The Best Time to Visit Greece & the Greek Islands (2023 update)

The best time to visit Greece depends on a lot more than just the weather. When deciding when to go to Greece, you should also consider what kind of holiday you’re looking for, the crowds, festivals, events and prices as well.

Greece can be counted on to be beautiful all year round if you pick the right place and time to visit. The winter months in the northern regions of the country can be quite harsh, whereas in the southern Greek Islands such as Crete, winter can be quite mild and both sunny and warm.

I spent some time traveling around Greece on several trips, so I got to experience the country at different times of year. I saw all four seasons and not only encountered different types of weather, but also varying numbers of tourists.

The Best Time to Visit Greece & the Greek Islands

When most people picture Greece, they think of the Greek Islands. However, travelling in Greece is not only about sand and turquoise blue water. Once the heat of the summer is over, autumn grips the land bringing heavy rains before the biting cold of the winter months set in.

In this post about, I’ll explain the best time to visit Greece based on weather and type of holiday. I’ll explain when are the low and high tourist seasons in Greece, and I’ll also describe what Greece is like month by month, all based on my personal experience traveling in Greece.

The Best Time to Visit Greece Overall

I believe that April is the best month to visit Greece, followed by September. The spring and autumn months combine the best of Greece: good weather, but with fewer crowds and better prices.

The best weather in Greece is from late May to early October. This is the warmest time of the year for both the mainland and also the Greek Islands. During these months, the entire country is sunny and warm and also swimming becomes easier as the waters warm.

In May the ocean temperatures start to rise and from July to the beginning of September, they are at their warmest. This is the best time to visit Greece if you are looking for hot weather and great swimming conditions.

Although it’s popular, August might not be the best time to visit Greece because of the crowds. It’s high tourist season all over the country.

The Best Time to Visit Greece Based on Weather

Weather in Greece is part of when is the best time to visit

Choosing the best time to visit Greece and the Greek Islands will help ensure that your trip is an unforgettable one. The weather in Greece varies much throughout the country, but in this post, you will find out everything you need to know about the best time to visit Greece no matter where you’re heading.

When most travellers are trying to decide what is the best time to visit Greece, they’ll usually think of the weather first. That’s only natural! Nobody wants to be rained on during their entire holiday. So we’ll start this guide with Greece weather.

Weather in Greece: Santorini Greek island

Spring: Mid-March to Mid-June

Spring in Greece is often heralded as the best time to visit. The throngs of tourists are yet to arrive and a calm peacefulness reigns throughout this Mediterranean paradise. You can have the best beaches in Greece all to yourself!

Although it’s still a little chilly on the mainland, from mid-April islands such as Crete, Santorini and Rhodes are basking in the sunshine. Finally after the winter, the temperature of the ocean around the southern Greek Islands is warm enough for swimming.

However, do be aware of the Easter weekend. Greece is an extremely religious country and during Easter, locals often celebrate by hitting the islands. During this time it can get very difficult to find accommodation if you have not booked far enough in advance.

The springtime is a great time to plan a trip to the capital of Athens. The city experiences nice temperatures during these months, yet to feel the scorching summer heat. Also, the tourist hotspots are not too crowded during the spring months.

Summer: Mid-June to Mid-September

With the arrival of summer in Greece comes soaring temperatures and flocks of tourists. This is when the weather in Greece is at its peak with daily temperatures of 90 degrees (32° celcius).

The summer months are also when the tourist industry goes into overdrive, with millions descending on the Greek Islands. But, with so many amazing places to visit in Greece, I don’t blame them for travelling to Greece!

☞ SEE ALSO: Things to Do in Zakynthos

At this time of year, the entire country is covered in sunshine and the wine is flowing. The beaches are full and the oceans are wonderfully warm. For those that are heading here for a beach holiday and do not mind the crowds, this is the time of year for you.

