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
Most Ideal
Low Season
overview
It’s the coldest time of the year across Greece. Athens sees average high temperatures in the mid-50s and around 12-13 rainy days during the month. With rain showers frequenting the islands, many resorts and establishments shut shop.
we recommend
Discover ancient treasures at the Acropolis museum
Savor the best of Greek food in Athens
overview
Temperatures hold steady, but rainfall levels decrease across the country. Athens starts to see sunshine-filled days for most of the month, but don’t leave behind that warm jacket just yet. The Delphi region may even see snow.
we recommend
Take a tour of the Parthenon
Explore the breathtaking islands of Greece, even more alluring, without the crowds
overview
It’s the start of the spring season, and temperatures begin to inch up across the country. The latter part of the month sees the skies clearing up in Athens, making it a good month to sightsee.
we recommend
Trek to the monasteries of Meteora that sit atop majestic rock formations
Watch the change of guards at Syntagma Square in Athens
overview
Spring season is in full swing, with temperatures rising to the mid-60s across Athens and the islands. While the sea is still too cold to swim in, it’s an excellent time for hiking and other outdoor activities.
we recommend
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
overview
Temperatures in the 70s (°F) and low precipitation levels make the month one of the best times to visit Athens. In the islands, the weather clears up by the second half of the month.
we recommend
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
overview
It’s the official start of summer and the tourist season. Day time temperatures climb up to the 70s (°F), and the sea is warm enough for a dip. With low precipitation levels June is one of the best times to travel to Greece.
we recommend
Witness unforgettable sunsets at Santorini
Take a boat ride into the caves and around the impressive arches of Kleftiko at the island of Milos
overview
It’s one of the hottest months of the year across the country, which means it’s one of the busiest times of the year, particularly in the islands. Temperatures are in the warm 80s (°F) at Santorini and almost touching 90°F in Athens.
we recommend
Rub shoulders with the rich and famous at Psarou Beach in Mykonos
Wander the pedestrianized streets of the Chora settlement in Folegandros
overview
Warm weather conditions continue throughout the country. Low humidity levels in Athens makes the high temperature bearable. The Greek islands see strong winds during this month with a possibility of ferry and boat cancellations.
we recommend
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
overview
By the second half of September, the crowds leave, but excellent weather conditions linger, making this month one of the best times to visit Greece. Evenings can get a bit chilly, so pack a sweater for your trip.
we recommend
Climb the mighty Mt.Olympus, known as the mountain of the Gods
Visit the old fortress at Spinalonga on a day trip from Elounda
overview
The first half of the month is still a good time to visit the islands. But, by the end of the month, there is a marked shift in weather conditions. Temperatures fall to the low 70s (°F), and rainfall starts to increase.
we recommend
Explore the labyrinthine streets of the Plaka in Athens
Savor the fine wines and delicious foods of the island of Santorini
overview
During this month, you will find a mix of warm, sunny days and gray, rainy weather conditions. It’s a low tourist season. Day time highs are now in the mid-60s while nighttime lows drop into the 50s.
we recommend
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
overview
Temperatures drop further, and rainfall levels increase. Athens sees up to 15 wet days during the month. Temperatures are now around 58°F during the day and 48°F during nights. It’s time to bring out your winter jackets.
we recommend
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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Enchanting Travels is the first travel agency I have ever used. The trip was the first overseas trip I have ever been on. Enchanting Travels really listened to what I wanted, asked plenty of questions so that they understood my goal for the trip, offered suggestions that made our trip even better, and kept in contact with me from start to end. They are very knowledgeable about the locations, the customs of the regions, and what the best experience for you will be. This may have been my first trip, but it will not be my last, and I will definitely be using Enchanting Travels again!
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USA
Enchanting Travels was successful in what they sought out in helping us make our trip truly Enchanted. It was magical in the ways that their staff showed up on time, the stories they shared on our tours, and the goodbye gift in our final stop. We could not have asked for a more perfect way to celebrate ten years together!
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Samantha Speir
USA
Shannon listened to our preferences and how we like to travel and designed an amazing vacation for us. Our trip was beautiful and stress free from start to finish!
Rating 4/5
Ellis Carr
USA
So many things we loved! We loved having Anto as our constant contact. He really cared about our well-being, from making sure our travels went well and we arrived at our destinations safely, to providing us with Celiac restriction cards written in Greek that we could share with restaurants to keep our newly-diagnosed daughter safe. Each on-ground representative was kind, friendly and helpful in locating us at airports, ferries and hotels as well as transporting us to each. Lastly, our tour guide in Athens, local chef/teacher and sunset cruise staff couldn’t have made our experiences any better: amazing experiences with amazing people. All of our land contacts were overseen by Anto who did an incredible job in keeping things coordinated, seamlessly. Anto was nothing short of kind and professional.
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USA
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USA
From the planning process to the actual trip, Shannon and Anto were perfect. Shannon developed an amazing itinerary and walked us through each part (hotels, activities, etc). Anto was able to provide us with recommendations for restaurants and was our go-to person for the entirety of the trip. Throughout the whole process, we felt heard as this trip was tailored to our interests completely. It was an outstanding honeymoon. It is important to mention that Shannon and Anto made the planning process seamless as it is stressful planning a wedding and honeymoon at the same time. Though, at no point did we get stressed with honeymoon planning as they had it pretty much covered. Additionally, when in Greece, it was AMAZING having timely private transportation planned for us. Having Anto on call at all times was important and very helpful when in Greece. We appreciated how Anto, Shannon, and everyone at Enchanting Travels organized a honeymoon treat for us at each hotel. I could not recommend Enchanting Travels more. We will without a doubt use them again for future European trips.
