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Best Time to Visit Greece

Table of contents

Spring in Greece
Fall/Autumn in Greece
Monthly activities and tourists
Seasonal guide to prices
Travel companies in Greece
FAQ

Embark on an unforgettable journey to Greece, a land where ancient history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes intertwine. Whether you're navigating the labyrinthine streets of Athens, soaking up the sun in Santorini, or exploring the mystical ruins of Delphi, the best time to visit Greece largely depends on your interests. However, the sweet spot is typically the late spring months (April to mid-June) and early autumn (September and October) when the weather is pleasant and the crowds are smaller.

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A quaint street in a Greek town

Best time to visit Greece: Spring

The best time to visit Greece is the shoulder season of spring, when the weather is idyllic – but without the heat and crowds that come with the summer months. Imagine walking beneath the Acropolis' towering columns as the warm sun sets, or savoring a glass of local wine in a quaint taverna, gazing out to sea. These are the moments that make Greece an unforgettable destination.

Why this is the best time to visit Greece:

Pleasant weather: Enjoy pleasant weather with fewer crowds, making sightseeing comfortable.
Lush nature: See the country's stunning natural beauty in full bloom during spring.
Access to attractions: Access to all attractions, unlike winter when some sights are closed.
Great hiking conditions: Spring is ideal for outdoor adventures such as hiking and sailing.
Culinary experiences: Savor local delicacies such as fresh seafood and locally harvested olives.
Lively festivals: Experience authentic local events and festivals showcasing Greek culture.
 
Book your Greece tour in spring

Top things to do and see in Greece during spring

  • Acropolis, Athens

    Acropolis, Athens

    Marvel at the splendor of these ancient ruins, particularly stunning during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset.

  • Santorini

    Santorini

    Experience the iconic white and blue buildings of Santorini, made even more picturesque against the backdrop of a calm, clear springtime sky.

  • Rhodes

    Rhodes

    Explore the medieval old towns on Rhodes, with cobblestone streets and ancient walls. Spring brings milder weather – perfect for walking tours.

Three essentials to pack for your Greece trip during spring

  • Comfortable footwear

    Whether exploring ancient ruins or strolling through vineyards, durable and comfortable shoes are a must.

  • Light layers

    Daytime can be warm, but spring evenings can be cool – so light layers are ideal.

  • Sun protection

    The Greek sun is strong – even in spring. That means sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are essential.

Couple enjoying the view of the Acropolis in Athens

Best time to visit Greece: Autumn/Fall

If you're looking for the perfect blend of balmy weather, fewer crowds, and a unique cultural experience, the second best time to visit Greece is undeniably in fall, from September to November. You’ll discover a different side to Greece in fall, allowing you to experience a slower-paced life.

Here's why autumn is considered the second best time to visit Greece:

Pleasant weather: The scorching summer sun gives way to milder temperatures, making sightseeing and outdoor activities more comfortable.
Festivals and events: Experience authentic Greek culture at its finest. You’ll be able to enjoy lots of festivals and events, alongside the locals.
Less crowded: Major tourist attractions and beaches are less crowded, offering a more relaxing experience.
Affordable rates: You can often get great deals on flights and accommodation in the shoulder season, making it a good time to visit for budget travelers.
Vibrant landscapes: The changing seasons bring vibrant colors to the landscapes – it’s a real paradise for photographers.
Local cuisine: Fall is grape harvest season – making it a fantastic time to indulge in local wine tasting tours.
 
Book your Greece tour in fall

Top things to do and see in Greece in autumn/fall

  • Acropolis in Athens

    Explore Athens

    With fewer crowds, fall is an ideal time to explore the historic sights of Athens, including the iconic Parthenon and the buzzing Monastiraki flea market.

  • A coastal town in Crete

    Wine Tasting in Crete

    Crete is known for its excellent wine, and there’s no better time to enjoy the local delicacies in the island’s traditional wineries.

  • Meteora monastery

    Hiking in Meteora

    Experience the mystical monasteries of Meteora against the backdrop of vibrant fall colors with a hiking tour.