The party islands of Mykonos, Corfu and Los are in full swing and are a beacon for those who love to party. If however, it is a more relaxed holiday that you are looking for, Skyros and Naxos are just two of the beautiful, more quiet islands waiting to be explored.

Autumn: Mid-September to Mid-December

Autumn in Greece is also a nice time to visit. Although many picture the weather in Greece as the same all year round, heading to the mainland in Autumn may soon change your mind.

The countryside bursts into colour with the leaves turning red, brown and golden, changing the landscape completely. Leave the Greek Islands at this time of year and explore more of mainland Greece for a different perspective of the country.

Weather in Greece: sunset in the mountains

Autumn is the time of year when the harvest begins. The vineyards are in full swing with grapes ready for the taking. This is also a good time to get work as a picker as this is when the famous Greek olives are harvested. If you are a backpacker looking to earn a few extra bucks ask in the villages and at local farms for work.

If you are a food lover (and who isn’t?), this is the best time to visit Greece.

Winter: Mid-December to Mid-March

Weather in Greece: a lightning storm in Athens

The weather in Greece in winter changes completely, especially in the mountain regions of the country. Ice and snow grip the high northern regions transforming the land completely.

The coastal regions and Greek Islands experience less of winter than the northern regions, however strong winds and high humidity can give the southern regions a biting feel.

Tourism drops off completely during the winter. Gone are the millions of tourists, leaving only the locals behind. This is the best time to visit Greece to see the country as the locals do.

☞ SEE ALSO: Things to Do in Corfu

This is another time of the year when Athens is a great place to visit. The cafes are quiet and the tourist spots such as the Acropolis and museums are eerily empty. The prices of everything are also lower during winter.

However, if you are planning a trip to the Greek Islands at this time of the year, you should think again. Most of the ferries stop running during the winter, with many of the bars, restaurants and hotels closing also.

The Greek Islands are deserted at this time of the year. Really only the southern regions of the mainland are worth visiting during winter.

Best Time to Visit Greece by Type of Holiday

Not all holidays are created equal! That’s why I’ve broken down the best time to visit Greece based on what you might get up to while you’re there. Whether you’re going for sightseeing, bargain hunting or beaches, we’ve got you covered.

Best Time to Visit Greece for a Beach Holiday

The best weather in Greece is in June, July, August and September, so this is the best time to visit to top up your tan, lay on the beach and swim in the ocean. This is the best time to visit Greece for guaranteed sunshine.

The Best Time to Visit Greece for Parties

The summer months are when the nightlife in the Greek Islands really kick into gear. Islands such as Mykonos, Los, Corfu and Santorini begin to bounce with the sound of DJ’s and revelers. From June until October is the best time to visit Greece to experience the nightlife.

Best Time to Visit Greece for Sightseeing

If you are visiting more for the culture of one of Europe’s oldest civilizations, the weather in Greece will mean little. Actually, the scorching summer months may be more of a hindrance than a blessing. To avoid both the heat and the crowds, April, May, October and November are the best time to visit Greece.

The months of June through to September are also great for sightseeing, however, they are hotter and far busier.

Best time to Visit Greece for Swimming

Swimming in Greece is nice year round, but it’s best in summer. Runner-up best seasons for swimming in Greece are fall and spring.

Winter is ok if you don’t mind a little cooler weather and sometimes rainy days. But if you’re like me, you love swimming in the ocean in the rain!

Best Time to Visit Greece for Hiking

Spring and fall are definitely the best times to go hiking in Greece. Summer can be too hot, and winter can be too rainy.

Best Time to Visit Greece for Skiing

Winter isn’t just the best time to visit Greece for skiing, it’s the only time! Snow starts falling in the mountains of the central mainland in December and continues until April or sometimes May.

There are several ski resorts in Greece north of Athens, including Parnassos Ski Centre, the biggest and best-known in the country.

Best Time to Visit Greece to Save Money

Like most places in the world, the low season in Greece is by far the cheapest time of year to visit. In the summer months, everything from food and transportation to hotels rise in price.

