The ideal time to visit Greece isn’t just about the weather; it depends on what kind of vacation you’re seeking, the crowds, the festivals, and the prices.
Greece is stunning year-round if you pick the right location and time. Winter in the northern regions can be harsh, but in the southern Greek Islands like Crete, it’s mild, sunny, and warm. I’ve traveled around Greece at different times of the year, experiencing the various seasons and the changing numbers of tourists.
Many think of the Greek Islands when they picture Greece, but there’s much more to explore beyond the beaches and blue waters. After summer, autumn brings heavy rains, followed by the cold winter months.
In this article, I’ll share the best times to visit Greece based on weather and the type of holiday you want. I’ll discuss the tourist seasons and describe Greece month by month, based on my experiences.
April is my favorite month to visit Greece, closely followed by September. Spring and autumn offer great weather, fewer crowds, and better prices. The best weather is from late May to early October, which is ideal for swimming as the waters warm up.
May is when ocean temperatures start to rise, peaking from July to early September. While August is popular, it might be too crowded.
Choosing the ideal time to visit Greece will make your trip memorable. The weather varies across the country, so understanding the best times to visit can help you make the most of your trip.
Spring is often considered the best time to visit Greece. Tourist crowds haven’t yet arrived, and the Mediterranean paradise feels peaceful. From mid-April, islands like Crete, Santorini, and Rhodes are sunny, and the ocean is warm enough for swimming. However, plan ahead for Easter weekend as it gets busy with locals celebrating.
Spring is also perfect for visiting Athens, with pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds at tourist spots.
As summer arrives, temperatures soar and tourists flock to Greece. The weather peaks in the summer, with daily temperatures around 90°F (32°C). The tourist industry thrives, and beaches and oceans are at their best. For beach lovers who don’t mind crowds, this is the time to go.
The party islands like Mykonos, Corfu, and Los are lively, while islands like Skyros and Naxos offer more relaxed environments.
Autumn is a nice time to visit Greece as well. The mainland transforms with colorful autumn leaves, offering a different perspective. This is harvest time, perfect for food lovers, as vineyards and olive groves are in full swing.
Winter changes the landscape drastically, especially in the northern mountain regions. Coastal areas and islands experience milder winters but are still affected by strong winds and high humidity. Tourism drops significantly, making this the best time to see Greece as the locals do. Athens remains a good winter destination with lower prices and fewer crowds at tourist attractions.
For beach holidays, the best time is from June to September, with warm weather, beautiful beaches, and lively nightlife. The shoulder seasons—May, early June, late September, and October—offer good deals and pleasant weather with fewer crowds.
Winter is best for skiing, especially from December to April. Ski resorts in northern Greece are busy during these months.
The low season, from December to April, is the cheapest time to visit but comes with uncertain weather. For a mix of good weather and reasonable prices, visit in May, early June, late September, or early October.
High season from late June to early September is the most crowded and expensive but offers the best weather and numerous tourist activities. Shoulder seasons provide a balance of fewer crowds and comfortable temperatures.
Here’s a month-by-month breakdown of what to expect in Greece:
January: Cool weather with average temperatures around 12°C (54°F). It’s a great time for visiting historical sites in Athens with fewer crowds. Festivals include the Feast of Saint Basil’s and Epiphany.
February: Similar to January, with fewer tourists and more bargains. The end of Carnival (Apokries) happens in February.
March: Spring begins with temperatures around 14°C (57°F). Crowds are still low, and it’s a good time to explore Athens and the mainland. Events include the Annual Half-Marathon and Greek Independence Day.
April: Considered one of the best months to visit, with warming beaches and less rain. Crowds pick up around Easter, and events include the International Film Festival and the Feast of St George.
May: Warmer weather with average temperatures around 20°C (68°F). Festivals include the Salsa Spring Festival and the Corfu Beach Festival.
June and July: Peak beach season with highs around 28°C (81°F). Early June is less crowded. Festivals include European Music Day and Athens and Epidavros Open Air Festival.
August: Hot and crowded with temperatures peaking at 29°C (84°F). Best for beachgoers. Festivals include the Aegina International Music Festival and Olympus Festival.
September: Still busy early in the month, cooling down later. Temperatures average at 23°C (73°F). Events include the Aegina Fistiki Festival and Santorini International Music Festival.
October: Cooler with fewer crowds, averaging 20.5°C (69°F). Festivals include the Chestnut Festival in Crete and Ochi Day celebrations.
November: Cooler with fewer tourists and the best discounts. Average temperatures around 16.5°C (62°F). Events include the Feast of Synaxis of the Archangels and St. Andreas Name Day.
December: Coldest month with averages around 6°C (42°F) in the north and up to 16°C (61°F) in the south. Celebrations include Christmas and New Year, Feast of Saint Nicholas, and Kladaries.
In summary, the best time to visit Greece depends on your interests. Spring and fall are great for sightseeing and mild weather, summer for beach holidays, and winter for skiing and quieter experiences. Knowing when to go can help you plan the perfect Greek holiday.