Best Time to Visit Greece 2023: Detailed Guide

Greece’s allure as a tourist destination has been well-established. The European country has a lot going for it, including the clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea, numerous important historical sites, mouthwatering dishes, and luxurious accommodations.

Little wonder why visits to Greece for vacations keep increasing annually. And if you are reading this article, chances are, you are making plans to visit Greece too. But read this before you pack your bags if you care about the weather, your wallet, or your sanity.

Let’s get right into it…

Quick Answer: When Is the Best Time to Visit Greece in 2023?

One of the best aspects of Greece is that it is a fantastic year-round destination. The Mediterranean climate means that it is warm in the summer and mild in the winter, allowing you to enjoy the sights regardless of when you visit Greece.

Having said that, Greece does have distinct tourist seasons. As a result, you may want to plan your vacation around specific months to avoid large crowds and expensive accommodations, or even worse, entire towns that close for the off-season.

Our advice is to visit Greece during the shoulder seasons of May-early June and late September-October.

The summer months in Greece are high season, beginning in late June and lasting until the middle or end of September.

August is the busiest month for tourism, especially on the Greek islands, because the sun is out and the air is warm, ideal for long days spent on the beach.

During high season, expect inflated prices for lodging, dining, parking, and other services, as well as crowds of tourists everywhere from mainland Greek cities to island beaches.

Low season in Greece, on the other hand, lasts from November to March, when tourists are scarce and the weather is cooler.

Winter in the Mediterranean means grey, cloudy days with a chance of rain. Some shops and hotels close for the low season, particularly in beach destinations, but don’t worry, there’s still plenty to do in Greece for a fun trip.

The best part about visiting Greece during the low season is that prices are significantly lower than during the summer months, making it ideal for a quick getaway!

When Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Greece for Good Weather?

There is no bad season to visit Greece. If you want warm weather, go in late spring or early fall (April through June or September through October). In May, the average temperature in Athens, the nation’s capital, ranges from 74.8 degrees Fahrenheit to 61.5 degrees Fahrenheit. In June, the temperature rises slightly to an average high of 82.6 degrees, ideal for a dip in the ocean.

On the other hand, in September, average temperatures in Athens drop slightly to an average high of 80.6 degrees and a low of 69.6 degrees. October is even cooler, with an average high of 71.4 degrees and a low of 62.1 degrees in Athens. Yes, it’s cool, but not cold enough to be uninviting. Remember that the country is relatively large, especially if you include the best islands in Greece, so check the average temperatures for your exact destination before booking.

When is the Most Popular Time to Visit Greece?

The most popular times to visit Greece are, unsurprisingly, late spring, summer, and early fall. When the weather is nice, all of the venues open their doors and invite guests to stay, eat, and drink.

In June 2019, 4.12 million tourists visited Greece. In July of the same year, 4.91 million people traveled there, and in August 2019, a whopping 5.45 million visited, making it the busiest month of the year to visit. The number of visitors drops precipitously from there, with only 3.9 million in September 2019 and 2.1 million in October 2019.

Tourism figures for Greece were skewed, as they always are, during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 and 2021. However, Greek tourism minister Vassilis Kikilias told reporters in November 2021 that arrivals increased by 79.2% between January and August 2021 when compared to the same period in 2020. These figures suggest that tourism in Greece is returning and that people may be willing to extend the season a little longer.

When is the Least Crowded Time to Visit Greece?

Consider visiting Greece during the winter months if you don’t want to go to the beach or work on your tan. The crowds are much thinner because the weather is cooler (average temperatures hover around 50 degrees). In 2019, only 500,000 people visited Greece in January, with 600,000 visiting in February. In fact, the country didn’t reach one million visitors until April, making the winter much more bearable if you want to avoid crowds. However, due to a lack of demand, many venues and hotels close for the winter, so be sure to search for accommodations in your intended destination to see what’s available and when.

When is the Best Time to Visit the Greek Islands?

Again, the best time to visit depends on what you’re looking for, but for the best weather, plan a trip to the Greek islands in late spring, early summer, or early fall. Yes, you can visit in the middle of summer, but be aware that temperatures can soar.