Although the weather can not be relied upon, the absolute cheapest time to visit Greece is from December to April.

For cheap deals with the chance of great weather, the best time to visit Greece is May, early June, late September and early October. Although good weather can’t be absolutely guaranteed, the prices can.

When Is Low Season in Greece?

Low season in Greece is winter, when the weather in Greece is at its worst. Grey skies, wind and rain all accompany this time of the year. From November to April there are limited flights and ferries throughout Greece and only a few hotels and restaurants open on most of the islands.

However, if you really wish to visit the Greek Islands at this time of the year, there are still some options available. Santorini has year-round tourism and avoids the worst of the winter weather. Also, the island of Crete, which has its own large population, can still offer up a good time.

Beyond Santorini and Crete, visiting the Greek Islands in winter will be a very quiet affair. Head to the mainland, more specifically, Athens. The capital of Greece is a year-round destination.

When Is High Season in Greece?

High season in Greece is late June to early September. During the summer months, the tourism industry is in full swing. Ferries and flights are numerous, the waters are warm, the weather in Greece is at its best and the beaches are full. However, keep in mind that this is also when prices are at their peak.

During these months, the entire country is hospitable and open for business. For hot weather, beautiful beaches and great nightlife, the high season is the time to visit.

In Between Seasons (Shoulder Season)

The shoulder seasons in Greece are May, early June, late September and October. This means that they are neither in high season nor low season.

During these months, all ferries and flights are operational and all of the hotels and restaurants are open. The summer crowds are yet to descend and the weather is nice and warm, although not at its peak.

For those that are looking for a great deal, this is the best time of year to visit Greece.

The Best Time to Visit Greece by Month

Weather in Greece, travel to Pyrgi Chios, Greece

Sometimes you simply have holidays at a certain time of the year. I get it! Every time I go to Greece it’s been a last-minute decision, which means I find myself frantically searching what the country will be like at that time. Here’s a list of the best times to visit Greece month-by-month.

Greece in January

Weather in Greece in January can be a bit chilly.

The temperature in Greece in January hovers at an average of 12°C / 54°F with a high of 14°C / 57°F and a low of 10°C / 50°F. This probably isn’t the best time to visit Greece for a beach holiday, but it’s a great time for visiting sites in Athens like the Acropolis when there are fewer crowds and it’s not too hot to walk around.

Some festivals and events in Greece in January include the Feast of Saint Basil’s (New Years Day). Greek people celebrate Christmas with gift exchanges, feasting and parties. There’s also the Epiphany on January 6th which sees processions throughout the country.

I was in Macedonia for this one year and it was amazing to see. Lastly, in January you can catch Greece’s largest festival, Patras. This is their local Carnival with parades, floats, masquerades and crazy parties.

Greece in February

Weather in Greece in February is pretty much the same as January. It’s a bit cold at 12°C / 54°F on average with a high of 14°C / 57°F and a low of 10°C / 50°F.

There are still fewer crowds in Greece in February and you can enjoy discounts even lower than January because it’s further away from Christmas and Carnival. You might want to avoid Mykonos and Santorini if you’re looking for nightlife and parties as many of the best clubs close down in February.

The official end of Carnival in Greece happens in February and it’s known as Apokries. The 3 weeks of carnival reach its pinnacle on the final Sunday before Lent before finally finishing on Ash Monday.

Greece in March

March in Greece is part of the spring months which, in my opinion – along with fall – is the best time to visit Greece.

Temperatures begin to rise in March with averages hitting 14°C / 57°F on average with a high of 16°C / 61°F and a low of 11°C / 52°F. Crowds are still less now than in the summer months and prices are still lower as well.

March is a great time to visit Athens, Peloponnese and other mainland destinations. It’s also one of the best times to visit the Greek Islands.

