Greece: when to go?
méditerranéen climate
Greece enjoys a typical Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild but rainy winters. The country experiences three distinct seasons: a bright spring (April-May) ideal for discovering archaeological sites without crowds, a scorching summer (June-August) perfect for beaches but very crowded, and a golden autumn (September-October) offering still beautiful days with warm waters. Winter remains mild on the islands but can be surprising on the mainland with occasional snow. The Etesian winds pleasantly cool down the days of July-August. For optimal travel, prioritize May-June or September-October: pleasant temperatures, little rain, accessible sites and more affordable rates than peak summer.
- Best period
- April to June, September to October
- Good alternatives
- March, July to August, November
- Rainy winter
- December to February
Year-round overview
Select a month to plan your trip
Climate in numbers
Monthly temperatures and precipitation
Temperature (°C)
Precipitation (mm)
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Climate zones
Climate varies by region. Discover the unique characteristics of each zone.
General climate Greece
IdealPredominantly Mediterranean climate with regional variations: milder coastal areas, cooler northern mountains, warmer so...
Athens and Attica
IdealThe Cyclades
IdealCentral Greece
IdealThe Peloponnese
IdealCrete
IdealMonth by month
Find detailed climate information for each month of the year.
Temperature
2° — 15°C
Precipitation
78 mm
Average temperature
1.6°C
Rating
Average
By climate zone
Cold and humid season. Archaeological sites accessible but unpredictable weather.
Temperature
3° — 15°C
Precipitation
66 mm
Average temperature
1.8°C
Rating
Average
By climate zone
Still cool and rainy. First almond blossoms appearing in the south.
Temperature
5° — 18°C
Precipitation
51 mm
Average temperature
2.2°C
Rating
Fair
By climate zone
Variable weather with noticeable warming. Nature coming back to life, ideal for hiking.
Temperature
8° — 22°C
Precipitation
32 mm
Average temperature
2.8°C
Rating
Ideal
By climate zone
Excellent time to visit sites and islands. Mild temperatures, nature in bloom.
Temperature
12° — 27°C
Precipitation
20 mm
Average temperature
3.7°C
Rating
Ideal
By climate zone
Perfect conditions: pleasant warmth, low rainfall, warming sea.
Temperature
17° — 31°C
Precipitation
9 mm
Average temperature
4.4°C
Rating
Ideal
By climate zone
Dry season begins, warm sea, long days. Avoid midday for sightseeing.
Temperature
20° — 34°C
Precipitation
5 mm
Average temperature
4.8°C
Rating
Fair
By climate zone
Very hot and dry. Perfect for beaches but challenging for cultural visits.
Temperature
20° — 34°C
Precipitation
7 mm
Average temperature
4.8°C
Rating
Fair
By climate zone
Peak tourist season and hottest month. Refreshing Etesian winds in the Cyclades.
Temperature
16° — 29°C
Precipitation
18 mm
Average temperature
4.1°C
Rating
Ideal
By climate zone
Excellent compromise: still warm, sea at 23°C, fewer crowds. Ideal period.
Temperature
11° — 24°C
Precipitation
51 mm
Average temperature
3.3°C
Rating
Good
By climate zone
Pleasant temperatures, still warm sea. Some rain but short showers.
Temperature
7° — 20°C
Precipitation
74 mm
Average temperature
2.5°C
Rating
Fair
By climate zone
Return of rains and cool weather. Perfect for museums and indoor sites.
Temperature
3° — 16°C
Precipitation
88 mm
Average temperature
1.9°C
Rating
Average
By climate zone
Wet and cool season. Athens and sites accessible but unpredictable weather.
Frequently asked questions
Everything about the climate and the best time to visit Greece
The best months to visit Greece are April, May, June, September, October. This period offers favourable weather and ideal conditions for exploring the country at its best.
The Mediterranean climate of Greece is characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, rainy winters. The average annual temperature is 18.5°C. It's one of the most pleasant climates in the world, ideal for cultural travel.
Rainfall in Greece is mainly concentrated between December, January, February. These showers remain generally moderate, alternating with sunny days. This period is ideal for cultural tourism without crowds.
Yes, swimming is pleasant from April, May, June, September, October. The sea stays warm until autumn. Peak summer months are ideal for beaches, while spring and autumn are best for hiking and cultural experiences.
Spring and autumn (April, May, June, September, October) are perfect for vineyard visits, local markets and fine dining. Harvest season (September-October) offers an unparalleled wine tourism experience.
If your travel dates don't match the ideal season in Greece, the Nomadays network brings together more than 100 local agencies worldwide. Get in touch to find out which destination would be ideal for your dates.
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