pleasant but never unbearably hot.

Spring is a particularly great time to stay in Athens . You can also find decent bargains on flights and cheap accommodation in Greece at this time. Best of all though, the islands and tourist hot spots are a lot quieter – you may also get a decent photo of Santorini.

Of course, if you do visit in shoulder season some tourist resorts may not be fully operational and some hotels, restaurants and bars may still be boarded up.

Best Time to Go to Athens

The ancient, atmospheric and absolutely awesome city of Athens is often overlooked by visitors who often tend to head straight for the ferry terminal. This is a shame as Greek’s capital is one my top picks for Europe packing in a dizzying mixture of Grecian sites such as the Parthenon, some charming Byzantine churches’ and a raucous, youthful party scene.

The best time to visit Athens is between March and May or September and November. 

At this time the weather is very pleasant with typical daytime temperatures ranging between 15 to 20 degrees. The classical sites and museums are easily accessible with tourist numbers perfectly reasonable at this time. 

Crucially, this period also tends to be a sweet spot in terms of prices with flights from European cities starting as low as $25 and Athens hostel dorms hovering between $8 – $15 per night.

This is the perfect time to explore the real Athens and rub shoulders/exchange bodily fluids with the locals before the summer tourists show up. The city is very lively in the evenings with bars and clubs packing them in until daybreak. 

Best Time to Go to the Greek Islands

The most impressive thing about visiting the Greek Islands is the sheer number of options available. It is said that there is a Greek Island for every temperament. If you are seeking a youthful cocktail of booze and clubs, then try Zante. For a comfortable family-orientated experience, head to the resorts of Corfu or to itch your Instagram scratch, head for Mykonos and Santorini. My personal pick of the Greek islands is Hydra; a bohemian hotspot which is a short ferry ride from Athens.

cool things to do in greece visit rhodes

In many ways, the islands are best experienced in summer. The days are hot, the nights are long and the beaches buzzing. Some islands only fully open up during summer and are at half capacity the rest of the time.

That said, the busyness is not for everybody and some people do prefer the Greek islands in April or October when the weather is sweet, but the tourist crowds are back at home. However, it can sometimes be difficult to reach the Greek Islands during shoulder and lower season as flights are fewer, further between and more expensive. The ferries also tend to operate on a reduced schedule. Still, if you are willing to plan ahead and possibly spend a bit more on transport, you can make it happen.

Best Time to Go to Santorini

The picture-perfect Greek island of Santorini has exploded in recent years thanks in no small part to a flurry of tedious Instagrammers. The island is indeed a beautiful tapestry of white houses, orange skies and green stony hillsides.

sunsets on santorini

Because of this spike in popularity, Santorini can get very busy meaning that Santorini accommodation prices go into orbit, and also meaning the island can be too busy for comfort. 

Unless you are happy to pay $100+ per night for digs, and to have no personal space, avoid all summer especially from June – September.

Santorini is possibly best enjoyed in March, early May and between October and November. 

If you can get to Santorini in winter, then you will probably find it’s just you and the locals. This can be a lovely time to get under the skin of the island.

Best Time to Go to the Beaches in Greece

Greece is blessed with some of the most blissful and beautiful beaches in all of Europe. For azure seas and soft sands, head to Elafonsi in Crete and for beach-side club vibes, then trendy Mykonos is hard to beat. Note that the beaches of Santorini tend to be either dark sand or craggy, stone beaches and are not the main draw.

The beaches of the Greek islands are at their best between late May and October when the sea is perfect for swimming at the sands ideal for sunbathing. Many of the beaches are positively heaving between July and August and can get a bit too crowded for some sensibilities.

The winter is not exactly the ideal beach time as the sea can get a bit chilly and there is the chance of rain. Also, note that a lot of beach clubs and sea sidebars and restaurants tend to close during the winter.

Whether you’re looking to visit the absolutely breathtaking cliff monasteries of Meteora or the iconic white and blue mountain villages of Santorini, I am here to hold your hand and pour you a shot of ouzo and reveal the best places to stay in Greece!

Best Hostel in Greece –  Mosaikon

Mosaikon

Mosaikon is known for its crisp, clean dorm rooms and for its unbeatable location. They’re located just 800m away from Syntagma Square, which is buzzing with top-notch bars and restaurants. Another highlight of Mosaikon Hostel? It has a rooftop terrace with beautiful views of the Acropolis. As if this hostel wasn’t already the best!

best time to visit greece october

Best Luxury Stay in Greece –  Ilio Maris – Mykonos

Take me back to my slice of paradise at Ilio Maris! This hotel drips luxury and is one of the best hotels in Greece. What’s better than taking a dip in the turquoise waters of the swimming pool while watching the sunset over the Aegean sea, with a cocktail in hand? This hotel is certainly worth the splurge!

Best Airbnb in Greece –  Urbanstudios Acropolis View

best time to visit greece october

Go big or go home with this Athens apartment. Okay, it’s a small studio apartment that just fits two people, all cozy and snuggly. However, what I mean by big is that it offers a BIG view of the Acropolis from the private balcony!

This chic little urban studio apartment in the heart of the popular and touristy area of Monastiraki puts you at the heart of it all. While there’s no kitchen, there is a mini-fridge and a tea kettle, plus a private bathroom.

Best Time for Sightseeing in Greece

Greece’s cultural-historical roots stretch back into antiquity and remnants of this rich history are scattered throughout the mainland of islands alike. The headline sites are probably the Acropolis of Athens, the Parthenon and the epic, cliff monasteries in Meteora.

As for the best time for sightseeing in Greece, this is typically at shoulder seasons in Spring and Autumn.  The best time for sightseeing in Greece is generally April through about mid-May, or October and into early November. At these times there are far fewer tourists crowding the views and the weather is ‘just right’ for walking but a bit too cool for the beach.

best time to visit greece october

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Best Time For Visiting the Acropolis

Perhaps the single most important antiquity site in Greece is the mighty Acropolis in Athens – an integral Athens itinerary stop . The ancient site occupies the hilltop overlooking the modern city and is visible for miles around. The Acropolis site consists of the Parthenon (Temple to Athena) some other sites and of course, the Acropolis Museum which must not be missed.

things to do when backpacking Greece: visit the Acropolis

The site is open all year round. However, note that it is substantially cheaper to visit during winter as the entry is half the price of the summer;

  • April to October: 20 Euro
  • November to March: 10 Euro

In terms of the best time of day to visit the Acropolis, are either 8 am (when it opens) as the site is quiet, and the sun is low making the heat less intense. Alternatively, another good time is 1-2 hours before closing. Again, the sun tends to be less intense and the twilight from the hill site over the city is incredible.

Cheapest Time to Go to Greece 

For European standards, Greece is a moderately priced destination . It is notably more expensive than the budget bonanza that is Eastern Europe, but a hell of a lot more affordable than visiting France or even parts of Spain. 

This does of course vary depending on where and when you go. Expensive Mykonos and Santorini tend to attract a monied crowd all year round. Crete and Rhodes offer budget package tours and Athens has plenty of budget hostels and dive bars.

Whilst Greece is an affordable country to visit at any time of year, the cheapest time to go to Greece is definitely during the off-season. The absolute best time of year to visit Greece on a budget is between the months of October and April. Accommodation is easy to find and often at a much-discounted rate and we also rented a car in Crete for much cheaper than in the high season.

The only catch can be the scarcity of flights going to certain Greek islands – but you can still usually get to Athens for a great price.

Busiest Time to Visit Greece

Greece is something of an ever-green destination and does attract visitors all year round. When I arrived in Athens during early March, my hostel dorm was pretty much full up with travellers.

However, the busiest time in Greece is most definitely between May and September with a long spike throughout July and August. At this time, the islands can get packed but even cities like Thessaloniki tend to attract backpackers spilling over from summer jaunts around the Balkans.

With increased visitor numbers comes price spikes too. In some places, accommodation prices can increase to 4 times what they would normally be.

Weather in Greece

The weather in Greece is classic Mediterranean – blissful summers followed by mild & wet winters. The weather in Greece is fairly consistent throughout the mainland and the Greek islands and there isn’t a mass of variation between them. 

best time to visit greece october

The weather of the Aegean islands and the Ionian seas is milder. Some regions are also affected by “the Meltemi” – a summer wind which blows mostly over the islands of the Aegean and offers perfect wind conditions for sailing, windsurfing, and kitesurfing.

In general, in order to avoid high temperatures (up to 100°F/+40°C), the best time to visit Greece would be between mid-Apr to mid-June and between early September to mid-October. 

The closest the month to August, the hotter it will be.

Average Air Temperature in °C

Regional Differences in Greece

The Greek mainland stretches from the Southern precipice of the Balkan peninsula out into the med. The islands are dotted all around its’ extensive coastline and their locations range from a few kilometres from the mainland to several hundred from it. 

Despite these geographical and archipelagic differences, the weather remains mostly uniform across Greece – give or take a few degrees of Celsius or an extra inch of rainfall here or there.

Peak tourist and off seasons are also consistent throughout Greece. Therefore the only regional specific consideration for when to visit Greece is perhaps the occurrence of local festivals and events.  We will explore some of these next.

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Festivals in Greece

Did you know, some anthropologists hypothesise that contemporary festival culture has its roots in ancient, Hellenic Greece and their wine-flavoured orgies in celebration of Dionysus?

best monasteries to visit in meteora

These days, the Grecian festival season tends to centre around the Orthodox Christian calendar but fear not, it’s not all hymns and fasting and even pious occasions still permeate with a typical lust for life. Orthodox Christmas and Easter are the main two religious festivals. I stumbled across an Orthodox Easter Mass in Greece and found the sing liturgy very moving and the smouldering clouds of incense quite intoxicating – definitely check it out if you get the chance. 

Here are some important or simply cool festivals in Greece;

  • Orthodox Easter:

Once the Church going is out of the way, Orthodox Easter in Greece actually akin to the ancient spring rite festivals with epic feasting which leads into dancing, singing and fireworks. It’s a great time to get invited to a Greek home. 

If you’re planning a trip to Greece for Easter, remember: the date of Greek Orthodox Easter is tied to the Julian calendar, so it won’t necessarily match up with Catholic Easter, which is calculated using the Gregorian calendar.

  • Apokreas (Carnival season):

The carnival season begins 3 weeks prior to Lent and concludes after Easter. It represents quite a long window across which the various Apokreas take place.

Each region has its own version of Apokreas. Patra in the Peloponnese for the biggest and wildest celebrations, whereas Skyros in the Sporades sees entire towns dressed as goats. If you’re planning a trip, check the calendar. Each year the date of Apokreas is different.

  • August Moon Festival:

The August moon festival also takes place across the different towns of Greece. The loose concept is simply using the warm, moon-filled nights of August to host evening performances and parties. These range from all-night raves in the outskirts of Thessaloniki, to classical music performances inside the Acropolis in Athens. 

  • Thessaloniki International Film Festival:

10 days of independent film screenings are held in Thessaloniki in mid-November. Athens has it’s own open-air film festival in summer but this one is cooler.

  • Ejekt Festival – 26 June:

Athens premier rock and indie fest sees international guitar slingers descend on the Greek capital for a long day of barre chords and pentatonic riffs.

  • Free Earth Festival – 29 – 29 August:

Free Earth Festival is Greece’s premier Psytrance festival taking place on the island of Halkidiki (yep, home of the famous Olives) .

Worst Time to Visit Greece

So far in this post, we’ve focused on the positives (we’re glass half full people) seeking out the best times to visit Greece. Now let’s look at the negatives!

There isn’t any real bad time to visit Greece. The weather is better than pretty much anywhere else in Europe all year round, and there is enough going on to keep a visitor busy at any time of year.

However, do bear in mind that it does sometimes get cold during the winter and it has even been known to snow in the north around Thessaloniki. Personally, I would also avoid the summer holidays at pretty much all costs as the crowding is simply too much.

By this point, you’ve probably already picked your personal perfect time to visit Greece. However, if you are still wondering what the best time to visit Greece is, then this month-by-month breakdown might help your final decision a bit easier.

beautiful greek island caldera views

Greece in January

January is Greece’s coldest month. In Athens, daytime temperatures can dip to a chilly 7 degrees (which to be frank could be summer where I am from) so bring a jacket. The Greek Islands can be very wet.

Needless to say, tourists are scarce at this time of year so you take advantage of low prices.

Notable festivals in January are New Years Day (also St Basils Day), Orthodox Christmas,  Epiphany and The Patras Carnival .

Greece in February

As with January, February can see cool temperatures and damp rainfall in the islands. Tourists are still thin on the ground and prices low.

The Carnival Festival starts in February ahead of the Lent, as well as Clean Monday.

Greece in March

March in Greece may be your sweet spot where you can expect decent weather and still take advantage of quieter attractions and lower prices.

Notable festivals are Greek Independence Day which also coincides with Feast of Annunciation. 

An early easter can also fall in late March.

Greece in April

In April the weather is very nice throughout the land. Expect warm days that would rival a northern European summer and lesser and lesser rainfall.

From a tourism perspective, Greece does begin creaking into life around April and seasonal bars and hotels begin the deep clean.

Prices are still fairly low except for Greek holidays.

Orthdox Easter usually falls in April although the date does vary. The Athens International Film Festival and St Georges Day also take place in April.

Greece in May

May sees the start of the long summer so bring sun creams and head for the beach. May is when package tourists begin arriving in the Greek Islands so football becomes heavier, and beds more expensive.

Sometimes, a particularly late fall of Easter will mean it falls in the first few days of May. Other notable May festival are May DayWorkers Day and the Athens Jazz Festival is also worth checking out.

