travel to greece best months

The Best Time to Visit Greece and the Greek Islands

Not sure what is the best time to visit Greece ? I used to live in Greece and visit frequently so I’ve put together a month by month guide to help you figure out the best time to go to Greece  depending on your interests and weather preferences.

I have broken down the best time of the year to visit Greece by season and even further by month.

Finally, I have a summary of the best time to visit depending on your interests and my overall top pick for most people.

What is the Best Season to Visit Greece

Not sure what season to go to Greece ? Here are some pros and cons about visiting Greece and the Greek islands in each of the four seasons. Once you have a general idea of what season you would like to visit, make sure to check out my month by month guide for more detailed information. Even in the same season, your experience in Greece will vary depending on the month you visit.

Visiting Greece in the Spring

Spring is generally a great time to explore Greece as temperatures start to warm up making it very pleasant to walk around and sightsee. Tourism starts to increase every month especially around Easter week when locals head to the Greek islands. In May, weather is warm enough to sunbathe but the sea might still feel too cool to swim.

Easter is a big holiday in Greece. The date changes every year – this year Orthodox Easter is May 5, 2024 which is fairly late in spring.

Visiting Greece in the Summer

Summer is the busiest and the most popular time to visit Greece. The summer months bring the iconic Greek summer experience, attracting sun-seekers from around the world. The Greek Islands become bustling with life, offering a perfect setting for beach lovers and party enthusiasts.

June offers warm to hot temperatures making it a great time to visit for those that want to enjoy beach time as well as sightsee. July and August are the hottest summer months (temperatures can reach ) so they are not the ideal months for hiking or sightseeing.

Keep in mind that popular destinations (such as Athens, Santorini and Mykonos) are very crowded during the summer, so book hotels and flights in advance.

If you would like to visit the Greek islands in the summer but avoid crowds, choose less well known Greek islands.

Visiting Greece in Autumn

Autumn is an excellent time to explore both the mainland and islands without the intense summer crowds.

Early Autumn is usually the best time to visit in terms of good weather – the weather is usually more pleasant (still relatively warm and less likely to rain).

During early autumn (September and early October), you can still enjoy the Greek summer experience (go to the beach and swim in the sea) with fewer crowds.

Late autumn (late October and November) is a bit more unpredictable-temperatures will start to cool and rainy season begins. The weather might still be warm outside but it might be too cold to go swimming. If you want to visit the Greek islands in late autumn, head to warmer southern Greek islands (including Crete and Rhodes).

Athens and the mainland will be pleasant for walking around, hiking and sightseeing.

Visiting Greece in the Winter (November to February)

While winter may not be the most popular time to visit Greece, it is not a bad time to visit Greece especially if you just want to sightsee. November offers a quieter experience, and you can still enjoy mild temperatures. December brings festive vibes, with Christmas markets and celebrations throughout the country.

The winter months are perfect for exploring historical sites without the crowds, although some islands and coastal areas may experience cooler and rainy weather.

While it can get cold and snowy in the mountains and northern Greece, the temperatures in most of Greece (including Athens) are usually not very cold so it is a good time to sightsee.

Winter is not the best time to visit the Greek islands and it is usually too cold for sunbathing and swimming. If you can only visit the Greek islands in the winter, choose warmer Greek islands in the South like Crete and Rhodes.

Winter is rainy season in Greece, so pack a travel umbrella .

Pros: Winter is low season in Greece so winter offers the fewest crowds and lowest prices.

Cons: Winter is too cold for swimming. It is more likely to rain that the rest of the year. Snow in Athens in rare but can happen. Many restaurants, hotels and shops in the Greek islands are closed for the season. Some attractions might have reduced hours.

What is the Best Month to Visit Greece

Hopefully you now have a general idea of the season you want to visit Greece. If you want to narrow it down further, here is a month by month guide.

Visiting Greece in January

January is the middle of winter and one the coldest and rainiest months in winter.

There are fewer tourists and lower prices on accommodations.

Visiting Greece in February

February is one of coldest months in Greece.  There are not a lot off tourists and you can expect lower prices.

Since most of Greece has mild weather in the winter, it is not a bad time to explore historical attractions.

Visiting Greece in March

March is a transitional month.  Spring blooms begin and temperatures are more moderate than January and February.  It is still more likely to rain in March than later in the spring.  It is a good month for walking around and exploring ancient ruins and historical sites

Visiting Greece in April

April is particularly delightful, with comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds, making it an ideal time to explore historic sites.

April is considered shoulder season. Tourism starts to increase but there are still lower tourist numbers compared to summer.

The weather starts to get warmer making it a good month for those that enjoy hiking and other outdoor activities. A Most places are still too cold for swimming, but some

April is is good time to visit Santorini and Mykonos before it gets crowded but it will still be too cold for swimming for most people.  If you are hoping to spend time at the beach, head to southern islands south such as Crete and Rhodes which are typically a bit warmer.

Visiting Greece in May

May tends to be one of the best months for good weather as temparatures are warm. It is a great time to visit Greece before schools go on summer break and the busy summer season starts.

May is a good month for island hopping and beach activities but some people might find the water a bit cold for swimming especially in the first half of the month.

Around mid to late May, tourism start to increase substantially as schools let out for summer.

Visiting Greece in June

June is the start of summer with rising temperatures.  It can start to feel very hot especially later in the month.

This is a good time to visit the Greek islands.  There is bustling nightlife on the islands and some crowds but less busy than later in the summer.

June is definitely hot enough to visit the beach although some people might still find the water a bit cold for swimming in early June. By late June, the sea has warmed up making it an ideal time for beachgoers and water sports enthusiasts.

Visiting Greece in July

July is usually the hottest month in Greece and many places (including Athens) might feel too hot for sightseeing.

Greece is very crowded with tourists at this time as all students are on summer break.  Advance bookings are recommended for popular destinations.

The Cyclades (including Mykonos and Santorini) will be hot but the breeze makes it feel less hot than Athens and the mainland. If you want to visit the Greek islands in July but want to avoid crowds, head to less popular islands.

Visiting Greece in August

August is the peak of summer tourism with crowded beaches and nightclubs. It is perfect for those seeking a lively atmosphere.

August is one of the two hottest months in Greece in terms of temperature.  This is a great time for swimming as the sea will be the warmest.-

Many Europeans take their vacation in August, so Greece is very crowded especially the first half of the month. August 15 is a big national holiday in Greece.

Visiting Greece in September

As the summer rush subsides, September sees a gradual decrease in temperature and tourist numbers. The weather remains warm, and the sea is still inviting for a swim. This is an excellent time to explore both the mainland and islands without the large summer crowds.

I consider September to be the BEST time to visit Greece for warm weather with fewer crowds.  The temperature in early September is still hot and the water is warm enough to swim. Late September is usually still warm, but it starts to get a bit cooler especially at night.

Visiting Greece in October

October is the start of shoulder season. Attractions become less crowded and you can find lower accommodation prices.

October brings cooler but still pleasant temperatures. It is still a good time to visit, especially if you enjoy hiking and outdoor activities.

Early October is typically warm enough for swimming. Temperatures start to cool mid to late October with autumn temperatures but you might still be able to go swimming in some parts of Greece such as Crete.  Rainy season starts around mid to late October so it is more likely to rain than earlier in the month.

Visiting Greece in November

If you enjoy moderate temperatures, November is a great time to visit in Greece. Weather can be a bit unpredictable, and it does occasionally rain in November. Attractions are much less crowded, so this is a good time to visit Greece if you want to sightsee with fewer crowds.

Visiting Greece in December

December usually has mild winter temperatures so this is a good time to visit Greece if you want to sightsee with few crowds. Attractions are not  crowded at this time.  Flights will probably not be that cheap, as many Greeks that live abroad will be traveling back to visit family for the holidays.  You can enjoy festive Christmas markets and celebrations at this time, but Christmas is not as much of a big deal as it is in western Europe and the US.

Worst Time to Visit Greece

If I had to pick the worst time to visit Greece, it would be August when it is the most crowded and also very hot. Many Europeans (including Greeks) take their annual vacation in August, so beach destinations will be very busy. Athens will not be as crowded as early in the summer (as many Athenians will be on beach vacations) but there are still many foreign tourists in the city.

Should you visit Greece if you can only go in August? Yes! I used to visit Greece every August when I was still a student and still enjoyed it.

If you want to visit the popular islands in August, book early and expect high prices.

If you want to avoid crowds in the Greek islands, skip the most popular islands like Mykonos and Santorini and head to less well known islands. The end of the August will be less crowded as the first half as some students are already back in school.

What is the Best Time of the Year to Visit Greece For…

Good Weather   –  The months with the most comfortable weather in Greece are typically May through June and September and October. During this time the weather is warm but usually not as painfully hot as the peak summer (July and August).

In April and November, temperatures are still very pleasant enough to sightsee comfortably but might not be warm enough for a beach vacation.

March and December are cooler but still mild but it is more likely to rain than summer season.

The months that typically have the worst weather (colder, rainier and occasional snow) are January and February.

Swimming –  The water in the sea is warmest and pleasant for swimming from mid-June through mid-September. May and October are usually warm enough to swim but some people might find the water too cold.  Most people will find late autumn, winter and early spring, too cold for sunbathing and swimming.

Keep in mind that the sea warms up as the weather gets hotter but there is a lag of a few weeks.  In late spring and early summer the weather can be hot outside, but the sea a bit cool for swimming.  In autumn, it can start to feel cooler outside, but the water can still be warm for swimming. You can find current and historical sea temperature data here .

Most locals and tourists start heading to the beach sometime in May and June but for some people the water in Greece gets comfortably warm for swimming around late June.  When I lived in Greece (in the Peloponnese), I would usually start swimming the second week of May.

Avoiding Crowds – The busiest time in terms of tourism is the summer (and Easter week). If you want to avoid fellow tourists at popular tourist attractions, visit in the low season (January through March). Shoulder season (April through mid-May and mid-September through October) is a good balance of fewer crowds but pleasant and warm weather .

Party Animals – If partying in the Greek islands is the reason for your trip, then you will want to visit in the summer. Lots of bars and clubs in the Greek islands (such as Ios) do not open until around Easter and close down around September.

Low Prices – You are most likely to find the biggest hotel and flight bargains in January and February because there are fewer tourists visiting Greece at this time. There will be slightly more visitors in March and November, but prices are still low at this time.

Best Time to Visit Greece – My Overall Recommendation

Most people would enjoy visiting Greece (including the Greek islands) in early autumn (September and early October) .  In early fall, the weather is still warm and you can enjoy beach time and outdoor activities with fewer crowds because kids and students are back in school.  If you enjoy hot weather, September is the best month to visit. If you prefer more mild and pleasant temperatures, October is a great month to visit and might still be warm enough to swim in the ocean. The reason I chose autumn over spring is that even if the outside temperature is the same, the ocean in autumn will be warmer for swimming versus in the spring when the water temperatures are still cold.

My second choice of the best time to visit Greece depends on your interests. If you are visiting Greece for a beach vacation or nightlife, my second choice for the best time to visit Greece is June (as there are fewer crowds than July and August).  If you are visiting Greece for sightseeing, my second choice for the best time to visit Greece is late spring (especially April and May) for warm and  pleasant temperatures and pretty spring flowers.

If you enjoy hot weather, beach time and a party atmosphere, then summer is a good time to visit but it will be crowded and more expensive. If you want to visit Greece on a budget and want to avoid crowds, then consider visiting in the winter but it might be rainy and somewhat cold.

Ultimately when to visit Greece depends on you so hopefully this guide has helped you make a decision on the best time to visit Greece . If you are still not sure, feel free to ask me any questions in the comments below.

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• Best and Worst Times to Visit Greece 2024/2025

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

The most popular time to visit Greece is during the summer months from July to August. With the sunniest weather of the year and the warmest temperatures average highs above 35°C (95°F), this period is ideal for enjoying the beautiful islands and beaches. 

But for outdoor activities and sightseeing, the best time to visit Greece is during the spring (April to early June) or autumn (September to October) seasons. These periods offer pleasant 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.

Discover real reviews of Highlights Travel Family 's best-rated service across trusted platforms.

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• 1. Best Times to Do Greek Island-Hopping

2. Best Times for the Cheapest Prices and Fewest Crowds

3. worst times to visit greece, 4. greece travel guide by month, 1. best times to do greek island-hopping.

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

The best time to do 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 July to August , along with rising temperatures and prices.

To get the best prices and avoid crowds, 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).

To plan a perfect family summer vacation during this period,  you may interested in  How to Plan a Perfect Family Trip to Greece with Kids >>>

While spring and autumn are the shoulder seasons in Greece, winter (November to March) is considered to be the low season to go to Greece 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.

More detailed information about budget breakdown:  How Much Does a Trip to Greece Cost >>>

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 go to 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

Weather in Greece in January and February is similar, with gloomy days and chilly air 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, weather in March in Greece brings cool yet sunnier, 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 weather 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 weather 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 sunny weathers and 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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These Are the Best Times to Visit Greece

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

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 .

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.

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.

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.

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

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

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

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Table of Contents

Greece: at a glance, the best time to visit greece by season, the best time to visit greece by interest and island, 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.

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.

Spring (March, April, May)

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)

Summer (June, July, August)

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 .

Fall (September, October, November)

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)

Winter (December, January, February)

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 the Greek Islands

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 Time To Visit Mykonos

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.

The Best Time To Visit Santorini

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.

The Best Time To Visit Crete

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) .

The Best Time To Visit Corfu

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 Travel to Greece

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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Best Time To Visit Greece

Sunny beaches and clear skies on your Greek vacation

Greece, the land of Apollo and the Acropolis, is a country filled with mythology and mystique! Crumbling ruins that tell stories of an ancient civilization and picturesque islands with whitewashed houses that stand out against a bright blue sky are some of the things that make Greece an enticing destination.

The best time to visit Greece is from May to October . Temperatures range from 70-90°F (21-32°C) . However, like many other European countries, it can get quite crowded during the summer months between June and September.

If you want to avoid the peak season crowds, then the best time to visit Greece is in spring (April to June) and fall (September – October) . The weather during both these periods is warm and dry, which makes it ideal for exploring the country without being troubled by the heat or rain.

Whether you are interested in history or culture, there is a fabulous array of attractions and activities that you can enjoy. Our list of the  top things to do in Greece , along with the information in this guide, can help you decide on the ideal time to visit this beautiful country.

Best Time To Visit

We recommend.

• Discover ancient treasures at the Acropolis museum 
• Savor the best of Greek food in Athens
• Take a tour of the Parthenon
• Explore the breathtaking islands of Greece, even more alluring, without the crowds
• Trek to the monasteries of Meteora that sit atop majestic rock formations
• Watch the change of guards at Syntagma Square in Athens
• Find out how it all began at the ancient site of the Olympics in Olympia
• Explore the island of Naxos by foot or on horseback
• Climb up the 900+ steps of the Palamidi Fort in Nafplio for some stunning views of the ocean and town
• Explore the charming island of Hydra – its stone mansions, monasteries and cobblestone streets
• Witness unforgettable sunsets at Santorini
• Take a boat ride into the caves and around the impressive arches of Kleftiko at the island of Milos
• Rub shoulders with the rich and famous at Psarou Beach in Mykonos
• Wander the pedestrianized streets of the Chora settlement in Folegandros
• Splash into the azure blue waters of Balos Beach in Crete
• Hike the Samaria Gorge trail in Crete that takes you through towering cliffs and ends with unforgettable views of the Libyan Sea
• Climb the mighty Mt.Olympus, known as the mountain of the Gods
• Visit the old fortress at Spinalonga on a day trip from Elounda
• Explore the labyrinthine streets of the Plaka in Athens
• Savor the fine wines and delicious foods of the island of Santorini
• For a lesson in Greek history, head to Delphi and explore its ancient temples, theaters and stadiums
• There’s plenty to see at Heraklion Archaeological Museum in Crete with its Minoan civilization artifacts
• Develop an appreciation for the art and architecture of ancient Greece at the National Archaeological Museum at Athens
• Walk down the lively Ermou Street in Athens, all lit up for the festive season

Best Time to Visit Greece by Season

Greece experiences a typical Mediterranean climate with warm and dry summers and cool, wet winters. 

The summer season runs from June to mid-September, with temperatures from the mid-80s to 90s and little to no rain. There is a light breeze blowing across the islands, which makes for pleasant weather conditions. Sea temperatures are at their warmest during this time.

Autumn in Greece is often viewed as one of the best times to visit the country. Temperatures start to drop by the latter half of September, but it is still warm until October. Rainfall levels start increasing, but there are still plenty of sunny days to enjoy the beaches and attractions.  

Winter sets in by November, though cold temperatures start showing up in the southern parts only by mid-December. It is the wettest time of the year, and snow is not uncommon in the northern parts of the country. 

Springtime weather starts showing up in March with a sudden increase in temperatures in May. Water temperatures are too cold to swim in, but it’s a good time for sightseeing and hiking.

What to pack

During summers, warm temperatures call for light, breathable fabrics, swimwear, and plenty of sun protection – hats, glasses, and sunscreen. Day time temperatures in fall are warm, but nights can get a little chilly, so we recommend you pack a light jacket or sweater.

With temperatures dropping into the 50s during the winter months, it’s best to pack a winter jacket and warm layers. December and January see a fair bit of rain, so pack an umbrella or rain jacket. Spring sees fluctuating temperatures, so it’s best to pack light layers.

Get in touch with us to discover the best time for you to visit Greece. We will be happy to create a tailor-made  Greece vacation package  for you with no obligation!

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The Best Time to Visit Greece

 Glenn van der Knijff

The best times to visit Greece are in the spring and fall. From April to the beginning of June, the heat of summer has not yet set in and the cruise ships have not arrived with their thousands of tourists. From late September through October it's usually still warm enough for the beach but much less crowded. Whenever you choose to go, you'll find a lot to see and do, wonderful Mediterranean cuisine and lively, friendly people.

