Bougainvillea growing in Galaxidi, Greece in May
Your month-by-month guide for experiencing Greece at its finest. Greece is one of my favorite destinations in the world, and I’m convinced there is no bad time to visit. If you’re wondering when to visit Greece, here’s a breakdown of the best weather for your trip—season by season.
While summer might be the most popular time to visit Greece, I’ve found that shoulder season is my favorite time of year to visit. You’ll get warm, sunny days perfect for swimming, with fewer crowds and better prices. The light in late spring and early fall is beautiful, making for dreamy days and great photo opportunities.
When is the Best Time to Visit Greece?
May through mid-June and late August through September are the best times to visit. These months offer the perfect balance of great weather, manageable crowds, and reasonable prices. The water is warm enough for swimming, especially in August and September, and you can explore charming towns and ancient sites typically without the intense summer heat.
If you’re planning to visit the islands, keep in mind that ferry schedules become less frequent in May and September. Some routes that run daily in peak summer may drop to just a few times a week, especially after September 1st. Be sure to check schedules to avoid getting stuck. I use Ferryhopper to book in advance so there are no surprises when I’m on the islands.
Left: Meteora in mainland Greece in April; Zakynthos Island in July
Greece by Season: What to Expect
Spring (March-May)
Spring is a great time to visit Greece. The islands are just waking up, the crowds haven’t arrived yet, and the weather is perfect for long walks and lazy taverna lunches. If you’re here for Easter, you’re in for something special—think late-night celebrations, candlelit processions, and feasts that last for hours. The sea stays cool until late May, but with fewer tourists and quiet beaches, it’s a fair trade-off.
- Average temperatures: 15-25°C (59-77°F)
- Crowds: Light to moderate
- Price: Moderate
Summer (June-August)
Summer in Greece is exactly what you’d expect: hot, busy, and full of energy. The islands are in full swing, with every restaurant, bar, and beach club open. While it’s the most crowded and expensive time to visit, there’s an undeniable magic to long summer nights and pristine beach days.
If you want to experience the buzz of summer while avoiding the peak-season crowds and highest prices, consider visiting in early June or late August. The first week of June and the last week of August offer the best of both worlds—great weather, a lively atmosphere, and slightly fewer crowds.
Just be sure to book well in advance and prepare for the heat, especially if you plan on hiking or taking part in outdoor activities!
- Average temperatures: 25-35°C (77-95°F)
- Crowds: Very high
- Price: Highest
October is a magical time to visit Naxos, Greece.
Fall (September–October)
By fall, the summer crowds are gone, but the sun is still shining and the sea is at its warmest—perfect for swimming without the peak-season chaos. It’s also the best time for snagging deals on hotels and getting a table at popular spots without a wait.
Some restaurants and shops, especially on smaller islands, start closing in September and October as locals shift between island life and Athens. Most places stay open, but if you have a must-visit spot in mind, it’s worth checking ahead
- Average temperatures: 20-28°C (68-82°F)
- Crowds: Moderate
- Price: Moderate
Winter (November-February)
Winter in Greece is truly underrated. It’s cooler, and most island businesses shut down, but that just means you get a more local, authentic experience. Athens and the mainland come alive with cozy tavernas, quiet historic sites, and winter festivals that feel out of a storybook. If you’re set on island hopping, the bigger islands like Crete and Rhodes are your best bet as they’re more likely to have restaurants and hotels that stay open year-round.
Beyond Athens, winter is the perfect time to explore the Peloponnese, Meteora, or Zagori for dramatic landscapes, charming mountain villages, and centuries-old history without the crowds. The islands may be quiet, but with empty beaches and a slower pace, that’s part of the draw.
- Average temperatures: 10-15°C (50-59°F)
- Crowds: Very low
- Price: Lowest
Making the Most of Each Season
Spring in Greece
Pack layers for cool mornings and evenings as the weather transitions into warmer days. Hotels and restaurants start reopening for the season, and April brings stunning displays of wildflowers. Expect to see vivid red poppies, yellow daisies, and purple anemones blanketing the countryside, especially in the Peloponnese and the Greek islands.
If you can visit during Greek Easter, you’ll experience local celebrations alongside festive feasts—a cultural highlight that most summer visitors miss.
Verina Terra Hotel in Sifnos, Greece in late September. Shoulder season is always a better time to find affordable hotel stays.
Summer in Greece
Book everything in advance and work with the day’s rhythm. Visit beaches early morning or late afternoon, and always carry water when exploring ancient sites. Consider lesser-known islands like Serifos or Sifnos for a more relaxed experience.
Fall in Greece
Perfect for island hopping with warm seas and fewer crowds. Make dinner reservations for popular sunset spots, and look for shoulder season accommodation deals. Don’t miss wine harvests on many islands.
Winter in Greece
Focus on cultural sites and cities, packing warm layers for surprisingly chilly days. Ferry schedules reduce, but you’ll find authentic experiences in cozy tavernas serving seasonal specialties like avgolémono soup.
Visiting Greece isn’t just about picking the perfect season—it’s about matching the time of year with your travel style.
No matter when you visit, Greece has something incredible to offer. Spring brings wildflowers, summer is all about beach days, fall has warm seas without the crowds, and winter is perfect for cozy tavernas and historic sites. Pick your season and make it your own.
If you enjoyed this post, I recommend checking out guides to some of my favorite islands like Milos and Paros. Deciding on the best island to visit? I suggest taking a look at my Guide to Choosing the Best Greek Island.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better: spring or fall in Greece?
Both are excellent, but fall tends to have warmer sea temperatures for swimming. Spring offers wildflowers and Easter celebrations, while fall brings wine harvests and lingering summer warmth.
Are the islands open year-round?
Larger islands operate year-round. Smaller islands typically reduce services from October to April with some businesses closing completely.
When should I avoid visiting Greece?
Mid-July to late August sees the highest temperatures, largest crowds, and peak prices. If you dislike crowds or heat, consider visiting outside these months.
Milos has gained a lot of popularity the last few years; I recommend visiting in shoulder season.
When do I need to book in advance?
For summer visits (June-August), book accommodations 4-6 months ahead, especially on popular islands like Santorini and Mykonos. Shoulder season requires 2-3 months advance booking. Winter is more flexible, except during Christmas and New Year’s.
When are the warmest months in Greece?
July and August are Greece’s hottest months, with temperatures typically ranging from 28-35°C (82-95°F). Some inland areas, particularly around Athens, can reach 40°C (104°F) during heatwaves.