Greece in June

Visiting Greece in June can mean catching the magic of summer just before the prices spike and the unwashed masses arrive. Expect perfect days and lovely nights and merry-making.

There aren’t many outright bargains to be had, but you can still find hostels at fair prices. 

June sees the Ejekt Rock Festival in Athens, the Athens and Epidaeous Festival as well as Navy Week – a huge national festival where Greece celebrates it’s naval and sea faring heritage.

Fortezza

Greece in July

If you visit Greece in July you are stepping into high season. The days can be very hot and the beaches busy. Some islands get more hectic than others and the likes of Santorini can feel like floating sardine tins.

Big August festivals are the Hyrda Puppet Festival and Hippocratia Festival in Kos. Oh, and the Raki Festival in Amorgos is certainly a lively one.

Greece in August

Simply put, August in Greece can be bedlam which will either be your personal vision of heaven and hell. Zante & Kos are hopping with party toddlers, Mykonos is packed with Instagram characters, and Corfu can feel like a forgotten British colony.

Prices are at their highest in August and days are at their hottest – it can be difficult to sleep if you don’t have AC.

Festivals in August include the Olympus Festival on Mount Olympus , the Chania Rock festival in Crete, the festival of the Assumption of Virgin Mary, as well as the Free Earth Psytrance festival in Kalidaki.

Greece in September

September is when temperatures and prices begin to come down, but the hotspots remain busy. If you are looking for a package deal, there are some bargains to be had, especially if you can be flexible.

Late September can be a great time to visit Greece as it mixes the mellow vibes with some of the most pleasant weather.

There are also a couple of wonderful niche festivals such as Festival of Trades of Traditions in Rhodes, the Pistachio festival of Aegina.

Greece in October

October is another good time to visit Greece. The weather is pleasant but not uncomfortable and even popular spots tend to be quiet. The Acropolis ticket price slashes itself in half and there are plenty of bargain flights to Athens.

There are no top rate festivals happening in October but the Chestnut Festival in Crete is one for fans of Chestnuts.

Greece in November

This is definitely the low season. Some of the islands may feel like they are half asleep and hostels will have plenty of beds available. The weather is generally bright and cool but nights can get chilly and there is some rainfall.

The religious calendar keeps going with Feast of The Archangels and Saint Andreas Day in Patras .

Greece in December

In December, Greece is substantially warmer and dryer than much of Europe but can see plenty of rainfall on the islands and cold nights. Some tourist hotspots will be all but hibernating.

December Festivals are St Nicholas Day, Christmas Day (they respect the Western date and then Orthodox Christmas in January), as well as New Year’s Eve of course.

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A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

Don’t Forget your Greece Travel Insurance

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

best time to visit greece october

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Still with me? Good. I do hope you found our best time to visit Greece guide to be useful and most of all, I hope it helps you to plan an epic trip to Greece. Wherever you intend to do a bit of island hopping in the summer, city breaking in spring, or simply heading to Crete for some winter sun, you’ll have an awesome time.

Make sure you are fully prepared for your trip (this can save a lot of money too). Find out  what you need to pack  for your vacation to Greece.

See you on the road!

yellow wall in Athens Greece

  • Check out our ultimate guide to backpacking around Greece . 
  • We’ve also got where to stay in Greece covered with our epic guide. 
  • You’ll also wanna stay in the best hostels in Greece too! 
  • Save yourself hassle and money and get an international sim card for Greece .  
  • Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip. 
  • Our in-depth Europe backpacking guide will help you plan the rest of your adventure. 

best time to visit greece october

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Mathilde Magnier

Mathilde Magnier

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Best time to visit Greece: when to go and what to do

best time to visit greece october

Amanda Dardanis

Destination Expert

Monday March 28 2022, 17:35pm

When is the best time of year to visit Greece?

The best time to visit Greece is usually between late April and late October when there is sunshine round the clock and rain is rare. Beach lovers should aim for June until September.

Main photo: Oia, Santorini (Alamy)

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When is the best time to island-hop?

September to early October are ideal months to island-hop in Greece (it’s when many Greeks do just that). Crowds have thinned out, room rates are lower, the days are still long and warm, and sea temperatures are bliss. Just watch out for those pesky dry northern winds (meltemi) that can ramp up around then and imperil outdoor dining and beach outings (unless you’re a windsurfer). May until mid-June are also great for beating the tourists and high-season prices but seas are brisk. In July and August, ferries to more remote islands are more frequent; while from November to March, most Greek islands shut up shop for winter.

best time to visit greece october

What about Mykonos and Santorini?

Greece’s two most famous islands warrant a standalone category with their own specific considerations. Most don’t go to Santorini for the beaches; they’re seeking fiery romantic sunsets and volcanic caldera views — which explains the island’s virtually year-round season. For serious sun without crowds, go in May and June, or best sit it out until after mid-September.

Party island Mykonos presents a Catch-22: to sidestep the crazy prices and heaving beach bars (savvy regulars book up loungers weeks ahead), you’ll need to avoid July and August. But, then, that wouldn’t really be Mykonos. By late September, the international set has mostly departed and this Cycladic peacock mellows out.

When is the best time to explore the mainland?

Travel to Greece between April and June; or October to December. The mainland has fabulous beaches sprinkled all over — but summery pursuits are only half the story. Glorious hiking is to be had in spring and autumn — especially in the myth-steeped Peloponnese (head for The Mani and Costa Navarino) and Epirus in the north (a hybrid of Yosemite and the Scottish highlands). These milder and mostly sunny months are also ideal for exploring monumental landscapes such as Meteora and Monemvasia; traipsing heavy-hitting archaeological sites like Delphi and Olympia; and strolling romantic ports such as refined Nafplio, Greece’s first capital.

best time to visit greece october

Is there a ski season in Greece?

Believe it or not, it does get frosty enough for a ski season — Greece is a mountainous terrain, after all. Technically, it’s between December and March; in reality, February and early March are your best bets, as sporadic bursts of warm weather in December and January often melt snow cover. Join the social whirl of cosmopolitan Arachova on Mount Parnassus, just two hours from Athens (think of it as a Winter Mykonos); ski with sea views on Mount Pelion, fabled holiday haunt of the Olympian Gods; or choose popular Kalavryta, a well-organised winter sports hub, famous for its rack railway that slices through Vouraikos Gorge.

best time to visit greece october

When are the cheapest months for travel in Greece?

Tourism season in Greece typically cranks up after Greek Easter. If you’re looking to save, the best hotel deals on the islands are found during the shoulder seasons from April through to early June; then again from mid-September to mid-October (though September has increasingly crept into peak-price bracket on many bigger islands and in Athens). In the latter, you’ll score discounted stays from December to March. Don’t expect constant sunshine but it can be a great interlude for exploring emptied-out ancient ruins and museums. December can also be terrific for off-season hikes and comforting cuisine around the snow-capped mountains of Crete.

best time to visit greece october

Sunshine and rainfall

Mild wet winters are chased by blazing hot, dry summers and 250 days of annual sunshine. December is the wettest month (up to 188mm rainfall). August is the hottest and driest (average temperatures hover around 28C).

best time to visit greece october

When to avoid Greece

There’s no bad time to visit, but the summer holidays will always be the busiest, so aim for the shoulder seasons in late spring and early autumn if you can to get the sun without the crowds.

Key dates for your calendar

April-May: Greek Orthodox Easter Holy Week Whether you’re religious or not, you’ll be stirred by the sacred spectacle of Greek Orthodox Easter. This week-long celebration of candlelit processions, midnight fireworks, Lenten goodies and revolving Easter Sunday lambs on spits, is easily the most important and colourful holiday for Greeks, who return en masse to their ancestral villages and islands. Easter traditions vary across Greece — from the famous flying urns of Corfu to the burning the effigy of Judas in Monemvasia. But no matter where you are, Good Friday’s midnight mass is a guaranteed highlight. Grab a candle and join the procession as Greeks walk to their nearest church to hear mournful Easter hymns.

best time to visit greece october

June-September: Athens and Epidaurus Festival Summer is prime outdoor festival season in Greece and the undisputed queen is the prestigious Athens and Epidaurus Festival. The action revolves around two of the world’s best-preserved ancient stone arenas: the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, beneath the Parthenon, and the 4th-century BC Theatre of Epidaurus, prized for its pitch-perfect acoustics. During this three-month blast of music, theatre, dance and visual arts, you might catch anything from Shakespeare to Beckett and anyone from Helen Mirren to Nana Mouskouri. The biggest buzz? Seeing works by ancient Greek playwrights such as Sophocles or Aristophanes staged at the actual venue where they were first performed.

best time to visit greece october

November: Thessaloniki International Film Festival and Athens Marathon The annual Thessaloniki International Film Festival, Greece’s answer to Sundance, makes a wonderful excuse to check out the fantastic flavours and cool buzz of Athens’s ancient little sister up north. Held in early November, the festival sees the whole city roll out the red carpet, with parallel events in seafront bars, dockside cafes and historic squares — so you’ll experience this loose and welcoming port hub at its best.

The world’s most famous foot race — the classic Athens Marathon — also gets off the blocks in November. Every year, long-distance runners from across the globe challenge their bodies and spirits to retrace the legendary footsteps of Pheidippides in the experience of a lifetime. Not a runner? Witnessing the competitors cross the finish line at the original Olympic stadium is its own memorable marker. Expect music, live commentary and fever-pitch excitement.

Villa Tatiana (Olivers Travels)

When is the best time to visit Greece?

T he best time to visit Greece is during May, September, or the first days of October. Generally, you can visit Greece all year round and have a wonderful time. But the typical tourist season in this country is from the Easter period, through October. The peak season is in summer when Athens and the Greek islands offer their hospitality to tourists. July and August are the months with the most tourists. But the best period to visit Greece is during the late spring. The weather in these months is pleasant, with no presence of rain. Also, there are fewer tourists. This way, you can explore the country at ease.

Do you want to have a Mediterranean adventure? Our comprehensive guide will help you choose the right time for a Greece vacation.

When is the best time to visit Greece for vacation?

Travelers visit Greece all year round. Some months are better to visit than others, especially if you want to explore the sunny beaches, avoid the grand masses, or have fun in party islands like Mykonos. There are a few tourist seasons you have to remember before you book your ticket, like:

  • High season: It is from June to September
  • Shoulder season : This season includes the months of April, May, and October

When to visit Greece if you want to avoid the masses

greek island sunbeds sea view flowers

The most popular seasons to visit this illustrious country are in late spring, summer, and the early times of fall. But why are these seasons so special? The weather is mild, all the archaeological sites are open, and there are many cafes and bars. These are the periods where you can also find the most tourists.

However, if you are looking for the best time to visit Greece to avoid crowds, you should consider visiting in winter. The weather may not be as hot, but you will have the opportunity to explore the most wild side of this country. Many hotels might be closed for the winter, so contact us to help you plan the perfect holidays and choose the most suitable accommodation for you!

Best time to visit Greece weather-wise

greece good weather windmill boat clear sea

If you want to experience the enjoyable and warm weather but want to avoid the sweltering heat, you have to plan your trip in spring or autumn. In May, the average temperatures in Athens, the capital city of Greece, are from 61.5 to 74.8 degrees Fahrenheit. In June, the temperatures can reach 82.6 degrees Fahrenheit, an ideal temperature for spending your day at the beach.

In September, the average temperatures decrease in Athens to a high of 80.6 degrees Fahrenheit and a low of 69.6 degrees Fahrenheit. Nevertheless, many Greek islands are considered to be more peaceful in September, so you might want to think about it.  With an average high temperature of 71.4 degrees Fahrenheit and an average low temperature of 62.1 degrees Fahrenheit, the month of October is even colder. It is a cold month but not nearly frigid enough to be unwelcoming. You have to remember that the nation is somewhat vast, especially early when the best Greek islands attract many travelers.

When should I visit the Greek islands?

greek island santorini sea view white houses

Once more, the ideal time to go depends on your goals. Generally, the best weather to visit the Greek islands is in the late spring, early summer, or September. Yes, if you have no problem with the heat, you can travel even in the middle of summer.

In July, for instance, Santorini experiences an average high temperature of 84 degrees Fahrenheit and an average low of 73 degrees. The benefit is that the water is really warm at this time of year, averaging 75 degrees Fahrenheit. The island usually only has one or two days of rain in July. So, you can be sure to make some memories under the sun!

As the weather is still warm and bright and the crowds have subsided, we consider September one of the best months to visit the Greek islands .

When should I visit Greece for my honeymoon?

best time to visit greece for a honeymoon

While a honeymoon in Greece can be amazing, we suggest visiting in June for the most enjoyable experience! Greece offers fantastic sunshine and pleasant weather in June, making it the ideal month to swim in the mesmerizing sea. June is a great month to visit Greece since, generally speaking, the best islands for a honeymoon are less congested and more reasonably priced.

Best Time to visit Greece for swimming

greece beach clear sea water

Greece boasts some of the most infamous beaches in the world. Take the chance to spend your time at the beach and swim in the pristine Ionian or Aegean seas. Greek waters can make your travel majestic. Also, they are ideal for family vacations .

During the summer months of June, July, August, and September, sea waters are calm and hot. With the infamous beach bars and clubs on every island, it is the best time of the year to visit Greece for swimming and some scuba diving exploration .

When should I visit Greece to get a lower price?

greek tavern sea view

It is possible to go to Greece on a tight budget. All you have to do is make appropriate preparations. Travel to Greece is most affordable in October, November, March, and April. July is usually the most costly month to fly to Greece. So, if you wish to cut costs, you should aim to avoid the midst of the busiest time of year.