For events, this is when you’ll see the annual half-marathon in Athens where 20,000+ runners race through the streets of the capital. Feast of the Annunciation (Greek Independence Day) also takes place in March. Religiously, Greek Orthodox belief is that this is the day when Gabriel told Mary she’d be giving birth to God’s Son, Jesus. Sometimes Easter will fall in March as well.

Greece in April

April is probably the best time to visit Greece overall, rivaled only by maybe September as the perfect month to be in Greece.

April in Greece is great. The beaches warm up a bit with the weather. There’s hardly any rain and the air starts to warm up on the Med. You can expect averages of 16°C / 61°F with highs of 18°C / 64°F and lows of 13°C / 55°F. There are more than 11 hours of sunshine in the day in April and less than 14 millimetres of rain on most islands.

Crowds pick up considerably around Easter / Holy Week but aside from that, it’s not too crowded in Greece. The International Film Festival happens in Greece in April, as does the Technopolis Jazz Festival (both in the Athens). The Feast of St George is celebrated on April 23rd on most years, which is a series of Greek Orthodox ceremonies typically held in monasteries and churches. This is a good time to feast and dance in holy places.

Greece in May

In May in Greece, temperatures begin their incline into the summer months. Greece in May is warm with averages of 20°C / 68°F with highs of 23°C / 73°F and lows of 17°C / 63°F. There’s usually 12 hours of sunshine per day and only 3 days of rain on Santorini! This is a great time to visit Greece.

As far as holidays, festivals and events go, you can catch Salsa Spring Festival and the Corfu Beach Festival at the start of the month. May Day is also a holiday in the country.

Greece in June

June and July is the best time to visit Greece for beach holidays. It’s warm enough around the country now to swim in the sea, in fact… you’ll want to.

With highs of 28°C / 81°F, lows of 21°C / 50°F and an average daily temperature of 24°C / 75°F, this is a great time to visit the Greek Islands.

Summer is in full swing which means it’s hot and starting to get crowded. You can skip some of the crowds if you visit Greece in early June, but come mid-late June and there will be a lot of tourists and vacationing Greeks around the entire country.

Festivals and events include the 5-day long European Music Day which has classical, orchestral and an array of different music genres. There’s the Athens and Epidavros Open Air Festival which takes place under the Acropolis and at the Theater of Epidavros. This festival goes on for 3 months, so whether you’re in Greece in June, July or August, you should be able to see part of it.

If you’re in Greece in June you can also see the Miaoulia Festival which consists of dancing, parades and concerts which celebrate the War of Independence. Lastly, June hosts Greece’s Navy Week to celebrate its long nautical history at many maritime ports throughout the country.

Greece in July

If you don’t mind crowds, July is the best time to visit Greece and the Greek Islands in particular.

It’s hot in July with highs reaching 29°C / 84°F. July is also a very dry time to visit Greece. In Santorini for example, there’s only typically one day of rain in July and less than 8mm on the island throughout the month! Athens hits its highest temperatures of the year in July, so it might not be the best time to visit Greece for historical sites like the Acropolis.

Festivals in July are in full swing as well. You can hit up Hippocratia in Kos which runs through the entire summer. It includes concerts, theatre and art shows. The self-explanatory Hydra Puppet Festival takes place on the island of Hydra and Sani Festival is hosted by the Sani Resort in Thessaloniki.

Greece in August

Just as hot as July and just as crowded, August is another summer month where you’ll want to be on the islands. Temperatures still hit highs of 29°C / 84°F and rainfall is abysmal, with many islands recording so little rain that many graphs show no rain at all year.

The best thing to do in Greece in August is to head to the beach with a towel, some sandals and a bottle full of sunblock. It’s also a good time to check out the Aegina International Music Festival which hosts pretty much every type of music you can think of from around the world.

It’s also the month of the Feast of The Assumption of the Virgin, a nationwide celebration that takes place on the 15th of the month. There’s also the Olympus Festival at the base of Mount Olympus in Pieria where you’ll find concerts performed in an ancient theatre.

