Best time to visit Greece

Mediterranean flair, ancient cities and dream beaches on the Mediterranean - enjoy Greece

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The best time to travel to Greece is from April to October. This is because the water temperatures are ideal for swimming, diving, snorkeling or a boat trip, especially in the warm months. However, your best travel time depends on your preferences and planned activities. You can find helpful information for planning your trip here.

Viktoria Pilz

Travel expert for Greece

Updated on 08/27/2025

Traditional white houses in the town of Oia, Santorini island, Greece.

Overview

1.
At a glance

The seasons in Greece

Greece has four distinct seasons. The Mediterranean climate ensures mild winters and warm, dry summers. The southern European country invites you to travel and explore all year round. Nevertheless, the best time to travel to Greece is between April and October. While city breaks and hiking tours are particularly popular in spring, summer is the high season on the Ionian Islands. The best time for a vacation in Greece therefore depends on your personal preferences.

Greece in Spring

Greece attracts visitors in spring with wonderful weather and pleasant temperatures of 68°F and above. What's more, when you travel to Greece from April onwards, you benefit from long hours of sunshine, little rain, and water temperatures of up to 66°F. For your vacation in Greece, this means that you can now enjoy the many benefits of the country in one trip. From classic city trips and extensive hiking excursions to a relaxing beach vacation, everything is possible in spring. What's more, it's still low season in Greece!

Greece in Summer

Temperatures in Greece start to rise noticeably in June. At the same time, the high season begins on the Greek islands. Temperatures of over 86°F, with hardly any rainfall and seawater around 77°F, attract both locals and tourists to the Greek beaches. And while it's typically too warm for city trips and hiking excursions, Greece offers ideal conditions for sailing trips or diving vacations in summer. Generally speaking, the weather on the Greek islands in June is already more pleasant than on the mainland. So enjoy the fresh breeze on the beach and relax.

Advantages and disadvantages of traveling to Greece in autumn (September to December).

Greece in the Fall

At the beginning of September in particular, temperatures in Greece are usually still wonderfully warm, so with a bit of luck you can go swimming without any problems. However, temperatures start to drop in October and rainfall increases. Nevertheless, a vacation in Greece in autumn is worthwhile. The heat of the summer months is now over, and pleasant temperatures ranging from 68°F to 77°F invite you to go hiking or explore the fascinating Greek cities. At the same time, it cools down a little in the evenings, so you should definitely bring a sweater or light jacket with you.

Greece in Winter

Greece is also a wonderful destination in winter. Although a beach vacation is no longer possible here, the country on the Mediterranean still has plenty to offer. First-class ski resorts await you, especially in the northern mountain region. But city trips to Athens or Thessaloniki are now also possible. With maximum temperatures of 59°F, you can explore the Greek cities in a relaxed manner. Despite the generally mild winters in Greece, you should be prepared for increased precipitation, especially when traveling in December.

Optimal travel time for sights and places

Overview of minimum and maximum temperatures, rainy days and hours of sunshine in Crete per calendar month.

Best time to visit Crete

Whether for hiking in the beautiful nature or relaxing on the beach, a vacation on Crete is unique. Spring is the best time to discover Crete at your leisure. While the almond blossom begins on the island in March, Crete is ablaze with the bright colors of numerous flowers and shrubs from April onwards. By May at the latest, the weather is warm enough to enjoy the turquoise waters around the island before the start of the main season.

Overview of minimum and maximum temperatures, rainy days and hours of sunshine per calendar month in Santorini.

Best time to visit Santorini

Snow-white houses and bright blue roofs against a breathtaking backdrop - this is what awaits you on a Santorini vacation. If you don't want to miss out on this unique panorama, you should visit Santorini at the best time to visit between June and September. This is when you can enjoy temperatures of up to 82°F, long hours of sunshine, and ideal water temperatures. Whether you want to relax on the beach, enjoy water sports or stroll through the picturesque alleyways of the town - you won't forget a visit to Santorini in a hurry.

