The Best Time to Visit Greece

05.09.2024 - 11:28 / cntraveler.com / Conde Nast

A version of this article originally appeared in Condé Nast Traveller India.

The best time to visit Greece is any time you can make it to Greece, naturally. Dotted with stunning islands surrounded by the sparkling waters of the Aegean, Mediterranean, and Ionian Seas, Greece has so much to offer within and beyond its most popular attractions. The best time to travel to Greece depends on what you seek: formidable historic sites that have stood the test of time, islands buzzing with exciting beach clubs, or quiet beaches and cool weather. If you’re planning a trip soon, here’s a handy guide on the best time to visit Greece.

Jump to:
When is the best time to visit Greece?
Temperatures throughout the year
When is the off season in Greece?
How many days are enough for a trip to Greece?
Do Americans need a visa for Greece?
Plan your stay

Like most European countries, the best time to visit Greece is considered to be the summer season, which lasts from June to September. This is when tourism is at its peak in the country. There’s a lot of sunshine and little to no rain, which means you can spend a lot of time outdoors. However, recent summer heatwaves in Europe have led to the mercury touching over 110°F in Greece; in July 2023, the Acropolis was shut in the afternoons and air-conditioned public spaces were opened for people.

The summer season, which lasts from June to September, is when tourism peaks in Greece.

For fewer tourist crowds, the best time to visit Greece is in its shoulder season, during spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October). In spring, sea temperatures are still slightly lower, so expect chillier weather but pleasant conditions to spend days outdoors. In autumn, temperatures begin to fall in October and many Greek islands begin seeing fewer and fewer tourists. Parts of central Greece experience fall foliage and colors, while beaches are emptier and cooler.

November to March: 44°F to 68°F (temperatures dip to sub-zero levels in some parts of northern Greece)
April to June: 52°F to 86°F
July to September: 59°F to 113°F
September to October: 46°F to 84°F

Winter, which lasts from November to around March, is the off season in Greece. Accommodation and flight prices typically dip during this time, as do the temperatures across Greek islands. This is also the wettest season in Greece: rainfall typically peaks in December and January, and some parts of Greece also experience snowfall. The further north you go in the country, the colder it will be. While many historical sites across the mainland remain open, islands and beaches may shut down. Even if they’re not officially shut, the water is too chilly to take a dip in.

Plan at least a week to explore the main attractions in Greece,