In Santorini, for example, the average high temperature is 82.4 degrees, while the average low temperature is 71.6 degrees. The only plus is that the water is extremely warm this time of year, with an average sea temperature of 77.5 degrees. The island also only receives one day of rain during the month of July, increasing your chances of basking in the sun.

When is the Cheapest Time to Visit Greece?

It is possible to visit Greece on a budget. All you have to do is plan ahead of time. The cheapest months to fly to Greece, according to Skyscanner, are September, October, and November. According to the website, booking a flight in November can save you up to 18% off the average yearly flight price. Traveling during the shoulder season (March and April, or September and October) also results in lower prices.

A Month-by-Month Guide to Visiting Greece

January

January in Greece is the coldest month of the year, whether on the mainland or on the Greek islands, with grey, overcast days and plenty of rain.

However, because the tourist crowd is thin during this time, you can often find great deals on accommodation if you don’t look during the New Year period. I

Despite the less-than-ideal weather, January is an excellent month for sightseeing, particularly in and around Athens. You’ll have the ancient ruins to yourself, free of the crowds that come with good weather. Simply be prepared with the proper travel gear!

Epiphany, when a cross is thrown into a body of water and swimmers are supposed to retrieve it, and Patras Carnival, the most elaborate festival of the year, are both held in January.

People take to the streets during this time to parade around, dance to loud music, and socialize with everyone who has traveled long distances to celebrate the New Year.

February

Greece still sees very few visitors in February, so it’s the best time to visit if you want to have the country to yourself. The weather is still cold, but it rains less, allowing you to spend more time outside.

If you’re visiting Greece in February, head to Santorini for some winter sun without the crowds, or to Athens for some historic sightseeing. Prices are much lower than during peak season, no matter where you go — win!

February is a lot of fun in Greece because it is Carnival month, which is celebrated all over the country. That being said, the best parties can be found in Athens and Crete, where locals take to the streets to eat, drink, dance, and parade.

March

While still a little chilly, the weather in Greece begins to improve in March, especially as you travel south. Temperatures on the islands can reach 70°F, which is warm enough for a day at the beach and comfortable exploration.

Furthermore, the tourist crowds haven’t yet arrived, so you can enjoy some island serenity uninterrupted.

It’s a great time to visit Greece in March to explore the ancient sites on the mainland. Visit Athens and Delphi without long lines or crowds of tourists trying to take photos.

The biggest event in March is Greece’s Independence Day, which is celebrated with a variety of festivities across the country. On March 25, people take to the streets to celebrate Greece with parades, drinking, and a lot of fun!

April

April is the beginning of the glorious season in Greece, making it one of the best times to visit.

The sun begins to break through the gloom of winter, and temperatures begin to rise across the country. While it is still too cold to swim, April is the month when the sea around Greece begins to warm up, making it enticing for any beachgoers visiting during this month.

Are you thinking about going to Greece in April? Visit the Greek islands of Rhodes, Crete, Santorini, and Naxos, and remember to bring your bathing suit! While it won’t be too hot, the weather is lovely, with sunny days ideal for lounging on the beach without getting too hot.

Because the tourist crowds haven’t yet arrived in full force, you’ll have some peace and quiet as you travel through the country.

Easter is celebrated by the majority of Greeks throughout the country in April. There is a Holy Week preceding Easter, which lasts from Palm Sunday to Easter Day. In Greece, this is the most religious time of the year. During this week, many shops are closed and churches are packed, providing a glimpse into the religious life of many Greeks.

May

In Greece in May, cheap accommodation begins to fade, making way for the expensive resorts and hotels that reopen for the summer months. However, you can still find some good deals early in the month as the weather begins to warm up.

No matter where you are in Greece in May, it is quite warm. This is the month to start swimming in the sea and truly sunbathing on the beaches, making the Greek islands an ideal destination.

Mainland Greece also has beautiful weather in May, which is ideal for sightseeing and dining on outdoor terraces.

