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Best time to visit Greece: month by month
Short answer
The best months are May, June and September, with highs of about 25–29°C, warm sea and long days. July and August are the hottest (33–34°C in Athens) and busiest, while winter is mild (13–15°C) but many island hotels close.
Month by month
| Month | High | Low | Rainy days | Crowds |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 13°C | 6°C | 8 | low |
| Feb | 13°C | 6°C | 5 | low |
| Mar | 14°C | 6°C | 6 | low |
| Apr | 19°C | 10°C | 7 | medium |
| May | 25°C | 16°C | 5 | high |
| Jun | 29°C | 20°C | 7 | high |
| Jul | 34°C | 24°C | 0 | very high |
| Aug | 33°C | 23°C | 3 | very high |
| Sep | 28°C | 19°C | 4 | high |
| Oct | 23°C | 15°C | 4 | medium |
| Nov | 19°C | 12°C | 8 | low |
| Dec | 15°C | 8°C | 8 | low |
Temperatures and rainy days: Copernicus ERA5 averages, 2021–2023. Crowd levels are our estimate.
Season by season
Spring (Mar–May)
Highs rise from 14°C in March to 25°C in May. Wildflowers, Easter celebrations and quiet sites; the sea is still cool until late May.
Summer (Jun–Aug)
Hot and dry, with highs of 29–34°C and lows of 20–24°C and almost no rain. Peak crowds; the meltemi wind blows in the Aegean.
Autumn (Sep–Nov)
September (28°C) and October (23°C) are excellent, with warm sea into mid-October. November cools to 19°C and ferries thin out.
Winter (Dec–Feb)
Mild in Athens at 13–15°C and lows of 6–8°C, with some rain. Many islands close down; good for Athens, Meteora and the mainland.
Events worth planning around
- Greek Orthodox Easter, the biggest celebration of the year (March, April or May)
- Athens Epidaurus Festival, theatre at ancient venues (June to August)
- Dormition of the Virgin Mary, a national holiday with island festivals (15 August)
- Thessaloniki International Film Festival (November)
When to avoid
Avoid late July to mid-August if you dislike crowds, heat and high prices; ferries around 15 August are especially full. In winter, many island hotels, tavernas and ferry routes close.
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Common questions
What is the best time to visit Greece?
May, June and September, with highs of 25–29°C and warm sea.
How hot is Greece in summer?
Athens often reaches 33–35°C in July and August, sometimes more during heatwaves.
Can you swim in Greece in October?
Yes, usually until mid-October, though some ferries and hotels start to close.