Although airfare is less expensive in April, keep in mind that hotel rates go up around Greek Orthodox Easter, which occasionally occurs at the end of April. There is a comparable rise at the end of December and the beginning of January. Hotels in July and August are usually costly.

Best Greek island to visit in April

greek island narrow street greek architecture

If summer is not the ideal timeline to visit a small Greek heaven, you can visit a Greek island in April. But what is the best Greek island to visit in April and have some beautiful spring moments? This island is in the Cyclades. It is called Tzia. The beautiful Chora, the cosmopolitan Vourkari, and the wild scenery will take your breath away the minute you step onto this island.

Worst time to visit Greece

greek island cats

As mentioned above, Greece is a great place to visit year-round. But July and August, particularly in Athens, can be unbearably hot and muggy, with highs frequently exceeding 86 degrees Fahrenheit.

Conversely, January is the coldest month in Greece, with average highs of about 55 degrees F. However, the cold air makes it the best time to visit Athens’ or Thessaloniki’s ancient landmarks, stores, and art galleries.

You can visit Greece all year round but the best time is spring or summer. A trip to Greece can help you relax and create lasting memories. Contact us to help you plan the perfect trip!

Best Time to Visit Greece and Greek Islands

Greece › Best Time To Visit by Santorini Dave • Updated: February 28, 2024

• Where to Stay in Athens • Where to Stay in Santorini • Where to Stay in Mykonos • Where to Stay in Naxos • Where to Stay in Paros • Where to Stay in Crete • Where to Go in Greece

Santorini hotel and swimming pool.

My favorite time to visit Greece is in June and September when the Greek islands are at their best. May and October are great if you’re less interested in beaches and more focused on sightseeing and historic attractions.

When’s the Best Time To Visit Greece and the Greek Islands? The best weather in Greece is from late April to early November when there is lots of sunshine and little rain. The best months for swimming and sunbathing on the Greek Islands is from late May to early October . July and August are the busiest and most expensive months but are also the best for nightlife and beach parties. March to November is great for sightseeing (though July and August can be very hot when touring exposed historical sites, especially in Athens). May and June : During May and June, Greece experiences spring, with mild to warm temperatures, blooming flowers, and lush landscapes. The weather is typically sunny, with occasional rain showers. This period is perfect for sightseeing, exploring archaeological sites, and enjoying outdoor activities like hiking and cycling. The islands and beaches are less crowded compared to the peak summer months, making it an ideal time for a more relaxed vacation. Accommodation prices are also more moderate. July and August : July and August (along with late June and early September) are the peak tourist season in Greece, with hot temperatures, sunny days, and large crowds at popular destinations. The islands, beaches, and coastal areas are bustling during this time, and accommodation prices are higher. While it’s a great time for beach vacations, it can be overwhelming for those interested in sightseeing or looking for a more tranquil experience. September and October : September and October have warm temperatures, fewer crowds, and more affordable accommodations. The sea remains warm for swimming, and the weather is generally sunny and dry. This period is ideal for exploring the islands, visiting historical sites, and taking in the outdoors.

Beach in Greece.

The best time to visit the Greek Islands for beaches, swimming, and water sports is from late May to early October.

The Best Months to Visit Greece Best Time to Visit Mykonos : June to September Best Time to Visit Santorini : April, May, June, September, October, early November Best Time to Visit Crete : June and September Best Time to Visit Rhodes : June and September Best Time to Visit Naxos : June to September Best Time to Visit Paros : June to September Best Time to Visit Ios : July and August Best Time to Visit Athens : April, May, October, and November Best Time to Visit Corfu : June, July and September Best Time to Visit Nafplio & Peloponnese : June and September Best Months for Greece and the Greek Islands?

Mykonos beach club.

The best beaches and beach clubs in Mykonos are at their best from June to September.

Best Time to Visit the Greek Islands : The Greek islands are at their best from late May to early October for swimming, suntanning, and beach weather; and from April to early November for sightseeing, hiking, and exploring. A good travel itinerary for Greece should consider the weather patterns of the Greek islands. Best Time to Visit Athens : Athens is a good year round destination. Moderate weather and fewer tourists makes winter a great time for seeing the real Athens. Summer is hot but the skies are always blue, there’s almost no rain, and bars and restaurants fill the sidewalks with tables and chairs. Spring and Fall are the best of both worlds: good weather, smaller crowds, and a fun active atmosphere. Best Time to Visit Greece for Good Weather : For first-time visitors, good weather is usually the most important factor and the warmest weather in Greece and the Greek islands is between late May and early October when it’s sunny, warm, and the water is good for swimming. Water temperature increases throughout the summer months. The sea will be cool for swimming in May (even though the weather can be beautiful). The water is warmest in August and early September. Swimming in early May and late October is often possible but can’t be guaranteed. Best Time for Greek Beaches : If you hope to enjoy hanging out on the best beaches in Greece and swimming in the sea, the best time to go to Greece is June, July, August, and September. Best Time for Sightseeing : The best time for sightseeing in Greece is generally April through about mid-May, or October and into early November, when there will be fewer tourists to interrupt the views and the weather is frequently quite mild; perfect for walking, but usually a bit too cool for swimming at the beach (with the exception of early October). Best Time For Mountain Hiking : April and May are wonderful months for hiking in the mountains, with the green landscape blanketed with colorful wildflowers and the weather often ideal for the trek. October is another good time, when summer’s sizzling temperatures begin to cool and the autumn foliage is at its peak, transforming the mountains with the vibrant hues of fall. Best Time for Saving Money : Hotels are much cheaper in the low season (December to March) and shoulder season (April, May, October and November) than in the summer months. Transportation, food, and drink prices tend to stay the same all year long so there’s little savings in that regard. If you want good weather but cheap hotels, then late May, early June, late September, and early October are the great times. There are no guarantees, but the first three weeks of October can often surprise visitors with great weather. Best Time for Nightlife and Parties : Mykonos, Paros, Ios, and Santorini have the best nightlife, and if you’re looking to party, dance, and listen to live DJs then July and August are the main months. On Mykonos, late June and early September are also good. On Santorini, there’s good nightlife from late May until early October. Best Time for a Honeymoon in Greece : If you want a beach holiday then June to September is best. If you’re more interested in quiet, solitude, sightseeing, and romance, then anytime from April to early November would be great. Is August a Good Time to go to Greece? : One of the most common questions I get relates to traveling in Greece in August. If you want nightlife, packed bars, and live DJs then this is the best time to visit Mykonos (and Ios, Santorini, and Rhodes to a lesser extent). Yes, August is busy but even at the peak of the tourist season on the busiest islands, if you want to escape the crowds it’s usually a short walk or bus ride to some very quiet and tourist-free spots. Greek Travel Guides Athens Travel Guide Crete Travel Guide Mykonos Travel Guide Naxos Travel Guide Paros Travel Guide Santorini Travel Guide Greece Travel Guide Greece Weather by Month

Top attractions in Athens, Greece.

Athens is filled with iconic historical sights that are easily enjoyed anytime of year. (Especially the indoor Acropolis Museum.)

Santorini Caldera in Greece.

Santorini is loaded with great tours and sightseeing so has a longer tourist season than other Greek islands. If you’re interested in non-beach activities then Santorini is great from April to early November. And if you can tolerate some rain and cloud then Santorini should be considered a year-round destination.

Greece Events and Festivals

Greece in january.

  • New Year’s Day/Saint Basil’s Day – January 1 is a national holiday, celebrating both New Year’s Day and Saint Basil’s Day in Greece. Saint Basil is the Greek equivalent of Santa Claus, therefore the day is similar to Christmas Day in North America, with gift giving. A special cake is often made with a coin in it as well, known as vasilopita, and whomever gets the piece with the coin is said to have good luck. The day in general is considered a lucky time, and there are often card games that go on for hours, mostly at home, but also in coffee shops and clubs.
  • Ephiphany – Epiphany is celebrated on January 6th in many places throughout Europe, including Greece, a time when the Blessing of the Waters takes place. A cross is tossed into a lake, river or the sea, and retrieved by swimmers who get good luck in return. There is usually a ceremony, and it’s particularly elaborate in the port of Piraeus.
  • Patras Carnival – The Patras Carnival is the biggest festival of the year in Greece, and one of the largest in Europe too. Purely of Italian origin, it includes elaborate festivities with parades, street music, dancing, balls, treasure hunts, and more. It begins in mid-January and runs through mid-February every year.

Greece in February

  • Carnival – In addition to the Patras Carnival, other Carnivals are hosted through Greece, mostly in February, typically three weeks before the beginning of Lent. Some of the best festivities can be enjoyed in Athens, Skyros, Chios, Lamia, Crete, Heraklio, Zante, and Naousa. Except to find lots of drinking and feasting, costumes, parades, dancing, marching bands, and more.
  • Clean Monday – One of the most important feasts throughout Greece, Clean Monday takes places on the first day of the seventh week before Easter Sunday, also marking the end of the Carnival celebrations. A public holiday, it includes outdoor excursions, consuming shellfish, and often building and flying kites.

Greece in March

  • Independence Day and the Feast of the Annunciation – These two holidays are celebrated simultaneously on March 25. The streets fill with all sorts of festivities and parades. Due to the holiday, some sites may be closed and streets are sometimes blocked as well.

Greece in April

  • Holy Week and Easter – Holy Week is celebrated from Palm Sunday to Easter Sunday, sometimes falling in late March, but most often it’s in April. In 2022, April 24 is Easter Sunday, and Holy Week is April 17 through April 23. For Greeks, Easter is the biggest religious holiday of the year. During Holy Week, many shops have special hours and there are church services every evening. Just before midnight on Saturday, many Greeks gather at church with Easter candles, and just before midnight the lights are switched off, representing Jesus’ death, just before the priest announces that “Christ Has Risen.” That’s followed by kisses, cheering and fireworks. On Easter, friends and family gather for a big feast.
  • Athens International Film and Video Festival – This festival in Athens brings some 250 films and video and includes experimental, narrative, short-form, feature length, and documentary films from around the world.
  • The Feast of Saint George – The Feast of Saint George (Agios Georgios Day) is an important rural celebration on April 23rd each year that includes feasting and dancing, with the festivities taking place where Saint George, the patron of the shepherds, is considered the patron saint. Some of the best are held in Skyros, Skiathos, and Arachova.

Greece in May

  • May Day/International Workers’ Day – May 1 is May Day and International Workers’ Day in Greece. Major strikes and/or protests as well as parades may be scheduled on this day, popularized by the Soviet Union as a holiday for workers. For May Day, flower festivals are common as it falls during the peak of flower season. Most monuments, museums, attractions, and some shops will be closed, though most restaurants will be open.
  • Salsa Spring Festival – One of Europe’s top dance events, the Salsa Spring Festival features some of the best dance instructors and performers from around the world along with top local artists in late May in Loutraki, Korinthia.
  • Athens Jazz Festival, Athens, Greece – The city of Athens hosts the annual Athens Jazz Festival, considered one of the best festivals of its kind in Europe. It takes place over five days in late May and showcases European as well as international artists; entrance is free.

Greece in June

  • Athens and Epidaurus Festival – The biggest summer festival of the year, this festival showcases dance, theater, music and opera at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus beneath the Acropolis, as well as music and drama at the Theater of Epidaurus. It runs from mid-June through early September.
  • European Music Day – European Music Day is a national event celebrated in some 50 cities across Greece for five days starting on summer solstice, June 21st. It includes 350 events that are hosted at over 200 venues, including parks, gardens, squares and archaeological sites, by music ensembles, philharmonic and symphony orchestras, choirs, and dance groups.
  • Miaoulia Festival, Hydra – This festival on Hydra commemorates the life of Admiral Miaoulis who played a key role in the Greek War of Independence. It features parades, art shows, circus acts, dance performances, and more.
  • Navy Week – Navy Week honors the country’s long relationship with the sea in late June. Ports and fishing villages throughout Greece host parties and historical re-enactments. Crete offers a big celebration with sailing, swimming, music and dancing.

Greece in July

  • Puppet Festival, Hydra – This annual puppet festival is hosted in Hydra in early July and draws puppeteers from around the world.
  • Sani Festival, Kassandra, Halkidiki – This festival based at Sani Resort begins in mid-July and runs through mid-August. It features film screenings, classical music concerts, and avant-garde theater acts.
  • Philippi Festival, Kavala – This event is hosted at the ancient theater of Philippi in Kavala, a northern Greece city, starting in mid-July and running through late August. It showcases music and theater presented by talented young artists.
  • Hippocratia Festival, Kos – Hippocratia is actually a number of cultural events that take place to honor the traditions and customs of the island of Kos starting in July and running through October. There are classical and traditional music concerts, theatrical performances, art exhibitions, and more.

Greece in August

  • International Music Festival of Aegina – This annual event features music complemented by the sounds of the waves on Avra Beach, and other spots around the island of Aegina throughout most of the month of August.
  • Olympus Festival, Mount Olympus – The Olympus Festival includes plays that are performed at the restored ancient theater throughout August.
  • Chania Rock Festival – This festival, hosted in the old city of Chania on the island of Crete during the first half of August, showcases a variety of Greek and international performers, up-and-coming artists, and rock bands.
  • Houdetsi Music Festival – Held annually for four days in August in the village of Houdetsi on Crete, this festival features a mix of music from across the globe.
  • Feast of the Assumption of the Virgin – August 15th is an important day of religious pilgrimage, a feast that celebrates Mary’s ascent to heaven. As many Greeks return home to visit, travelers may have a difficult time finding a room. It’s especially elaborate in Tinos, when thousands arrive to participate in the all-night vigil at the cathedral of Panagia Evangelistria.