Overview of minimum and maximum temperatures, rainy days and hours of sunshine in Rhodes per calendar month.

Best time to visit Rhodes

The best time to visit Rhodes is between May and October. With pleasant temperatures between 77°F and 86°F and only sporadic rainfall, the Mediterranean climate is ideal for hiking in the island's impressive mountain landscape or discovering the romantic coastal towns. Be inspired by Rhodes' extraordinary natural landscapes, refresh yourself in the crystal-clear water on the picturesque coast, or get active with surfing.

Overview of minimum and maximum temperatures, rainy days and hours of sunshine in Corfu per calendar month.

Best time to visit Corfu

While the spring months from March to May are ideal for hiking and cycling, the best time to visit Corfu is between May and September. Long hours of sunshine, a warm climate, and pleasant water temperatures of around 72°F are ideal for surfing, diving, or swimming. At the same time, you benefit from a fresh breeze during this time, especially near the coast, so that you can easily combine different activities.

Optimal travel time for the most popular activities

A diver gives the OK signal in turquoise water.

Diving

Greece is one of Europe's undisputed diving paradises. With more than 1,000 picturesque islands and a seemingly endless coastline, both beginners and professionals will find ideal conditions for diving in Greece from spring to fall . Sunken shipwrecks, cliffs, caves and reefs beckon. Diving on Crete or Corfu in particular is an unforgettable experience. Plunge into the azure blue waters and embark on a journey through time around the historic amphora fields under water.

A kitesurfer in the sea on the beach of Prasonisi, Rhodes, Greece.

Surfing

Whether for windsurfing or kitesurfing - Greece has a large number of excellent spots. You will find perfect conditions for surfing in Greece on Karpathos or Rhodes in particular. But Mykonos, Kos and Crete are also ideal for surfing. While the Mediterranean climate in Greece ensures wonderful temperatures along the beautiful coast from April to October, the summer months are particularly recommended for surfing. This is when you benefit from plenty of sunshine, water temperatures of around 77°F and above and perfect waves.

Beautiful seascape, Antipaxos island, Greece.

Sailing

The country's almost 8,500 miles of coastline captivates sailing fans almost all year round. Whether on the Aegean or in the Ionian Sea, the conditions are ideal for an unforgettable sailing trip. What's more, the coastlines here are so diverse that there is always something new to discover. Strong winds, warm temperatures and a breathtaking view of the surrounding islands make sailing in Greece particularly worthwhile during the summer months. Now you can take full advantage of the Mediterranean climate and little rainfall.

Happy tourist with backpack and Greek flag on the footpath in Greece.

Hiking

Experience a wealth of plants and species while hiking in Greece. Explore the beautiful mountain regions or take a look at the idyllic coastline. On easy to challenging routes, you can enjoy the diverse landscapes of Greece while hiking or cycling. Spring and fall in particular are considered the best seasons for hiking vacations thanks to pleasant temperatures, bright blue skies and limited rainfall.

Our most popular round trips and routes

Greece is a fascinating destination within the borders of Europe. Vibrant cities, a lively culture, dream beaches, diverse cuisine and beautiful landscapes inspire travelers of all ages. Let our travel experts put together an unforgettable itinerary for you and discover Greece's highlights.

Blaue Türen und Fenster mit Blumen geschmücktem Eingangsbereich. Insel Paros, Kykladen, Griechenland.

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Der Parthenon-Tempel im goldenen Licht. Akropolis, Athen, Attika, Griechenland.

Karyatiden am Erechtheion auf der Akropolis. Athen, Attika, Griechenland.

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Alter venezianischer Hafen von Rethymno, Kreta, Griechenland.

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Die Bronzestatue eines Mannes in dramatischer Pose steht inmitten antiker Steinsäulen und Ruinen in Pompeji, Italien, mit einem klaren blauen Himmel und dem Vesuv im Hintergrund.

