The best time to visit Greece depends on what you’re looking for in your trip. Here’s a detailed guide with monthly temperatures, high and low seasons, cost comparisons, and major attractions:
Monthly Temperatures
January: 10-15°C (50-59°F)
February: 10-15°C (50-59°F)
March: 12-17°C (54-63°F)
April: 15-20°C (59-68°F)
May: 18-25°C (64-77°F)
June: 22-30°C (72-86°F)
July: 25-35°C (77-95°F)
August: 25-35°C (77-95°F)
September: 22-30°C (72-86°F)
October: 18-25°C (64-77°F)
November: 15-20°C (59-68°F)
December: 10-15°C (50-59°F)
High Season (June to August)
Pros: Warm, sunny weather perfect for beach activities and island hopping.
Cons: Crowded tourist spots, higher prices for accommodation and flights, and extreme heat, especially in July and August.
Cost Comparison: Prices for hotels and flights can be 30-50% higher than during the low season.
Attractions: All major sites and islands are fully operational with extended hours. Popular destinations include Santorini, Mykonos, Crete, and Athens.
Shoulder Season (April to June, September to October)
Pros: Pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and more affordable prices. Ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Cons: Some tourist services and ferry schedules may be less frequent outside the main tourist areas.
Cost Comparison: Prices are moderate, often 20-30% lower than in the high season.
Attractions: Athens, Delphi, Meteora, and the islands are great during these times. Perfect for hiking, exploring ancient ruins, and enjoying local culture without the high-season rush.
Low Season (November to March)
Pros: Lowest prices, minimal crowds, and a more authentic local experience.
Cons: Cooler weather, some attractions and restaurants may be closed, especially on the islands. Limited ferry services.
Cost Comparison: Significant savings on accommodation and flights, often 50% lower than high season.
Attractions: Athens, Thessaloniki, and mainland sites like Delphi and Meteora are still accessible. Skiing in the mountains is also an option.
Attractions by Season
Spring (April to June): Visit Athens for comfortable sightseeing, explore the Peloponnese, and enjoy blooming landscapes in Crete and the Cyclades.
Summer (July to August): Ideal for island hopping, beach activities, and nightlife in Mykonos and Santorini. Also a good time for festivals like the Athens and Epidaurus Festival.
Autumn (September to October): Great for exploring historical sites, hiking in the mainland regions like Zagori, and enjoying the vineyards and olive harvests.
Winter (November to March): Perfect for cultural and historical tourism in Athens and Thessaloniki, and skiing in the mountains such as Mount Parnassus.
Overall, the best time to visit Greece for pleasant weather and fewer crowds is during the shoulder seasons of April to June and September to October. For those seeking a budget-friendly trip and a more local experience, the low season from November to March is ideal, despite the cooler weather and reduced services.