Greece in September

  • International Music Festival, Santorini – The International Music Festival of Santorini is held over the first three weeks of September in the heart of Fira village. It features top artists from around the world, including classical and tango music, solo recitals, orchestras, operatic music, and piano duets.
  • Pistachio Festival, Aegina – Hosted annually over four days in mid-September, the Pistachio Festival features all things pistachio, with a variety of pistachio products for sale as well as concerts, plays, exhibitions, and gastronomy nights.
  • Festival of Tastes and Traditions, Rhodes – Taking place annually over two days in mid-September in the village of Pefkos, this festival includes wine tasting, live cooking demonstrations, exhibitions of traditional products, traditional music and dancing, a parade, and more.

Greece in October

  • Chestnut Festival Elos, Crete – The Chestnut Festival is celebrated annually, typically over the last weekend of October in the village of Elos. It includes roasted chestnuts and other foods, traditional folk music, dancing, and drinking.
  • Dimitria Festival, Thessaloniki – Held on October 26th each year, this festival showcases music, ballet, and opera.
  • Oxi Day – This is a feast day party and a national holiday that includes military parades, folk dancing, folk music and parades on October 28th each year to celebrate the nation’s refusal to yield to the powers of the Axis in 1940.

Greece in November

  • Feast of the Archangels Gabriel and Michael – Churches throughout Greece named for these archangels will host ceremonies on November 8th.
  • Anniversary of the Polytechnic Uprising, Athens – This November 17th holiday commemorates the anniversary of the student uprising in 1973 at Polytechnic University in Athens, which killed many students when tanks crashed into the university gates. There is a march and stoning of the American Embassy, making it best to avoid that area on that day.
  • Saint Andreas Name Day, Patras – As Saint Andreas is the patron saint of Patras, this city hosts a big celebration honoring the saint annually on November 25th. It begins the evening before with mass which continues into the morning, followed by a parade.

Greece in December

  • Feast of St. Nikolaos/St. Nicholas – This annual December 6th feast honors the patron saint of sailors through multiple processions which head to the sea, and to chapels that are dedicated to him.
  • Kladaries, Kozani – Annually on December 23, the Kladaries commemorates the shepherds who lit bonfires to announced the birth of Christ. In the village of Siatista, residents gather together to light fires and dance around them while enjoying the local wines.
  • Christmas Day – December 25th is a public holiday, and although it’s not considered as important as Easter in the Greek Orthodox religion, it’s celebrated with feasts and religious services, as well as gift giving, Christmas caroling, trees, and decorations.
  • New Year’s Eve – December 31st, New Year’s Eve, in Greece is traditionally celebrated by children singing carols outside while elders talk, play cards, eat, drink, and smoke. Today, most people celebrate the way the night is celebrated throughout the world, going to bars, attending parties, and watching fireworks displays that are hosted in the central squares of many cities throughout Greece.
  • Best Hotels on Santorini
  • Best Hotels on Mykonos
  • Best Hotels on Crete
  • Best Hotels on Rhodes
  • Best Hotels on Naxos
  • Best Hotels on Paros
  • Best Hotels on Ios
  • Best Hotels on Milos
  • Best Hotels on Sifnos
  • Best Hotels on Folegandros
  • Best Hotels in Athens
  • Best Tours & Things To Do in Santorini

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Hi Dave! Besides Crete, which other islands would you recommend visiting in May on a 10 day trip?

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With just 10 days I would not do more than one other island. Santorini is the closest island to Crete and has the most ferry connections with Crete. It’s also a great island – so that would be my first choice. Naxos and Paros would also be good reasonable choices.

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Holy Week in Greece

I am going to be in Greece (Athens & Santorini) during part of Holy Week (18 Apr to 24 Apr) and trying to sort out the best timing for my locations.

It will be a short trip and I need to fit in as much as I possibly can. Due to traffic and other holiday considerations (limited hours for museums, shops), do you recommend doing my relaxing in Santorini over Easter weekend and then my busy sightseeing in Athens afterward? Or vice versa? I would prefer to avoid big crowds wherever possible, but if there are things worth seeing in Athens that particular weekend, then I would definitely consider it.

Love your site! Thanks!

Greek Easter is usually a different date than western Easter. This year it’s April 28 for the Greek Orthodox, so you won’t be there during Easter at all.

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We are thinking of going to Crete in late November (in the next few weeks). We have never been to Greece and would like to experience some authentic island life. I understand that Crete is likely the warmest of all the islands at this time of year. We are in our late 50’s and fit. We love food, wine, music, scuba diving (thinking it would be too cold to dive now… yes?), history. Can you suggest some activities that we could do/ experience in Crete at this time of year? Thank you in advance. Cheers, Wendy

Yes, it will be too cool for swimming and diving but Crete is a great off-season destination. There are 3 medium sized cities (Heraklion, Chania, and Rethymnon) that have large local populations and lively cultures. November is usually perfect for sightseeing, hiking, food, wine, and local music. Knossos and the Archaeological museum in Heraklion are must-sees and much quieter and enjoyable outside of high season.

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Hey Dave! Me and my wife are booking our trip and we have two more nights we still need to book. We are leaving Santorini and then deciding between Mykonos, Naxos, Ios, Paros. Should we do two islands (one night each) or two nights on one island? And which islands? Thanks so much!

We love food and adventure and we don’t do any night drinking. Our first time in Greece! The trip is in late September.

Considering your interests, definitely Naxos. Great beaches, wonderful food, enchanting interior villages. And yes, spend two nights on the same island.

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Hi Dave! We are scheduled for April 2-11 in Greece, but am a little confused with Greek Easter. I am seeing it as April 8 this year, so am I correct to assume that the week leading up to the 8th is the Holy Week? I want to be sure I can get the most out of our trip, and am worried some places will be closed. (On websites it shows being closed on “Easter Sunday” so I imagine that means the 8th not the 1st.) Thanks!!

Yes, Orthodox (Greek) Easter Sunday falls on April 8 while regular (western) Easter Sunday falls a week earlier on April 1. Easter in Greece is a big thing and travel and accommodation in Greece can be a small challenge during this time (so do book in advance). The week preceding Easter is indeed Holy Week (it translates as ‘Big Week’ in Greek) and it is marked by a series of church events each evening prior to the midnight Resurrection on the Eve of Easter Sunday. Easter Sunday is a day of celebration and eating when the culinary austerity followed by the more pious Orthodox Greeks during the 40 days of Lent previously comes to an end. Lambs are roasted on spits and much food and drink is consumed in a family-oriented celebration.

This means a few things for the traveller. Food in general is commonly limited to ‘vegetarian food’ particularly during Holy Week. This means that restaurants will be limiting their food choices to ‘fasting foods’ (nistísima) though meat eaters may find some relief at places catering to the non-orthodox (which includes most restaurants on the islands). Because the tourist season has not yet officially kicked off, many summer tavernas and restaurants may not yet be open in touristy places. The tourist season usually gets into gear after Easter. Therefore, your days from 2-8 April may be marked by a level of paucity in food choices (think Ramadan in Muslim countries).

Travel and accommodation is in high demand as many Greeks go to their native villages and islands to spend Easter and you may have difficulty in securing flights on popular routes or even on ferries and catamarans (full sailings are rare but possible). The follow-on is that accommodation can be in high demand so you will need to book both travel and a place to stay well beforehand. Because the Easter Sunday celebration is a family affair on the whole, unless you have an invitation from a family to participate, you may find yourself on the outside on Easter Sunday with only a handful of places open for your Easter lunch (once again, in the most touristy spots this won’t be a problem).

You didn’t say where you are going, but Athens is probably a good bet to sit out the key days of Easter as many people will have left and things will be quiet AND you will have more choices for places to eat. If you want the ultimate Greek Easter experience and would like to participate in at least two of the church celebrations, then Corfu is popular with Greek Easter pilgrims where the Epitafios and the Anastasi are worth witnessing at the large church of Spyridon in Corfu’s Old Town. The village of Pyrgos on Santorini is also an Easter highlight.

In short, Greek Easter is generally for Greeks, though foreigners are more than welcome. Just don’t expect the normal touristy Greece that you might expect until at least some time after Easter.

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Hey Dave, This site is amazing! Greece has been on my bucket list for years and hoping to cross it off. Per your site, looks like late September/early October may be the best time for weather and reduced cost. I’m looking to plan a 7-10 day trip no kids, do you have a suggestion for itineraries? Such as where to stop, how long to stay, hotels? Any suggestions would be helpful… it’s a bit overwhelming to start planning with a little framework. Thanks!

Hopefully my page on Where To Go in Greece and Itineraries should help.

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Hi Dave, Loving your work and happy to be a Patron to support this great website. For my holiday, my partner and I are planning the following however I am having a few issues/queries.

Wed 20th June – fly into Chania from Dublin, arrive late. Stay at Casa Delfino.

Monday 25th – Drive to more eastern Crete and stay in Agios Nikolaos. I looked at Elounda but the hotels seem to all get mixed reviews. I would like to be able to walk into a village or town in the evening for a meal or drinks. Hence, I am looking at Agios Nikolaos, what do you think? I like the look of Sensimar Minos Palace. Would you recommend the Beach Art hotel over this hotel and why? I also thought of the Grecotel Caramel hotel which looks amazing but is it very isolated? Is there anything near it walkable in the evening? It gets fantastic reviews!

Friday 29th Ferry to Mykonos- Do you know if a ferry does indeed connect the two islands? Looking to stay 3 nights in Mykonos Bay Resort & Villas as this is within budget (1000€ max for 3 nights). Tharroe of Mykonos Boutique Hotel would be my choice but it’s a little outside the budget! Any other hotels you would recommend?

Then I am thinking 4 nights somewhere, I was looking at these apartments in Anemomilos Apartments on the island of Folegandros. What do you think, do you know this hotel?

Can I get from Mykonos to here easily in the summer? Conscious I need to get back to Athens to fly home and feel I’m heading in the wrong direction! Does Crete connect with Folegandros as I could do Crete – Folegandros – Mykonos? Or would you recommend another island near Mykonos? Really want to chill out, nice accommodation? Hire a car and get out and see an island! What is Folegandros famous for?

Thanks in advance, Stephen

Agios Nikolaos is a wonderful little town and likely just what you’re looking for. Sensimar is a nice resort but it’s a good 30 minute walk into town so you’re not walking out your door and wandering around Agios Nikolaos. The Minos Beach Art Hotel is much closer which is why I would choose it. Grecotel Caramel has some stuff within walking distance but not the main town. Stay here if you want the resort experience and not so much if you’re looking to hit the town for lunch/dinner/nightlife on a regular basis. Mykonos Bay Resort is on a decent beach about a 10 minute walk from Mykonos Town. Has a very nice pool (but I would still prefer to stay right in Mykonos Town). Anemomilos Apartments are very nice and in the main town (Chora) of Folegandros. Wonderful views. There will likely be a Crete to Mykonos ferry (with stops in Santorini, Paros, and Ios along the way). Mykonos to Folegandros (direct) is less certain but you’ll always be able to get there, you just might have to change ferries in a different island.

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Hi there! My husband and I wanted to visit Santorini in August/September but we like very hot weather. I saw on a few websites that it only gets to about 80 degrees? Is that true?

Joanna Condoluci

Santorini often has a nice breeze that keeps the temps moderate (somewhere in the 80s) even in the summer. Most people like this but if you’re after very hot then you might be disappointed. That said, there’s always a week or two each year when you get some scorching temperatures. August is usually the hottest month but peaks can come anytime from early June to late September.

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Hi Dave, great site!! Planning a trip to Greek islands and Athens for late September and October. Would you recommend travelling the islands on your own, or taking a small cruise to cover more territory by night and explore the islands by day. If so, which cruise do you recommend? Thanks So Much

I am not a big fan of cruises in the Greek Islands so would definitely recommend doing and planning it yourself. More info here: Should I Take A Santorini Cruise?

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Hi Dave, I have come across your site recently and it is a great resource. We are planning an 8-day trip from NYC to Greece Oct. 28 – Nov. 5. It seems like Santorini and Athens are definitive top choices. But we wanted to see 1 additional part of Greece. Where would you recommend at that time of year? We were thinking Crete, but where in Crete would you recommend? Would Naxos be a good option? Thanks so much. Amit

If you want a second island to visit then Naxos. (There won’t be any Santorini-Crete ferries in November so visiting Crete is much more difficult.) If you’re open to something on the mainland then do an overnight trip from Athens to Nafplio.

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My husband and I are thinking of taking a trip but would have to go in mid to late March. Would we still get ferries to the islands, Santorini and Mykonos in particular? Maria

There will be ferries to Santorini and to Mykonos but not ferries between Santorini and Mykonos. In the off-season you’re better to visit Santorini and Paros or Naxos as the ferry connections run all-year and there’s more to see and do in the quiet months on Paros/Naxos than on Mykonos.

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Kali mera! Thank you for your recommendations. We are exploring all your suggestions. One more question – where (town/village) on Crete, Mykonos, or Rhodes would you recommend we stay? 3 families with children ranging from 7-10 years old. Judy

On the assumption that the focus will be on your children rather than yourselves, you are probably wanting a family-friendly hotel in either Crete or Rhodes and there are plenty of options in a few select places where you’ll need to do the research to locate what suits your budget and individual needs.

