Greece Luxury Holiday Planner
Best Time to Visit Greece
Month-by-month weather, sea temperatures and the ideal season for your luxury holiday.
Greece travel guide
When Is the Best Time to Visit Greece?
The best time to visit Greece is May to June or September to October, when the weather is warm, the sea is inviting and the islands are calmer than in peak summer. July and August bring the hottest weather and the liveliest atmosphere, perfect for families travelling in the school holidays. Winter is mild and quiet, with many island hotels closed until spring, while Athens and Crete welcome visitors all year round.
Greece weather by month
| Month | Average high | Sea temperature | What to expect |
|---|---|---|---|
| April | 20°C | 17°C | Spring flowers and Easter celebrations; sea still fresh |
| May | 25°C | 19°C | Warm and green, great for sightseeing |
| June | 29°C | 22°C | Long sunny days before peak season |
| July | 32°C | 24°C | Hot and busy; Meltemi winds on some islands |
| August | 32°C | 25°C | Peak summer and school holidays |
| September | 28°C | 24°C | Warmest sea of the year and fewer crowds |
| October | 23°C | 22°C | Pleasant days, quieter resorts, some hotels close late in the month |
Figures are typical averages and vary by island and region. Crete and Rhodes are usually a little warmer, and northern Greece a little cooler.
The best time to visit Greece for…
Beach holidays
June to September offers the most reliable beach weather. Choose September for the warmest sea and a calmer atmosphere once the school holidays end.
Families
July and August fit the school holidays and every resort facility is open. Book early, as family suites and interconnecting rooms are in high demand. The May half-term and October half-term are excellent alternatives with milder heat.
Sightseeing and culture
April, May and October are ideal for exploring ancient sites such as the Acropolis and Knossos without the midday heat of high summer.
Couples and honeymoons
Late May, June and September bring romantic warm evenings and easier restaurant reservations in Santorini and Mykonos.
Value
Early and late season, in May and October, typically offer the best value on luxury hotels, with lower prices than in peak summer.
Greece holiday season at a glance
- Low season (November to March): mild and quiet; many island hotels close, while Athens and Crete stay open
- Shoulder season (April to June, September to October): the best balance of weather, crowds and price
- High season (July and August): hottest weather, liveliest resorts and highest prices
Tip: Greek Orthodox Easter is the country’s biggest festival and usually falls on a different date to UK Easter. It’s a wonderful time to visit, but book early.
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