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✓ Updated February 2026

Weather data and travel information verified current

Best Time to Visit Greece: Mar or Apr 2026

Greece travel destination - scenic view of Sunrise Acropolis Ascent & Ancient Agora Stroll during ideal visiting season
Image: Flag of Greece.svg viaWikimedia Commons

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Quick Answer:

For a truly serene Greek experience, aim for the shoulder months of May and June, or the early part of September. During these times, the air is warm and gentle, perfect for exploring ancient ruins without the intense summer heat, and the turquoise waters invite a refreshing dip. Imagine leisurely strolls through charming villages as bougainvillea spills over whitewashed walls, or savoring fresh seafood at a seaside taverna as the sun dips below the horizon in a blaze of orange and pink. You'll find fewer crowds, allowing for a more peaceful immersion in the local culture and breathtaking landscapes, from the serene Aegean islands to the historic mainland.

Best Months to Visit:

MarAprMayJunSepOctNov

Airport Code

ATH

Coordinates

38.00°, 24.00°

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Top Things to Do

Sunrise Acropolis Ascent & Ancient Agora Stroll

Beat the crowds and the heat by ascending the Acropolis just as the first rays of sun paint the Parthenon in hues of gold. Afterward, wander through the adjacent Ancient Agora, imagining Socrates debating philosophy amidst the ruins, a far more intimate experience than the bustling main site.

Santorini's Oia Sunset from a Local Taverna

While the iconic caldera view is a must, bypass the packed viewpoints for a table at a traditional taverna tucked away in Oia's backstreets. Savor fresh seafood and local wine as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky in fiery colors, with a more authentic, less frenetic atmosphere.

Meteora Monastery Exploration & Hiking Trails

Beyond the awe-inspiring monasteries perched atop colossal rock formations, explore the lesser-known hiking trails that wind through the Meteora valley. Discover hidden hermitages and enjoy breathtaking perspectives of the monasteries from below, especially magical during the soft light of late afternoon.

Crete's Samaria Gorge Trek (Off-Season)

Embark on the dramatic 16km trek through Samaria Gorge, Europe's longest. Visiting in late spring or early autumn offers fewer crowds and more comfortable temperatures, allowing you to fully appreciate the towering cliffs and unique flora and fauna of this natural wonder.

See all 8 things to do →

💡 Travel Tip: For the best value on hotels during this season, check current rates on Trip.com.

Essential Travel Tips

food

Embrace the 'meze' culture for a true taste of Greece! Instead of ordering a full main course, order several small plates (mezedes) to share with your table. This way, you can sample a wider variety of delicious dishes like tzatziki, saganaki, and dolmades, and it's often more budget-friendly too.

transport

For island hopping, book your ferry tickets in advance, especially during peak season (July-August). Websites like Ferryhopper or Direct Ferries allow you to compare prices and schedules for various companies like Blue Star Ferries or Seajets. Last-minute bookings can be significantly more expensive and may sell out.

money

While credit cards are widely accepted in tourist areas, always carry some cash for smaller tavernas, local markets, and remote islands. ATMs are plentiful, but withdrawing larger sums at once can save on foreign transaction fees. Look for ATMs attached to banks rather than standalone ones for better security.

culture

Learn a few basic Greek phrases like 'kalimera' (good morning), 'efcharisto' (thank you), and 'parakalo' (please/you're welcome). Greeks appreciate the effort, and it can open doors to warmer interactions, whether you're ordering coffee or asking for directions in a less touristy village.

packing

Pack light, breathable clothing and comfortable walking shoes – you'll be doing a lot of exploring on foot, often on cobblestone streets! Don't forget a hat, sunglasses, and high SPF sunscreen, as the Mediterranean sun can be intense, even outside of summer. A reusable water bottle is also a smart addition.

safety

Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded tourist spots like the Acropolis or Plaka in Athens, to avoid petty theft. Keep valuables secure and out of sight. For getting around Athens, the metro is efficient and safe, but always be mindful of pickpockets on busy lines.

💡 Travel Tip: If you're planning your trip, it's worth checking flight prices on Trip.com before you decide.