Weather in Greece

Summer is hot and dry. Unshaded beaches can be unbearable and unsafe for more than short periods. July and August are the hottest months. Average temperatures are between 85 and 95 degrees Fahrenheit and can reach more than 100 F. A dry, strong seasonal wind, known as the Meltemi , blows from May to September and can bring relief from the heat. In recent years, it has also encouraged wildfires. The winter is relatively mild and seldom drops below freezing. December and January are rainy. There is little snow except in the mountains of Northern Greece and the Peloponnese.

Peak Season in Greece

From June through September, popular areas of Athens and Thessaloniki are crowded. Monastiraki Square in Athens and the adjoining market are chock-a-block, the buses and Metro are packed. Some islands have popular sunset-watching spots that become crowded at prime vantage points. Tuesdays and Wednesdays are when most cruise ships visit Santorini, and the crowds of day-trippers on the island's main road make ordinary bus and taxi travel almost impossible until after sunset.

Prices are highest from July to the end of August and during school holiday periods—when visitors compete for space and attractions with Greek families. Savvy travelers can score bargains April to May and mid-September to mid-October when vacation weather is still good.

Key Festivals and Events

The Greeks like to party and there's hardly a time of year when there isn't a festival, a celebration or an event going on somewhere. Some, however, are worth including in your trip planning.

• Greek Easter: This is a huge family holiday with events happening throughout Holy Week. Special foods are served in the restaurants and tavernas. Highlights are candlelit processions after Mass on Good Friday. In Athens, the procession goes up Lycabettus Hill and can be seen all over the city.
• Carnival: Also called Apokreas , this is the celebration before the beginning of Lent that culminates in wild celebrations, feasting, and Carnival processions in costumes (that have been known to be very rude). The Carnival in Patras is considered one of the world's top three.
• The Athens and Epidaurus Festival: This festival changed its name from the Hellenic Festival because most of its key events take place at two ancient theaters - the Odeon of Herodes Atticus on the slopes of the Acropolis, and the Ancient Theater of Epidaurus near Nafplio. It's a month-long festival of international performances, including drama, dance, and music with top artists from all over the world.

TripSavvy / Monica Farber

Tourist Attraction Availability

Most historic attractions are open year-round, though they may have limited hours or short weeks in the offseason. Some commercial attractions, beach bars, cafes and accommodations close from the end of October until the middle of March because business slows in cooler weather. On Santorini, for example, autumn and winter winds are unpleasant and most accommodations on the caldera close by mid-October.

January is one of the coldest, wettest months of the year. This is an excellent time to visit the cities of the mainland and the areas around them. You may find hotel rates at bottom-dollar prices, but those that cater to business people won't be a great deal cheaper.

Events to check out:

• Patras Carnival : Depending upon when Greek Easter falls, this could be the month for one of the world's top three Carnivals.
• Gynaikokratia Festival : If you know your classical language roots, you'll know this one is for women. Gynaikokratia means women rule. Each year on Jan. 8, in Kavala and the towns and villages of Thrace, women swap roles with men for the day.

The temperature rarely tops 59 degrees F in February. You won't find snow in most of Greece but there will be snow in the mountains and in the Greek ski areas (yes there are some). Try Mt. Parnassus Ski area or Kalavrita on Mt. Chelmos in the Peloponnese.

• Tsiknopempti: The name of this holiday, 11 days before the start of Lent, means, literally, goodbye to meat. And it's a long goodbye: restaurants, tavernas, and private family homes indulge in an orgy of meat-eating, and the smell of grilling meats is everywhere.

Days are perceptibly longer and the temperature might rise a few degrees, but don't count on it. It will be windy and miserable most of the time. But this is also the month when spectacularly diverse wildflowers begin to bloom.

• Carnivals continue until the start of Lent, so look for local events at the beginning of the month.
• Greek Independence Day: March 25 is celebrated with parades fireworks, and mock naval battles all over Greece to mark the start of the War of Independence from the Ottomans.

April weather is iffy. It can be pleasant and mild or windy and wet. The wildflowers are in full bloom, but if you are heading for the islands, you may find that ferry and hydrofoil services are still limited.

• Orthodox Easter: Holy Week is significant to the Greeks. On Good Friday, after mass, candlelight processions head out into the night from various churches.
• Rocket War : The island of Chios explodes on the Saturday night before Easter Sunday as two churches in the town of Vrontados aim fireworks directly at each other. The square between them fills with smoke, and thousands of tourists cheer.

This is the first reliably warm month with temperatures averaging in the high sixties and low seventies, rising to a high of nearly 80 degrees F once in a while. Flowers bloom, people fly kites and go out in boats, but beware: the water is probably still a little too cold for swimming in most places.

• May Day: The first of May is an optional legal holiday in Greece, but most businesses give workers the day off. May Day is also strongly connected to workers' rights, and it's a big day for slowdowns and wildcat strikes, that could impact your travel plans.

Hot weather and the start of the high season. Expect crowded resorts, higher prices, and temperatures. The average temperature is in the high 80s F and can rise much higher.

• Athens and Epidaurus Festival runs from June to August in the Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus and ancient venues all over Athens.
• Nafplion Festival : A classical music festival at the end of June or early July featuring international artists.
• Summer Nostos : is a week-long, free festival of music, dance, sports and theatre, all of it free, at the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center in the Athens suburb of Kallithea

Temperatures average in the high 80s F and easily reach the 90s F in most places. It is also very dry so camping is forbidden in most national parks and even hiking in some area. Be aware that there's a risk of wildfires.

• Outdoor Cinema : Open-air cinema is a longstanding Athens tradition during the summer months. The city has eight, some with the Acropolis as the background, some in historic parks and settings.
• Kastoria River Party : Camping, music and cooling off in the river in northern Greece.
• Cretan Diet Festival: No, it's not a weird new way to lose weight; it's a celebration of Cretan cuisine in Rethymno, Crete.

The heatwave continues. So do the lines at the major attractions and the high, in-season prices. But on the plus side, the nights are balmy and pleasant for outdoor dining and nightlife.

Event to check out:

• XLSIOR : A giant LGBTQ, Pride, and music festival on Mykonos.

The average temperature is 75 degrees F rising into the 80s at the beginning of the month with cool nights averaging 66 degrees F. Days are sunny with almost no chance of rain.

• Reworks : Thessaloniki's massive international music festival, one of the top 10 for September worldwide, takes place over four days mid-month.
• Armata , on the island of Spetses, near Athens, celebrates a famous naval victory in the Greek War of Independence. The week-long festival ends with fireworks and the burning of an effigy of an Ottoman ship in the harbor.

Temperatures drop into the 60s with the average daily temperature of about 68 degrees F. With little chance of rain, it's still mild enough for sightseeing, hiking, and touring.

• Ochi Day : On Oct. 28, 1940, Mussolini demanded that the Axis powers be allowed to enter Greece. The ultimatum was delivered to the Greek Prime Minister at 3 a.m., and he said "Ochi" (no), bringing the country into World War II. This national holiday is celebrated with parades, concerts, and feasts.

Temperatures hover in the mid to low 60s. There are more cloudy days and a greater chance of rain.

• Thessaloniki International Film Festival : Southern Europe's biggest film festival event, held on the first 10 days of the month.
• Olive harvest: Throughout this month, ripening olives are gathered and pressed. Most farmers are too busy for olive festivals, but you may be able to witness or take part in a harvest in the smaller towns and villages.

Average temperatures are in the 50s F. It's usually cloudy and the rainy season is just beginning. The mountains of the Peloponnese, northern Greece, and Macedonian Greece have snow cover.

• Christmas : Unlike other holidays that follow the Julian calendar, the Greek Church adopted the Gregorian calendar dates for Christmas, so it falls on Dec. 25.
• Christmas in Athens gets going with the Feast of St Nicholas (the inspiration for Santa Claus, Dec. 6, and continues with festive events until Epiphany, Jan. 6. There are public displays of festive lights, fireworks, and special holiday baked treats in the shops.

With a famously busy summer season, spring and fall are the best times of year to visit Greece to avoid the hot weather and the largest crowds of tourists.

The high season in the extremely popular island Santorini lasts from June to September. May is the best month to visit because it is not too hot or cold and the peak season has not yet begun.

July and August are the hottest months with average temperatures hovering between 85 and 95 degrees Fahrenheit (29 and 35 degrees Celsius), sometimes reaching more than 100 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius).

Weather Spark. "Average Weather in Athens, Greece Year Round." Retrieved March 23, 2021

The Weather in Greece: Climate, Seasons, and Average Temperature by Month

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Greece Travel Guide

Last Updated: June 6, 2024

It’s also one of the more affordable countries on the Euro.

You can travel around Greece for a fraction of what you’d spend in other Western Europe, which is just one of the many reasons why I absolutely love visiting Greece.

I’ve been to Greece many times and have spent months exploring this country. I cannot say enough good things about it.

Visiting Greece is always the highlight of my summer European travels. There’s just something magical about this country. There’s an energy in the air and you can’t help but think, “Maybe I should never leave?” It sucks you in.

And, while the Greek islands get the most attention, the interior of the country — with its small towns, historic ruins, and mountain hikes — is too often overlooked and underappreciated.

So, while you may have a strong desire to stick to the islands, try to get to some of the places in the interior if you can. You won’t regret it.

This Greece travel guide combines all my knowledge and experience to help you plan an epic, affordable trip!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Greece

Click Here for Island and City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in greece.

1. Visit the Acropolis

Located in Athens , this magnificent hilltop complex from the 5th century BCE includes ancient buildings and ruins like the temple to Athena and the famous Parthenon. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this is an excellent place to learn about the city’s history. You’ll also get to enjoy an expansive view of the skyline and the nearby ruins. During the summer, it’s swarming with tourists so get there early. Admission is 20 EUR, or for 30 EUR you can get a 5-day combined ticket that includes many other archaeological sites in Athens. For a guided tour, Athens Walking Tours runs guided tours for around 55 EUR (including admission) that skip the line.

2. Discover historic Crete

Crete has a long, long history. It was once home to the ancient Minoan civilization (which predated Greek civilization), and you can still visit the Bronze Age ruins of Knossos, the ancient capital of the Minoan empire (also considered the oldest city in Europe). The island is the largest in all of Greece and has beautiful beaches (including a beach with pink sand), plentiful hiking, quaint towns, and delicious food and wine. It’s affordable and because of the island’s size, you can still escape the summer crowds. Don’t skip this island!

3. Hike up Mount Olympus

Mount Olympus is the legendary home of the Greek gods. Any climb to Mount Olympus starts from the town of Litochoro, 150 kilometers (93 miles) south of Thessaloniki. At 2,917 meters (9,570 feet) high, it’s the tallest mountain in Greece. The hike up is both strenuous and mystical. As you climb, it becomes abundantly clear why Greeks thought it was this mountain from which the gods ruled!

4. See Meteora’s monasteries

Meteora is famous for its monasteries that sit atop sheer rock mountains . They are a stunning sight to see and worth the steep trek up to the top. The monasteries date back to the 9th-10th centuries when Orthodox Christian hermit monks isolated themselves on the cliffs and in the many caves in the area. In the 12th century, the monastic community became more organized and in the 14th century the Great Meteoron Monastery was constructed (one of the ones that you can visit today). Although more than twenty monasteries used to perch on these sandstone cliffs, only six remain today. They are still active, with around 50 nuns and 17 monks living here. It’s a 3 EUR entrance fee per monastery.

5. Explore the islands

Other things to see and do in greece, 1. learn some history.

Greece is where western civilization began and everywhere you turn, you’ll find ruins that are thousands of years old. Start in Athens with the museums, the Acropolis and surrounding ruins in the Agora, and then set off to explore the ruins of Delphi, Sparta , Corinth, and Crete . There are also great archaeological museums everywhere to see artifacts up close and learn even more. This country is a history lover’s dream!

2. Explore Sparta

Sparta was the ancient rival of Athens and known for its fierce warriors (the entertaining but historically-inaccurate film 300 was based on the Spartans). The city has a long history and plenty of ruins to explore. There is no shortage of things to do , museums to visit, excursions to take, and places to eat when you visit the city. Be sure to check out the King Leonidas statue, visit the Archeological Museum, and explore the Diros Caves. I especially enjoyed the Museum of the Olive and Olive Oil, which takes you through how olives have become a staple of everyday life in Greece. It’s an often-overlooked city even though it’s only a 2.5-hour drive southwest of Athens. It’s a great place to learn some history without the crowds.

3. Attend the Athens Epidaurus Festival

Every summer, the Athens Epidaurus Festival hosts concerts and performance theater, including reenactments of famous Greek plays. There are operas, indie musicians, dance performances, lectures, and more. It’s a unique celebration of the performing arts in all their forms and worth your time if you’re in the city when it’s happening. Started in 1955, it’s one of the country’s top cultural events and runs for the whole summer (May-October). If it coincides with your visit, you’ll see just how proud the Greeks are of their past. Tickets for each performance cost as little as 5 EUR.

4. Soak up the sun in Corfu

The Cyclades Islands may get all the press but sunny Corfu on Greece’s west coast is also a good place to enjoy the beach too. It’s a popular destination for young backpackers, but once you get out of the main town, you can avoid them and their partying ways and get the island to yourself! There are plenty of quiet beaches, ancient ruins, and beautiful villages to explore. I especially recommend checking out the Achilleion a palace from 1890 as well as Nymfes Village, historic Corfu Town, and the incredible views from Angelokastro Castle. You’re just a stone’s throw away from Albania too.

5. Explore the Delphi Ruins

Delphi was a place of spiritual significance to the ancient Greeks. Located around 2.5 hours northwest of Athens, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is where the omniscient Oracle would contact the god Apollo and give his advice to those seeking good fortune. Although the eternal flame no longer burns inside the temple, a visit to the Temple of Apollo is obligatory if you’re nearby. Admission is 12 EUR and includes entry to the museum as well as the archaeological site itself (which includes far more than just the Temple of Apollo). There are a lot of day trips to Delphi from Athens starting around 48 EUR.

6. Explore Melissani Cave

This otherworldly cave grotto can be accessed by a short yet postcard-worthy boat tour. Located on the island of Kefalonia on the western side of Greece, here you can admire the seemingly magical ultramarine waters and the monumental walls that envelope you as you make your way through this hidden underground landscape. I love how you can see the lush forest and trees just above the cave walls. It’s totally surreal and the water is so clear that it looks like the boats are floating on glass. Admission is 7 EUR and includes the boat ride.

7. Hike the Samaria Gorge

Samaria Gorge in beautiful Crete is one of Greece’s National Parks and a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. For outdoor enthusiasts, this is considered one of the best hikes in Greece. While it isn’t the shortest or easiest trek (it’s 16 kilometers/10 miles), the gorge does promise beautiful landscapes, fantastic photo opportunities, and a great workout. Along the way, you’ll see the White Mountains and the trek ends at the lovely beach town of Agia Roumeli. The whole trek takes 5-7 hours to complete so make sure you bring water, sunscreen, and a hat as the heat can be overwhelming. The views are worth it though!

8. Experience the Patras Carnival

Every year in mid-January, the city of Patras (located 2.5 hours west of Athens) hosts what is basically a month-and-a-half-long party that starts on January 17th and runs to the beginning of Lent. There’s a slew of events both major and minor, increasingly crazy weekends, treasure hunts, and various costume parades (which even feature floats). It’s a lively time and as the largest such festival in Greece, attracting tons of revelers. If you want to attend, it’s a good idea to make hotel reservations well in advance as things fill up.

9. Tour the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion

The number one attraction in Crete , this museum also happens to be Greece’s second-largest archaeological museum (the museum in Athens is the largest). The artifacts here cover more than 5,500 years of history. One of my favorite pieces was a game board that dates all the way back to 1600 BC. The stunning collection here highlights the Cretan civilization (dating back from Neolithic times through to the Roman empire), with ancient pottery, jewelry, sarcophagi, colorful frescoes from Knossos, and more. Its Minoan collection is the most extensive in the world. You could easily spend hours here — especially if you love history like me. Admission is 12 EUR in the summer and 6 EUR in the winter.

10. Party on Ios

Ios has the wildest nightlife out of all the Greek islands. It is the summer party island where days are spent hungover on the beach and the nights are spent eating cheap food and drinking. If you don’t want to do that but still want to see Ios, it’s best to go to the eastern part of the island where it’s quieter. Don’t let Ios’ party reputation deter you from visiting though, it’s a beautiful, rugged island (and home to the grave of Homer, who wrote The Iliad and The Odyssey). It’s only busy from June-August so you can visit in the shoulder season to escape the party crowd.

11. Visit Thessaloniki

With more than 1 million inhabitants, Thessaloniki is Greece’s second-largest city after Athens. Although it dates back to 315 BCE, a lot of the city was destroyed by fire in 1917 and then by bombing during World War II. The result is a combination of more modern European city urban planning alongside Early Christian, Roman, and Byzantine monuments. In fact, Thessaloniki has more UNESCO World Heritage Sites (15!) than any other city in Europe. Be sure to visit the White Tower, the Rotunda, the Arch of Galerius, and Galerius Palace as well as the many churches (such as the Hagia Sofia and Hagios Demetrios). There are also several great museums here, including the Archaeological Museum, the Museum of Byzantine Culture, the Jewish Museum, and the Olympic Museum.

12. Go to Zakynthos

Just south of Kefalonia in the Ionian Sea is Zakynthos , one of Greece’s most popular islands. With its soft, sandy beaches and charming villages, it’s easy to see why this island is a fan favorite. It can be busy, particularly in the summer, so head away from the main tourist area (go north, west or inland) or visit in the off-season to escape the crowds. Zakynthos is also a breeding area for loggerhead turtles and you can see them on Lagana Beach or on Turtle Island but take care to do so responsibly. Other activities include seeing the Blue Caves, Marathonisi Islet, and Shipwreck Beach (you’ll need to take a boat tour to get there). There are also tons of churches, monasteries, and ruins to check out too.