If you’re in Greece in May, don’t miss the Korinthia Salsa Spring Festival. It’s one of Europe’s top dance events of the year, attracting both locals and tourists. There will be dance classes, performances, and lots of lively fun, so don’t miss out if you happen to be in Greece at the time!

June

The summer season in Greece officially begins in June, bringing large tourist crowds from all over the world. The weather is nothing short of spectacular, with warm temperatures and long sunny days. It’s no surprise that people travel from all over to enjoy Greece in June!

This is the best time of year to visit popular destinations such as Mykonos and Santorini (though expect crowds) as well as less popular destinations such as Naxos and Paros. It’s also a great time to visit Corfu, Rhodes, and Crete and enjoy the coast.

Accommodation prices tend to rise in June (though they remain significantly lower than dates later in the summer), so book your hotel early to secure a good rate.

Aside from tourists, June brings a slew of fun festivals and events to Greece. The Athens and Epidaurus Festival, which includes dance performances, theater shows, and opera, is the largest of these events. It begins in June and runs until early September, providing entertainment for all ages.

There is also European Music Day in June, which is observed throughout Greece and Europe. There’s also Navy Week, which takes place in late June and features historical reenactments in port cities and along the coast.

July

Greece in July is the hottest month of the year, with steamy days, warm water, and not a cloud in sight. The Greek islands are especially appealing in July, but flights and accommodations are expensive, and you can expect crowds everywhere you go.

In July, Mainland Greece is positively sweltering, with average high temperatures creeping past 90°F, making sightseeing sticky and unpleasant in the heat. Instead, visit Corfu to enjoy the beach or the less popular Greek islands to avoid crowds.

The month of July kicks off a slew of art and cultural festivals across Greece that will last the entire summer. The Festival of the Aegean on Syros Island features a variety of theatrical events, the Athens Festival features Greek music performances in ancient theaters, and the Sani Festival in Halkidiki features jazz musicians and a lively atmosphere.

August

Greece’s peak season is August when the entire country is expected to be flooded with tourists. Prices are at their highest, beaches are overcrowded, and long lines are expected everywhere.

Throughout August, the weather in Greece is beautiful, with bright days and no rain. If you do decide to visit Greece in August, make sure to bring all of your swimsuits to enjoy the warm waters that have been heating up all summer.

In August, there are numerous fun events and festivals in Greece. The Olympus Festival, where you can see plays in an ancient theater, and the August Moon Festival in Athens, when all of the major historic sites are open all night for fun musical performances, are both worth a visit.

When it comes to musical performances, August is the best month to visit Greece for concerts and live shows. To name a few, the Chania Rock Festival in Crete, the Houdetsi Music Festival, and the International Music Festival of Aegina all feature musical acts from Greece and beyond.

September

Greece in September is a breath of fresh air as the weather begins to cool. While the first half of the month is still teeming with tourists, the crowds begin to thin out towards the end of the month, giving way to a quieter end-of-summer vacation.

From the islands to Athens, the weather in Greece is still pleasant in September. It’s actually more enjoyable than the height of summer because you can sightsee without melting and still get a tan on the beach.

At the end of September, Greece hosts the Athens International Film Festival, which lasts 12 days. Other notable September events in Greece include the Reworks Festival, which features acts from all over the world, and the conclusion of the Epidaurus Festival, which features Greek dramas performed in the ancient amphitheater.

Overall, September is a fantastic time to visit Greece, no matter where you want to go.

October

After a long, hot summer, Greece finally welcomes autumn in October. Summer tourists return home, and by the end of the month, the country has completely depleted. Seasonal restaurants begin to close, but those that remain open offer great deals.

Santorini and Mykonos will remain busy in October, but the smaller islands will be relatively quiet. October is a great month to visit mainland Greece and explore ancient cities and historic sites while enjoying the pleasant fall weather.

While October is a quieter month in terms of events, there are still a few festivals to enjoy in Greece. Every year, Crete hosts the Chestnut Festival, and Thessaloniki hosts the Dimitria Festival. On October 28th, there is also a national holiday called Ochi Day, which is filled with parades, folk music, and dancing.

