When is the Best Time to Visit Greece?
Published on: August 15th, 2017
Last updated: March 13th, 2025
The best time to visit Greece is typically from May to September, when the country is bathed in sunshine and summertime warmth. This is when the Greek Islands and beaches are at their best – though they can get busy during peak season in July and August. If you’re interested in exploring Athens or experiencing local holidays, spring (March to June) or autumn (September to November) might be better.
The weather in Greece varies slightly from north to south. Some islands like Crete and Rhodes remain warm into autumn, while certain parts of the mainland can see snow in winter. Thanks to this variation, the best time to visit depends on where you’re headed and what you want to do.
Greece Month-by-Month Weather Guide
Every season in Greece has something to offer, whether you’re interested in sunbathing, sightseeing, island hopping or hiking – but it’s important to take things like temperatures and rainfall into account. To help you choose the ideal time of year for your trip, we’ve put together a detailed guide to Greece’s weather, month by month.
January in Greece
January is among the coldest and rainiest months in Greece. Snow can fall in northern regions like Thessaloniki and occasionally in Athens or even farther south. The Greek Islands are also relatively chilly, with temperatures around 10–15ºC (50sºF), and many attractions are closed for the season, so we don’t usually recommend visiting them in January.
February in Greece
Greece’s winter continues into February, with temperatures remaining low across the country. Athens averages around 7–14ºC (45–57ºF) and Delphi is even colder, with lows approaching 0ºC (32ºF). Although the weather isn’t ideal, this can be a good time to visit the capital if you’re mainly interested in culture, museums and sightseeing without crowds.
March in Greece
March brings the earliest signs of spring to Greece as temperatures start to rise just slightly. It’s still relatively cold in most destinations; the Cyclades and Athens can reach 16ºC (61ºF), while the Peloponnese region is a bit cooler with highs around 14ºC (57ºF). Rain is still possible, especially in early March, so the islands and beaches may not be the best choice.
April in Greece
Springtime begins in earnest in April, as Greece’s rainy season ends and warmer weather sets in. This is a wonderful month to go hiking or visit popular destinations like Santorini well in advance of the most crowded months. In the islands you can expect temperatures as high as 20ºC (68ºF), although the sea hasn’t warmed up yet. Orthodox Easter usually falls in April, too.
May in Greece
May is a wonderful month to visit Greece. The peak season hasn’t quite begun yet, but the weather is sufficiently warm to enjoy the islands and outdoor activities. This is among our favourite months to visit both Santorini and Athens; high temperatures hover around 23–25ºC (73–77ºF) in both places and the summer crowds haven’t arrived yet.
June in Greece
June is a transitional month between spring and summer in Greece. Early in the month you can still avoid big crowds in the islands and extreme heat in the capital, but popular spots get both hotter and busier as July approaches. Highs in Athens can creep up to 30ºC (86ºF), while Crete, Santorini and other islands tend to peak in the upper 20sºC (low 80sºF).
July and August in Greece
July and August are the height of summer (and tourist season) in Greece. Weather conditions in the islands are optimal, with highs in the upper 20sºC (low 80sºF), while Athens often exceeds 32ºC (90ºF). This is the best time to visit the northern islands of Samothrace and Thassos. Well-known islands like Santorini and Mykonos are quite busy in these months.
September in Greece
September is one of the best months to visit Greece for great weather and smaller crowds. Temperatures drop slightly but the sea is still warm and rain remains unlikely. Crete is especially lovely, with average highs around 27ºC (81ºF). This is also a wonderful time to explore Athens now that the summer heat is fading; expect highs around 29ºC (84ºF) in the capital.
October in Greece
October marks the end of Greece’s autumn shoulder season. The weather in the Greek Islands is still mostly warm and sunny, though rain becomes more likely toward the end of the month and some places start closing down for the winter. October is also when the annual olive harvest begins (the wine harvest is a bit earlier, usually peaking in September).
November in Greece
By November the rainy season is in full swing and temperatures drop significantly across Greece. This can be a good month to visit Athens if you prefer cooler weather and don’t mind some rain; average highs hover around 19ºC (66ºF). This is the beginning of low season in the islands, which are also relatively rainy and chilly.
December in Greece
December sees the start of winter in Greece. It’s a bit warmer than January, with temperatures around 8–15ºC (46–59ºF) in Athens and 11–17ºC (52–63ºF) in Crete. It’s also the rainiest month of the year, making it ideal for indoor activities like the museums and cosy cafés of the capital – which takes on a festive air with sparkling lights and Christmas markets.
When is the rainy season in Greece?
The rainy season in Greece lasts roughly from October to March, coinciding with the cooler months of autumn and winter. The country usually sees the most rainfall in December and January. If you’re visiting outside of Greece’s rainy season, you can expect mostly clear skies – though of course occasional showers are always possible. The rainiest places in Greece are usually the northwestern mountains of the mainland and Corfu.
When is the best time to go hiking in Greece?
If you’re hoping to go hiking in Greece, spring can be a beautiful time to visit. April and early May offer pleasantly warm – but not too hot – temperatures for active outdoor adventures, as well as blooming wildflowers. Autumn is also ideal for hiking, cycling and sightseeing, with high temperatures around 20ºC (68ºF) in October and November. This is a great time to make the climb up to the Acropolis in Athens, as the city can get uncomfortably hot in the summer.
What is the best time to visit Santorini?
Santorini experiences the best weather from May to September. July and August are especially warm and sunny, but also attract droves of travellers to this world-famous island. If you want to avoid the crowds while still enjoying pleasant weather, we suggest visiting in late spring (April and May) or early autumn (September and October). Keep in mind that many hotels and restaurants close during the low season from around November to March.
What month is best for beaches in Greece?
June through September are the best months to enjoy Greece’s spectacular beaches, as they bring both the sunniest weather and the warmest water temperatures. June and September tend to be less crowded than July and August, offering a more relaxing experience. You can also enjoy Greece’s beaches in May or October, when temperatures hover around the low 20sºC (low 70ºsF). The water will still be quite chilly in May, but nice and warm in October.
Month-by-month guide to activities in Greece
A Beach Break
For those who are after a beach break, June to September are undoubtedly the best times to go, once the seas have warmed up and the days are filled with endless sunshine. Seek shade in the midday heat and enjoy some of the local delights - cooling greek salads, fresh seafood and crisp, refreshing retsina.
Religious Celebrations
A wonderful time to visit is the during the religious month of March or April, when Easter arrives. Whilst many places close for the duration of the Easter weekend, in the larger towns, there will still be some activity. The beautiful processions and celebrations are great to witness. Make sure to plan well in advance as internal travel gets busy around Easter.
Enjoy Greek nightlife
Mykonos, Paros, Ios, and Santorini are known for their party scenes, with the busiest months in July and August. Expect lots of live music and DJs in the main towns and on some of the beach resorts.
A Family Break
The best time to go to Greece for a family break with young children is during the months of May, early June and mid to late September. Temperatures during this time aren’t too hot and there are fewer crowds.
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