13. Visit Monemvasia

Monemvasia is a medieval castle town in Laconia on the coast of the Peloponnese, around 90 kilometers (56 miles) southeast of Sparta . It’s a spectacular island to visit as it is built into the side of a huge rock! Monemvasia was founded by the Byzantines in the 6th century and is a quiet town perfect for relaxing on the beach before dining under the stars at seaside taverns or on cobbled streets in the town. There are ruins to explore and a mosque from the 16th century now houses the towns Archaeological Museum. You can also walk out to the lighthouse for incredible sea views. If you’re into hiking, there are some trails that will take you past chapels and settlements up to hilltops to admire the views or down to secluded beaches.

14. Explore Ioannina

Next to Lake Pamvotida in northwestern Greece, Ioannina is a castle town that is bursting with museums. Don’t miss the Byzantine Museum, the Ethnographic Museum, the Archaeological Museum, and the Silversmithing Museum (the area is well-known for its beautiful jewelry). Head to the castle at sunset for a peaceful end to your day. You can use the town as a base for exploring the nearby Pindus National Park, the Tzoumerka mountain chain, the Cave of Perama, and the Byzantine town of Arta as well. You won’t need more than a couple of days here but it is well worth stopping if you are passing through.

15. Go wine tasting

While Greece isn’t as internationally renowned for wine as other European countries such as France or Spain, it should be. The Greek wine-making tradition goes back at least 6,500 years and is still going strong. Wine regions are spread across the country, but Crete has one of the oldest wine-making traditions (and over 30 wineries to visit around the island), while the wineries of Santorini make for an interesting tour due to the way that grape vines must be grown here (to protect against harsh winds). Wine tours start around 50 EUR for a full-day tour.

16. Take a cooking class

Greek food is legendary. If you’re a foodie like me and want to learn more about the cuisine and culture behind it, try a cooking class . Bring a taste of your trip home by learning how to make some traditional recipes (including favorites like tzatziki and moussaka) while learning about the importance of each dish directly from a local chef. Cooking classes generally last 3-4 hours and cost 70-100 EUR.

17. Take a boat tour

A boat tour is one of the best ways to see the islands, especially as some beaches are only accessible by water. You can find these on most of the islands and they’ll take you to incredible places you can’t get to by car. Most tours also have stops for snorkeling and lounging on the beach, and many include drinks and lunch. Half-day tours start at 20 EUR, while full-day tours are around 30 EUR. Prices can vary greatly depending on where you’re taking the tour from.

18. Go diving

Diving has become increasingly popular in the Greek Islands. On Mykonos , Paradise Reef has a large variety of marine life, including sponges, barracuda, octopus, and starfish. Ios is popular with beginners due to its crystal-clear waters and relatively calm waves. On the other hand, Santorini has less marine life but tons of shipwrecks. Shore dives start around 50 EUR, while a two-tank dive on a boat starts around 70 EUR. You can also take a beginner discovery course for around 70 EUR or a variety of PADI courses starting at 65 EUR.

19. Tour an olive oil farm

  For more information on specific destinations in Greece, check out these guides:

• Athens Travel Guide
• Corfu Travel Guide
• Crete Travel Guide
• Ios Travel Guide
• Mykonos Travel Guide
• Naxos Travel Guide
• Santorini Travel Guide
• Sparta Travel Guide

Greece Travel Costs

A room in a budget hotel that sleeps two can be found for 40-60 EUR (expect much higher prices — up to 50% higher — during the summer). Amenities at these hotels typically include free Wi-Fi, TV, a private bathroom, AC, and sometimes breakfast as well.

On Airbnb, you can find private rooms for 25-45 EUR in many cities and entire homes (including studio apartments) start at around 50 EUR per night.

Food – Greece is known for its food. Think seasonal vegetables (like olives), seafood, grilled meats, bread, feta cheese, and yogurt — all the staples of a fresh Mediterranean diet. To eat cheap, stick with eating gyros, souvlaki, and kebabs. These cost 3-6 EUR and easily fill you up. If you’re on a budget, you can live off these for as little as 15 EUR per day.

At a casual restaurant that serves traditional cuisine, expect to pay around 8-12 EUR for a main dish like moussaka and about 3-6 EUR for a glass of wine. A Greek salad costs between 6-8 EUR. Fish is more expensive, costing around 17-22 EUR for the catch-of-the-day.

Most restaurants charge for bread. The price is between .50-1.50 EUR. A bottle of water is about 2 EUR.

Fast food (think McDonald’s) costs around 9 EUR for a combo meal. A large pizza costs 8-11 EUR while Indian/Middle Eastern/Chinese food can be found for around 7-8 EUR for a main dish.

If you’re going out for dinner at a traditional taverna, expect to spend between 12-25 EUR depending on how much food you get. After that, the prices go up depending on how fancy the restaurant is!

Beer is 3-5 EUR while a latte/cappuccino is 3-4 EUR. Bottled water from the supermarket is 0.50 EUR.

If you cook your meals, expect to pay 35-50 EUR per week for groceries including pasta, vegetables, chicken, and other basic staples. It’s easy to eat on the cheap in Greece.

Backpacking Greece Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking Greece, my suggested budget is 40-60 EUR per day. This assumes you’re staying in a hostel, eating cheap food, cooking some of your meals, doing only free activities like hiking and relaxing on the beach, limiting your drinking, and using local transportation to get around. If you’re visiting the Greek islands or traveling during peak season, expect to spend on the higher amount of that. If you plan on drinking, add 5-15 EUR per day to your budget.

On a mid-range budget of 100-130 EUR per day, you can visit some museums and ruins, stay at a private hostel room or Airbnb, eat out more, enjoy some drinks, take the occasional taxi, and rent a bike or scooter to get around.

If you keep your drinking and costly activities down, you can easily do this closer to 100 EUR per day. On the other hand, if you’re staying on one of the more expensive islands like Mykonos or Santorini and drinking a lot, expect to spend closer to 150-180 EUR.

On a “luxury” budget of 235 EUR or more per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out anywhere you want, drink as much as you want, do paid tours and more expensive activities (like diving), rent a car to get around, and generally enjoy the finer things in life! This is just the ground floor for luxury though. Expect to pay upwards of 50 EUR more per day on the islands.

Greece Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Greece is affordable. Sure, islands like Santorini and Mykonos are expensive but, for the most part, if you are “keeping it local” you aren’t going to spend a lot of money here. Here are my favorite ways to save money when you travel to Greece:

• Use the Greek salad/bread rule – If the bread cover is .50 EUR or a Greek salad is less than 7 EUR, the restaurant is cheap. If the cover is around 1 EUR and a salad is 7-8.50 EUR, the prices are average. Anything more than that and the place is expensive. Use this rule to figure out how to eat at cheap restaurants.
• Eat super cheap – Gyros and other street snacks only cost a few euros and can keep you full for around 15 EUR per day if you’re on a tight budget.
• Rent a moped – It’s cheaper than a car and a fun way to see the various towns and cities — especially on the islands. You can usually rent a moped for around 15 EUR per day. Just drive carefully as Greek drivers tend to be aggressive.
• Get off the beaten path – Greece is a cheap country and even cheaper when you get away from the touristy islands or popular destinations. Head off the beaten path and you usually see prices drop by 30% or more.
• Book overnight ferries – Greece’s inter-island ferries can get expensive if you are visiting a lot of islands. Taking the overnight ferries can save you up to half off the normal price. Plus, it saves you a night of accommodation. Moreover, if you book the ferries around two months in advance, you can save up to 25% off the cost of your ticket.
• Get a ferry pass – Eurail has a ferry pass that has 4- and 6-trip options. The only caveat is that you can only take Blue Star and Hellenic Seaways ferries. Those tend to be the larger, slower ferries and, depending on the islands, might require you to connect somewhere. You’ll need to research routes in advance to see if the pass is worth it. I would search routes on FerryHopper to see if it works for you.
• Take public transportation – Buses, while sometimes running on inconvenient schedules, are the best way to get around Greece. Taxis are very expensive so minimize their use whenever you can and stick with the buses.
• Visit in the off-season – July and August are the most expensive months, so skip the middle of summer if you’re on a budget. Prices will be significantly cheaper.
• Stay with a local – Couchsurfing is a great way to get a free place to stay and meet locals. There are a ton of hosts throughout the country (I stayed with one in Athens) and it’s my favorite way to get to know the “real” Greece.
• Buy wine at the store – You can buy a great bottle of wine for around 5 EUR at the store. It’s a lot cheaper than drinking at the bar.
• Have an ISIC Card – To save on the cost of admission to museums and other tourist attractions, be sure to present a valid student card. The ISIC is typically accepted in places where a foreign student ID is not.
• Go to museums on their free admission days – Most museums have some days when admission is free. Check the Odysseus Culture website for details as they vary from museum to museum.
• Get combined tickets – Historical attractions in Greece are often priced so that it’s always a better deal to buy a combined ticket. If the sites you are going to offer one, buy it. It will save you money.
• Use points for accommodations – If you have credit card points that can be used for cash, using them to book accommodation can save you a ton of money. This post has more information to help you with the basics so you can start collecting points now and use them on your trip .
• Rent a car – Car rentals can be incredibly cheap in Greece. Prices start at just 20 EUR per day when booked in advance. Drivers need to be at least 21 and have had their license for one year. An International Driving Permit is also required. Discover Cars is an excellent place to find a car for your trip.
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is generally safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Greece

Greece has something for everything and you can often find small family-run operations on the islands. It’s not hard to even find budget accommodations with nice extra like pools either! The specific destination guides have more places but here are some my suggested places to stay in Greece:

• Selina (Athens)
• Athens Hawks Hostel (Athens)
• BedBox (Athens)
• Studio Eleni (Mykonos)
• Caveland (Santorini)
• Bedspot Hostel (Santorini)
• Asterolithos Hotel (Santorini)
• Rethymno Youth Hostel (Crete)
• Intra Muros (Crete)
• The Pink Palace (Corfu)
• Francesco’s (Ios)
• FarOut Beach Club (Ios)
• Castle View Camping and Bungalows (Sparta)
• Lakonia Hotel (Sparta)

How to Get Around Greece

Buses – KTEL is the main bus operator in Greece. You can look up schedules and prices online, but their website is pretty outdated and you’re better off booking tickets at the actual bus station. Getting from Athens to Sparta takes around 3.5 hours and costs around 20 EUR, while Athens to Thessaloniki takes around 5.5 hours and costs around 42 EUR. Thessaloniki to Ioannina takes 3.5 hours and is 24 EUR.

Trains – Train travel in Greece isn’t great. Trains are unreliable and slow and there are only a few routes in the country between Athens and other major cities, like Thessaloniki and Patras. You’re better off driving or taking the bus. However, if you do get the train, a trip from Athens to Thessaloniki takes about 4.5 hours and costs at least 20 EUR.

Ferries – Because Greece has a lot of islands, you have to deal with taking ferries to get around. Expect to spend an average of 35 EUR per trip, though you could spend as little as 10 EUR if the islands are really close together. From Athens, most ferries to the Cyclades Islands start around 40 EUR.

Taking the overnight ferries can save you up to half off the normal price plus save you a night of accommodation so if you’re not in a rush, book those!

There are many different ferry companies, and most are created equal. High speed ferries or catamarans cost a lot more (book in advance). You can research routes and ticket prices using FerryHopper and gtp.gr .

If you’re ok traveling on the slower ferries and your routes match the available routes, the Eurail/Interrail ferry pass is worth considering as you’ll get discounts with this pass. Search routes on FerryHopper to see if it works for you.

Flying – Flying is a quick and affordable way to get around Greece and between islands (though not all islands have airports). A one-way flight from Athens to Santorini or Mykonos takes less than one hour and costs around 25-35 EUR. Flights can dip to as little as 20 EUR when booked in advance.

Scooter/Quad rentals – Renting a scooter or ATV is a really popular way to discover many parts of Greece, particularly the islands. It lets you explore at your own pace and is quite affordable. Scooter rentals cost between 15-25 EUR per day depending on the location and if it is peak season or off-season. ATVs cost around 38-50 EUR per day.

Car rental – Car rentals here are super affordable, starting at just 20 EUR per day for a multi-day rental. Expect manual transmissions. Drivers need an International Driving Permit before renting as well and need to be at least 21 years old. For the best rental car deals, use Discover Cars .

When to Go to Greece

Peak season in Greece is from June-August. Temperatures hover around 33°C (92°F) and popular destinations like Santorini and Mykonos experience a huge influx of visitors. Prices increase during this time as well. But the overall atmosphere and weather are great during this time, so it’s still worth visiting during peak season.

Personally, I think the best time to visit Greece is shoulder season (March-May and September-October). It’s still warm during these times but there aren’t as many crowds and prices are cheaper. It’s also easier to meet locals during this time. There is more rain during this time of year, so pack for that. Overall, it’s a particularly great time to hang out in the Mediterranean.

Winter is from November to February. It gets cold and tourist crowds thin out considerably. There’s quite a bit of rain and temperatures vary quite a bit from north to south, with it sometimes dropping to 11°C (52°F) in some places (Athens sometimes gets snow). Many of the islands — particularly Santorini and Mykonos — almost shut down entirely during the off-season. In short, I’d skip a winter visit unless you’re only planning to visit museums.

How to Stay Safe in Greece

Greece is very safe for backpacking and solo travel. Violent attacks are uncommon. Petty crime is about the worst that could happen to you, specifically pickpocketing in Athens, where it is prevalent. Fortunately, Greek police have really cracked down on perpetrators. Nevertheless, be aware of your surroundings and keep your valuables out of sight when you’re in markets, on busy streets, or when using public transportation.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here. However, the standard safety precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.). For specific information about a place, check out one of the many incredible solo female travel blogs on the web. They’ll give you tips and advice that I can’t.

You won’t find a lot of travel scams in the country but read this article on common travel scams to avoid so you know what to avoid.

If you go out hiking, always check the weather first. Bring sunscreen, water, and a hat. It can get incredibly hot here!

Be careful when driving as Greek drivers tend to be on the aggressive side and some of the roads aren’t very well maintained.

If you experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Greece Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!
• Ferry Hopper – If you’re looking to book your ferries, this website is an easy way to search the various companies, piece together routes, and book your tickets.
• Take Walks – This walking tour company provides inside access to attractions and places you can’t get elsewhere. Their guides rock and they have some of the best and most insightful tours in all of Greece.

Greece Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Greece travel and continue planning your trip:

The 6 Best Hotels in Athens

The 6 Best Hostels in Athens

Where to Stay in Athens: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

The Best Walking Tours in Athens

Traveling Greece: How Much Does It Cost?

Fulfilling Childhood Dreams in Crete

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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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Greece Climate Guide

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

Wondering the best time to visit greece find out what the weather during the year is like, the best months and the worst months to visit greece, this article may contain affiliate links, meaning we make a small commission on any purchases at no extra cost to you. thanks for your support for more info, read our disclaimer & privacy policy , especially if you need help to sleep., this article may contain affiliate links, meaning i make a small commission on any purchases at no extra expense to you. read our disclaimer & privacy policy here..

Table of Contents

Ashley Metcalfe

February 24, 2023.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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).

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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?

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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The Journal

Travel Inspiration

The Best Time to Visit Greece & the Greek Isles: Full Guide

The Modern Travel Agency

https://www.foratravel.com/the-journal/best-time-to-visit-greece

Wondering about the best time to visit Greece? We’ve got you covered with a full month-by-month breakdown, plus answers to common questions like “When is Greek weather at its best?” 

Ready to start planning today? Connect with Fora   and our expert advisors will help you with everything from identifying the best time to visit Greece to finding you the best places to stay in Greece . Even better, we’ll score you awesome hotel and travel perks at no extra cost.

Before we discuss the best time to visit Greece, a quick Greece climate overview

Before we get to the best time to go to Greece, we should cover a quick climate overview so you’re able to put that info in context. 

Greece has a Mediterranean climate, and July is its warmest month

Outside of the mountainous region to the north, Greece’s winters are mild and comparatively wet while summers tend to be sunny, hot and dry. Spring and fall are usually temperate, although some areas (particularly the islands) can get a little chilly at night. 

July and August are Greece’s hottest months, with the average temperatures hovering between 85–95℉.

Greece’s rainy season extends from December to February (but it depends on the region)

Greece’s rainy season has slight variations depending on the region, but most precipitation occurs between December and February (this includes snow in the mountains). Summer sees minimal rainfall across the country. 

Planning a trip to Greece ? Your Fora Advisor can help you decide the best time to go to Greece for agreeable weather (and build you an awesome Greece itinerary ). 

The best times to visit Greece: month-by-month guide

Curious how Greece changes month to month? Read on for a full breakdown.

Visiting Greece in January & February

January and February are Greece’s coldest months, with daytime temperatures hanging around 50–60℉. These are the best months to visit Greece’s beaches. However, this period can be a great time to explore major cities like Athens or Thessaloniki without the crowds. 

On another note, January and February are certainly the best months to visit Greece’s ski resorts.

Planning a trip to Athens? Check out our guide to how many days in Athens you need or the coolest Athens boutique hotels . Then, connect with Fora to plan and book your stay.

Visiting Greece in March & April

March marks the very beginning of Greece’s travel season along the Mediterranean coast and the Greek Isles. Rainfall gradually becomes less and less common as the weeks progress, and by late April, temperatures typically hover in the mid-to-high 70s or low 80s.

This is a great time to visit Greece if you’re intent on touring cities or exploring the country’s natural scenery. Crete and Santorini, for example, both have fairly temperate weather during this period and the bulk of the crowds are still a month or two away. It can get cold at night, but there are fewer travelers to compete with. 