Three essentials to pack for your Greece tour in autumn/fall

  • Layered clothing

    With day-to-night temperature fluctuations, it’s a good idea to pack a mix of light and warm clothing.

  • Comfortable shoes

    Whether you're exploring ancient ruins or hiking scenic trails, a sturdy pair of shoes is a must.

  • Rain jacket or umbrella

    Occasional rain showers are common in fall, so it's good to be prepared so you’re sheltered from showers.

Overview of activities and tourists in Greece per month

With each season in Greece comes exciting new experiences. Spring is perfect for exploring ancient ruins and experiencing cultural festivities including Easter, while fall is ideal for wine tours and culinary adventures. Here's a snapshot of what Greece offers throughout the year:

MonthPopular ActivitiesTourist VolumeSeason
January Historical Tours, Winter Sports
Low
Low season
February Carnival Events, Winter Sports
Low
Low season
March Spring Festivals, Hiking
Moderate
Shoulder season
April Easter Celebrations, Hiking
Moderate
Shoulder season
May Beach Activities, Sailing
High
High season
June Beach Activities, Island Hopping Very high High season
July Beach Activities, Festivals
High
High season
August Beach Activities, Festivals
High
High season
September Beach Activities, Wine Tasting
High
High season
October Autumn Festivals, Hiking
Moderate
Shoulder season
November Olive Harvesting, Cultural Tours
Low
Low season
December Christmas Markets, Historical Tours
Low
Low season

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The best time to visit Greece: A seasonal guide to prices

Each season in Greece offers a different experience – and the prices are different season to season, too. Generally, summer is the high season with higher prices, while winter is the low season with the lowest. The shoulder seasons, spring and autumn, offer a balance of reasonable prices and pleasant weather, making them the best time to visit Greece – especially for budget travelers.

High Season (June to August)
- This is peak tourist, so you can expect higher prices
- Hot, sunny weather with temperatures soaring up to 35°C
- Ideal for beach-goers, sun-worshippers, and island hoppers
- Book well in advance to secure your tour

Low Season (November to March)
- The shoulder season offers reduced prices, perfect for budget travelers
- Cooler weather, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 15°C
- Great for history buffs and culture enthusiasts keen on exploring ancient sights without the crowds – and without the heat
- Be prepared for some seasonal closures

Shoulder Season (April to May and September to October)
- Balanced prices with fewer tourists
- Mild, pleasant weather with temperatures between 20°C to 25°C
- Perfect for hikers, photographers, and those wanting to experience Greece at a slower pace
- Book a tour to catch the wildflowers in spring or the grape harvest in autumn

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What people ask about Greece

  • When is the best time to visit Greece for a beach holiday?

    The best time for a beach holiday in Greece is during the high season, from June to August. In the summer months, the weather is hot and sunny – perfect for lounging on the beach or a spot of island hopping.

  • When should I visit Greece for budget travel?

    The low season, from November to March, is the best time for budget travel. During the winter months, you’ll find reduced prices and fewer tourists – but some attractions may be closed, so be prepared that you might not be able to see everything on your list.

  • What is the best time to visit Greece for mild weather?

    The shoulder seasons, from April to May and September to October, offer mild, pleasant weather which is ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, watersports and photography.

  • When should I book a tour to Greece?

    If you plan to visit Greece in the high season, it’s best to book well in advance. For shoulder seasons, booking a few months ahead should suffice. Low season travel often doesn't require as much advance booking.

  • Is it worthwhile visiting Greece in the low season?

    Yes – there’s much more to Greece than beautiful beaches. It’s worth visiting in the winter, especially if you're a history buff or culture enthusiast. You can explore ancient sights without the crowds, and enjoy the cooler weather.

  • What are the highlights of the shoulder season in Greece?

    The shoulder season showcases Greece at its most authentic. In spring, you can catch the wildflowers in bloom, while autumn offers the grape harvest. You’ll also get the benefits of fewer crowds and cooler weather, meaning you can explore at your own pace.
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