The Agia Marina/Platanias strip west of Chania town is a good start for Crete. It’s touristy, but not overly so and there are many family hotels dotted along the coastline. There are lots of shops, restaurants, and car-hire places and the long beach is generally sandy and shelving. Most decent-sized hotels will have pools and the family-oriented hotels generally put on a special effort for children with activities, play centres, pools for kids and often child-minding. There is also an Aqua park not far from Chania. You will find similar possibilities on the tourist strip east of the town of Rethymnon though the hotels and the beach are divided by a road – unlike in Chania. At the upper end of the budget scale there are some pretty enticing family hotels in Elounda over to the east. Some of the hotels listed on this site have great kids’ facilities so have a browse here first.

Rhodes is similar, with the family-friendly hotels scattered down the east coast through Faliraki to Lindos. Some of the larger hotels near Rhodes New Town (on the west side of the island) cater well for children so have a look here too. It’s hard to recommend one over another as they do vary considerably in price, but there are the areas that you need to be looking at.

Mykonos has a reputation for partying and nightlife but as long as you avoid the clubs and bars (and a few of the party beaches) it has a surprisingly family-friendly vibe. The beaches of Platys Gialos and Ornos are best for kids and have a good mix of family hotels and good restaurants.

Other than large family hotels (which will inevitably cost more if they are all inclusive or even half-board deals) your only other option is DIY in self-catering appartments, but then you are going to have to entertain your group’s children in more imaginative ways. All three are good islands to find what you seem to be looking for, all you have to do is start looking for that best combination of accommodation and entertainment for your three families.

See Also: Crete Family Hotels , Rhodes Family Hotels , and Mykonos Family Hotels .

I’ll be traveling to Greece mid to late August with my husband and 10yr old daughter. We have two other families (similar composition) joining us. We will do 3-4 days in Athens then an island for 5-6 days. I looked into Naxos but it has limited airbnb options. I’ve been to Greece a number of times but the other 2 families have not. We want beach, good food, and a pool wherever we stay to keep kids busy before we head to beaches or sightseeing. What do you suggest?

Naxos is the best island for what you’re looking for (though Crete, Paros, Mykonos, Ios, and Rhodes are also good choices). Agree there are few Airbnb rentals but not sure why that’s a necessity. Lots of great family hotels on Naxos .

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Hi Dave We are a family of 5 (kids 15,11,6) and will likely be travelling with my almost 80 year old dad. My eldest daughter wants to see the Parthenon in Athens and the other two want to enjoy family beach and relaxation. Not caring as much about history just yet. I was thinking thinking Corfu for one of our destinations… we are thinking about last week of July for timing. If we had a week would you have a recommendation? Thanks, Sarah Luke

Corfu is a wonderful island but not great for island hopping – if you go there you probably won’t go anywhere else. Conversely, the Cyclades are close together and it’s easy (and lots of fun) to ferry from one to the next. You could see 2 islands or even 3 in a weeks time. All the Cycladic islands are worth a visit so don’t worry about making a bad choice but Naxos, Paros, and Antiparos are particularly good for kids. Mykonos, Ios, and Santorini have fewer families but all have a great family-friendly vibe as long as you avoid the night clubs and romantic restaurants.

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Hello Santorini Dave,

Thanks for all the Greece weather tips. My husband and I are planning a 2 week vacation in Greece with our little 18 month baby. Would you advise what are the best places to visit with a baby? The trip should be first 2 weeks of September. Thanks, Nihal

Naxos is a great island for families and staying in Naxos Town (and near St George’s beach) is a great combination of convenience, good hotels, and easy access to the beach.

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HI Dave! My husband and I are planning last minute to visit Greece from the US and fly our 18 yr old son to meet us (he is currently doing a year in Germany). Planning to come April 8-15th approx. I have been researching some and I think we would love to do Athens for a short stay and then Santorini and Naxos. Santorini sounds the best to us and we arent into the party scene so sightseeing in Naxos sounds interesting. Will that be during Easter in Greece and if so how will that affect our trip? Any advice on logistics? Flying into Athens and then how best to do the itinerary from there? Likely want to fly into Santorino instead of Ferry. Thanks for all of the great info that you provide! Pam Wagner

The best plan: Buy tickets to London. Then fly directly to Santorini. Ferry to Naxos. Fly or ferry to Athens. Fly Athens to London. This saves time making two visits to Athens (when you only need one) and you don’t have to retrace your steps (also a time-waster). Use kayak.com to search for tickets.

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Hi Dave, really great and helpful your blog! I´m planning my honeymoon in Athens, Mykonos and Santorini, between March 18th and March 26th. We´re not looking forward to beach weather, but is it nice for sightseeing? Or is it likely to be rainy or cloudy? Thanks a lot! Paula

Certainly be prepared for a little rain but you’ll likely get good sightseeing weather in Athens and Santorini. Mykonos doesn’t have a lot to see/experience outside of warm months so I would recommend Naxos instead.

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Dear Santorini Dave, After reading all of your many responses, I have to agree with all of the compliments going your way. Your advice is so relevant and tailored. Thanks in advance for helping me with my dilemma.

My wife and I are celebrating her 40th birthday. we are spending a day/night in Athens and then 4 nights/5 days in Santorini. I wanted to add one more island to our itinerary before heading back to Athens and on to home.

My original plan was to go to Crete for 2 days/nights. However, after reading your site, I have to admit it is not enough time to do it justice.

We want to minimize ferry/airport/getting to hotel time as much as possible and so that led me the other direction to Naxos or Paros.

Ideally, the location would give a good cultural taste of Greece, be scenic, not require hiring a car, have good food/drink, be somewhat romantic and have some nightlife (we won’t be up all night dancing, but do like to go out). Nice beaches are a plus, but subordinate to great local experience.

My original thought was Naxos, because it looked like we could take a ferry, settle in in a nearby place (e.g. nissaki) and walk to either town or beach. The portal was also an added plus. The only thing that put me off a little was a lot of the area seemed family friendly (and while I love kids – I have three youngish ones), we are traveling to be around adults. Not sure if you can weigh in on whether we will feel like we are having a romantic time if we stay in Naxos, but I’d appreciate your insight.

If we stay in Paros, my concern was it seemed a little less likely that we could get a compact experience, where we stay in a nice hotel (e.g. lily residence or astir of Paros), but still we walkable to town or water.

Our ideal would be waking up, hanging out pool or beachside, then walking in town and eating/drinking our way through different tavernas and restaurants, maybe heading back to beach or pool and then out again for dinner / nightlife. A short day trip is fine by bus or taxi, but would given the short time, that would be limited.

We are going in the first week of August next year so it will be right in the middle of busy season. Budget is not a constraint in terms of 2 days for the hotel.

Thank you for any advice on whether Naxos or Paros is best for us. Also, please confirm if it will be fairly easy to book a flight to Athens from either island.

Yes, Naxos Town and beach are very family friendly with lots of kids but I would be surprised if you found it overrun with children and couldn’t enjoy it as two adults. That said, Naoussa (on Paros) is more sophisticated with night clubs and trendy restaurants and definitely has a more adult feel (though you’ll still see plenty of kids). The beaches near Naoussa are not as nice as the beaches near Naxos Town but they’re still nice for a swim – for a sunbathing scene you’d probably need a rental car on Paros. And also, Naoussa is a bus/taxi/car ride from the port of Paros. In sum, the vibe of Naoussa is more of what you’re looking for, but Naxos is more convenient. Both are great. Flights from both islands to Athens are easy to get but do book them well in advance.

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Hi Dave, Awesome website. We are a family of 5 (kids ages 12,8,4). We are considering a trip 1st week of April for 8 days. We’d like to see some historic sites in Athens as well as visit Santorini. We are considering flying between Athens and Santorini. Would adding Mykonos be too hectic? What split in days you recommend? What sites in/near Athens do you recommend? Would we need to rent a car or local transport would be good? Thanks Lakshmi

There are direct ferries between Santorini and Mykonos in April so it wouldn’t be hard at all to add Mykonos. That said, it’s not beach time yet in April so Mykonos won’t have a lot to do for a family. Naxos or Paros are better off-season choices. Renting a car on all the islands is a good way to see more, so yes I would recommend that. In Athens the Acropolis, Acropolis Museum, the historical sites in the Plaka, and the National Archaeological Museum are the highlights. Since it’s off-season I would do 3 days in Santorini, 3 days in Athens, and 2 days in Mykonos, Naxos, or Paros.

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Hi Dave, I’m glad I found your site. I’m planning a trip to Greece with my husband, 6 year old and 17 year old in mid April. Maybe 10th-18th. Hubby and teen are history and Greek mythology lovers. With 7 or 8 nights I’m thinking 2 locations. Athens and Santorini? Naxos sounds nice too. Do we need 3 nights in Athens for the sites or 4 nights? If we pick 1 island which one should it be? Looking for nice scenery, village culture, good food. I’m assuming weather would be similar on both islands. The 16th is Easter in case that changes anything. Also any advice on whether to explore Athens first or fly to an island first? thanks so much! Cynthia

3 nights (2 full days) should be enough for Athens but if you’re really keen on history then you could easily fill 3 days. If you can only visit one island then Santorini is definitely the highlight – especially in April when it’s not beach weather (Santorini’s views are great year-round). Travel during Easter week will be busy and you should book ferries in advance even though it is low season. If you’re ferrying to and from the islands then do Athens at the end of your trip (just in case ferries are cancelled you’ll have a few days to play with to get back to Athens for your flight home). If you’re flying it doesn’t really matter.

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Hi Dave – per your recommendation, I’m trying to buy ferry tickets from Mykonos to Santorini for July on the Hellenic highspeed 4, which you say is the best for people who are prone to sea sickness. I went to hellenicseaways.gr but can’t figure out which one is highspeed 4. Do you know the exact times? I would also like to check your 2nd recommendation on terajet, but again – do you know exact times? Thanks so much! your website has made my planning effortless.

Hellenic has 2 ferries running between Mykonos and Santorini this summer. The Hellenic Highspeed which leaves Mykonos at 10:15. And the Highspeed 7 which leaves Mykonos at 13:50. Both are good for stability and seasickness. Both take about 3 hours and cost the same. (I would probably take the earlier one, that way if it’s cancelled you have a second shot with the afternoon ferry).

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Hi Dave. I’ll be in Crete in May also on honeymoon, where would you recommend on the south of the island? Thanks, Marie Finn

Southern Crete covers a lot of territory and you’ve not really hinted at want you want to do or what kind of traveller you are. So here are a few tips for places that offer a mixture of creature comfort, beach, places to eat and offer accessibility.

Over on the far eastern side of Crete is the cosy little town of Ierapetra, nestled in among some of the richest agricultural territory in Crete. It wears its tourism monicker shyly, but needn’t fear as it is a very likeable town with a busy central promenade and a selection of fine seaside cafés and restaurants. The beach scene in the town centre – heading on out to the fortress – is actually pretty amenable and the water swimmable. You could hang around in Ierapetra for a few days and may move a little further west (15kms) and spend a few more days at a friendly and equally cosy seaside village called Myrtos. You could easily spot a relaxing week of your honeymoon in these two centres.

Considerably further west and in the middle section of the southern coast is the less-shy former hippy resort of Matala which wears its monicker rather retro-proudly. It has all the attractions of a holiday resort: sand, sun, ouzo-laced sunsets and plenty of places to stay. It was very trendy back in the 60s and 70s and still maintains its air of now post-hippy happiness, though people no longer make a home in the troglodyte-like caves that back the rather languid bay-wrapped beach. Better know the the other places and a bit more up-market.

On a similar note you have two more sizeable seaside villages of similar atmosphere that you may care to investigate. The first is Plakias (further west yet from Matala – 72kms) and while it never garnered a hippy heritage, it has stood the test of time as a popular traveller haunt, with yet enough creature comforts to make a honeymoon here an attractive option. Fine enough beach, the odd revved-up bar, good places to eat and a range of budget to honeymoon quality accommodation.

Keep going west and you will hit Paleochora (158kms from Plakias via a very circuitous route) the last of the four suggested locales for your honeymoon. Similar to the former, though a bit larger in size and offering two types of beaches to choose from (pebble and sand). Again it’s a ‘cozy’ village (for want of a better word) and similar in style to the previous two.

The south coast is not as well connected as the North coast inasmuch as there is no straight and direct road across the southern flank of the island. You will need to duck and weave and in the case of the Plakias to Paleochora stretch there is not even a road: transport here is by coastal ferry (or you have to go drive all the way to the north coast and then back down another road). A week is not a lot of time, so you may want to limit yourself geographically to one of the four places mentioned. Best tip for honeymooners? Try Matala!

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Hi Dave, I will be in Greece from the 22nd to 29th March of next year and was planning to visit Santorini and Athens. From what I’ve read from your blog so far (which has been super helpful so thankyou!) this is low low season and a lot less will be open and available on the islands. Is Santorini still worth a trip in late March for two 20-something girls looking to sight-see, explore, eat good food and a bit of partying? Not overly fussed about swimming. Thanks, Saskia

Yes, I think Santorini is nice in March and your best choice for what you’re looking for. No island has a robust nightlife in March but Santorini has the most and you should be able to find some fun in Fira (though nothing too crazy). Sightseeing is good in March.

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We, my husband and 2 college age daughters, are planning a trip in March(11-19th). We were hoping that we could plan on sun. Probably too cold to swim in the ocean, but sit by a pool and swim a little would be nice. We like scenery, food, a little slower pace than the big cities. After reading your info on Santorini I was sold, but I feel like I should plan on going to Crete to get better weather. We plan to fly in/out of Athens so I think both islands is too rushed. Santorini sounds great, but after landslides due to persistent rain on our last trip to Scotland, I’m trying to get the least clouds and rain possible but still great scenery. I need a compromise and hope you can help. Honeymoon atmosphere not needed, nor wild party scene. Can you help direct me? Great site! Thanks, Carla

I agree, Crete is great and should have nice-ish weather in mid-March but probably won’t be swimming as most pools are not heated. Chania is the highlight of Crete and has year-round population and visitors so will have some life to it even in March. Knossos (near Heraklion) is one of the top historical sites in Greece and worth a visit.