Weather Details

Jan
10 days
Feb
9 days
Mar
8 days
Apr
7 days
May
5 days
Jun
2 days
Jul
1 day
Aug
1 day
Sep
4 days
Oct
8 days
Nov
10 days
Dec
11 days

Monthly Weather Data Table

MonthHigh (°C)Low (°C)High (°F)Low (°F)Rainfall (mm)Rain DaysDaylight (h)
Jan12°C5°C54°F41°F50mm
10 days
9.7h
Feb13°C6°C55°F43°F45mm
9 days
10.7h
Mar15°C8°C59°F46°F40mm
8 days
12h
Apr19°C11°C66°F52°F30mm
7 days
13.3h
May23°C15°C73°F59°F20mm
5 days
14.4h
Jun27°C19°C81°F66°F10mm
2 days
15h
Jul30°C22°C86°F72°F5mm
1 day
14.7h
Aug30°C22°C86°F72°F5mm
1 day
13.8h
Sep27°C19°C81°F66°F20mm
4 days
12.5h
Oct23°C15°C73°F59°F45mm
8 days
11.3h
Nov18°C10°C64°F50°F60mm
10 days
10.2h
Dec14°C7°C57°F45°F55mm
11 days
9.5h

Greece Month by Month: Complete Guide

Planning your trip to Greece? Here's what to expect each month:

Jan in Greece

Weather

12°C°C / 54°F°F

10 days rainy days • 50mmmm

What to Expect

Winter season with cooler temperatures. Fewer tourists but some attractions may have limited hours.

Crowd Level

🟢 Low - Quiet season, easy to find accommodation

Quick Tip: Jan offers a quieter experience with fewer tourists.

Feb in Greece

Weather

13°C°C / 55°F°F

9 days rainy days • 45mmmm

What to Expect

Late winter, beginning to warm up. Good for budget travelers seeking lower prices.

Crowd Level

🟢 Low - Quiet season, easy to find accommodation

Quick Tip: Feb offers a quieter experience with fewer tourists.

Mar in Greece

⭐ Best Time

Weather

15°C°C / 59°F°F

8 days rainy days • 40mmmm

What to Expect

Spring begins, mild weather. Shoulder season with moderate crowds.

Crowd Level

🟢 Low - Quiet season, easy to find accommodation

Quick Tip: Mar is one of the best times to visit with ideal weather conditions.

Apr in Greece

⭐ Best Time

Weather

19°C°C / 66°F°F

7 days rainy days • 30mmmm

What to Expect

Spring in full bloom. Pleasant temperatures and growing tourist activity.

Crowd Level

🟡 Moderate - Comfortable crowds, good availability

Quick Tip: Apr is one of the best times to visit with ideal weather conditions.

May in Greece

⭐ Best Time

Weather

23°C°C / 73°F°F

5 days rainy days • 20mmmm

What to Expect

Late spring, excellent weather. One of the best times to visit for most travelers.

Crowd Level

🟡 Moderate - Comfortable crowds, good availability

Quick Tip: May is one of the best times to visit with ideal weather conditions.

Jun in Greece

⭐ Best Time

Weather

27°C°C / 81°F°F

2 days rainy days • 10mmmm

What to Expect

Early summer, warm and sunny. Peak season begins, book accommodations early.

Crowd Level

🔴 High - Peak tourist season, book early

Quick Tip: Jun is one of the best times to visit with ideal weather conditions.

Jul in Greece

Weather

30°C°C / 86°F°F

1 day rainy days • 5mmmm

What to Expect

Peak summer season. Hot weather and highest tourist crowds. Most expensive time.

Crowd Level

🔴 High - Peak tourist season, book early

Quick Tip: Jul offers a quieter experience with fewer tourists.

Aug in Greece

Weather

30°C°C / 86°F°F

1 day rainy days • 5mmmm

What to Expect

Peak summer continues. Very crowded but great weather for outdoor activities.

Crowd Level

🔴 High - Peak tourist season, book early

Quick Tip: Aug offers a quieter experience with fewer tourists.

Sep in Greece

⭐ Best Time

Weather

27°C°C / 81°F°F

4 days rainy days • 20mmmm

What to Expect

Early fall, shoulder season. Weather still good, crowds decreasing. Great value.

Crowd Level

🟡 Moderate - Comfortable crowds, good availability

Quick Tip: Sep is one of the best times to visit with ideal weather conditions.

Oct in Greece

⭐ Best Time

Weather

23°C°C / 73°F°F

8 days rainy days • 45mmmm

What to Expect

Fall season, mild temperatures. Lower crowds and good prices. Comfortable for sightseeing.

Crowd Level

🟡 Moderate - Comfortable crowds, good availability

Quick Tip: Oct is one of the best times to visit with ideal weather conditions.

Nov in Greece

⭐ Best Time

Weather

18°C°C / 64°F°F

10 days rainy days • 60mmmm

What to Expect

Late fall, cooler weather. Off-season begins, significant discounts available.

Crowd Level

🟢 Low - Quiet season, easy to find accommodation

Quick Tip: Nov is one of the best times to visit with ideal weather conditions.

Dec in Greece

Weather

14°C°C / 57°F°F

11 days rainy days • 55mmmm

What to Expect

Winter season, holiday atmosphere. Festive but can be cold. Mixed crowds.

Crowd Level

🔴 High - Peak tourist season, book early

Quick Tip: Dec offers a quieter experience with fewer tourists.

