Best time to visit Greece

Greece – Climate & Travel Time Overview

Greece has over 200 inhabited islands — and each has its own climatic quirks. What they all share: a Mediterranean summer with little rain, plenty of sunshine and warm sea temperatures. Crete in the south has the longest and most reliable season; Santorini and Mykonos are hot and densely touristic in high summer, but in spring and autumn they rank among the most beautiful travel destinations in Europe. The Meltemi wind, which sweeps the Cyclades in July and August, provides cooling but can complicate boat trips.

The best travel time for most Greek islands is between May and October, with September and October being the connoisseurs' secret high season: still warm sea, considerably fewer visitors and golden autumn light. For hikes on Crete or Rhodes, April is recommended, when the landscape glows green after the winter rains and temperatures are still comfortable for long walks.

Greece has 10 different climate regions with varying travel seasons.

Choose a region for the full climate chart with temperatures, sunshine hours and travel recommendations.