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We are planning a visit to Greece in early May. Where would you recommend to get the best and hottest weather for beach time? I know it’s early season but need to know where the best chance of good weather is.

Crete is the farthest south and gets the warmest weather early in the season (and late too). And within Crete, the south coast, usually gets warm weather a little before the rest of the island. Not a huge difference but enough to notice.

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Best Time to Visit Greece and the greek islands

Updated On: January 9, 2024

Written By: Pavlos Inglesis

Greece is not the same every month of the year, as it’s a country with 4 distinct seasons and a hot summer. The best time to visit Greece and the greek islands really depends on what you are looking for, from your holidays in my beautiful country.

best time to visit greece

A trip to Greece is completely different in the winter and compared to the summer, as there are different things you can do in every season.

BEST HOTELS IN GREECE AND THE GREEK ISLANDS:

  • In Athens: The Dolli
  • In Santorini: Cavo Tagoo
  • In Mykonos: Amazon Suites
  • In Crete: Creta Maris
  • In Corfu: Akrotiri Beach Resort
  • In Naxos: Nissaki
  • In Paros: PAROCKS
  • In Skiathos: Skiathos Palace
  • In Milos: Noma Milos
  • In Ios: Hide Out Suites
  • In Meteora: Doupiani House
  • In Delfi: Amalia Hotel

The beauty of Greece is that it is an extremely diverse country with lots of things to do in any month. but the best time to travel to Greece usually depends on what you are looking for from your trip.

Get my secrets for Greece & the greek islands in your email !

Greek islands like Mykonos and Santorini are probably the most famous destinations in Greece, but you have to be aware of the peak season and the shoulder season of these islands as they can be swamped with tourists during certain times of the year.

The best time to visit Greece is June or September, where you will get warm weather but fewer tourists, in general. This does not apply to Santorini and Mykonos islands however, as they are equally crowded even in June or September and it would be better to visit those islands in May or the end of September/early October to avoid the tourist crowds. All Covid-19 restrictions have now been lifted for Greece, and the tourist crowds have returned!

best time to visit greece october

READ ALSO:  Best Time to visit Santorini Best Greek Islands for Older Couples Best Greek Islands for Families Best Greek Islands for Couples Best Things to Do in Greece Tipping in Greece: when and how much

vlychada beach white

VERY IMPORTANT TO KNOW:

  • Best Time to visit Greece for beaches and swimming in the sea: May to October (sea water will be warm enough)
  • Best Time to Visit Greece for Weather: the weather in Greece is at its best between June and October (temperatures between 20-35 degrees C and very minimal rain)
  • When is summer in Greece (read to find out)
  • Best Month to Visit Greece: May or October because the weather will be warm but you it will be less everywhere
  • Best Time to Visit Greece for Honeymoon: the best time for a honeymoon in Greece is June or September as the weather will be warm enough and the crowds won’t be that bad.
  • Best Time to Visit Mykonos and Santorini: the best time to visit Santorini and Mykonos islands is May, mid-June and mid-September or October. Both islands islands can get extremely crowded even in June or Septemnber the last years so you should probably avoid these months too.
  • Best Greek Island for Teenagers : definitely Crete as it’s the island with the most exctiting things to see and do
  • Best Time for partying, buzz, crowds:  July, August, early September (this is when all greek islands and mainland Greece are buzzling with people and tourists)
  • Avoid visiting Greece in August by all means : August is by far the worst time to visit Greece as it is the month where greeks actually go on holidays and it will be packed and super expensive everywhere
  • Most businesses, hotels, restaurants, cafes, bars on the greek islands close  between and including November-March; this is considered the low season in Greece (or winter)

Weather in Greece

Here are the average temperatures in Athens Greece for the whole year:

best time to visit greece october

As you can see from the figure above, Greece has very mild weather compared to other European countries or even compared to North American weather.

The weather on the Greek islands can be very windy in the summer (July and mostly August) but this is something that cannot be predicted, so I am not going to give you any advice on that other than you should be prepared for it.

As a rule of thumb and according to my experience of having visited almost all greek islands the last 35 years, the only thing that can ruin your greek holidays is not the temperature or rain, but the strong winds that you may come across, which will prevent you from enjoying a day on the beach.

There are some greek islands that are notoriously windy (such as Andros or even some parts of Crete) but in general, you shouldn’t worry that much, and chances are that you won’t face any typhoons or storms (there is none of this in Greece by the way!).

Best Time to Visit Greece for swimming and beach life

koukounaria beach skiathos

Beaches in Greece are some of the best in the world, so beach life and swimming in the crystal waters of the Aegean sea or the Ionian sea makes absolute sense as the main target of your trip to Greece!

The best time of year to visit Greece for beaches and swimming is during the summer months of June, July, August, and September as this is when the sea waters will be hot and you will enjoy the most beach bars and clubs on every island (or even mainland Greece).

Best time to visit Greece for good weather

best time to visit greece october

The best time to visit Greece if you are looking for warm weather is any month between June and October.

The temperatures during these months are the highest of the year and they can actually be boiling (up to 42 degrees Celsius due to world climate change).

You should be very careful during that time because the sun can be very harmful if you are not protecting your skin properly or hydrating yourself regularly.

If you are not used to those temperatures or you want less hot weather then you should visit Greece in May or October because the weather is definitely less hot during these months.

santorini crowds

You should also bear in mind that the weather during the winter (or low season) months from November till April can be very unpredictable.

You may get 25 degrees and sun or you may get 0 degrees and snow!

BUT as a rule of thumb, you should always have in mind that bad weather in Greece only lasts for a few days (3-5 days on average).

In fact, every time we have terrible weather in Greece with snow or colder temperatures…it’s on the news! 😊

Best Time to Visit Greece for Honeymoon

santorini honeymoon

A honeymoon in Greece can be an exceptional experience but I truly believe you are going to have the best time if you go to Greece in June.

June in Greece has awesome sunny and warm weather which is perfect for swimming in your private pool or in the sea.

The great thing about June in Greece though is that in general, the islands are less crowded and less expensive.

This does not apply to Santorini and Mykonos though as they are expensive any time of the year nowadays but you will definitely find fewer tourist crowds during those months.

W hen is summer in Greece ?

Summer in Greece is the months of June, July, and August but you will also get sunny warm weather in May and in September.

For you to understand the temperatures in Greece bear in mind that April and May in Greece are like the hottest months you can get in major European cities such as Paris or London UK.

santorini beach

June, July, and August can be very hot (taking into account the global climate change as well…) you may get temperatures of up to 43-44 degrees Celsius (110 Fahrenheit).

Weather in Greece in September

I keep on telling people who want to go to Greece that September is the best month to do so because the weather is not that hot and most of the places are not that crowded with tourists.

Weather in Greece in September is exceptional with temperatures up to 32 degrees Celsius. Here is the weather in Greece in September in a nutshell:

best time to visit greece october

What is the best month to travel to Greece?

The best month of the year to travel to Greece and to the greek islands is June and September. This is usually called the shoulder season in Greece, while July and August is the peak season (or high season). During these 2 months, you will get warm summer weather (between 20-35 degrees Celsius or 70-95 degrees Fahrenheit) but you will also get fewer tourists and lower prices in general. The summer months in Greece are June, July, and August but most tourists and the large cruise ships go to Greece in July and August so these are the busiest and most expensive months. So, I would say that the best time to go to Greece is mid-June or mid-September where you will get warm weather but fewer tourists.

When should you avoid Greece?

You should definitely avoid visiting Greece during July and August as these are the busiest and also hottest months. You should also know that 99% of the Greeks go on holiday in August. If you want to visit any Greek island such as Santorini or Mykonos you should definitely avoid July and August and also possibly September as the last years September feels like August in these 2 islands.

What is the cheapest time to go to Greece?

The cheapest time to go to Greece is the low season (or winter) which is the months between November and March. You can also visit Greece in April or May but this is usually the time when the greek easter occurs and it’s usually the time when the Greeks go to the countryside or the islands they come from to celebrate Easter Sunday of the Greek Orthodox Easter. usually, the prices in hotels and Airbnb’s are slightly more expensive during that time. If money is an issue for you then I would recommend visiting Greece during the winter or at least visit in the should seasons of May-June and September-October.

How many days in Greece is enough?

You need at least 7 days in Greece but it really depends on your situation and if your visit is part of a longer visit in Europe. In theory, the absolute minimum number of days you need in Greece is 3 days. During these 3 days, you can spend 1 day in Athens and then head to one of the greek islands (make it Santorini if you can as it is the most impressive greek island). I do not generally recommend visiting Greece for such a short period of time as I am not a big fan of the tick-the-box holidays and I really like to spend some proper quality time anywhere but I also understand that everyone’s situation (and bank account…) is different so that’s my advice!

Which Greek island is the prettiest?

Well, if you ask a greek this question you will get a different answer! However, it is globally accepted that Santorini is the prettiest island of them all and there are excellent reasons to believe that in general. My personal opinion is that every greek island is an extremely pretty destination and you can definitely find beauty and amazing places on each one of these, even the less known ones.

The best time to visit Greece is definitely some time between the months of June and September.

All areas are usually less crowded in June but you will still get awesome warm weather and you should be able to go swimming and enjoy the sunny summer weather.

You should definitely avoid August as it is the most crowded month of the year and accommodation and restaurants can be very expensive during that time.

You should also bear in mind that most businesses (hotels, rooms, bars, restaurants, and shops) on the islands operate mostly between May and October.

The weather in Greece in September is awesome and it still feels like summer for the most part with sunny days and warm sea waters.

Photo of author

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4 thoughts on “Best Time to Visit Greece and the greek islands”

Thanks for this! I’m planning a trip in late november, after reading your blog, I wondering if you think it’s still an advisable time to go since it’s going to be cold and rainy?

You are definitely going to have a great time any time you visit Greece but unfortunately you won’t be able to enjoy the beach life in November. Almost 100% of the business by the beach close at the end of October and the sea will probably be too cold for most people in November.

I wanted to know if you think I should visit in 1st week of April.. I am planning a trip for my birthday.. but I have received contradicting answers on google.. some say it is the worst some say it is good…will i get to enjoy the beaches in April? And is it lively in general during that time?

Hi, The weather in early April won’t be summer perfect so you won’t be able to enjoy the beach life to be honest. It also really depends on the place that you will visit. If you are looking to visit the islands then they will definitely feel deserted but Santorini always has lots of tourists throughout the year but the beach side areas will be pretty much empty.Bear in mind that April is usually the month where the Greek Easter occurs which is a pretty big celebration for us in Greece and all the areas (including the islands) get livelier. So, if beach life and awesome weather is your main priority then 1st week of April is not the best time to visit Greece. You are most likely going to get good weather but it’s not for sure as March and April have relatively unstabel weather but you may also get sunny days with 20 degrees celsius. You can definitely swim in the beach if you dare to, but the water will be cold for most people (it also depends on your experience and what you think is cold and hot). The main thing though is that most businesses on the beach side areas on all islands (restaurants, hotels and beach bars) will be closed as they usually open towards the end of April and early May and then close at the end of October. If you are looking to visit Athens though, April is probably the best time for all the attractions as you will avoid the crowds of the summer and the very hot weather. Hope that helps!

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pavlos ingelsis about

My name is Pavlos and I come from the beautiful country called Greece. You can follow me on Twitter here and I will try to do my best to respond to you personally. This is my blog to help you plan your next holidays to Greece and the greek islands, whether it is Santorini, Mykonos, Crete or even Athens. I was actually born in Athens, and I have been to almost all of the greek islands and pretty much most of mainland Greece. I know the ins and outs of my country and hopefully, my travel blog will help you make the most of your holidays.

RECOMMENDED WEBSITES FOR GREECE:

Booking.com  i s the website with the most available rooms and Private Villas in Athens, Santorini , Mykonos & Crete  (more than Airbnb!)

Ferryhopper    is the best website to book your ferry tickets or check the timetables for Santorini, Mykonos , Crete & all greek islands

Get Your Guide  has the best and largest variety of Tours in Athens and the greek islands (Santorini, Mykonos, Crete etc)

Rentalcars is the easiest way to rent a car or a quad for Greece with thousands of available options

Expedia  has all the available flights to and from the greek islands

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best time to visit greece october

Weather in Greece in October: Best Travel Ideas

best time to visit greece october

Key Takeaways

  • October marks the transition from summer to autumn in Greece.
  • In southern Greece and the islands, temperatures can still be relatively mild, ranging from 15 to 25 degrees Celsius (59 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit).
  • You can expect an average of 6 to 8 hours of sunshine per day , especially in the early part of the month.
  • October is considered the shoulder season in Greece , offering a more relaxed experience and lower prices than the summer.

Traveling has never been more popular than now, as there's less and less news about COVID-19. That said, it takes a lot to plan a trip overseas, whether booking flights or choosing suitable dates to go. Don't fret, as this post will show why visiting Greece in October can be great.

Greece in the fall can be a lovely time to visit as the weather in the Greek Islands is still very moderate and is one of the country's shoulder seasons for tourism. This means more affordable accommodation, especially if booked in advance. 