The only downside is that many beaches may still be a little too cold to enjoy consistently.

Also check out our guides to where to stay in Crete or the best places to stay in Santorini , if you’re curious.

Going to Greece in May & June

May and June see an uptick in traffic and the weather is consistently comfortable across most of Greece. This is typically Greece’s most verdant period, too — arguably making May and June the best time to visit Greece for hiking.

Greece nightlife hubs like Mykonos and Zakynthos typically see a sharp rise in travelers by early June.

Even though May and June are officially considered shoulder season, our Fora FAM trip to Greece was held during this period, and we had an absolute blast.

Visiting Greece in July & August

Greece travel hits a fever pitch in July and August. Virtually all the major destinations are at their busiest, especially Greek islands like Santorini and Mykonos. The weather is consistently hot and rainfall is rare (i.e., perfect beach weather). 

If you’re intent on visiting Greece in July or August but eager to avoid the worst of the crowds, islands like Milos and Paros aren’t nearly as crowded. Better yet, many Fora Advisors actually prefer these destinations because of their authenticity. 

Want to know where to stay in Paros or where to stay in Milos ? Connect with Fora . We’ll help you plan and book your dream island getaway. 

Going to Greece in September & October

September brings milder temperatures and fewer crowds as schools around the world reopen. This can be one of the best times to visit Greece for families because the weather’s still great for beach days and excursions. And it’s not so crowded that you need to constantly mind the little ones. 

By October, the landscapes take on golden hues, with rolling vineyards and olive groves creating a picturesque backdrop.

A lot of Greek island resorts shut down for the season around this time, but there are still options throughout the country. 

Connect with Fora to plan and book your family trip with Greece (and check out our guide to the best Greek islands for families in the meantime).

Visiting Greece in November & December

November is the low season for travel, but this can still be a great time to visit Greece if you don’t mind colder weather. The upside is that many of the experiences are much more authentic, and you typically won’t run into many crowds (outside of the holiday season). If you’re visiting as a culture junkie, this can actually be one of the best times to go to Greece.

November and December can also be the most affordable times to visit Greece, but note that some resorts and hotels shut down during these months.

Best time to go to Greece: FAQs

What’s the best time to visit Greece for good weather?

“Good weather” is a little subjective. But many travelers love the refreshing combination of the cool Mediterranean seas and the hot, dry weather that runs from late June through the end of August. 

If you want milder weather, May and June, then September and October, experience cooler temperatures and minimal rainfall.

What’s the most popular time to visit Greece? When can you avoid crowds in Greece?

July and August are the absolute busiest months to go to Greece, while November and December usually see the least amount of travelers.

Don’t forget: when you book and plan your trip with Fora , we’ll give you all the intel you need to decide when to take your vacation.

What’s the most affordable time to go to Greece?

Generally speaking, November through February are the most affordable months to visit Greece. It’s worth highlighting that hotel options in the Greek Isles diminish around this time, though.

When’s the best time to visit Greece for swimming & watersports?

For most travelers, the Mediterranean is warm enough to enjoy as early as March or April, and through September or October. 

What are the best months for a Greece honeymoon or couples’ trip?

It depends. Many of the best resorts in Greece for couples slash availability or shut down in the low season, so your options may be limited to the warmer months. That said, if you’re looking for more of a cultural experience, Greece can be fun to visit all year round (see our guide to the best Greek islands for couples ).

Book & plan your trip with Fora to uncover your best time to visit Greece

Ready to travel? Connect with Fora  to get started. We’ll help you determine your best time to visit Greece. And if you have a limited window to travel, we’ll make sure you make the most of it.

Our help isn’t limited to when to go, either. Wondering about the best places to visit in Greece or where to go in Greece for the first time ? We can hook you up with all the intel you need. Even better, when you book your accommodations with us, we can score you awesome perks at no extra cost. 

Not sure Greece is the right destination for you? Maybe these other places will resonate better:

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The Best Month to Visit Greece: A Comprehensive Guide for Travelers

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Greece is a dream destination for travelers worldwide. From its ancient history and rich cultural heritage to its stunning beaches and picturesque islands, Greece has something to offer for everyone. But with so much to see and experience, it can be challenging to decide when to visit this enchanting country.

If you’re wondering about the best month to visit Greece, you’re in the right place. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the different seasons and weather patterns in Greece to help you plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an adventure-packed trip, we’ve got you covered.

So, without further ado, let’s dive into the best time to visit Greece!

The Best Month to Visit Greece: Factors to Consider

When it comes to deciding the best month to visit Greece, there are several factors to keep in mind. These include:

1. Weather and Climate

Greece has a Mediterranean climate, which means it enjoys hot summers and mild winters. However, the weather patterns can vary greatly depending on the region you’re visiting.

The northern parts of Greece, including Thessaloniki, experience colder winters than the southern regions. Similarly, the islands can be windier and more humid than the mainland.

If you’re planning a beach vacation, the best time to visit Greece is from May to October. During these months, you can expect warm temperatures, sunny skies, and pleasant sea temperatures.

2. Crowds and Tourism

Greece is a popular tourist destination, and some months can get quite crowded. If you’re looking for a quieter experience, it’s best to avoid peak tourist season, which runs from July to August.

Instead, consider visiting Greece in May, June, or September, when the crowds are thinner, and the prices are more affordable. You’ll still be able to enjoy the warm weather and stunning scenery without the hustle and bustle of peak season.

3. Festivals and Events

Greece is known for its vibrant culture and rich history, and there are several festivals and events throughout the year that are worth experiencing.

If you’re interested in Greek mythology, consider visiting Greece in July for the Athens and Epidaurus Festival. This annual event showcases ancient Greek drama performances in some of the country’s most iconic locations.

Alternatively, if you’re a foodie, visit Greece in October for the International Thessaloniki Film Festival, where you can sample some of the country’s most delicious cuisine.

Best Month to Visit Greece: A Month-by-Month Breakdown

Now that we’ve covered the factors to consider, let’s take a closer look at the best month to visit Greece, month by month.

January is the coldest month in Greece, with temperatures averaging around 10°C (50°F). The weather is often rainy and windy, and many of the tourist attractions are closed during this time. However, if you’re interested in skiing, this is a great time to visit the mountain resorts in northern Greece.

February is still considered part of the low season in Greece. The weather is similar to January, with cold temperatures and rainy days. However, you can find some great deals on accommodations and flights during this time.

March marks the beginning of spring in Greece, and the weather starts to warm up. Temperatures can range from 10°C to 20°C

April is a beautiful time to visit Greece, as the country is in full bloom with colorful flowers and blossoming trees. The weather is warm and sunny, making it perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking and exploring.

The Easter celebrations also take place during April, and it’s a fascinating time to experience Greek culture and traditions.

May is one of the best months to visit Greece, as the weather is warm, but not too hot, and the crowds are still thin. It’s a great time to explore the country’s historic sites and soak up the beautiful scenery.

The beaches start to get busier towards the end of the month, but it’s still possible to find quieter spots.

June is the start of the peak tourist season in Greece, but it’s still an excellent time to visit. The weather is warm and sunny, and the sea is perfect for swimming.

The crowds start to pick up towards the end of the month, but you can still find quieter spots if you avoid the most popular destinations.

July is the busiest month in Greece, with tourists flocking to the beaches and islands. The weather is hot and sunny, making it perfect for sunbathing and swimming.

However, the crowds can be overwhelming, and the prices are at their highest. If you’re planning to visit Greece in July, make sure to book your accommodations and activities well in advance.

August is similar to July, with hot weather and crowded beaches. It’s the peak of the tourist season, and many locals take their summer vacations during this month.

If you’re planning to visit Greece in August, expect long lines and busy streets. But with some careful planning, you can still enjoy your vacation to the fullest.

September is a great month to visit Greece, as the crowds start to thin out, and the weather is still warm and sunny. It’s an excellent time to explore the historic sites and enjoy some outdoor activities.

The beaches are also less crowded, making it a perfect time for a relaxing vacation.

October marks the end of the tourist season in Greece, but it’s still a great time to visit. The weather starts to cool down, but it’s still pleasant, especially in the southern parts of the country.

The crowds are gone, and the prices are lower, making it a perfect time for budget travelers.

November to December

November and December are considered the low season in Greece, with colder temperatures and occasional rainy days. Many of the tourist attractions are closed during this time, but it’s an excellent time to experience Greek culture and traditions.

The Christmas and New Year’s celebrations are also worth experiencing, with festive markets and delicious food.

What is the best month to visit Greece for a beach vacation?

The best months to visit Greece for a beach vacation are from May to October, with June and September being the best months to avoid the crowds.

What is the weather like in Greece in July?

July is one of the hottest months in Greece, with temperatures averaging around 30°C (86°F). It’s also the busiest month for tourists.

Is Greece crowded in August?

Yes, August is one of the busiest months in Greece, with tourists flocking to the beaches and islands. Expect long lines and busy streets.

In conclusion, the best month to visit Greece depends on your preferences and priorities. If you’re looking for warm weather and beautiful scenery, May, June, and September are the best months to visit.

If you don’t mind the crowds and want to experience the peak tourist season, July and August are the busiest months.

If you’re on a budget and want to avoid the crowds, October is an excellent time to visit.

No matter when you decide to visit Greece, the country is sure to leave a lasting impression on you. From the stunning beaches to the ancient ruins, the delicious cuisine to the warm hospitality of the locals, Greece has something for everyone.

So start planning your trip, and don’t forget to pack your sunscreen and camera. The best month to visit Greece is waiting for you!

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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.

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.

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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!

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

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:

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

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

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.

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

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.

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:

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.

RECOMMENDED WEBSITES FOR GREECE:

🛏️ Booking.com   is 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

✈️ Booking.com Flights  has all the available flights to and from the greek islands

🚕 Book Your Driver (Taxi) directly with booking.com's large and safe platform of available certified drivers

SUBSCRIBE to my Youtube Channel for Updated Guides and Videos for the Greek Islands!

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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TOP RATED HOTELS IN:

Santorini:  Canaves Oia Suites Mykonos:  Cavo Tagoo Mykonos Athens:  Coco-Mat Athens Crete:  Domes Noruz Chania Hotel  Corfu:  Corfu Imperial Resort Rhodes:  Casa Cook Rhodes

Delphi: Amalia Hotel

Meteora: Doupiani House

TOP RATED VILLAS IN:

Santorini:  Villa Aura

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BEST THINGS TO DO IN GREECE:

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ALL AVAILABLE FERRIES TO GREEK ISLANDS:

Readers said:.

“Just added this to my favourites!”

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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.

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

Booking.com Flights  has all the available flights to and from the greek islands

Santorini Secrets

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Home • About Santorini Dave Updated: April 1, 2024

Where to stay: • Athens • Crete • Milos • Mykonos • Naxos • Paros • Santorini • All destinations

The village of Fira overlooking the caldera in spectacular Santorini .

Greece is my favorite country in Europe. It’s loaded with great beaches ( Naxos , Mykonos , and Paros have the best sand and swimming), iconic historical sites ( Athens , Crete , and Delphi top the list), fantastic hotels , and stunning natural beauty ( Santorini , Milos , and the Meteora are my favs). The magical Greek islands are perfectly scattered for island hopping and adventure, while mainland Greece is packed with ancient cities and less-visited regions that will surprise and reward the unhurried traveler. The 2024 Greece Travel Guide Skip to our Greece FAQ Travel Guides Athens Crete Mainland Greece Mykonos Naxos Paros Santorini My two sons and I on a boat tour in the Santorini caldera. Where to Stay in Greece Aegina – Best Areas Andros – Best Areas Athens – Best Areas Chios – Best Areas Crete – Best Areas Delphi – Best Areas Folegandros – Best Areas Hydra – Best Areas Meteora – Best Areas Milos – Best Areas Monemvasia – Best Areas Mykonos – Best Areas Nafplio – Best Areas Naxos – Best Areas Paros – Best Areas Poros – Best Areas Rhodes – Best Areas Santorini – Best Areas Spetses – Best Areas Syros – Best Areas Tinos – Best Areas What to Do in Greece Athens – Things to Do Crete – Things to Do Delphi – Things to Do Meteora – Things to Do Monemvasia – Things to Do Mykonos – Things to Do Nafplio – Things to Do Naxos – Things to Do Paros – Things to Do Santorini – Things to Do Where to Eat & Drink in Greece Athens – Best Restaurants Athens – Best Bars & Clubs Delphi – Best Restaurants Meteora – Best Restaurants Monemvasia – Best Restaurants Mykonos – Best Restaurants Mykonos – Best Bars & Clubs Mykonos – Best Beach Clubs Nafplio – Best Restaurants Naxos – Best Restaurants Naxos – Best Bars & Beach Clubs Paros – Best Restaurants Santorini – Best Restaurants Santorini – Best Bars & Clubs Santorini – Best Wineries & Wine Tours

Island hopping by ferry is a great way to get between the Greek Islands .

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The Best Hotels in Greece Antiparos – Best Hotels Athens – Best Hotels Athens – Family Hotels Athens – Budget Hotels Athens – Airport Hotels Corfu – Best Hotels Corfu – Family Hotels Crete – Best Hotels Crete – Family Hotels Folegandros – Best Hotels Folegandros – Family Hotels Ios – Best Hotels Kefalonia – Best Hotels Kos – Best Hotels Kos – Family Hotels Milos – Best Hotels Milos – Family Hotels Mykonos – Best Hotels Mykonos – Family Hotels Mykonos – Budget Hotels Mykonos – Beach Hotels Mykonos – Honeymoon Hotels Naxos – Best Hotels Naxos – Family Hotels Naxos – Beach Hotels Paros – Best Hotels Paros – Family Hotels Paros – Beach Hotels Paros – Best Antiparos Hotels Rhodes – Best Hotels Rhodes – Family Hotels Rhodes – Boat Tours Santorini – Best Hotels Santorini – Family Hotels Santorini – Cheap Hotels Santorini – Luxury Hotels Santorini – Boutique Hotels Santorini – Honeymoon Hotels Santorini – Beach Hotels Santorini – Cave Hotels Santorini – Sunset View Hotels Santorini – Hotels with Private Pool Santorini – Best Villas Serifos – Best Hotels Sifnos – Best Hotels Skiathos – Best Hotels Skopelos – Best Hotels Syros – Best Hotels Thessaloniki – Best Hotels Zakynthos – Best Hotels Zakynthos – Family Hotels

Mykonos Town harbor in Mykonos , Greece.

Getting To & Around Greece Greece Rental Cars Flights to Greece Greek Ferry Guide Greek Island Hopping Italy to Greece Ferries Maps of Greece Athens – Getting Around Athens Athens – Airport Car Rental Athens – Ferry Port Guide Athens – Maps for Travelers Athens to Delphi & Meteora Athens to Mykonos Ferries Athens to Santorini Ferries Athens to Crete Ferries Athens to Milos Ferries Athens to Mykonos Ferries Athens to Naxos Ferries Athens to Paros Ferries Athens to Santorini Ferries Crete – Heraklion Ferry Port Guide Crete – Heraklion Airport Car Rental Crete – Maps for Travelers Crete to Santorini Ferries Crete to Athens Ferries Crete to Santorini Ferries Milos to Athens Ferries Milos from Athens Ferries Mykonos – Ferry Port Guide Mykonos – Car Rental Mykonos – Water Taxi Mykonos – Maps for Travelers Mykonos to Athens Ferries Mykonos to Santorini Ferries Mykonos-Santorini Helicopter Naxos – Maps for Travelers Naxos to Athens Ferries Naxos from Athens Ferries Naxos to Santorini Ferries Naxos from Santorini Ferries Paros – Getting Around by Bus Paros – Maps for Travelers Paros to Athens Ferries Paros from Athens Ferries Paros to Santorini Ferries Paros from Santorini Ferries Santorini – How to Get There Santorini – Ferry Port Guide Santorini – Airport Guide Santorini – Car Rental Santorini – Maps for Travelers Santorini to Athens Ferries Santorini to Crete Ferries Santorini to Milos Ferries Santorini to Mykonos Ferries Santorini-Mykonos Helicopter Santorini to Naxos Ferries Santorini to Paros Ferries Frequently Asked Questions about Greece See Also: Greece: Itinerary for First-Timers Where is Greece? Greece is located in southeastern Europe, at the southernmost tip of the Balkan Peninsula. Greece has a land area of over 50,000 square miles and comprises a large mainland peninsula between the Ionian and Aegean seas, surrounded by an archipelago of about 6,000 islands and islets. Sharing its northern land borders with Albania, North Macedonia, Bulgaria, and Turkey, Greece is positioned at a historically rich crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa.

