Best time to visit Greece
General information
Greece has a typical Mediterranean climate with dry, hot summers and mild, humid winters. The best time to travel is from April to October, ideal for most of the school holidays. This is the dry season so little rain with temperatures hovering pleasantly between 15 and 28°C on average. In the summer it can get very hot, especially in the cities, so plan your sightseeing in the morning or in the evening, leaving the afternoon to relax at the hotel or cool off in the pool.
May Half Term
Spring brings bright sunshine, clear skies and a comfortable temperature, along with plenty of flowers in full bloom. This is the ideal time for exploring, sightseeing, hiking and spending relaxed days at the beach. The sea water can still be a bit cold at this time of year, but a good temperature for a refreshing dip.
Summer School Holidays
The summer months of July and August can get very hot, especially on the mainland with temperatures reaching up to 35°C in Athens some days. If you are travelling at this time of year we suggest sticking to the islands like the Ionian Islands, with coastal breezes and easy access to the sea to cool off. Evenings are balmy so lightweight, cool clothing is a must. Islands are around 27°C at this time of year with the Cyclades having the most windy conditions, keeping it a bit cooler.
October Half Term
As autumn takes hold, the sun is less intense but the temperature remains pleasant. Most of the crowds have dissipated and tourist sites are much quieter, along with the beaches. Bring a few layers for the evenings as the temperature drops down a bit, providing a nice relief to the hotter days before. It’s still warm enough to sunbathe and swim in the sea and a good temperature for sightseeing and hiking.
Check out our bite-sized trips to start planning your family holiday to Greece.