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Optimal travel time according to travel type

Pebble beach with turquoise water in Gialos, Lefkada, Greece.

Beach Vacation

Do you want to enjoy Greece on a beach vacation? Then you should plan a trip between June and September. Warm air and water temperatures and hardly any rainfall provide the ideal conditions for enjoying the country's beautiful beaches to the full. Whether relaxing on the beach, swimming, diving or surfing - the Greek mainland not only has a fantastic panorama to offer in summer. The unforgettable landscapes on the numerous Greek islands in the Aegean and Ionian Seas also provide a vacation feeling.

Cruise

On a cruise to Greece, you can experience several of the country's highlights in one trip. From the Mediterranean climate to impressive buildings and Greece's vibrant culture to beautiful islands, a cruise in the Mediterranean promises variety and relaxation at the same time. The summer months from June to August and early fall are particularly suitable. During this time, you benefit from ideal conditions to discover the country from on board your cruise ship as well as on various excursions ashore.

Happy family running on the beach at sunset, Greece.

Family Vacation

Greece offers a diverse range of activities to suit the whole family. From trekking in the green mountain landscape to beach vacations and sailing trips, there is hardly a wish left unfulfilled on a family vacation in Greece. While you can visit Greece all year round, a vacation in Greece with children is particularly suitable between May and September. Especially in spring and fall, you benefit from optimal temperatures and fewer tourists, allowing you to discover Greece in peace and quiet.

A couple in the village of Oia on the island of Santorini, Greece.

Honeymoon

If you want to spend your honeymoon in Greece, you should plan your trip between May and October. Away from the tourist crowds, the low season in particular promises unforgettable travel moments. Depending on your itinerary, you can also easily combine some of the country's highlights during this time. For example, let yourself be enchanted by the flair of the Greek metropolises, climb the Acropolis, go on extensive hiking excursions or relax on Greece's dream beaches! A honeymoon in Greece will remain in your memory for a long time to come.

At a glance

When is the best time to travel to Greece?

Greece is a country full of myths, legends and wonders. From the Minotaur to Pegasus, from the Acropolis to the ruins of Delphi - discover the paradise in the Mediterranean and explore Greece at the best time to travel.

While the Mediterranean climate in southern Europe also makes Greece a year-round destination, travel between April and October is particularly suitable. This is when you can benefit from glorious weather to discover Greek cities such as Athens or Thessaloniki as well as the country's enchanting beaches and picturesque islands. Let yourself be enchanted by Greece's history and culture. Enjoy the local cuisine and let yourself be carried away by the unmistakable flair of Greece.

Long hours of sunshine, warm air and water temperatures and little rainfall make a trip to Greece at this time of year an unforgettable experience. Depending on the region, spring, summer and the beginning of autumn are the best times to visit Greece.

Recommended travel time: April - October.
The best time to visit may vary depending on the activity. For example, spring and fall offer good conditions for hiking and diving, while the summer months are ideal for sailing and surfing.

Climate Table for Greece	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Max. Temperatures in °F	59	59	63	68	73	82	86	86	81	73	68	63
Min. Temperatures in °F	46	46	48	54	59	66	70	72	66	61	55	50
Sun Hours per Day	4	5	6	8	10	12	13	12	10	7	5	4
Rainy Days per Month	10	9	8	5	3	1	1	1	3	6	8	11
Water Temperature in °F	61	59	59	61	66	72	75	77	75	72	68	63

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Best time to visit Greece

Our expert recommendation

The seasons in Greece

Greece in Spring

Greece in Summer

Greece in the Fall

Greece in Winter

Optimal travel time for sights and places

Best time to visit Crete

Best time to visit Santorini

Best time to visit Rhodes

Best time to visit Corfu

Optimal travel time for the most popular activities

Diving

Surfing

Sailing

Hiking

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Optimal travel time according to travel type

Beach Vacation

Cruise

Family Vacation

Honeymoon

Travel topics: What you should know about Greece