What is the population of Greece? The population of Greece was estimated by the United Nations to be 10,445,365 in 2021. Some estimates put the current population as high as 10,600,000. The country’s population grew from 5,000,000 in 1920 to a peak of nearly 11,000,000 in 2010. The five largest cities in Greece are Athens, Thessaloniki, Patras, Larissa, and Heraklion. The vast majority of Greeks live in Mainland Greece. Approximately 1.2 million people live in the Peloponnese and 1.3 million on the Greek islands. How many islands are in Greece? Greece has between 1,200 and 6,000 islands depending on the measure used to establish an island vs an islet. The number of inhabited islands is variously cited as between 166 and 227. The ten largest Greek islands by land area are Crete, Euboea, Lesbos, Rhodes, Chios, Kefalonia, Corfu, Lemnos, Samos, and Naxos. The ten largest Greek islands by population are Crete, Euboea, Rhodes, Lesbos, Corfu, Chios, Zakynthos, Kefalonia, Kos, and Samos. The Peloponnese has technically been an island since the completion of the Corinth Canal in 1893 but is generally not considered to be an island due to its artifical nature. What language is spoken in Greece? The official language of Greece is Greek, spoken by 99% of the population. The most common foreign languages learned by Greeks are English (48%), German (9%), French (8.5%), and Italian (8%). English is widely spoken in the largest cities and on the most popular Greek islands. What are the best things to do in Greece? The must-do destinations and attractions in Greece: • Acropolis in Athens • National Archaeological Museum in Athens •  Caldera hike in Santorini • Boat tour in Santorini • Wineries of Santorini • Helicopter ride around Santorini • Staying in a caldera hotel in Santorini • Nightlife & beach clubs in Mykonos • Beaches of Naxos • The beaches and solitude of Antiparos • Sarakiniko Beach on Milos • Staying in Chania Old Town • Staying in Rhodes Old Town • Visiting Delphi • Meteora Monasteries • Staying in Nafplio • Island Hopping by Greek ferry

Naxos is one of my very favorite islands in Greece. Relaxed vibe, wonderful local food, and great beaches . How to get to Greece? Most people will fly from a hub in western Europe (usually London, Paris, Amsterdam, Berlin, Frankfurt, Rome, or Venice) to Athens , Crete , Santorini , Mykonos , Kos, Rhodes, or Corfu. If you’re arriving from the east you could fly via Istanbul, Tel Aviv, Dubai, Mumbai, Delhi, or Singapore. My top tip for choosing flights is to fly into and out of different airports so you don’t waste time and money backtracking to your arrival point. For example, fly from London to Athens, then ferry to Mykonos, ferry to Paros, ferry to Santorini, then fly Santorini to London (and don’t go back to Athens for your return flight). You may pay slightly more for 2 one-way tickets than a round-trip ticket, but it will be more than made up for by the savings for the extra ferry and hotel night. How long is the flight to Greece? Flying times to Athens, Greece. For direct flights to the Greek islands (when available) flight times can be up to 30 minutes longer or shorter. • Rome to Athens: 1 hour, 50 minutes • Barcelona to Athens: 2 hours, 50 minutes • Paris to Athens: 3 hours, 10 minutes • Amsterdam to Athens: 3 hours, 15 minutes • London to Athens: 3 hours, 40 minutes • Boston to Athens: 9 hours, 15 minutes • New York to Athens: 9 hours, 30 minutes • Toronto to Athens: 9 hours, 30 minutes • Chicago to Athens: 10 hours, 10 minutes • Atlanta to Athens: 10 hours, 50 minutes • Istanbul to Athens: 1 hour, 25 minutes • Dubai to Athens: 5 hours, 10 minutes • Delhi to Athens: 10 hours, 15 minutes • Singapore to Athens: 11 hours, 30 minutes

Boarding a Sky Express flight from Athens to the Greek islands. When is the Best Time to Travel to Greece? To enjoy Greek beaches and hot weather, travel between June and September. For sightseeing, tours, hiking, and exploring the best months to go to Greece are late March to early June, and late September to and early November. Travel to the Greek Islands is not recommended between November and March; the weather will be gray, windy, and often rainy, and many most hotels and restaurants will be shuttered for the season. Athens is a good year-round destination; the weather is best in the spring and fall, but archaeological sites and museums are open throughout the winter, and there is the benefit of lower rates and thinner crowds in the off-season. The Acropolis Museum in Athens . Though travel to the Greek Islands is best in the spring and summer, Athens can be a great destination at any time of year. What are the Best Greek Islands? All the Greek islands are wonderful. Really! I have never met someone that went to an island and said, “what a mistake, big disappointment.” It just doesn’t happen. They’re all different but all very special. Perhaps a better question is what are the best Greek islands for a first time visitor to Greece? For that I would answer Santorini , Naxos , Paros , and Mykonos . Crete is also great for first-timers but it’s so big that it’s good to do on its own or perhaps along with Santorini – not much more or you’ll spread your time too thin.

Santorini is famous for its fantastic luxury hotels and caldera views. How do you get between the Greek Islands? Greek ferries are the primary mode of transport between the islands – especially for the islands in the Aegean (e.g. Santorini, Mykonos, Crete, Rhodes). There are also some flights between the islands and (more commonly) flights via Athens between different islands but these are expensive and have inconsistent schedules. For most itineraries, using the ferry is best. Ferryhopper.com is the best website to search for and purchase tickets for all Greek ferry routes.

Passengers boarding a ferry in Mykonos. Traveling between the Greek Islands by ferry is easy, fun, and a highlight of a trip to Greece.

What are the best places to visit in Mainland Greece? I love the Greek Islands, but there are so many great places to visit in mainland Greece that it’s worth making a trip to explore it all on its own. Just west of Athens is The Peloponnese, a vast peninsula peppered with romantic harbor towns, olive groves, and archaeological ruins. North of Athens are the ancient ruins of Delphi and the incredible clifftop monasteries at Meteora. In Greece’s far north is the three-legged peninsula of Halkidiki , famous for its excellent beaches and mountain monastic republic .

The romantic harbor town of Nafplio is located in the Peloponnese peninsula, about two hours by car or bus west of Athens. What are the Best Beaches in Greece? My favorite islands for beaches are Naxos , Mykonos , Paros , Ios, Rhodes, and Crete. But there are many more with wonderful beaches and every island has great swimming even when the beaches don’t have the typical golden sand you’re expecting. Outside of the islands, the Halkidiki region of northern Greece also has excellent beaches running all up and down the coast of its three popular peninsulas.

With its pink sand and calm turquoise water, Elafonisi Beach in southwest Crete is my all-time favorite Greek beach.

What are the best places in Greece for kids? The whole of Greece is incredibly kid-friendly . And with great beaches, interesting history, a laid-back vibe, and incredible (and kid-friendly) food, the Greek islands are an especially excellent choice for a family vacation. Greek island hopping adds a bit of adventure to a family trip and an opportunity to see several very distinct destinations – plus, riding the ferry is always fun. My favorite island for families is Naxos , but there are many others that are also kid-friendly and great for families: Mykonos , Crete , Rhodes, and Corfu are four more islands that have great beaches, cool towns, and a friendly atmosphere. Paros is an idyllic mix of Naxos (slow pace, traditional, great beaches) and Mykonos (trendy, luxurious, lots of nightlife). What currency is used in Greece? Greece is part of the European Union, and the currency used is the Euro (€). Most major shops and restaurants across Greece accept credit cards, but there may be a minimum purchase required to use them. It is a good idea to have some cash on hand for bus trips and small purchases like bottled water and snacks. ATMs are plentiful in Athens and generally easy to find in most villages and beach towns across Greece. Do you tip in Greece? Tipping is not expected in Greek restaurants but is appreciated. Rather than a percentage of the bill, a restaurant tip in Greece can be a few Euros left on the table as a recognition of good service, or simply rounding up the tab to the nearest convenient amount. The more touristy (and expensive) a restaurant is, the more a tip is expected.

A seafood tavern in Ammoudi Bay below the village of Oia in Santorini . Most restaurants and stores in Greece accept credit cards, but it is a good idea to have some cash on hand for small purchases.

The spectacular walking path along the Santorini caldera.

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The Best Month to Visit Greece

A helpful guide to choosing the right time for your vacation in greece, depending on your likes and needs..

Paulina Björk Kapsalis | May 25th, 2022

There is no bad time to visit Greece.

There, we had to say that. Now let’s get real: not every month in Greece is for everyone, and they are definitely not all the same. While seasons often seem to blur together in this country, without clear-cut shoulder seasons and with plenty of warm winter days, there are defining factors linked to each month which can affect your holiday experience.

So which is the best month to visit Greece? For the sake of avoiding personal preferences (full disclosure, yours truly doesn’t particularly care for November) and staying impartial (my birthday is in April – you should all come then) when writing this article, we posed the question on Instagram .

Low and behold, there were tons of votes… for every single month. The months in the high-season were slightly more popular, unsurprisingly, and a lot of people favored spring, but we were surprised and glad to see that others named the months we never thought would be so popular. As a result, this will not be an article about the one best month to visit Greece, but a guide to the best month to visit, depending on your preferences .

Although it turns out, I was right about November.

The best month to visit Greece and get the beach to yourself: September

We lied before. While our poll did reflect hugely varied opinions, one month did win, and that was September.

At the tail end of summer, those looking for lazy days on the beach will be happy to find that while most of both foreign and Greek tourists have gone home, it’s still summer. The hottest period weather-wise is also over, so you might actually stay on the beach even as the sun reaches its zenith, while the sea that has been slowly cooking since spring, is as warm as it’ll ever be.

By the end of the month, when the first rains fall, many beach bars begin to pack up. If the weather still holds up, they might stay open, but will eventually quit restocking the draft beer and the mix for the soft serve ice cream.

As an alternative, we might add April through May as a good time to visit Greece and get the beach to yourself, if you don’t mind cold water or if you just want to be different, though most beach bars don’t open until June.

The best month to visit Greece for watersports: June-August

While many Greeks make the most of their access to relatively warm sea from early spring until November, especially for more chilled activities such as SUP paddle boarding and kayaking, surf clubs tend to open in May and close at the end of September, so if you need to rent your equipment, this is your window.

Surfers can count on the steadiest winds at the peak of summer, i.e., in June, July and August. Of course, this is also when the beaches will be more crowded, and it’s advisable to stick to beaches frequented by other surfers and not by swimmers. You can find our guide to Greece’s best windsurfing destinations here , and the top kitesurfing destinations here .

The famous Meltemi winds , which blow across the Aegean Sea from the north, are strongest in July and August, when they can sometimes reach up to 8 Beaufort, and especially powerful in the Cyclades. If they’re too strong, naturally, watersport centers will close.

The best month to visit Greece if you like crowds: August

In the hot month of August is when most Greeks take their time off from work and leave the cities for the islands and mainland seaside destinations. Sleepy villages and small islands come alive during this month, while the most famous tourist destinations become seriously packed.

Those looking to mingle and party the nights away can’t pick a better time – but do make sure to book accommodation and tables at restaurants ahead of time, or you run the risk of spending half your time in queues for souvlaki and sleeping on the beach. Also, remember, social distancing is still a thing.

The best month to visit Greece and experience unique traditions: February-April (in 2023)

You probably know that Greeks love their traditions. There are unique and eccentric celebrations taking place throughout the year and throughout the country, not to mention the local customs specific to every place.

Two moveable holidays in spring feature some of the most colorful events that anybody interested in Greek culture should experience at least once: Apokries (Greece’s carnival season), and Easter.

While it sometimes takes place in March, in 2023, the three weeks of Apokries will fall on February 5-26. Most of the celebrations take place during the last week, when you may watch or take part in everything from parades and costume parties, to street performances, flour wars, and local fertility-promoting rites with pagan roots. You can find our guide to the places with the most unique celebrations of carnival here .

Easter , the most important holiday in the Orthodox Christian calendar, is celebrated in Greece in a big way. The most important days, Friday-Sunday of the Holy Week, will take place on April 14-16 in 2023 (this moveable holiday sometimes also falls in May). You can find our “bluffer’s guide” to Greek Easter here .

If you’re planning on a long stay, you might combine Apokries or Easter with one of two more holidays happening in-between. That is, Clean Monday , which falls on the day after Apokries (February 27 in 2023) – the first day of the 40-day lent leading up to easter, and is celebrated with seafood and kite flying; and Greek Independence Day , which always falls on March 25, and is celebrated with parades and a meal of batter-fried cod and garlic dip ( bakaliaros skordalia ).

For more information about Greek holidays, find our Holiday Calendar here .

© City of Athens

The best month to visit Greek cities: April & December

We can’t decide. April, depending on the weather, can provide some of the loveliest days for wandering around one of Greece’s big cities. Fragrant bitter orange trees, almond trees and jacarandas bloom, and the temperature allows both for endless strolls and dining at outdoor cafés and restaurants.

In December, meanwhile, it might be cold, but if it is the Christmas decorations will warm your soul – and if that’s not enough, there’s hot cocoas and oinomelo, Greece’s mulled wine, on the menus of bars and cafés. Being low-season for tourism, you’ll have plenty of space to roam at the popular sights, while if you’re looking for nightlife, this is also one of the best and busiest times in the cities. You can find a guide to Christmas in Athens here .

There are also good things to be said about August. While the heat can be unpleasant in the city, that prompts a large portion of locals to leave on vacation, resulting in less traffic and fewer people around the sights.

© Dimitris Vlaikos

The best month to visit Greece on a budget: October-May

Okay, naming the entire low-season is not the same as naming a month, we know that, but here’s the thing: As Greece attempts to grow its tourism season, more and more destinations are becoming accessible and pleasant throughout the year, while still being a lot more affordable during these months. What we would suggest is to avoid visiting during a Greek holiday, when hotels will raise their prices in anticipation of a higher domestic tourism flow. Specifically:

In October , avoid the long weekend created by Ochi Day, on the 28th, if it falls on a Friday or Monday, creating a long weekend (as it will this year).

In December , avoid the Holiday period, from December 24th through the end of the year.

In January , avoid the first week of the year, especially January 6th, Epiphany, if it falls on a Friday or Monday, creating a long holiday (as it will in 2023).

In February/ March , avoid the long weekend created by Clean Monday (February 25-27 in 2023), as well as that created by Greek Independence Day if it falls on a Friday or Monday (not the case in 2023).

In April/May , avoid Easter, and May Day, if it falls on a Friday, Saturday, Sunday or Monday (if it falls on a weekend, the public holiday is moved up, therefore creating a long weekend).

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Best Time to Visit Greece

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Best Time to Visit Greece: Overview

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

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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

The weather was wonderful. It was warm to hot, we could swim. A great and successful holiday.

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

Pleasant temperatures, around 30°C during the day, 22°-25°C at night. Ionian Sea, water temperature 27°C, always light breeze

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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Cheapest Time To Go To Greece – How To Visit On A Budget

The cheapest time to go to Greece is outside summer, which is the peak tourist season. Here are some tips to travel to Greece if you are on a budget.

Cheapest time to travel to Greece and the Greek islands

Greece can be a very affordable country. Yet, some people return from their Greek holiday having spent much more than they expected.

These travelers may have only visited the most upscale destinations in Greece, during high season. And it’s true – prices in places like Mykonos and Santorini can be very high.

I’m Greek and have been exploring my country for many decades. While I agree that there are cheaper countries to visit, I still believe that Greece can be very budget-friendly.

In fact, even the most expensive islands in Greece can be very affordable if you are able to visit outside the high season.

Here are some tips on how to explore more of Greece without breaking the bank.

When is the peak season in Greece?

The peak season for Greece is between June and September. Due to the warm weather and absence of rain, it’s the best season to go to the beach, and swimming is delightful.

During high season, everywhere in Greece gets busier. Tourists arrive from all over the world to spend some time on popular islands, like Mykonos , Santorini , Milos , Rhodes , Corfu and Crete.

The most expensive months in terms of accommodation prices are July and August . This is the time when most people, including Greeks, can take time off to travel. Even with the higher prices, many hotels around the country can be fully booked.

My suggestion: If you have a choice, skip Greece in August. It can get too hot, busy and overpriced, especially in the popular islands.

June and September are still warm, but they are typically less crowded and cheaper. Overall, it will be easier to find accommodation, even last minute.

Celebrating Greek Easter in Greece

Greek Easter is another relatively expensive time to visit Greece, as it’s our most important public holiday. While many Greeks go to their villages to celebrate the Easter Week, others take advantage to explore more of the country for a few days.

Places like Patmos and Corfu have very unique Greek Easter traditions , and can get popular during the Holy week. The most expensive days for accommodation are Good Friday and the Easter weekend.

Note that Greek Easter is celebrated according to the Greek calendar. As a rule, it rarely coincides with the Catholic or Protestant Easter.

Outside Greek Orthodox Easter, spring is generally cheap in terms of accommodation. It’s a fantastic time to visit, as you will avoid crowds, and you will see tons of blooming flowers among the ancient ruins throughout the country.

Christmas and New Year’s in Greece

Accommodation prices in certain areas of Greece may go up during Christmas and New Year’s , though not nearly as much as in other European countries.

This is more likely to affect the main cities and some popular areas on the mountains, rather than the islands. As an example, Kalambaka town near the Meteora Monasteries is a popular place to visit in winter.

Have a look at these other Greek celebrations and festivals throughout the year.

Best time to travel to Greece – International and domestic flights

Greece has several dozens of airports. Many of them are international, which means that there are direct flights from abroad. In summer, there are hundreds of seasonal routes, many of them reaching the Greek islands.

Flight prices vary a lot, depending on the airlines and the time of the year. Generally speaking, flights tend to be more expensive in summer and around Christmas and Greek Easter.

You can often find low airfares if you check a few months in advance of your trip. Low-cost companies are often the cheapest, but make sure you check all airlines.

If you want to take a domestic flight within Greece, try to book your ticket as early as possible. Last minute tickets tend to be very expensive, especially for popular islands like Mykonos and Santorini .

This list of Greek islands with airport will help you when planning your trip. Many visitors book combinations of flights to arrive on one island, and return home from Athens, or from another island.

Ferry travel within Greece

Ferry travel is a common way to reach the Greek islands and travel between them. While certain islands have airports, in many cases it’s much more practical to take a ferry.

Ferry routes vary widely throughout the year. During peak season, there are more ferries running between the islands. There are different types of ferries – the fastest ones, which run on routes in the Aegean Sea, cost significantly more.

Ferry tickets have the same price year-round, even if you book them last minute. However, if you are travelling during peak season, it’s best to plan ahead and book them in advance, as certain ferries can get sold out.

I use Ferryscanner to compare ferry companies and book ferry tickets. It’s a popular search engine where you can book up to ten consecutive ferry journeys.

Sometimes, you might find discounted ferry tickets. These are mostly available for the off-peak months. They are often non-refundable and non-transferable, so make sure you are happy before you book them.