If you're planning a trip to Greece , this guide will help you with all the vital weather information you need. 

What is the Weather like in Greece in October?

Aeropagus hill

The weather in Greece in October varies quite a bit, depending on what part of Greece you are in. The average temperature in Greece in October sits between the average low temperature being in the 50s and the average high temperature in the high 70s and 80s, especially in early October. As it's an off-peak season, this is one of the best times to visit Greece . 

The beginning of October is the warmest, so this is a great time for those who enjoy swimming, taking evening walks, and sun-tanning. Towards the middle of October, the Aegean and Ionian seas begin to cool, and there are more cloudy days.

In the last week or so, the average rainfall begins to increase, and you'll want to bring warmer clothes if you want to visit Greece in October, especially during that time.

Don't fret, though. Despite the low average rainfall, the average snowfall is zero, especially in the islands and the big cities.

It all depends on where you want to explore when you visit Greece, as some islands are warmer due to their location. Keep reading for some more ideas on this topic. 

Where to Go in Greece in October

ATV Paros

Greece has 227 inhabited islands out of 6,000 islands in total. So there's a lot to explore. There are also so many attractions you can see and do, from learning about the secrets of the Acropolis to sailing in Mykonos . 

Santorini Weather in October 

kamari beach Zocchi Roberto shutterstock

Santorini in October has delightful weather, with average temperatures in the 70s and not dropping below 60ºF. This makes it perfect for exploring the island.

That being said, you must be aware that the average wind speed is pretty high, so you must remember to bring warm pieces of clothing with you.

An amazing way to do this is by taking a highlights tour of Santorini . This includes a four-course meal, wine tasting, and entrance tickets to the Prehistoric Museum of Santorini and Prehistoric Thera. 

cliff jumping into ocean

The average sea temperature is still fantastic, at around 72ºF, so taking a sunset catamaran cruise is a brilliant way to see the local fish of the country and stare at a stunning view. This is because there are stops for swimming and snorkeling.

Even more, you can enjoy a delicious Greek lunch onboard with complimentary drinks, including beer, wine, and soda.

Mykonos in October 

Mykonos Weather In October

As one of Greece's most visited islands , Mykonos can feel very busy in its peak season. This is a great thing if you want to visit Mykonos in October. It's much less crowded, which means more space on the beach. 

And while Mykonos' temperature in October begins to drop, swimming is still quite nice as the average sea temperature is around 72ºF. Mykonos is renowned for being a party island, but this is not the best time to visit. This is because parts of the island begin to close for winter. Check out this post for the best time to visit Mykonos . 

greece weather in october

What's more, considering Mykonos has been nicknamed 'the island of the winds,' it is understandable that the average wind speed is particularly high throughout the year, let alone in the months of fall and winter.

For those who aren't into partying, this is a fantastic time to visit, as this island still has lots to offer. A brilliant activity is this Mykonos traditional cooking class to learn all about Mykononian food, with meze and raki (wine) provided. 

October Weather in Athens, Greece 

Athens riviera

As the capital of Greece, Athens is always full of sightseeing opportunities and things to do . What's more, Athens' weather in the month of October is still good. The average temperature in Athens in October is around 68ºF, with highs in the mid-70s and lows in the lower 60s.

This lower temperature in October means fewer tourists besides cruise passengers. So it's perfect for more introverted people or for those who want a more genuine experience of local life. There's also much to do for those who like to keep busy. 

A terrific activity, regardless of the weather, is taking a Zorba dance lesson . This is a traditional Greek dance. For those worried about being hungry afterward, fear not, as dinner is included.

This ultimate gastronomy tour is the perfect option for foodies to taste dolmades, kalamata olives , and feta.

Corfu Weather in October 

Corfu Weather in October

Corfu is one of seven islands in the Ionian Sea , and it's one of the favorites for summer and autumn holidays as the sun rarely stops shining.

The weather in Corfu in October is very pleasant, with an average high temperature of the 70s and an average low temperature of 60. This makes it one of the best months to visit the island. 

greek aesthetic

What makes a trip to Corfu so brilliant, except for the warm average weather on most days, is the archaeological sites and castles. The perfect activity to learn about this island's history is this full-day tour of Achillion Palace, Paleokastritsa, and Old Town .

October is a splendid time to be here, just as much as September, as it boasts minimal crowds, giving you a more authentic experience of Corfu .

Crete in October

Crete Weather in October

Crete is one of the best Greek islands to visit in October if you want to place your summer vacation with an autumn one. During October, it's got very pleasant temperatures with daily maximums of 73ºF and daily minimums of 62ºF, which are experienced mostly at night.

The average sea temperature is still optimal for swimming at a balmy average of 74ºF, with long hours of daylight and sunshine.

Not to mention that the ferry schedules from and to Crete -although fewer- are still frequent, making the island easily accessible even in late October and early November.

reading by the sea

Compared to other areas of Greece, the weather in Crete in October is fantastic, with hardly any rainy days. This makes it perfect for visiting. As it is the biggest Greek island, there are many things to do in Crete . 

An exceptional thing to do is this Cretan wine and olive oil tour , especially for wine lovers. This archaeologist-guided tour of the Knossos Palace and Archaeological Museum of Heraklion is a brilliant activity for history buffs. 

Final Thoughts on Greece's Weather in October

beach bar

Greece is a terrific destination to visit in October. Since it's home to all the previously mentioned isles and cities, there's a lot to do, from swimming and sunbathing on Crete's coast to exploring Mykonos on a jeep safari . 

Overall, October will be a great month to visit Greece, as it's more budget-friendly and less busy with nice weather conditions and minimal rainy days. If you're looking for another marvelous time to discover this nation, of course, consider coming to Greece in the spring .

All in all, Greece's weather year-round is superb for all visitors. It all depends on what you want to get out of the experience and which popular destinations you want to visit. 

Now that you know about the high temperatures, the historical sites, the minimal average rainfall and cloud cover, the fewer crowds, and our travel tips, there is no excuse left for you to avoid a visit to Greece and the Greek Isles; the best time to visit is now, so check out our Greece itineraries and get going!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is visiting greece in october a good idea.

Visiting Greece in any season is the best idea you will have in your life. While the Greek summer is an unparalleled experience, Greece in October is not too far off.

It offers a less crowded, less touristy, and more authentic type of vacation. So yes, it is a fabulous idea!

What should I pack when visiting Greece in October?

You should pack all the summer essentials you have in mind, including sunscreen and a hat, but also a couple of warm garments and a pair of boots or sneakers that will not be affected by rain.

What are the pros and cons of visiting Greece in October?

That's a very easy question to answer.

  • It is less crowded.
  • It is significantly more affordable.
  • It is still -for the most part- sunny and wonderful, without the exhausting high temperatures of summer.
  • It will give you a more genuine and authentic feel of what the Greek lifestyle is like.
  • The weather is more unreliable, and the chance of an occasion rainfall is pretty high, and so is the average wind speed.
  • The islands in Greece can be a bit empty, while some of the tourist infrastructure may be closed (although the majority doesn't enter its off-season mode until November)

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The Best Time to Visit Greece

From island-hopping in fall to sightseeing in spring, there’s plenty to see and do in greece year-round..

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People chatting at sidewalk café in Thessaloniki

While many flock to the Mediterranean country’s islands and coastal destinations during the summer, there’s plenty to do year-round.

Photo by Marco Argüello

So, you’re finally planning that dream vacation in Greece but can’t figure out the best time to visit? Many travelers consider the ideal time to visit Greece to be the hot, dry summer months of June, July, and August. But there’s plenty to do beyond this period (which is also the busiest time to holiday in the Mediterranean country).

In September and October, the beaches are quieter but it’s still warm enough to swim. And if you’re looking to tour the ancient sites, spring or fall is appealing because you can still expect mostly sunny days but with more comfortable temperatures.

Here’s the best time to visit Greece, whether you intend to island-hop, peruse archaeological wonders, or avoid the crowds.

Best time to visit the Greek islands

  • Best months: April–June, September–October

April through October is the best time to go island hopping in Greece. While it can occasionally rain in the spring or fall, the weather is generally sunny and warm. It’s slightly cooler up north, while it’s warmer the further south you go. As of June, Greece’s seas are warm enough for swimming and stay that way until around mid-October.

Prices, temperatures, and crowds peak in July and August, particularly in popular island groups like the Cyclades, Ionian, and Dodecanese. During these two months, average temperatures hover around the mid-80s Farenheit but frequently reach the mid-90s, plus the odds of a heatwave are high .

Once summer breaks end at the end of August, the islands become decidedly more serene, making September and October perfect months to wind down by the water. Average temperatures range in the early 80s and 70s, respectively.

Best time to visit Greece for sightseeing

  • Best months: April–May, September–November

Spring and fall make for superlative sightseeing. Exploring ancient hot spots like Delphi, ancient Epidaurus, and Olympia on foot is much more pleasant in spring temperatures averaging 60 to 70 degrees. Rainfall and cooler temperatures are a possibility—so you may need to layer up—but you can mostly get by with a T-shirt.

Visiting archaeological sites in early spring or late fall allows for more room to move, compared to summer when cruise ship passenger tour groups descend on them en masse. Ticket booth queues are shorter or even non-existent.

Aerial view of waterfront promenade, with cars and buildings at right.

Beyond the best-known destinations, you can find plenty of peace and space as the first month of fall kicks in.

Best time to visit Greece to avoid the crowds

  • Best months: October–May

Summer is Greece’s high season, so if you would rather dodge the crowds, time your trip accordingly. Even September now sees significant numbers of visitors, particularly among those not tied to school holiday periods. By October, the beaches, towns, and tavernas of Naxos, Paros, and Kos are gloriously sedate. Blue skies on a November ramble through Rhodes’s medieval old town are almost guaranteed. This is the month when you’ll find some of the best rates for domestic flights and hotels.

With winter’s arrival, consider going to Greece’s northwestern mountain areas. Aside from the Christmas and New Year period, relatively few travelers venture to the Epirus region—where crackling fireplaces and a hearty welcome await guests of stone-built boutique lodgings. Some of the loveliest are scattered throughout the traditional villages of UNESCO World Heritage-listed Zagori, home to Vikos Gorge.

Winter is also the best time of year to capture Santorini ’s ethereal beauty without being sandwiched by selfie-snappers. Expect average temperatures of 55 degrees and a small number of hotels catering to an eclectic group of off-season travelers.

Best time to visit Athens

Rather than tacking a stay in Athens onto the start or end of a Greek island jaunt that would normally coincide with the busy summer period, consider dedicating a good week to digging into the nitty-gritty of this dynamic city.

The best time to schedule a visit to the Greek capital is during the fall, winter, or spring. This is when Athens is at its prime and, more notably, when Athenians are in town. So, you’ll gain a better perspective of what life is really like in this vibrant metropolis where the ancients coexist with their contemporaries.

Make no mistake—it can be chilly in winter. But if you’re willing to risk a rainy day or two, this is when you’ll capture the Acropolis and its monuments in golden afternoon light sans the tourist crush. You’ll have treasure troves like the National Archaeological Museum and the Museum of Islamic Art almost completely to yourself. And foodies can more easily enjoy Athens’s burgeoning collection of Michelin-starred restaurants along with established family-run mezze joints that never go out of style.

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Best Time to Visit Greece

best time to visit greece october

Climate Overview

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Geographical location

Climate in greece.

best time to visit greece october

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Water Temperature

Best Time to Visit Greece: Overview

When to travel to greece, best time to visit the regions, climate charts greece.

In the following, you will find climate charts for the regions.

Furthermore, there are some charts you can use for quick comparison of climate between the regions.

Climate Chart Athens

Thessaloniki

Climate Chart Thessaloniki

Day Temperatures

Night temperatures, average temperatures, water temperatures, precipitation, hours of sunshine per day.

Source of Data: German Weather Service (Offenbach) and Wikipedia

Climate Tables Greece

Temperatures, precipitation, sunshine in athens (greece), temperatures, precipitation, sunshine in thessaloniki (greece), highlights and attractions, popular activities, more attractions, current weather and forecast.

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Important Regions and Cities

Hottest Month

Activities and Attractions

Distances to greece, where’s greece, continent: europe, greece: experiences of our visitors.

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Crete in September World Best clima 2 weeks in the south of the island No swamps used even in the evening. Water like in july August warm Everything relaxed

Weather Rating: 5 stars – Excellent

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The weather was wonderful. It was warm to hot, we could swim. A great and successful holiday.

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I was on Paros. The weather was mostly sunny. The temperatures were pleasantly warm at about 20 degrees. From time to time it was very windy and stormy but then only for a few days.

Weather Rating: 4 stars – Good

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Pleasant temperatures, around 30°C during the day, 22°-25°C at night. Ionian Sea, water temperature 27°C, always light breeze

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Holidays in Neo Pori Temp. above 34 degrees C, only once wind and light rain

mostly cloudless pleasant temperature for sightseeing the sea was also 20 degrees.

Region Olympic Riviera – Sunshine, but a very, very cool wind. Water too cold for bathing

Weather Rating: 3 stars – Mixed

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15 of the Best Towns and Cities to Visit in Greece

From historic hillside cities to island destinations, these are 15 of the best towns and cities to visit in Greece.

More than 27 million travelers made their way to Greece in 2022 , visiting the country's gorgeous islands and coastlines, rural towns, and historic capital city of Athens. One look at its landscapes and it's easy to see why travelers dream of visiting Greece — but there's so much more to this Mediterranean nation. 

