When is the Best Time to Visit Greece?

August 13, 2024

We all want the best possible holiday experience and, when travelling, it is key to know what to expect when you arrive. Nobody likes unpleasant surprises when they reach their holiday destination, such as realising your hopes of a quiet time away have coincided with a busy annual festival, or your plans of partying the night away being dashed when you pull up at a quaint sleepy village. Perhaps the question “When is the best time to visit Greece?” is a little misleading – it really depends on what you’re after. Whether you are a sun worshipper looking for perfect beach weather, or prefer cooler temperatures for exploring and sightseeing, timing is everything. As clichéd as it sounds, when there is so much on offer, it is always a good time to visit Greece.

Winter

A winter getaway is ideal for those looking for the cheapest flights and accommodation. The low season brings a lull in tourist visits and is therefore ideal for those wanting to take in the sights on a budget. Booking a few months in advance of your holiday, and using flight comparison websites, can be more friendly on the wallet, yet is no less of an amazing travel experience. Temperatures hit their lowest in January, with an average of 6 degrees Celsius, but sit a little higher in December and February. Perfect for those who are keen to savour Greece’s seasonal foods and holiday festivities, the winter months allow visitors to see the “real” Greece, outside of the typical tourist rush. While in some locations the towns turn sleepy in the winter months, and reduced flight schedules can make it harder to reach some island spots, transport to the mainland runs largely as normal –  just make sure to check destinations carefully when booking. Ideal for those wanting to see classic cultural experiences in a slightly quieter environment, and perfect for foodies, a winter break to Greece is something which should definitely be considered!

Spring

With temperatures ranging between 15 to 19 degrees Celsius in March, April and May, Spring is the perfect time to visit Greece for those who want to avoid the intensity of the summer sun. While temperatures vary across the country, the Spring months are perfect if you want to enjoy a little warmth whilst walking around sightseeing comfortably. These months are also the prime time for any keen hikers or nature-lovers with sites all across Greece, from Crete to Athens and beyond, at their most vibrant and fertile. The flowers, wineries, groves, gardens, awe-inspiring gorges and picturesque landscapes are all in full bloom. The beauty of the springtime countryside is truly incomparable.

Spring is also an ideal time to visit Greece due to the huge number of cultural festivities taking place. Fresh from the Winter holiday season, the celebrations continue over March, April and May with Greek Independence Day in March, Lent celebrations and Easter Holy Week featuring a huge number of events. Greek Orthodox Easter is a period of special celebration and includes fireworks, processions, and mouthwatering food. If visiting during the month of May, you may also see the large parades commemorating Labour Day in Athens. Be aware of strikes during festivals however, as transport often comes to a standstill!

Summer

The classic summer holiday trip is best timed in Greece during June, July and August. With temperatures reaching a whopping average of 34 degrees, if you are wanting a holiday to bask in the sun, the best time to visit Greece is in the summer. Island life is truly alive by June and the huge number of beaches are best enjoyed with the warm waters at their most calm and tranquil. If you are keen to tan, dip into the blue sea, and island-hop around some of the most stunning beaches in the world, Greece is at its peak during the summer months. There is plenty to do too, with bars and restaurants all open and ready for custom as well as both modern and traditional festivals taking place. Of special note is the August Moon Festival, a celebration of one of the brightest full moons of the year. During the festival, events take place all across Greece including at archaeological sites and monuments allowing visitors to view the full moon against the dark sky and take part in activities and watch performances. For those wanting a more typical party experience, summer also sees an increase in live music and a boom in the club scene. Summer is the best time to visit Greece to enjoy the heat and buzz, enlivened by other visiting tourists from all across the world. While it’s possible to find more tranquil escapes, summer can be busy but is a perfect chance to soak in a uniquely exhilarating atmosphere.

Vai Beach, Crete

Autumn

Finally, we come to Autumn when temperatures average around 12 degrees between September, October and November. Like Spring, Autumn is the ideal time to visit Greece’s classic cultural destinations with no need to worry about sweltering heat when walking around. The cooler temperatures also lead to less wearisome queues and you can take your time ambling around temples and ruins without needing to take regular breaks in the shade! Timed well, the sun in Autumn is still bright and warm, and beach visits are still on the cards, but with a significantly quieter atmosphere than in the previous season. September is also harvest time and so allows for a rare insight into some of Greece’s well-known produce. During this period, there are plenty of food tours that can allow you to sample the famous bites of Greece, straight from the source. Autumn is the best time to visit Greece if you’re wanting to go fully “local” and incognito, enjoying the sights as though you were a native!

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