Cheapest time to go to Athens Greece

Athens is a year round destination. As such, you can always find affordable accommodation, though prices may fluctuate a little between summer and winter.

International flights to Athens tend to be more expensive during summer. If you only want to visit Athens for a short city break, look into off-season months.

You will generally get much better flight prices for October, often excluding the Oxi Day , November, March or April. Winter months will typically be even cheaper, apart from the time around Christmas and New Year’s.

Many people come to Athens to visit the museums and ancient sites. You will be delighted to know that entrance tickets to all public museums and monuments are reduced from November until March. In addition, entrance is free on the first Sunday of those months.

You might want to check my guide to some free museums in Athens .

Is the off-season a good time of year to visit Athens?

If you’ve found a cheap flight to Athens in January or February, go ahead and book it. Athens is buzzing in winter, and you are likely to get pleasant weather on at least some days.

Generally speaking, winters in the Greek capital are a lot milder than Northern European winters. Still, we may have all four seasons. Thunderstorms are not uncommon, and you don’t want to be walking around the slippery Acropolis marbles under pouring rain – trust me on this!

Generally speaking, January and February are the coldest months in Athens – it even snows on some years. 

Here is my article on the best time to visit Athens , including information on weather, festivals and special events for each month.

Cheapest time to go to the Greek islands

Greece has hundreds of islands. Apart from the popular ones, there are some others that you may have never heard of, like Andros , Iraklia , Kimolos , Nisyros or Kasos . This introduction to Greek islands  should help.

If you are going to the islands, or to any beach destinations in mainland Greece, the cheapest time to go to Greece is outside the summer season.

Generally speaking, spring, autumn and winter months are a lot cheaper in terms of accommodation. While some of the restaurants might be closed, the ones that are open will cater for locals, and will typically be very affordable.

Most visitors find the weather a lot more pleasant in June and September rather than in high season. So, unless the only time you can take a holiday is in August, visit Greece in September instead. 

Let’s take, for example, Santorini. Accommodation prices in July and August can be exorbitant, especially if you want to stay in a hotel with a view to the volcano. The vast majority of rooms would be over 200 euros per night, and this is if you are booking well in advance.

By comparison, if you visit Santorini in March, April or October, you could easily find good value rooms. Prices drop further in winter, which is the off-season.

And before you dismiss winter, it’s actually an interesting time to visit Santorini if you want to avoid the crowds. Here’s my personal experience on visiting Santorini in winter .

Also, here are a few more tips on how to visit Santorini on a budget . 

Is the off-season a good time of year to visit the Greek islands?

The Greek islands can be very interesting in the off-season. However, if your main plan is to go swimming and enjoy the beach, do not come between November and March.

While some visitors still swim in November or December, most people will not find it pleasant. In addition, there aren’t as many sailing tours in the off-season – you’d get a much wider selection in summer.

You should also consider daylight hours. Sunset in winter is around 17:30, while in summer it’s between 20:00 and 21:00, so there are more chances for daytime activities.

Another issue with the Greek islands in winter is that there isn’t as much to do as in summer. The main exceptions are the bigger, more populated islands, like Rhodes, Crete and Corfu. These are still lively in winter, and there’s a lot happening despite the relatively bad weather.

However, smaller islands pretty much close down. So if nightlife and a wide selection of tavernas are your top priority, avoid the off-season.

Finally, travelling to the islands in winter isn’t always straightforward. Many of the charter flights cease operation, and there are fewer ferries.

As a conclusion, think what your priorities are when planning a trip to a Greek island. If you are budget-conscious, try late April, May or early / mid October.

These months are ideal for anyone who wants to hike, see the archaeological sites or just to relax. Accommodation will be cheaper, you will avoid the scorching sun while still having good weather, and the locals will have more time and energy to talk to you!

Read more here: Hottest Greek islands to visit in October .

Cheapest time to go on a roadtrip around Greece

A fantastic way to explore more of Greece is to go on a roadtrip. The Peloponnese and the Western coast of Greece are fairly seasonal destinations in terms of accommodation costs.

Just like the islands, they are quite busy in summer, and prices tend to go up.

Depending on the area you are visiting, accommodation in these areas can be much cheaper if you are going between October and March.

During the off-season, you should be able to find rooms and apartments starting at 40-50 euro, while in summer the same apartments would cost a lot more, perhaps double the price.

Is the off-season a good time of the year to take a roadtrip around Greece?

Again, if your main plan is to go swimming, avoid the winter months. That said, the climate in the Peloponnese is fairly mild, so many locals swim all year round.

If, on the other hand, you just want to explore, go hiking and visit the numerous ancient sites and villages, the off-season is probably better.

Be aware that places up on the mountains can get really cold and damp in winter. If you are renting a car, the law states that you will need to have snow chains in your car between October and April. Make sure you discuss this with your car rental company.

As for the Western coast of Greece, the average temperatures won’t be as mild as in the Peloponnese. Again, if swimming is a priority, it’s best to plan your trip by October at the latest.

Here is more information about driving in Greece . And if you want to find a rental car, have a look at the Discover Cars platform , where you can book a vehicle for your vacation.

FAQs about the cheapest time to visit Greece

Here are a few more tips about the cheapest times of year to visit Greece:

What is the best month to go to Greece?

In my opinion, the best month to go to Greece is late May, June and September. The weather is milder with many sunny days, there are fewer tourist crowds, and accommodation prices are reasonable.

I know that many people visit in July and August, but this is often because it’s the only time they can go on a vacation! I personally avoid the Greek islands in August as much as I can!

If swimming is not a top priority, you will also love April, October and November. I find April too cold to go swimming, but I blame my Greek genes 🙂

How much does it cost to go to Greece for a week?

This reminds me of the question “how long is a piece of string”! Regardless, here is some insight, based on my summer trips in Greece in the past five years.

From the above, you may have guessed that we travel outside the peak season of July and August. As such, we can easily find accommodation for around 45-50 euro / night for a couple. We’ve even had self-catering studios for 25 euro!

A meal at a regular taverna for two people can cost anywhere from 30 euro upwards. I’d say an average price for two is around 35-50 euro. Obviously, this would not apply for gourmet restaurants in Mykonos or Santorini.

Ferry ticket prices vary a lot. We tend to use the larger, slower ferries, as they are not only cheaper, but also better to travel on if the weather is windy. A passenger ticket from Piraeus port to one of the islands generally costs around 40 euro upwards.

All in all, we normally spend about 50 euro per person per day travelling in Greece. It is definitely possible to bring this number down if you stay at campsites or avoid tavernas and do more self-catering.

So, to answer the question, you can easily spend a week in Greece for under 500 euro per person, excluding your airfare. All it takes is some research and a bit of careful planning.

How much does an average trip to Greece cost?

In my opinion, there is no average trip to Greece, as every visitor has their own itinerary.

Mykonos and Santorini, which are often included in Greek vacations, are among the most expensive destinations in Greece, so they will increase the cost. If you are budget-conscious, there are many other Greek islands that are a lot cheaper.

In addition, activities like private tours or sailing trips are likely to be pricey. As an example, a day trip from Mykonos to Ancient Delos can cost over 50 euro. A winery tour in Santorini can be over 100 euro.

Still, if you can only visit Greece once in your life, all of these are worth booking. After all, the memories will last forever!

What is the cheapest Greek island to visit?

I have not been to all Greek islands yet! But I’m working towards it 🙂

Two of the famous Greek islands that I’ve found to be the most budget-friendly are Crete and Naxos, in the Cyclades. I can absolutely recommend both islands for beaches, sightseeing, culture, people, and the fantastic Greek food !

You can reach Chania or Heraklion airports in Crete from many European countries. Naxos has a small local airport. You can either take a domestic flight from Athens, or use one of the numerous ferries.

Can I explore Greece on a budget?

Based on our experience travelling around Greece as a couple, it is possible to see Greece with a budget of about 50 euro per person per day, even beyond the shoulder seasons.

Have a look at this article where I broke down our costs for one month of travelling in June 2021: Is Greece expensive . We managed to stick to the same budget, more or less, in 2022. 

Granted, fuel, accommodation and food prices have gone up since then. Still, most areas in Greece are very affordable.

Cheapest time to go to Greece – Conclusions

I hope this article has shed some light on the cheapest time to go to Greece! If I could sum up my best advice, here’s what I would suggest:

• Avoid July and August , which is also the time when the meltemi winds blow in the Aegean. Visit Greece in April, May, June, September, October or even November. The shoulder season is the best time to come if you want some beach weather.
• Skip the most popular destinations . Do not visit Mykonos and Santorini – go to less famous islands instead. Or go to the mainland, and include Peloponnese in your trip to Greece.
• Book your flights, accommodation and ferry tickets well in advance . 

Whatever you decide, have a great time!

More Greece travel guides

I hope this article has shed some light on the best time of the year to visit Greece, and what to expect in Athens, Santorini and other popular destinations. You might find these other Greece blog posts interesting:

• Tips on planning a vacation in Greece
• Greek Customs and Habits That Make Greeks Who They Are
• How to experience Greece from A to Z
• Greek drinks you need to try during your vacation in Greece
• How to stay cool in Athens in the summer
• Facts about the Greek flag
• Greek islands close to Athens
• Warmest Greek islands in October

Hi! I am Vanessa from Athens. I love exploring Greece, especially outside the peak months of July and August. My favourite times of year are late spring / early summer (from mid May to late June) and around mid September, when I can have some quiet beach time. If you have any questions, please leave a comment below!

2 thoughts on “Cheapest Time To Go To Greece – How To Visit On A Budget”

I L ❤️ V E your reports and look forward to them all the time …. You are so Insightful and alway REMIND me of just why it is I LOVE GREECE as much as I do … I moved there last year in September, and continue to work in The UK. I was first in Athens and then moved to Souvala on Aegina, which was definitely not my wisest choice, too quiet and isolated, especially without a car … Also as you say, August was UNBEARABLE … Definitely will work during August … 🤭 It dimmed my passion somewhat, and I have been thinking of leaving, but EVERY TIME I read your Wonderful Newsletter, I feel maybe, just not yet …. 😊 You are right, it takes careful planning. I am returning in January to clear my apartment on Aegina, and put it into storage in Athens … Have A Wonderful Week.

Kind regards,

Yes August can be a pain in the tourist areas – which is why I don’t go away myself 🙂 I’m sure you will find another place to live for a few months, or a year, or… who knows really? Get in touch when you are in Athens in January, and let’s go for a coffee!

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If you’re planning a trip to Greece in 2024, visit these 10 top destinations

Mar 4, 2024 • 6 min read

From iconic islands to major cities to the lesser-known, wild region of Epiros, our list of essential Greek destinations has a bit of everything © Georgios Tsichlis / Shutterstock

As its mythical Sirens were reputed to do, Greece has long lured travelers to its scintillating shores.

Across an expansive island archipelago, traditional whitewashed villages, azure seas and waterfront tavernas enchant visitors. Greece’s mountainous mainland, rich in UNESCO World Heritage–listed ancient sites, treasure-filled museums and spirited cities, is no less fascinating. As you contemplate your dream Greece itinerary, consider these 10 favorite places to add to it.

Wherever you walk in Greece’s storied capital, the ancients have walked before – whether you see the evidence or not. From the Acropolis  (whose jewel in the crown is the fifth-century BCE Parthenon ) to the underground metro (where some stations feature archaic finds), Athens  is teeming with historical sites , monuments and museums. A combo card affords entry to the Acropolis and six more sites; the Acropolis Museum is also a must-see.

Easy to tackle on foot, Athens is also one of Europe’s liveliest metropolises – and strolls through neighborhoods like old-town Plaka , flea market–famous Monastiraki and hip Pangrati are highlights. By night, catch a live band in gritty Gazi , catch a movie at an outdoor cinema in Thission or go bar-hopping off the main commercial street Ermou.

Local tip: Book tickets online for a reinvented Greek tragedy or dance troupe performance at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus amphitheater as part of the  Epidaurus Festival , which takes place each summer.

A collection of over 70 beaches, sea caves hidden beneath limestone cliffs and technicolor traditional boat houses are just some of the reasons why mineral-rich Milos has won the hearts of many travelers. Evidence of its volcanic origins can be seen in the almost lunar landscape of Sarakiniko , where the more daring dive into a jade-colored Aegean. Arrive early at Gerondas beach to nab the generous shade of caves and enjoy floating silently in still waters.

Planning tip: Save a couple of days to spend on Kimolos, a small island northeast of Milos reachable by ferry. One of its most impressive beaches is Prassa, where coarse, blindingly white sand shows off shallow, aquamarine waters to full effect.

Rhodes has long been the Dodecanese ’s biggest draw thanks to its atmospheric UNESCO World Heritage–listed medieval old town . Transformed in the Middle Ages by the Knights of the Order of St John into a formidable fortified city, it fell to the Ottomans, who erected mosques, baths and houses, many of which have been restored. Youngsters might envision armored men on horseback thundering down the cobblestoned Street of the Knights .

Make sure you visit the Palace of the Grand Master , which features stunning Roman and Early Christian floor mosaics, and the Church of Our Lady of the Castle.

Planning tip: Book a state-licensed tour guide to show you around the old town for a full picture of its long and fascinating history.

4. Santorini

Whether you’re coupled up or not, it’s hard not to fall for Santorini ’s charms. Whitewashed and pastel-hued, cube-shaped homes cling to steep cliffsides above a cobalt Aegean and the island’s famed caldera, formed by volcanic eruptions over millennia.

Weave your way through the narrow alleyways of the postcard-perfect village of Oia amid blue-domed churches. Bathe in thermal springs warmed by an active volcano, splay out on black-sand beaches and don’t miss the prehistoric settlement of Akrotiri , which features an advanced drainage system.

Planning tip: Book a private tour of Santorini ’s smaller wine estates, whose new generation of vintners is breathing new life into traditional wines like mezzo and Nychteri.

In Greece’s west lies Epiros , a remote region of soaring mountain peaks, fast-flowing rivers and hidden rock canyons. Hike to the alpine heights of Mt Tymfi’s Dragon Lake, which freezes over in winter, or traverse the thick forests, inclines and descents of spectacular Vikos Gorge . Whitewater rafting thrills and spills await in the Voidomatis or Arachthos rivers, while canyoning enthusiasts can choose from routes of varying difficulty.

6. Kythnos and Serifos

If peaceful sandy shores, unassuming waterfront tavernas and sleepy villages are more your style, the low-key West Cyclades isles of Kythnos and Serifos are worth a stop. Kythnos has deep, sheltered bays and tamarisk-dotted silver-sand beaches, among them Lefkes and Naousa.

Wallet-friendly tavernas line the laid-back fishing settlements of Loutro and Meriha, while wind-whipped Serifos , a two-hour ferry ride from Piraeus , features sweeping sandy beaches, sheltered bays, ghostly mining relics and a jewel-like hilltop capital whose neoclassical town hall stands sentinel over the buzzy main square.

7. Thessaloniki

At the crossroads of East and West, where the Romans, Byzantines and Ottomans have held sway over the centuries, Thessaloniki tempts serious foodies. Bougatsa , a phyllo pastry pie usually filled with semolina custard, spinach or mince meat, makes for a hearty breakfast. Pick up olives and spices at the olfactory-awakening open-air markets and Pontic cheeses from indoor food hub Modiano , which dates back to 1922. In the former oil merchant district of Ladadika, mezedopolia serve dishes revealing strong Anatolian and Middle Eastern influences, customarily with the fiery clear spirit tsipouro .

Planning tip: Thessaloniki is also renowned for its fish and seafood, served with fervor and pride whether it’s a backstreet taverna or an upscale restaurant. Bookings are recommended for the latter.

Tranquil, turquoise seas, fir-studded hillsides and a regal capital make Corfu one of the most beautiful parts of the country to go sailing. The Ionian isle is the ideal starting point for novices who can take a sailing course and gain certification.

Afterward, join a flotilla for a leisurely cruise around Corfu, dropping anchor at Kalami Bay (of The Durrells fame) and lush Paleokastritsa. In Corfu Town , admire Venetian fortresses, the French-designed Liston Arcade and The Palace of St Michael and St George , built during the island’s British administration.

Planning tip: Few venture to Erikousa island, northwest of Corfu, which is blessed with pristine beaches and shallow cerulean seas.

Greece’s largest island, Crete  abounds in historical sites, well-preserved monuments and modern museums. A wander through the Minoan-era palaces of Knossos , Malia , Phaestos and Kato Zakros  won’t disappoint any fan of classical culture.

Stroll along the Venetian Harbour in Hania , lined with Ottoman monuments such as the Kioutsouk Hasan Mosque . Trek up to Byzantine and Venetian fortresses such as the Fortezza in Rethymno and Kastelli in Hania. In the east, the 16th-century Venetian fortress on Spinalonga islet reveals a harrowing, more recent past as a leper colony.

Among noteworthy museums are the Heraklion Archaeological Museum , Chania’s Maritime Museum of Crete , and the Museum of Ancient Eleutherna in Rethymno.

10. Mykonos

In the 1960s and 70s, Mykonos hosted roving hippies, celebrities and moneyed jet-setters who flirted and danced till the sun came up. While new five-star hotels and swanky brand-name restaurants may have altered the landscape and driven up prices, the fabled Cycladic isle still reigns supreme when it comes to summer nightlife in the Mediterranean.

Revelers can choose from the thumping bars lining Little Venice in Hora , as well as beach bars, cabaret restaurants and iconic clubs like seaside Cavo Paradiso , where illustrious music DJs fire up the crowd.

Planning tip: August is Mykonos’ busiest month. It’s also when you can witness the hottest DJs and surprise appearances by music artists, including prominent hip-hop names.

This article was first published Jul 5, 2021 and updated Mar 4, 2024.