Free Earth Festival also takes place in north Greece in late summer/early fall, which celebrates for 7 days with concerts, parties and dancing.

Greece in September

The start of September in Greece is still considered high season, so don’t expect this to be best time to visit Greece if you want to avoid the crowds or find discounts. But the weather starts to cool down and the crowds start to thin near the end of the month.

Temperatures hover around 23°C / 73°F on average, while there’s a slight uptick in rainy days (only 2 on most islands with less than 8 millimetres throughout the month).

September is a good month for festivals, with the Aegina Fistiki Festival taking place in Aegina, the Aeschylus Festival at Eleusis (22 km / 14 mi from Athens) and the International Music Festival kicking off in Santorini. For the latter, crowds descend on the tiny island so make sure you pre-book your accommodation for this 2-week period.

Greece in October

October is officially fall in Greece, but it’s still a great time to visit. The busy summer crowds have dispersed and now that everyone’s back in school or at work, you can again start to have some parts of the country to yourself. It’ll still be super busy on the main islands and in Athens, but definitely not as much as in July and August.

The weather is cooling as well in October, with highs reaching just 23°C / 73°F, lows as cool as 18°C / 64°F and an average daily temperature of 20.5°C / 69°F.

Festivals in Greece in October include the Chestnut Festival which takes place on the last weekend of October in Crete. This festival is famous for great folk music, dancing, partying and of course, chestnuts.

Around the country, you can see celebrations for Ochi day which include parades, church services and re-enactments of the nation’s refusal of surrender to Mussolini in the 1940s.

In Santorini, in October you can take part in The Santorini Experience which sees visitors competing in swimming and running.

Greece in November

There are hardly any crowds in November and the sea is again becoming a bit too cold to swim in for most travellers. The average temperature dips to just 16.5°C / 62°F and it rarely gets warmer than 19°C / 66°F.

November is the best time to visit Greece for discounts as many of the hotels and tour operators are trying to squeeze the last bit of profit out of the season before it ends.

Events in Greece in November include the Feast of Synaxis of the Archangels which takes place on November 8th. There’s also a Music Showcase in Thessaloniki which boasts excellent Greek contemporary music concerts and on the 25th of November, there are parties and parades celebrating St. Andreas Name Day in Patras.

Greece in December

December is one of the coldest times of the year in Greece, with averages dipping to 6°C / 42°F in northern cities like Thassos, and it rarely gets warmer than 16°C / 61°F in southern islands like Crete.

There are fewer tourist crowds in December, but many Greeks come home from overseas to celebrate Christmas and New Year with their families. Other than those two main events in December, there’s also the Feast of Saint Nicholas on December 6th and Kladaries on December 23rd.

FAQs About the Best Time to Visit Greece

Have a quick question about when the best time to visit Greece is? Take a look at the following FAQs.

What is the cheapest time to visit Greece?

The cheapest times to visit Greece are from December to April. The weather’s not great, but the prices are low.

What month is hottest for Greece?

August is usually the hottest month in Greece. July can get very hot too.

What is the best month to go to Athens?

I’d say the best months to go to Athens are in the spring and fall, so March-May and September-October. It’s not too hot and there aren’t as many tourists as in the summer.

What is the rainy season in Greece?

Rainy season in Greece is from October to March, with most of the rain in the winter.

Is Greece better in summer or winter?

It depends on what you’re interested in. If you’re more interested in culture (and smaller crowds), winter is better. If you’re more interested in nice, rain-free (but hot) weather, summer in Greece will be better for you.

Pack Your Bags for Greece!

So there you have it, now you know when is the best time to visit Greece, depending on your needs.

The weather in Greece is beautiful for most of the year, which makes the country one of the world’s #1 travel destinations. I hope that this has answered all of your questions and that you can now go ahead and book your perfect holiday.

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