All Things to Do in Greece

Sunrise Acropolis Ascent & Ancient Agora Stroll

attraction

Beat the crowds and the heat by ascending the Acropolis just as the first rays of sun paint the Parthenon in hues of gold. Afterward, wander through the adjacent Ancient Agora, imagining Socrates debating philosophy amidst the ruins, a far more intimate experience than the bustling main site.

Best time: Apr-May, Sep-Oct

Santorini's Oia Sunset from a Local Taverna

food

While the iconic caldera view is a must, bypass the packed viewpoints for a table at a traditional taverna tucked away in Oia's backstreets. Savor fresh seafood and local wine as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky in fiery colors, with a more authentic, less frenetic atmosphere.

Best time: May-Jun, Sep-Oct

Meteora Monastery Exploration & Hiking Trails

nature

Beyond the awe-inspiring monasteries perched atop colossal rock formations, explore the lesser-known hiking trails that wind through the Meteora valley. Discover hidden hermitages and enjoy breathtaking perspectives of the monasteries from below, especially magical during the soft light of late afternoon.

Best time: Apr-Jun, Sep-Oct

Crete's Samaria Gorge Trek (Off-Season)

activity

Embark on the dramatic 16km trek through Samaria Gorge, Europe's longest. Visiting in late spring or early autumn offers fewer crowds and more comfortable temperatures, allowing you to fully appreciate the towering cliffs and unique flora and fauna of this natural wonder.

Best time: May, Oct

Athens' Psiri Neighborhood Street Art & Live Music

cultural

Dive into the vibrant, bohemian heart of Athens in Psiri, a district alive with colorful street art and buzzing tavernas. As evening falls, discover hidden bars and small venues offering authentic live rebetiko music, a soulful Greek folk genre.

Best time: Year-round

Nafplio's Palamidi Fortress & Old Town Charm

shopping

Climb the 999 steps (or drive!) to the Palamidi Fortress for unparalleled views of the Argolic Gulf and the charming Venetian town of Nafplio. Spend the afternoon getting lost in the neoclassical streets, browsing artisan shops, and enjoying a leisurely coffee by the harbor.

Best time: Apr-Jun, Sep-Oct

Kefalonia's Melissani Cave & Antisamos Beach Relaxation

nature

Experience the ethereal beauty of Melissani Cave, where sunlight filters through an opening in the roof, illuminating the turquoise waters below. Afterward, unwind at the stunning, pebble-strewn Antisamos Beach, famous for its crystal-clear waters and lush green backdrop.

Best time: Jun-Sep

Thessaloniki's Ladadika District Evening Delights

food

Explore the historic Ladadika district, once a bustling olive oil market, now a lively hub for nightlife. Sample delicious mezedes (small plates) and local ouzo at traditional tsipouradika, soaking in the energetic atmosphere of this coastal city's social scene.

Best time: Year-round

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GoWithGuide Tours and Experiences

Getting Around Greece

Intercity Buses (KTEL)

These are the backbone of mainland Greece travel, connecting virtually every town and village. They are reliable, comfortable, and offer a fantastic way to see the countryside at a relaxed pace.

Cost:Varies widely by distance, e.g., Athens to Delphi is around €15-€20 one way.
Tip:Book tickets in advance, especially for popular routes or during peak season, directly at the KTEL station or sometimes online via their regional websites (search 'KTEL [region name]'). Avoid buying from unofficial street vendors. Always arrive at the station at least 15-20 minutes before departure as buses can leave precisely on time.

Ferries

Essential for island hopping, Greece's ferry network is extensive. Options range from slow, large conventional ferries to high-speed catamarans, each offering a different experience and price point.

Cost:From €20 for a short hop on a conventional ferry to €80+ for a high-speed to distant islands like Crete or Rhodes.
Tip:Use sites like Ferryhopper or Greek Ferries to compare routes, prices, and book. Book high-speed ferries well in advance, especially for popular routes like Santorini-Mykonos. Conventional ferries are often cheaper and more stable in rough seas, but take significantly longer. Be aware of potential delays due to weather, especially outside of summer.

Athens Metro

The Athens Metro is modern, efficient, and connects the city center with key areas like the airport and port of Piraeus. It's the quickest way to navigate the capital and avoid traffic.

Cost:Single tickets are €1.20 (valid for 90 mins), with daily and multi-day passes available.
Tip:Download the 'TfA Tickets' app for easy ticket purchase. Validate your ticket in the machines before boarding. Be mindful of pickpockets, especially on crowded lines like Line 1 (Green Line) which serves tourist hotspots. Keep your belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings.

Rental Car (Mainland & Larger Islands)

For exploring beyond the main towns or for flexibility on larger islands like Crete or Rhodes, a rental car is invaluable. It allows you to discover hidden beaches and remote villages.