November

November is the best month to visit Greece during the low season. You’ll have the place to yourself because the country is virtually empty of visitors.

The weather in Greece in November isn’t bad, but it is a little chilly. Some days are bright and sunny, while others are grey and cloudy. Expect some rain in Greece in November, but with warm afternoons and no crowds, it’s worth the effort of carrying an umbrella.

November is a great month for sightseeing because it’s too cold for the beach and, without the crowds, you can take perfect pictures of ancient sites without tourists in the background.

There isn’t much going on byways of events in Greece in November because it’s distinctly low season. Throughout the month, however, there is the annual Thessaloniki International Film Festival, which showcases some of Europe’s best new works!

December

Winter arrives in Greece in December, with blustery, cloudy, rainy days. There’s snow in the mountains, perfect for any skier, and a festive atmosphere as the country prepares for the holidays.

While it is unquestionably low season, Greece in December can be quite enjoyable.

Bundle up and visit the historic sites around Athens, or warm up in one of the country’s hundreds of museums. Head to the mountains to enjoy some snow, or better yet, make your way to Meteora, which is positively magical at this time of year with a crystal dusting of fresh flakes.

In Greece, Christmas is one of the most festive times of the year, with numerous events leading up to the actual day.

When Christmas arrives, the streets are lined with colorful lights and carolers, and pink-cheeked visitors can be found everywhere. During this magical time, soak up the lively atmosphere in Greece!

Following Christmas, New Year’s Eve is celebrated with zeal throughout Greece, with crowded bars and fireworks counting down to the New Year.

When Is the Best Time to Visit Greece (By Activity)?

When Is the Best Time to Do Outdoor Activities in Greece?

Spring and autumn are the best times to visit if you want to do activities like hiking Greece’s beautiful island trails or bird watching. During the spring, the mountains and fields are ablaze with a plethora of wildflowers, and the temperatures have yet to become too warm for daytime hiking.

Lesvos, Crete, and Tilos are all excellent places to go bird-watching in the spring. Crete also has some of the best walking trails in Greece, with the famous Samaria Gorge being a popular destination.

When Is the Best Time of Year to Swim in Greece?

Because the Mediterranean, Ionian, and Aegean seas have had time to warm up over the summer, the latter months of the year are ideal for enjoying them. With barely any waves, minor tidal changes, and blissfully warm temperatures throughout September and October, the Aegean is arguably one of the best seas in the world.

If you’re feeling brave, you might be able to swim off the coasts of Rhodes or Kos until November or December (provided the sun is shining!).

When Is the Best Time to Sail in Greece?

Sailing in Greece is an excellent option if you own a boat or prefer to rent one rather than rely on public ferries. There are so many islands to explore, both inhabited and uninhabited, with many secluded coves only accessible by boat.

Again, the best time to sail in Greece is during the shoulder season, when prices are lower, beaches and attractions are less crowded, and ports and coves are free of cruise ships. The islands will be more verdant and ideal for on-land exploration in the spring, but the seas will be warmer and more enticing in the autumn, so you’ll have to decide what’s most important for your trip.

When is the Best Time of Year for Sight-Seeing in Greece?

Greece has some epic cultural sites that are a must-see for anyone interested in history or philosophy. Fortunately, most sites are open all year, so you can explore ancient ruins and temples regardless of the weather.

It is best to visit Greece’s sights between April and June or September and November when temperatures are not too high to ruin your experience. If you want to go sightseeing in Athens, you can do so pretty much any time between September and June, as it won’t matter if you visit during the winter.

When Is the Best Time to Go Out at Night in Greece?

Many Greek islands have become famous for their nightlife over the years, with everything from “Club 18-30” strips in the 1990s to stylish beach-front bars in Mykonos. Today, the islands of Mykonos, Paros, Ios, and Skiathos have the best nightlife, with world-famous DJs visiting during the summer months of July and August. The parties here rival those in Ibiza, and the stunning scenery makes for an unforgettable party vacation!