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The ultimate Greece holiday destinations to visit in 2024

Sunny islands, ancient cities and the mountainous mainland – these are the very best Greece holiday destinations

Whether you want to visit one of the thousands of islands, from the Cyclades to the Sporades, tour the classical destinations on the mainland or admire the Acropolis in Athens , there’s a holiday destination in Greece for you.

Just like Italy's holiday destinations and the most beautiful Portuguese holiday destinations , the beauty spots in Greece are perfect for a spring , summer or autumn escape when you can make the most of the Mediterranean sunshine.

Mykonos and Santorini in the Cyclades get more tourist footfall than most of the rest of the country, but there are other islands worth a visit in this region of the Aegean, too.

Sifnos, for example – home to several hundred whitewashed churches, an exciting food scene and charming boutique hotels. Or magical Milos, with its rich mining history, incredible geology and hilltop towns, where the sunsets give even Santorini’s a run for their money.

Ancient Athens never gets old: the almighty Acropolis is one of the most majestic sites in the country.

Crete may be an island, but it’s a vast one – don’t miss the gorgeous capital Chania, with its Venetian harbour and restaurants along the water’s edge.

Here are our favourite Greece holiday destinations to visit in 2024.

Framed by the dramatic Taygetus mountain range, the lively city of Kalamata is the capital and central port of Messinia on the Peloponnese peninsula in southern Greece. It's a haven for culture vultures: there's the annual International Dance Festival, regular shows at Castle of Isabeau, an excellent archaeological museum, tonnes to see at the Modern Greek Art Gallery, and a pretty old town filled with local shops and boutiques to boot. For beach lovers, meanwhile, there's a full four-kilometre stretch of crystal-clear sea and sand, as well as a waterfront area dotted with tavernas, restaurants, and bars.

Where to stay: A little while out of town, facing the wide, sandy Analipsi bay, you'll find Buca Beach Club – a minimalist, boutique-style Neilson resort offering water sports, activities and relaxation aplenty. Words Clementina Jackson

Mykonos may have a reputation as Greece’s premier party-loving island, but there’s another, far quieter side to the island. And regardless of how popular it is today, there’s a reason it became so adored and sought-after in the first place. Mykonos Town is where you’ll find some of the island’s iconic windmills. There are also lots of lovely beaches on the island, including Agios Ioannis, which is lined by restaurants where you can dine on fresh seafood at the water’s edge. How to visit: Travel on board Star Clipper with the writer Victoria Hislop, who has written many novels set in Greece, and see a less-trodden part of Mykonos. Your voyage will begin in Athens, stopping at Patmos and other places before you dock at Mykonos for a relaxing day on a beautiful beach.

To the north of the Ionian Sea, the mountainous, cypress-studded isle of Corfu has been ruled by the Venetians, French and British over the years, which makes it a fascinating place to visit (and not just for fans of The Durrells ). As well as the golden beaches and sparkling coastline, which is dotted with well-heeled resorts, there are lots of mountain villages. Corfu Town – with its palaces, Venetian fortresses, cobblestoned alleyways and UNESCO-listed old town – is not to be missed.

Where to stay: For some romantic seclusion, Domes Miramare , on an olive grove above the coast, is the hotel for you – it was built by the Onassis family in the 1960s and has been popular with royals and rock stars ever since.

One of Greece’s lesser-visited islands, Amorgós is just as beautiful as its counterparts that see far higher footfall come the summer months. The sleepy isle is the easternmost of the Cyclades, and the closest to the Dodecanese archipelago. As with most Greek islands, it’s home to several beautiful, quiet beaches, lots of whitewashed architecture, and some iconic blue-dome-topped churches, too.

How to visit: Set sail aboard a nine-day cruise with the celebrated writer Victoria Hislop, who has based many of her novels in Greece and its islands. She will host a drinks reception during the trip and discuss her accomplished career, and will sign copies of her latest book, The Figurine . The journey begins in Athens and will also dock in Patmos and Mykonos.

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Mani Peninsula

In the central of the three finger-shaped peninsulas of the Peloponnese and one of the most wild, remote parts of Greece, the Mani is home to the Maniots, believed to be descended from the Spartans. The dramatic scenery spans the Taygetos Mountains, quiet coves and walking trails linking up hilltop hamlets. The region is divided into the Outer Mani, which includes coastal villages such as Stoupa, and the Deep Mani, visited by few tourists.

Where to stay: For a stay as historic as its surroundings, look no further than Citta dei Nicliani , an officially designated ‘ancient monument’, formed from an old tower and a series of atmospheric stone buildings.

The rugged, mountainous Epirus region of north-western Greece may not be all that well-known, but if you like your classics, you’ll enjoy a visit to the door to Hades, AKA the Necromanteion of Acheron. In Preveza, there’s a charming old town and lots of seafood restaurants; or tour the shores of the Ionian Sea, go canyoning, hike to cliff-top monasteries and stop by pretty mountain villages.

Where to stay: At Meraviglia Slow Living on the edge of Preveza, the clue is in the name: hotel guests can enjoy a peaceful, unhurried pace of life, while admiring the stunning architecture (the hotel is the dream creation of a local construction mogul).

Home to Mount Athos, this part of northern Greece is formed from peninsulas of forests and sandy bays, and has lots of seaside resorts to choose from. Archaeological sites of note include Stageira, which is where Aristotle was born, and Olynthus, founded by the son of Heracles and famous for its mosaic floors.

Where to stay: The westernmost peninsula has the most bustle and it’s where you’ll find Sani Resort, a collection of five hotels – including Sani Beach and Sani Dunes – within a well-equipped estate that has everything from football academies, survival courses with Bear Grylls and tennis courts to fine-dining restaurants and its own marina.

Skopelos and Skiathos

If you thought the backdrop of the first Mamma Mia! film looked like your idea of Greek-holiday heaven, you need to visit the Sporades isles of Skopelos and Skiathos, which are where much of the filming took place. Skopelos has no airport, which makes it a little harder to get to, but all the more rewarding when you reach it. The unspoilt island is much more authentic than many of its crowd-frequented counterparts.

Where to stay: It’s just a short ferry ride to Skopelos from neighbouring Skiathos, which does have an air hub. Over on this island, Elivi was once popular with Jacki O – today, it has villas along the beach, a Japanese restaurant and an Elemis spa.

Crete is the fifth largest island in the Med and there’s so much more to it than popular package-holiday resorts. The capital Chania, on the north-west coast, has a Venetian harbour that was built in the 14th century and a lighthouse from a couple of centuries later with Venetian, Ottoman and Egyptian influences. Classical sites include the Palace of Knossos, a Minoan settlement with its own labyrinth, and the remains of the city of Eleutherna.

Where to stay: In the east, Acro Suites has been created by a Cretan family with several other hotels on the island – each of the stylish, cliff-edge rooms has its own pool and there’s a superb spa, too.

A butterfly-shaped island in the Cyclades, Milos has an incredible landscape that spans red, pink and orange beaches, caves and the lunar landscape of Sarakiniko. In Klima, colourful fishermen’s houses are lined up along the water, and there are beaches marked out as being only for the adventurous, since they can only be reached by ladder (or boat, of course). More amazing rock formations await at Kleftiko, Fyrligos and Glaronisia. All days should end in the ancient capital Plaka – high on a hilltop and with a 13th-century Venetian fort – for sunsets that rival even those seen on Santorini.

Where to stay: A perfect base in Pollonia is Captain Zeppos Boutique hotel , which has just a handful of suites and a very helpful owner, who’ll assist with everything from hire cars to kayaks to borrow.

The tiny island of Hydra in the Argo Saronic Gulf, close to the Peloponnese coast, is just 10 miles long. It was once home to Leonard Cohen – the singer lived here in the Sixties and it’s where he met his muse Marianne. The main harbour is the only town, there are no cars (just horses, donkeys and water taxis), bells ring out from its hundreds of churches and the coves are scented by pine. You won’t find any big resorts or high-rise hotels, and there are certainly no arrivals by air.

Where to stay: Not to be confused with a certain behemoth hotel brand, the Four Seasons Hydra Luxury Suites is one of the most charming places to stay on the island.

The ancient landmarks of the capital make it one of the most popular holiday destinations in Greece, with people eager to explore the classical sites – the most famous of which, of course, is the Acropolis, a hilltop citadel with buildings that include the Parthenon temple. More archeological treasures await at the many museums, which showcase ceramics, sculptures and jewellery from Ancient Greece. The modern city is a lively one, with neighbourhoods such as gallery-packed Kolonaki and edgy Exarcheia.

Where to stay: Keep watch over the Acropolis from the comfort of the Hotel Grande Bretagne on Syntagma Square, which has been offering refuge to classics fans since 1874.

Santorini and Mykonos may steal a lot of the Cyclades’ thunder, but Sifnos is just as captivating as its more tourist-frequented neighbours. Fittingly for the birthplace of beloved Greek chef Nikolaos Tselementes, the island has some excellent foodie credentials – visitors can dine at upscale seafood bars where the jet-set yachts drop anchor and traditional tavernas, and try island-made goat’s cheese, chickpea fritters and aniseed buns in the ancient villages. Sifnos also has 235 whitewashed churches, monasteries and temples to Artemis and Apollo.

Where to stay: Verina Astra is a boutique hotel with pastel-coloured shutters, shaded terraces and stone walls that gives its guests a taste of the traditional Greek-island life.

Paros and Antiparos

Somewhat of a Cyclades secret (until now), the word is out about Paros and its diminutive neighbour Antiparos. The islands have A-list approval – Tom Hanks and his wife Rita Wilson had a home on Antiparos and Salma Hayek was spotted on Paros in recent summers. Paros has all of the appeal of its starrier neighbours, such as Santorini and Mykonos, but it’s a much more discreet kind of style. Spend your days hiking inland near Lefkes and your evenings strolling the beautiful towns Naoussa and Parikia.

Where to stay: Cosme is next-door to the harbour town of Naoussa, which means you’ll be within walking distance of the many bars and restaurants lining the water’s edge, not to mention the several boutiques that were made for souvenir shopping.

If you are in search of glitz and glamour though, Santorini is one of the flashiest of the Greek islands – mostly thanks to its spectacular sunsets, but also because of its luxury hotels, fine-dining scene and captivating (and croissant-shaped) coastline. The northern town of Oia, with its famously cliff-hugging architecture, may be packed with people in search of a church with a blue dome, but there’s a reason it’s so popular – the views of the sparkling Aegean and the caldera are mesmerising. Hike the shoreline south to Imerovigli for a workout and more incredible views.

Where to stay: A little away from the action in Oia (and all the more peaceful for it), Santo Pure has been modelled on a traditional Cycladic village, with whitewashed villas forming the standalone suites, several pools and a cocktail bar with a prime view for sunset. As an added bonus, there’s a footpath taking you up into Oia in minutes.

One of the Ionian Islands, Zakynthos has everything you could hope for in a Greek holiday destination, from beautiful beaches to a capital with a harbour for sunset strolls. Some of the beaches, such as Navagio, can only be reached by boat – you’ll also be able to see the shipwreck from 1980 that’s been left behind in the cove.

Where to stay: For the ultimate seclusion, check in to Porto Zante , a series of private villas on a peaceful beach that is formed from just nine buildings, each of which has a private pool and up to four bedrooms. Other highlights include the spa by the water and the two restaurants.

Monemvasia, Peloponnese

On the mainland, Monemvasia is one of the most magical towns in the Peloponnese. It’s in the region of Laconia, which linguists will be delighted to learn is where the word ‘laconic’ derives from, but that’s not to say that they’re not a friendly bunch. The town is on an island off the east coast of the Peloponnese that’s connected to the mainland by a 200-metre causeway. The main attraction is the medieval castle at the edge of a cliff, but don’t miss the narrow shop-lined streets, too.

Where to stay: Kinsterna Hotel is set on a vineyard and olive grove – don’t go home without stockpiling their wares at the shop. The serene retreat has 25 acres of grounds and a view of the castle.

Made famous by Captain Corelli’s Mandolin , the film of which was shot here at the turn of the century, Kefalonia is in the Ionian Islands. The Hollywood scouts chose Sami Beach as their backdrop, but the rest of the island is just as beautiful, thanks to its limestone cliffs and sandy coves. The hillside capital Argostoli overlooks a harbour; and Myrtos Beach in the north of the island is just one of the picturesque places for a swim.

Where to stay: At F Zeen , guests can enjoy yoga on a deck overlooking the Ionian Sea, film nights at the outdoor cinema and drinks down on the beach, along with guided hikes and meditations.

In the eastern reaches of Greece and close to the Turkish border, Samos is a Greek island for the more adventurous traveller – and any mathematicians hoping to go on a Pythoras pilgrimage (the philosopher was born here). The island has another famous son: it was the birthplace of Epicurus, whose disciples can indulge today at the tavernas that line the harbours or at one of the vineyards where sweet muscat wine is produced. This is also where you’ll find the remains of the Temple of Hera.

Where to stay: Casa Cook Samos near the town of Pythagoreio has no fewer than six swimming pools, a beachside restaurant with a Josper grill and siesta-ready cabanas suspended above the water.

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I traveled around Greece with 3 of my best friends. Here are 6 highlights from the trip and 5 things we'd do differently next time.

Posted: June 12, 2024 | Last updated: June 12, 2024

• I traveled to Greece with three of my best friends to see Athens , Santorini, Mykonos, and Naxos.
• Our Airbnb host gave us the best local food and activity recommendations.
• Next time, we'd avoid renting a car — two flat tires were enough to scar us for life.

Following our college graduation last May, three of my best friends and I traveled to Greece for eight days .

We flew to Athens and took a ferry between Mykonos, Santorini, and Naxos.

Although there were many highlights, there are also things we'd do differently next time.

If you're part of the new surge of tourists heading to Greece this summer, here's what I learned.

We chose the perfect itinerary.

Since Athens is a big walking city and Mykonos is known to be a party island, we were grateful to have the two relaxing islands, Naxos and Santorini, at the latter end of the trip.

After an exhausting few days, I appreciated the serenity of the quiet islands that much more.

A daytime boat ride had swimming opportunities and the best views.

We were torn between morning and sunset when deciding when to book a boat ride .

I was grateful that we took the daytime cruise because it allowed us to see the island in broad daylight and swim while it was still nice and sunny.

Befriending our Airbnb host was key.

I'll admit it, when our Airbnb host wouldn't stop messaging me in the days leading up to Santorini, I thought it was a red flag.

But befriending our host, Antonis, was the best thing we could've done.

As four girls who always wait until the last minute to plan, having someone point us in the direction of the best boat tours , wine tastings, and restaurants was a big advantage.

Trusting local food recommendations led to delicious meals.

Our favorite meal of the entire trip was when we took Antonis to his favorite lunch spot and gave him full ordering responsibility.

Had we been alone, we probably would've ordered the basics, but he encouraged us to try new foods and gave us the local experience.

One of the best things Antonis introduced us to was a traditional dessert made from Greek yogurt and mastic (dried tree resin). We've been on the hunt for it in the US ever since.

Greece has underrated wine tastings.

We didn't plan on going wine tasting in Greece , but when Antonis insisted we do it, we couldn't resist.

It gave us a unique view of the vineyards that we didn't even know were right in our Airbnb's backyard. And after a few jam-packed days, this was the perfect activity to pause and take it all in.

Roaming around led to us discovering some hidden gems, too.

We set aside a day to explore Naxos with no itinerary, and we got to take our time shopping in markets, sitting by the ocean, and discovering new food spots.

It was nice to be spontaneous and stumble upon hidden gems that day instead of stressing about making it to another activity on time.

Next time, we won't rent a car.

We thought we were being smart by renting a car to explore Naxos, but it turned out to be the biggest mistake of the trip.

Our GPS service wasn't always great, and it often took us down smaller roads full of sharp rocks. We ended up with not one but two flat tires.

When we returned the car, we split the bill for the tire repair. But as we were boarding the ferry to leave the island, the owners came down on their motorcycle demanding more money for more damages.

There went our budget — and our dignity.

I wish we'd packed some reusable water bottles.

Athens was extremely hot in the middle of May, and walking around the Acropolis was a challenging feat.

We had to take many breaks, and I think I nearly passed out from dehydration. Plastic water bottles were expensive, so it would've been nice if we'd packed our own to fill up.

The popular Mykonos beach clubs weren't worth it.

We felt pressure to go to a beach club in Mykonos because it's famously a party island. But the club wasn't worth it for us.

We went in the daytime, only to find out the real party starts at night. Our entrance fee included access to a daybed but not food and beverages, which added up quickly.

The following day, we went to a public beach , paid a fraction of the price for lounge chairs, and enjoyed ourselves just as much.

I wish we'd taken the accommodation reviews more seriously.

When booking our Airbnb in Mykonos, we saw a few comments about it being a bit of a walk to get to. As young, relatively in-shape people, we ignored the warnings.

But our accommodation was right on top of a massive hill and walking home (often in dresses and sandals) wasn't ideal.

It would've been better to splurge on nicer ferry rides.

We optimized our time by booking early ferry rides on travel days.

But the ferries were crowded , so I wish we paid a little more to upgrade to bigger, more nap-friendly seats.

This story was originally published on February 18, 2024, and most recently updated on June 12, 2024.

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The Ultimate Greece Packing List

After a 10-day trip to Greece, here is what I would pack again and leave behind next time.

Packing Checklist for Greece

Frequently asked questions.

• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Anna Popp

Greece is one of the most-visited countries in the world, and after spending 10 days traveling there, I can see why. From the pink sand beaches of Crete to the ancient ruins of Athens, it was easy to be charmed by the Mediterranean country. 

To be honest, I had a difficult time packing for this trip because I wanted to pack as light as possible due to our rigorous itinerary. As a member of the checked luggage club , it was a challenge to only bring a carry-on. I did some things right (and a few things wrong) when it came to my packing list, so I’m here to give you a glimpse of what worked well and what I’m already planning to do differently for my next trip to Greece. 

