It’s one of the most beautiful countries in Southeast Europe, famous for its history, impressive islands, and must-see places like the Acropolis! Of course, we’re talking about Greece. And, while it is a great trip to do no matter the time of the year, it is true that the seasons do have an impact on the experience.
If you’re planning a trip there, check out the best time to visit Greece for great weather and activities. Read on!
Photo by Constantinos Kollias on Unsplash
Greece: A season-by-season analysis
Spring in Greece
For most countries, spring is always a great time to visit, usually with fewer tourists and lovely weather. And Greece does not disappoint in this! You’ll love springtime in Greece! The weather is perfect for exploring the outdoors, mild and pleasant, and not too hot at all.
March is a bit colder, with temperatures between 10–16°C, and rainy days are to be expected, especially in the north. But just as April arrives, the weather gets warmer, with more sunshine and less rain. The temperature only goes up and up as May comes around, giving you the perfect 24°C to enjoy the beautiful beaches!
Photo by Gaetano Cessati on Unsplash
Best Activities and Events in Greece During Spring
-
Explore iconic spots: Spring is the perfect time to spend long hours outdoors, and to go see must-visit places like the Acropolis and Ancient Agora in Athens under beautiful sunny skies.
-
Hike Mount Olympus: It’s strenuous, yes, but you don’t need to be an expert to climb it. Go up and see for yourself the place where the gods were said to live.
-
Try seasonal dishes: Greek food is quite unique and totally delicious, and if spring has something good, it is seasonal dishes like horta and asparagus velouté soup. And a bit of advice, try them in an outdoor restaurant if possible.
-
Celebrate Greek Easter: The highlight of the season, a day full of traditions, like egg dyeing and midnight church services, flower festivals, and markets. It’s a magical time to experience Greece’s culture and energy!
What to Bring and Pack for a Spring Trip to Greece
Think of nice, warm weather and what you might regularly wear for it, like lightweight tops, some T-shirts, and a light sweater for the cooler evenings. A mix of shorts and comfy pants will be perfect for exploring ruins and villages. Remember that you’ll be walking around a lot, so get your trusty and comfy shoes. And don’t forget swimsuits and sunscreen for beach days!
But spring is not only bright sun and nice temperatures, it’s also sudden rains, so you have to be prepared. A compact umbrella and a light rain jacket that fits in your daypack can save you the hassle. It’s also worth getting a waterproof pouch for your electronic devices.
Summer in Greece
As the planet goes around its usual orbit, the seasons keep changing in Greece, and the summer follows the spring. Summer days are hot, sunny, and mostly dry, which makes them perfect for outdoor activities and beach vacations. From June to August, temperatures can soar, typically from 27°C to 37°C, but be careful of heatwaves in the mainland. While the islands get cool by the sea breeze, the rest of the country is not as lucky, and the temperatures can rise over 40°C.
Photo by Johnny Africa on Unsplash
Top Activities and Events in Greece During Summer
-
Lounge and Swim: Greek beaches are a dream come true, and if you’re traveling during the summer, you should enjoy them to the fullest. The most adventurous tourists can try water sports like snorkeling and sailing in the stunning Aegean and Ionian Seas.
-
Join the Athens & Epidaurus Festival: We’ve all hear about the ancient Greek stories. But did you imagine seeing plays of old and new live in an ancient theater?
-
Island Hopping: If the heat is too much for you, try visiting as many Greek islands as you can. It’s a great way to see more of the local culture, and in Santorini or Crete, the weather will be more manageable.
What to Bring and Pack for a Summer Trip to Greece
For a summer trip to Greece, focus on packing light and comfortable clothing for the warm weather. This includes some tops, shorts, and especially sundresses for those hot days. As the sun goes higher in the sky and the day hours are longer, don’t forget your biggest sunhat and sunscreen. A reusable water bottle is also essential, especially in the unfortunate case of having to deal with a heatwave.
Fall in Greece
After the heat of the summer, during the fall the temperature goes back to being nice and mild. In September, it’s still warm, especially in places in the south, like Crete, with temperatures around 30°C. By October, it cools down, and the refreshing rain showers start being more common. But the changes are not only in temperature, but also in color. Especially in the North, the landscapes turn red and yellow, announcing the near winter. On the contrary, on the southern islands like Santorini and Mykonos, the weather is still warm enough to enjoy the beaches.
Photo by Anastasius on Unsplash
Top Activities and Events in Greece During Fall
-
Go to a Film Festival: They are very celebrated international events and a great opportunity to see Greek films on the big screen. You can go to either the Athens or the Thessaloniki International Film Festival.