Cost:From €30-€50 per day for a small car, plus fuel and insurance.
Tip:Book well in advance, especially for automatic transmission cars. International Driving Permit (IDP) is often required alongside your national license. Roads can be narrow and winding, and parking in towns can be challenging. Be prepared for aggressive driving styles and understand that 'priority' signs aren't always respected.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing Apps

Taxis are readily available in cities and tourist areas. In Athens, the official taxi app 'FREE NOW' (formerly Beat) is widely used and recommended for transparent pricing.

Cost:Metered fares in Athens start around €1.20, with surcharges for airport pickups and nighttime. A ride from Athens Airport to the city center is roughly €40-€50.
Tip:Always ensure the meter is running or agree on a fare beforehand for longer trips outside of app-based services. Avoid unmarked taxis. For island towns, taxis are often limited; pre-booking through your hotel or a local number is wise. Be aware that some drivers may try to overcharge tourists if you don't use an app or insist on the meter.

Local Buses (Astika)

These city buses operate within towns and cities beyond Athens, serving local neighborhoods and connecting to transport hubs. They are a budget-friendly way to get around smaller destinations.

Cost:Single tickets are typically €1-€1.50, purchased from kiosks or sometimes onboard.
Tip:Tickets are usually bought from designated 'periptero' (kiosks) or ticket machines. Validate your ticket upon boarding. Schedules can be infrequent, especially on Sundays and holidays, so check timings at the bus stop or ask locals. Don't expect air conditioning on all buses, especially older models.

💡 Travel Tip: This season usually means better deals — check what's available on Trip.com.

Similar Destinations

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the absolute best time to visit Greece to balance good weather with fewer crowds?

For that sweet spot of sunshine without the peak summer crush, aim for the shoulder seasons: late April to early June, or September to early October. You'll enjoy warm, pleasant weather perfect for exploring ancient sites and swimming, and the islands will feel much more relaxed than in July and August. Plus, prices for flights and accommodation tend to be a bit kinder on your wallet during these months.

Beyond the famous islands, are there any less-crowded Greek gems worth exploring?

Absolutely! Consider the Ionian islands like Kefalonia or Lefkada for stunning beaches and lush landscapes, often with a more laid-back vibe than their Cycladic counterparts. For a truly authentic experience, head to the Peloponnese peninsula; places like Nafplio offer Venetian charm and history, while Mani boasts rugged beauty and unique tower houses that feel like stepping back in time.

What's the deal with island hopping in Greece – is it easy to get around?

Island hopping is a quintessential Greek experience, and thankfully, it's quite manageable. Ferries are the primary mode of transport, connecting most major islands. For longer distances or to save time, consider domestic flights, especially between Athens and popular island groups like the Cyclades or Dodecanese. Booking ferry tickets in advance, particularly during peak season, is always a smart move to secure your spot.

Are there any specific dining customs or etiquette I should be aware of in Greece?

Embrace the leisurely pace of Greek dining! Meals are meant to be savored, and it's common for locals to linger over their food and conversation. Don't be surprised if your host or restaurant brings out a complimentary dessert or digestif – it's a gesture of hospitality. Also, tipping isn't as expected as in some other countries; a small amount for excellent service is appreciated, but not mandatory.

What's the best way to handle money and payments in Greece?

While credit cards are widely accepted in larger towns, hotels, and tourist-oriented restaurants, always carry some cash, especially for smaller tavernas, local markets, or on more remote islands. ATMs are readily available in most populated areas, but it's wise to inform your bank of your travel dates to avoid any card issues. Euros are the currency, so no need for currency exchange upon arrival if you're coming from another Eurozone country.

I'm interested in ancient history. What's a less-visited archaeological site that offers a profound experience?

For a truly awe-inspiring and less-crowded experience, visit Mystras in the Peloponnese. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a remarkably preserved Byzantine ghost city perched on a mountainside, complete with monasteries, churches, and palaces. Wandering through its silent courtyards and frescoed chapels offers a deeply moving glimpse into Greece's rich medieval past, far from the bustling crowds of more famous ruins.

How many days do you need in Greece?

We recommend spending 3-5 days in Greece to see the main attractions without feeling rushed. This gives you time to explore the top sights, experience local culture, and take a day trip if desired. Budget travelers might do 2-3 days, while those wanting a deeper experience should plan for a week.

Is Greece expensive to visit?

Greece can be enjoyed on various budgets. Daily costs typically range from $50-80 for budget travelers, $100-200 for mid-range visitors, and $250+ for luxury experiences. Prices are highest during Mar and lowest during off-season months. Book accommodations early to secure better rates.

What is Greece famous for?

Greece is famous for its unique attractions, rich culture, and memorable experiences. The destination is best known for its architectural landmarks, local cuisine, and vibrant atmosphere. Visit during Mar or Apr for the best experience.

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