Clothing for Women

• Best Pants: Old Navy High-waisted Linen-blend Wide-leg Pants
• Best T-shirt: Buck Mason Coastal Linen Rib Tee
• Best Long-sleeve Shirt: Chico’s No-iron Stretch Shirt
• Best Skirt: Pistola Alice Midi Skirt
• Best Casual Dress: Quince 100% European Linen Smocked Midi Dress
• Best Fancy Dress: Aje Exurbia Seamed Midi Dress
• Best Athletic Dress: Royal Robbins Women’s Spotless Evolution Tank Dress
• Best Swimsuit: Unsubscribed Recycled Nylon Buckle Front One Piece

Clothing for Men

• Best Linen Pants: Bonobos Linen Blend Boardwalk Pant
• Best T-shirt: Vuori Strato Tech Tee
• Best Collared Shirt: Untuckit Wrinkle-free Performance Short-sleeve Gironde Shirt
• Best Shorts: Cuts Clothing Coz Shorts 7-inch
• Best Swimsuit: Silkworld Men's Swim Trunks

Shoes for Women

• Best Walking Shoes: Kizik Women’s Milan Sneakers
• Best Sandals: Everlane The Day Fisherman Sandals
• Best Dressy Sandals: Aldo Faiza Sandals

Shoes for Men

• Best Walking Shoes: OluKai Mio Lī Athletic Shoes
• Best Sandals: Keen Men’s Uneek Canvas Sandals
• Best Dressy Shoes: Toms Alonso Cream Heritage Canvas Rope Loafer

Bags and Accessories

• Best Duffel: Dagne Dover Lagos Convertible Duffle  
• Best Carry-on: Coolife ABS+PC Spinner Trolley
• Best Backpack: Fjallraven Kanken Backpack
• Best Travel Purse: July Everyday Crescent Bag
• Best Sunscreen: Dune Suncare The Mineral Melt
• Best Sunglasses: Morgenthal Frederics The Ninety-seven
• Best Portable Charger: Charmast Small Portable Charger

While the weather in Greece varies depending on the time you visit, the Mediterranean temperatures are usually agreeable year-round. Peak travel season for the country is May to September, which also happens to be the hottest time to visit. This means you’ll want to avoid bringing heavy clothing like jeans, jackets, or any other item that will weigh you down when temperatures reach the upper 90s (Fahrenheit). With sweltering weather conditions, it’s important to pack lightweight clothing made with breathable fabrics like linen, cotton, or bamboo. My packing list consisted of flowy, lightweight, and neutral-colored tops, dresses, and bottoms that I could toss on for an effortless and relaxed look.

Old Navy High-Waisted Linen-Blend Wide-Leg Pants

I wore these pants on the 10-hour flight to Greece and throughout the trip. They were perfect for when I wanted something slightly warmer than a dress that still offered plenty of airiness and comfort. The trouser style is effortless and chic, but it still felt like I was wearing sweatpants or loungewear. I ended up getting two more colors when I got back from my trip since it’s the perfect, stylish summer pant. 

Best T-shirt

Buck mason coastal linen rib tee.

Buck Mason 

Since most of my bottoms were long, flowy skirts or pants, I opted for this fitted tee from Buck Mason to mix and match with my outfits. While I’m typically not a fan of traveling with white T-shirts (one small stain can put it out of commission for the rest of the trip), the cream color was a solid compromise since it went with all my other neutral-colored clothing. I also love the ribbed texture for some dimension and the fact that the linen/cotton blend fabric is featherlight.

Best Long-sleeve Shirt

Chico’s no-iron stretch shirt.

When I went to Greece at the beginning of May, the temperatures were still mild, which meant the evenings could get a little chilly when dining outside (especially near the water). This cotton collared shirt from Chico’s will now be a mainstay in my suitcase for all future trips because it truly does not require an iron — a feature I was initially skeptical about. I shoved this versatile top into the depths of my suitcase, and although it came out wrinkled, the creases worked themselves out within 10 minutes of being worn or hung up in the closet. I opted for the regular fit to get that effortless oversized look, but I love that it comes in a fitted shape, too.

Pistola The Alice Midi Skirt

I know, I know. I said to stay away from wearing jeans while in Greece. However, this midi skirt from Pistola is made with the lightest jean material I’ve ever worn. The slit in the middle makes the skirt even more breathable and movable while sightseeing, and it took up less room in my suitcase than one of the dresses I brought. I ended up wearing this clothing item the most throughout the trip since it was stylish, versatile, and breathable enough for up to 80 degrees Fahrenheit.

Travel + Leisure / Anna Popp

Best Casual Dress

Quince 100 percent european linen smocked midi dress.

In my opinion, the easiest outfit to pack for warm-weathered travel is a versatile dress. I wore this linen midi dress from Quince during the day with sneakers and in the evening with a pair of dressy sandals. I love how roomy and stretchy the fabric is, and the smocked top with ruffled straps adds extra flare to the simple silhouette of the dress. This is yet another piece of clothing I brought on the trip and loved so much that I’m planning to get it in pink, too. 

Best Fancy Dress

Aje exurbia seamed midi dress.

Aje is my new favorite spot for picking up high-quality dresses when the occasion calls for a fancier outfit. This stunning midi dress is the perfect shade of blue for fine dining in Santorini . It’s also an elegant look for a summer wedding. Ideal for warm temperatures, the viscose material is ultralight and has a drapey feel to it. 

Best Athletic Dress

Royal robbins women’s spotless evolution tank dress.

Royal Robbins

Aside from strolling through small villages or lounging next to the Aegean Sea, there are lots of opportunities for outdoor activities in Greece that could require a sportier look. I didn’t want to bring a lot of athletic clothing on the trip, so I opted for this tennis dress for boating and hiking. I wore the dress on a seven-mile hike and I found it to be perfectly supportive thanks to the built-in sports bra, and the UPF-50+ sun protection was particularly helpful during our afternoon hike. 

Best Swimsuit

Unsubscribed recycled nylon buckle front one piece.

Unsubscribed

I brought a handful of swimsuits to Greece, but I reached for this one most since it’s made with the softest material I’ve ever worn. We spent a few days lounging around the beaches of Crete and I could wear this one-piece underneath a dress or shorts without even noticing it was there. The retro buckle adds subtle style to the top part of the suit, and the green color earned so many compliments from fellow beachgoers. 

Best Linen Pants

Bonobos linen blend boardwalk pant.

Men’s linen pants can lean on the dressier side, so I love that these ones from Bonobos have a relaxed style with a drawstring waist and slightly tapered pant leg to fit the laid-back style of Greece. The pants also have an elastic waistband, which makes the pants far more comfortable and breathable than a pair of trousers. They still look dressy enough to wear to a nicer restaurant with a collared shirt but also work with a T-shirt for traveling between islands. 

Vuori Strato Tech Tee

This trip included a range of activities, from relaxing by the beach to hiking all day, so these moisture-wicking, performance tees from Vuori were key for being outside in the Mediterranean heat. Made with anti-odor and four-way stretch fabric, these shirts proved to be invaluable with a limited wardrobe. The off-white (cashew heather) color was reached for most during the trip, but you can’t go wrong with any of the other 14 shades.

Best Collared Shirt

Untuckit wrinkle-free performance short-sleeve gironde shirt.

While the dress code in Greece felt very relaxed, it doesn’t hurt to bring at least one nicer top like this Untuckit collared shirt. We went out to several nicer restaurants for dinner and this collared shirt was easy to toss on with a pair of shorts and boat shoes for a dressier look that was comfortable and required minimal effort. Plus, this shirt is extremely easy to stuff in a suitcase last minute thanks to the wrinkle-resistant fabric. 

Best Shorts

Cuts clothing coz shorts 7-inch.

Cuts Clothing

The hottest day we experienced in Greece was, of course, the day we decided to visit the Acropolis . The hot sun and stagnant air was intense, so my boyfriend was glad he chose to wear these breathable, moisture-wicking shorts from Cuts Clothing. Besides the breathability, he was also grateful for the stretchy fabric for climbing up many flights of stairs. Plus, the shorts have a chino-like design so they look nice enough to wear to dinner. They also have a hidden zippered pocket, which is a helpful feature for storing a wallet.

Silkworld Men's Quick-Dry Swim Trunks

A pair of swim trunks that match the aqua blue shade of the Aegean Sea, this last-minute Amazon purchase proved to be essential in Greece for our early summer trip. The swim trunks are lightweight, quick-drying, and come in bright colors, which is always fun for a vacation swimsuit. If you plan on visiting Greece during the winter, you may still want to pack a swimsuit in case your hotel has a heated pool or jacuzzi.

For most of the trip, we opted to wear closed-toe shoes. It took just one loose cobblestone to the big toe on the first day for me to quickly realize the importance of solid foot protection. During the day, supportive sneakers with ample traction and sturdy ankle support were a must for navigating the uneven terrain of the roads, sidewalks, and hiking trails. Fancier dinners or excursions to vineyards for wine tasting called for dressier shoes like sandals with a small block heel and boat shoes, but leave behind your stilettos. 

While we opted not to bring pairs of flip-flops , our casual sandals worked well for boating and swimming. If you’re planning to spend most of your time by the water, then you’ll want to bring more water shoes. It’s best to bring shoes that serve multiple purposes (day to night, land and water use, etc.) if you pack light for island hopping like we did.

Best Walking Shoes

Kizik women's milan sneakers.

Kizik  

I got these Kizik sneakers right before the trip and I was shocked at how lightweight and comfortable they were right out of the box. The shoes offer plenty of support, cushioning, and traction, which helped me avoid slipping through the slick streets of Fira in Santorini. My favorite part of the sneakers is the ability to slip them on and off hands-free thanks to the heel technology. While there are lots of colors to choose from, I opted for the neutral shade bone to go with all of my outfits and it worked out perfectly.

Best Sandals

Everlane the women's leather fisherman sandal.

These stylish fisherman sandals were the perfect choice of footwear to bring for a range of activities on the trip. I wore them to the beach, on a boat, out to dinner, visiting a monastery, and while traveling between islands. The leather material is buttery soft and the cushioned footbed kept my feet comfortable when I wore them for long periods of time. I also appreciated the style of the shoe, with crossing straps around the foot and in front of the toes for extra protection. 

Best Dressy Sandals

Aldo women's faiza sandals.

Whether heading to the clubs in Mykonos or going out to dinner in Athens, bringing a nicer pair of shoes certainly doesn’t hurt. The lower heel on these sandals makes it easier to walk around on uneven surfaces while elevating an outfit to make it dressier. The raffia-style material on the upper part of the sandals maintains the laid-back, beachy vibe of Greece. Plus, the brand’s Pillow Walk technology offers tons of comfort thanks to the cushioning in the footbed, so you can dance all night long without pain.

OluKai Men's Mio Lī Sneakers

My boyfriend basically wore these sneakers the entire 10 days we were in Greece, and now that we’re home, he still wears them all the time. They are extremely lightweight without compromising support and cushioning in the footbed, and the upper material is superbreathable. The drop-down heel made it easy to slip the shoes on and off, which was especially helpful at the airport. After wearing the sneakers nonstop on cobblestone, dirt, and sand, they still looked as good as new after the trip — a true testament to the high-quality materials and construction of the shoes. 

Keen Men’s Uneek Canvas Sandals

It’s likely that you’ll spend at least some time in the water while visiting Greece, so bringing a pair of sandals that can be worn in and out of the water is smart. These ones from Keen are the perfect versatile sandals for going from the beach to dinner without having to change shoes. The woven rope upper looks nicer than your average pair of water shoes but these sandals boast the same quick-drying ability and generous traction you want for going in the water, riding on a slipper boat, or climbing on some rocks. The anti-odor technology is also a helpful feature for traveling. 

Best Dressy Shoes

Toms alonso heritage canvas rope loafer.

While it depends on your itinerary for your trip to Greece, bringing one pair of shoes that aren’t sneakers or sandals could be smart. These canvas shoes from Toms are on the more casual side of the traditional loafer style, but they still look nice with a pair of chinos for dressier occasions. Made with canvas and textural rope, these loafers are lightweight and pack down relatively flat, so they are easy to toss in a suitcase last minute before a trip.

If the style isn’t dressy enough for your taste, you can opt for an equally lightweight and easy-to-pack pair of shoes like Rothy’s The Driving Loafer for a fancier option. 

Greece is an expansive country, so the type of luggage you’ll want to bring will depend on your itinerary. If you’re planning to island hop, it’s important to pack light since you’ll be on boats or planes often. Even if you’re planning to stay on the mainland, you might want to skip bringing a checked bag or a heavy carry-on with wheels. I watched a lot of people schlep heavy rolling bags over cobblestone roads with steep hills and it did not look fun. 

We stuck to bringing hand luggage only since we planned to travel throughout the Cyclades , and it turned out to be the right call for us. Due to a canceled ferry, we ended up flying between the islands on a budget airline, and we were grateful for light, minimal luggage to avoid extra fees. Other bags and accessories we found helpful throughout the trip included a backpack and purse for day trips, sunscreen for all-day use, and a portable charger to keep our phone batteries topped up for directions and photos.

Best Duffel

Dagne dover lagos convertible duffel bag.

Dagne Dover

We brought this convertible duffel bag from Dagne Dover and it was perfect for all of our city and island hopping. The bag is spacious enough to fit a week’s worth of clothing (with room to spare!) and it comes with stashable backpack straps for hands-free travel. When the duffel was packed full at the end of our trip, the padding on the backpack straps made it comfortable to carry the bag and distributed the weight of the pack evenly. 

Best Carry-on

Coolife abs+pc spinner trolley.

If you want to bring a more traditional carry-on, I highly recommend a lightweight yet durable suitcase like this one we tested . At 6.7 pounds, the bag is perfect for airlines with stricter weight and size restrictions. Despite the lightweight materials, the polycarbonate and ABS plastic has plenty of give, which can help absorb any impact if the bag gets tossed around. We also found that the wheels felt extremely sturdy — an essential trait for rolling the bag over cobblestones. 

Best Backpack

Fjallraven kanken backpack.

On our first day, we quickly realized how easy it was to be out all day after leaving our hotel in Athens in the morning. Bringing a day pack is essential for storing items like towels, sunscreen, water bottles, sweaters, and snacks, along with other essentials like a wallet, passports, and car keys. This bag from Fjallraven packs down completely flat and can be folded up, so it hardly took up any space in a larger bag on the way there, and on the way back it was perfect for storing all our recently purchased souvenirs. 

Best Travel Purse

July everyday crescent bag.

I got this travel purse specifically for Greece since I wanted something more spacious than my other crossbody bags. I was blown away by the capacity of the bag for being able to store a water bottle, wallet, sunglasses, hat, sunscreen, and other smaller items all at once. I loved the adjustable strap to wear the purse as a crossbody bag or shoulder bag (to make it look a little dressier in the evenings). The canvas material has a coating on the inside, so when my sunscreen spilled, it was a breeze to wipe it up. 

Best Sunscreen

Dune the mineral melt.

The one thing I wish I brought more of on this trip was this sunscreen from Dune. We ended up using the entire bottle within the first few days since most of our activities were outdoors. The formula is velvety smooth and hydrating, which was soothing on our travel-induced dry skin. I loved that I could wear it on my face without that greasy feeling and left-behind residue. Plus, the bottle is under two ounces, so I never had to worry about the TSA regulations during our multiple trips to the airport. 

Best Sunglasses

Morgenthal frederics the ninety-seven.

Morgenthal Frederics

Sunglasses are always essential for traveling, especially when visiting somewhere typically sunny like Greece. I was particularly glad I brought a pair of these polarized sunglasses from Morgenthal Frederics since we spent a lot of time on or near the water. These sunglasses are also superdurable and withstood being tossed around while traveling like a champion. They’re also very chic and comfortable to wear for long periods of time. 

Best Portable Charger

Charmast small portable charger.

This little portable charger never gets left behind, whether I’m leaving for 10 hours or 10 days. It has been a lifesaver on too many occasions to count when my phone was about to die at the most inopportune times. I love that it’s pocket-size so it can fit in virtually any bag, purse, or even my pants pocket. I’ve also used this to give my iPad a power boost since the cable is compatible with various Apple products. 

Versatility is key for packing light for any trip. It’s also easier to pack for a warm-weather trip (in my opinion) since you can wear lots of dresses and skirts that don’t take up much space. We packed extremely light for this trip, but I was still able to bring more than 10 outfit options by choosing staples that could be mixed and matched. Bringing tops and bottoms that can be worn interchangeably is the best hack for packing less while still having some variety in your wardrobe.

It depends on what kind of experience you want in Greece. We went at the beginning of May, just before peak travel season kicked off. The weather was gorgeous with minimal crowds. The hottest it got on mainland Greece while we were there was 80 degrees Fahrenheit and it dropped into the low 60s at night while in Crete. Thanks to the Mediterranean climate, the temperatures are typically moderate even in the winter (though some northern areas can experience snow). Rain is common from November to March, so be sure to pack accordingly for the season.

Unless you’re visiting in the winter, skip the bulky clothes and shoes like thick jeans, puffer jackets, and chunky boots. Heavy clothing will weigh you and your suitcase down, and it’s typically not necessary in the summer, fall, or spring. I would also skip bringing a lot of luggage, especially if it’s wheeled. Multiple bags will be hard to travel with, especially if you’re bouncing around the country.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Anna Popp is an associate editor at Travel + Leisure where she covers all of the best travel products, from carry-ons to comfy shoes. In May 2024, Anna spent 10 days traveling throughout Greece, visiting as many spots as she could. From the famous pink-sand beaches of Crete to watching the sunsets in Santorini, Anna took detailed notes during her trip to share her best packing tips for visiting Greece. 

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