-
Wine Tasting and Vineyard Tours: Fall is the season for excellence, to just sit down in a beautiful landscape and sip a great Greek wine. For the best of the best, try regions like Nemea and Crete.
-
Do a Marathon: If you want to try something completely different, enjoy the nice weather, and join the Athens Marathon in late October.
What to Bring and Pack for a Fall Trip to Greece
When packing for a fall trip to Greece, it’s important to be ready for mild weather and occasional rain. For general clothes, start with lightweight layers, including 3-4 long-sleeve shirts or sweaters to keep warm during cooler evenings. Adding some comfortable pants like jeans or leggings is a must, along with a light jacket for extra warmth to complete your outfits.
As you did for spring, add a small umbrella or raincoat. It will save you from unexpected showers. For exploring comfortably in any weather or joining the marathon, waterproof shoes are a must.
Winter in Greece
Winter in Greece is a season full of surprises. The coastal areas and islands have mild weather, which feels more like spring or autumn than winter. It’s perfect for peaceful walks and exploring ancient ruins without the crowds. But as you go North in the country, the temperatures drop. Not as dramatically as in other places in Europe, but the rain showers can add to the cold feeling. In the mountains, it is possible to see snow, and if you’re looking for a winter wonderland, there are ski resorts like Arachova and Kalavryta.
Photo by Above Horizon on Unsplash
Best Activities and Events in Greece During Winter
-
Ski in snowy trails: We associate Greece more with the islands and the warm weather, but the country does have snowy mountains. Which means that you can go skiing! Try places like Arachova and Karpenisi for the best experience.
-
Explore the Acropolis Museun: And without the crowds! Few tourists brave the winter in Athens, but not you. So grab your coat, and you’ll see how walking among the old buildings will warm you up soon enough.
-
Christmas markets: Greece might not be the first place that you imagine visiting for Christmas, but it does have a certain charm, and the holiday season is magical in cities like Thessaloniki.
What to Bring and Pack for a Winter Trip to Greece
Keep in mind that the weather depends a lot on the area you’ll be visiting. So you won’t pack the same for a ski resort in the North as for an island stay in the South. But, if you’re going to be all around Greece, you’ll need warm and practical clothes like a jacket, sweaters, and long-sleeve shirts for layering. And don’t forget winter accessories like a scarf, gloves, and a hat to keep you warm.
Tips for Visiting Greece Any Time of Year
Stay Connected with Mobile Data
When visiting Greece, it’s important to stay connected and informed. One way to easily access real-time local information and stay in touch with friends is by using a Yoho Mobile eSIM. With it, you won’t need Wi-Fi to keep up with updates and enjoy your trip to the fullest.
- Expert tip: Use the code YOHO12 at checkout for a 12% discount!
Get Your Free eSIM
Scan to get your free eSIM and start using Yoho Mobile in over 70 countries.
Spain or Greece for vacation in December?
Both countries have charm and mild weather, making them great winter getaways. Which makes it more a matter of preference at the end. Spain is warmer, and the atmosphere is lively and full of events. But Athens is fantastic to explore, and in the islands you’ll find a very relaxing quietness.
Avoid visiting Greece during the worst time
While traveling in summer is quite fun, the truth is that the heat is just not for everyone. This is especially true of July and August, and many call it “the worst time to visit Greece”. And to make matters worse, all the popular spots are overcrowded, leading to long lines and a less enjoyable experience. Prices for accommodations and food are too high, and lots of places are completely booked already. If you want a more relaxed trip and can choose a different time, visit during spring or fall.
What is the best time of the year to visit Santorini?
As an island, the weather stays pretty pleasant year-round. But spring and autumn are best. From late April to early June and mid-September to late October, the weather is warm and nice, and there are fewer crowds compared to the crazy summer months, so you can really enjoy the island’s stunning sights. Accommodations are also more available and often cheaper, which is a bonus.
Photo by Alex Kulikov on Unsplash
What is the best time to visit Mykonos Island, Greece?
If you’re going to Mykonos looking for sunny weather and warm seas, June to September is the best time! For the party lovers and the young folk July and August are the peak, with great nightlife and plenty of beach parties. But if you prefer a more relaxed vibe, May, June, September, and October are great too: with fewer crowds, lower prices, and plenty of sunshine for exploring!
What is the best time to visit Calilo, Greece?
Like other places in Greece, Calilo is really best experienced during spring and autumn. May in particular is wonderful, with few crowds and no rain! It’s the perfect time to relax and explore. Meanwhile, the summer, while incredibly popular for tourists, can get really hot and busy, so we recommend the shoulder seasons for a more enjoyable experience.