"Everyone knows that Greece boasts stunning crystalline waters that make you want to dive right in and historical sites that whisper tales of the past. Its culinary delights are a perfect way to wrap up a day of exploring its unique cultural riches and vibrant art scene, but what truly sets Greece apart is its people," Christos Stergiou , a travel advisor with True Trips, shared with Travel + Leisure . "Greeks have this incredible gift called philoxenia: hospitality taken to a whole new level. Our True Trips guests always describe the feeling of having new local friends who'll go above and beyond to make their journey unforgettable." 

Ready to plan your getaway? Here are 15 of the best cities to visit in Greece.

Yes, a visit to Athens feels obvious, because not only is it the capital city, but it’s also home to the international airport you’ll likely fly into on your visit. That said, Athens is well worth a trip in its own right, as it’s home to some of the most important historical sites on Earth, including the must-see Acropolis. Need more? Here’s how to spend one perfect day in Athens .

Related: The Best Times to Visit Greece

Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki, located in the northern part of the country, offers a blend of history and youthful energy that few cities can match. “I would recommend Thessaloniki for its long and epic history,” Peter Sommer, founder of Peter Sommer Travels , shared. “The historic center of Thessaloniki is filled with an extraordinary series of ancient monuments, many of them part of an imperial palace complex built by the Roman Emperor Galerius and vast in scope."

Sommer added that there are several museums to visit here, including the Museum of Byzantine Culture and the Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki. “But history and archaeology aren’t the only reasons to come to Thessaloniki. It’s justly famed for its gastronomy,” Sommer added. “You can savor a huge selection of glorious local dishes and sample a cornucopia of excellent local wines.”

Drive two hours east of Thessaloniki to find another northern city worth exploring — Kastoria. The scenic city sits perched on Lake Orestiada between the Grammos and Vitsi mountains. Visitors can enjoy peaceful boat rides on the lake with any number of outfitters lining the shores, or just watch the local fisherman go to work each day to reel in the catch. Or, book a tour with Adventures With Wine to bike the lake’s shoreline and see all the hidden nooks worth exploring. 

“Ioannina truly shines as a city that's a hidden treasure, especially for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers,” Stergiou shared of the city that sits on Lake Pamvotida. It’s a spot that has inspired many creative talents thanks to its epic vistas, but more than that, Stergiou explained, it’s a fantastic home base for exploring more of the northwest region of Greece. 

“In addition to the beautiful lake that stands proud as the city’s landmark, the Byzantine castle, the scenic historical center, and the lively neighborhoods, Ioannina is a gateway to countless incredible experiences within a drive of an hour or two. From there, you can take daily trips to some of the most beautiful villages in all of Greece, such as Metsovo or captivating Zagorohoria, filled with breathtaking landscapes and charming stone houses.” 

Kalamata, a city well-known for its olive production, is a place where travelers can get lost — in the best way possible. Come stroll its winding cobblestone streets, explore the castle, and visit museums like the Modern Greek Art Gallery for a well-rounded city escape in the Peloponnese region.

Kalambaka, a city located in central Greece, is famous for its unparalleled view of the stunning Meteora. The city sits at the base of the towering rock formations topped with historic monasteries that date back as early as the 11th century. The complex of monasteries is a UNESCO World Heritage Site , and you can visit many for a small fee.

There are more than 6,000 Greek islands , and while many come with small populations, the island of Rhodes is positively metropolitan thanks to the city of Rhodes. Home to some 50,000 people, the city is famed for its ancient history and the duality of its New Town and Old Town. While there’s nothing wrong with New Town, Old Town is a walled-off time capsule to the past, and it's one of the largest remaining medieval settlements in Europe.

Nafplio, located in the eastern Peloponnese, is a seaside dream packed with Venetian architecture to explore. As Alys Colayera, lead travel expert for Greece at Black Tomato , shared, it’s a “great place to wander through the old alleyways, grab a strong cup of Greek coffee at a local coffee shop in the square, and take a boat to Bourtzi Castle if you are interested in architecture and history.” As for the name of the town, Visit Greece explained that it comes from its mythological founder, Nafplios, one of Poseidon's sons.

One more island city to explore is Chania on the island of Crete. It too is famed for its Venetian harbor and quaint old town. Explore its cobblestone streets, duck into museums like the Maritime Museum of Crete , and shop for souvenirs in its endless boutiques. Pro tip: Leather goods are famously great here, so go ahead and splurge on a bag or a pair of shoes. 

While Larissa has a population of more than 130,000 people, it remains a place well in touch with Mother Nature. This city in central Greece is an agricultural hub, growing vegetables, grains, fruits, and more, so it's a great place to dig into some Thessalian cuisine. While in town, explore the Ancient Theatre of Larissa , dedicated to the god Dionysus, to learn more about the area's ancient history.

History abounds in the southern city of Corinth, thanks to well-preserved ruins including the iconic Temple of Apollo and the Acrocorinth fortress. Just an hour from Athens, Corinth and the surrounding coastal towns make a perfect day trip from the capital city, says Colayera.

If you’re making your way to the islands, odds are you’ll pass through the port city of Piraeus. Dozens of ferries come in and out of the harbor each day, but before you board one, spend a little time exploring the city by visiting places like The Hellenic Maritime Museum , which showcases Greece's rich seafaring heritage.

Head north along the Aegean coast to Kavala, a hillside city with gorgeous beaches, sweeping vistas, and an exciting mix of ancient history and modern city life. You can’t miss its imposing aqueduct, which runs for almost 1,000 feet and dates to the 16th century. Once you’re done viewing that, head straight to The Acropolis of Kavala to learn more about this city’s fascinating history.

Find the party in Patras, a university port city in western Greece. Yes, of course, you’ll find history here, including inside the Archaeological Museum of Patras , which showcases goods from the surrounding region dating back to prehistory. But in Patras, you’ll also find a bustling (and modern) nightlife scene across several neighborhoods, including down Riga Feraiou Pedestrian Street, where you can snag a delicious bite of Greek food, too. 

Explore one of the most beautiful places in Greece when you plot a trip to Corfu Town on the eastern coast of the island of Corfu. Here, travelers can explore the historic architecture that earned Old Town of Corfu a spot on the UNESCO World Heritage Site list. Tour the fortresses, stroll through the town’s central market, and visit Spianada Square, the largest square in Greece.

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  1. 10 Best Greek Islands in October

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  2. 6 Best Places In Greece To Visit In October [2021]

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  3. Best time to go to Greece

    best time to visit greece october

  4. Best Times to Visit Greece

    best time to visit greece october

  5. The Best Time to Visit the Greek Islands is…October!

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  6. Weather in Greece in October (Average Temps & Best Activities)

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COMMENTS

  1. Best Time to Visit Greece: Month-by-Month Guide (2024)

    Overall, the best months to visit Greece are anywhere between the end of April and the beginning of November. April is when the good weather starts to come out in Greece and by the time May hits, the sun is shining, the birds are chirping, and the water is starting to warm up.

  2. Best Times to Visit Greece

    Best Times to Visit Greece for Smaller Crowds. Unsurprisingly, the most popular times to visit Greece are the late spring, summer, and early fall months. This is when the weather is ideal, and all ...

  3. Best time to go to Greece

    May to October is best for island-hopping. Orthodox Easter, Greece's most significant spiritual holiday, lands in April or May and unofficially debuts in the island-hopping season. In the final month of spring, the seas only just start to lose their winter chill and are still too cool for swimming, at least by local standards.

  4. These Are the Best Times to Visit Greece

    Generally, the best weather in Greece is what you'll experience in May, June and September. Plenty of sunny days that aren't too hot make May an ideal time for long, leisurely walks in Athens. By June, the beaches of the Aegean islands are warm enough for swimming and popular islands like Mykonos aren't crowded yet.

  5. Best and Worst Times to Visit Greece 2024

    For the best weather conditions, the best times to visit Greece are during spring (April to early June) and autumn (September to October) outside the summer peaks (July to August). These periods offer warm and sunny weather at around 24°C (75°F), without swarming crowds and the highest prices. While planning a trip to Greece, read on to find ...

  6. Greece In October: Weather & Travel Tips

    Is October a good time to visit Greece? If you're not keen on crowds and super-scorching weather, October is definitely a good time to visit Greece. In fact, many return visitors to the country hail early autumn as their favourite time to go to Greece. ... Best time to visit Greece; Crete Itinerary - how to spend 5, 7, 10 or 14 days in Crete ...

  7. The Best Time to Visit Greece, According to a Local

    For me, the best time to visit Greece is from September until the end of October. The weather on a lot of the southern islands, such as Rhodes and Crete, is still warm enough to swim, with average ...

  8. Greece in October: Best Places to Visit in the Fall

    October temperatures in Monemvasia range from 23ºC (73°F) to 19ºC (66°F), so this is one of the best fall destinations in Greece. Monemvasia. In Ancient Greece, the citadel of Monemvasia was probably home to thousands of inhabitants, but today only a handful of people reside here full time.

  9. 6 Places to Go in Greece in October 2024

    Day 2: Visit the Delphi Archaeological Site, stroll Arachova town, go to UNESCO Osios Loukas Monastery, drive to Meteora, and stay overnight in Kalambaka town. The best Hotel to stay at in Kalambaka is Archontiko Mesohori Suites & Apartments. Day 3: Visit UNESCO Meteora Monasteries. 5.

  10. The Best Time To Visit Greece [By Seasons and Interests]

    Summer (June, July, August) Summer is the best time to visit Greece's beautiful beaches. Image Credit: Greg Montani from Pixabay. It probably comes as no surprise that summer is the most popular time to visit Greece. Unfortunately, this also means it's the most crowded time in Greece.

  11. Best Time To Visit Greece

    The best time to visit Greece is outside the busy summer peaks, during spring (April to June) and early fall (September and October). Temperatures are warm but not stifling, and you'll find that destinations are open but still relatively quiet. The period from November to February tends to be colder, but city attractions remain open and are ...

  12. Best Time to Go to Greece by Rick Steves

    By Rick Steves. Tourist season in Greece is roughly Easter through October. Peak season is summer, when Athens is packed with tourists, and hotel prices can be high. July and August are the hottest. The best time to visit is late spring (May) and fall (Sept-Oct). It's pleasant, with comfortable weather, no rain, and smaller crowds (except ...

  13. Best Time To Visit Greece In 2024 (And When To Avoid It)

    The Best Time To Visit Greece. If you want good weather, fewer crowds and affordable prices - the best time to visit Greece is May, June, September and October. The temperature during these months can range from 73°F (23°C) to 82°F (28°C). "It's not too hot and not too cold.

  14. Best Time To Visit Greece

    Best Time To Visit Greece - The classic time to visit is May-Aug. My preference is March or September. Best Time To Go To Athens - Spring (Mar & April) Best Time For The Greek Islands - June-July if you like the action. Best Time For The Beach - May-October. Best Time For Sightseeing - Mar, Apr & October.

  15. Best time to visit Greece

    June-September are the warmest months in Greece. The ocean and air temperatures are warmest in August, making it the month most pleasant for swimming. August, they leave the capital city of Greece nearly deserted and great for warm, crowd-free exploring. Shoulder Season: March / April and October / November.

  16. Best time to visit Greece: when to go and what to do

    The best time to visit Greece is usually between late April and late October when there is sunshine round the clock and rain is rare. Beach lovers should aim for June until September. Main photo ...

  17. When is the best time to visit Greece?

    The best time to visit Greece is during May, September, or the first days of October. Generally, you can visit Greece all year round and have a wonderful time. But the typical tourist season in this country is from the Easter period, through October. The peak season is in summer when Athens and the Greek islands offer their hospitality to tourists.

  18. Best Time to Visit Greece and Greek Islands

    Best Time to Visit the Greek Islands: The Greek islands are at their best from late May to early October for swimming, suntanning, and beach weather; and from April to early November for sightseeing, hiking, and exploring. A good travel itinerary for Greece should consider the weather patterns of the Greek islands.

  19. Best Time to Visit Greece and the greek islands

    The best month of the year to travel to Greece and to the greek islands is June and September. This is usually called the shoulder season in Greece, while July and August is the peak season (or high season). During these 2 months, you will get warm summer weather (between 20-35 degrees Celsius or 70-95 degrees Fahrenheit) but you will also get ...

  20. Weather in Greece in October: Best Travel Ideas

    Key Takeaways. October marks the transition from summer to autumn in Greece. In southern Greece and the islands, temperatures can still be relatively mild, ranging from 15 to 25 degrees Celsius (59 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit). You can expect an average of 6 to 8 hours of sunshine per day, especially in the early part of the month.

  21. Greece in October 2024: 13 Best Places to Visit

    13 Best Places to Visit in Greece in October. October is the perfect time to head to Greece if you want to explore archaeological sites, cosmopolitan cities, charming villages, and hiking trails. A handful of destinations to consider in Greece in October are detailed below. Lakonia

  22. When's the Best Time of Year to Visit Greece?

    Best time to visit the Greek islands. Best months: April-June, September-October. April through October is the best time to go island hopping in Greece. While it can occasionally rain in the spring or fall, the weather is generally sunny and warm. It's slightly cooler up north, while it's warmer the further south you go.

  23. Best Time to Visit Greece (Climate Chart and Table)

    A classic seaside holiday is possible at the best time of the year in all coastal and island regions of Greece. The season usually runs from mid-May to mid-October. Best Time to Visit the Regions Find the best time to visit the regions (Greece) in the following overview.

  24. 15 of the Best Towns and Cities to Visit in Greece

    Kalambaka, a city located in central Greece, is famous for its unparalleled view of the stunning Meteora. The city sits at the base of the towering rock formations topped with historic monasteries ...

  25. Pickyourtrail

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