Best Time to Visit Greece from India
Planning a vacation to Greece is quite easy as its climate is mostly pleasant all year round. However, the best time to visit Greece is in the spring and autumn seasons. The mild climate of these seasons in comparison to the scorching summers, makes it a beautiful time filled with beach escapades and lush natural sights. In this article, we will explore the important information a traveller may need to visit Greece.
Best Months/Seasons to Visit Greece
If you are trying to find the best seasons for travelling to Greece, note the list discussed below:
| Month | Min/Max Temperature | Description |
| March-May (Spring Season) | 5 to 29 degrees Celsius | Pleasant temperatures, perfect for exploring ancient ruins in Athens, enjoying the vibrant flowers, and visiting picturesque islands like Crete and Santorini Popular events during this time: International Museums Day, Greek Easter, Independence Day and Flower Feast. |
| June-August (Summer Season) | 15 to 33 degrees Celsius | Warm weather, ideal for island hopping in the Cyclades, relaxing on beautiful beaches, and experiencing lively nightlife in Mykonos. Popular events during this time: Day of Saint John, Santorini Jazz Festival and Athens Epidaurus Festival. |
| September-November (Autumn Season) | 8 to 29 degrees Celsius | Mild temperatures allow for sightseeing in historical sites, enjoying local harvest festivals, and exploring less crowded islands. Popular events during this time: Athens Marathon, Thessaloniki Documentary Festival and Ohi (NO) Day. |
| December-February (Winter Season) | -3 to 20 degrees Celsius | Cooler temperatures, ideal for visiting museums and cultural sites in Athens, experiencing the festive holiday season, and skiing in mountain resorts like Mount Parnassus. Popular events during this time: Protohronia, Epiphany, Apokries (Carnivals), Christmas and New Year celebrations. |
March-May (Spring Season)
Greece experiences spring between March and May, which is a great time for one to enjoy blooming scenery, mild weather and less crowded spaces. The ruins of ancient Greece are best visited in this season with its charming villages. This includes picnicking in meadows full of wildflowers, walking through national parks, and experiencing the traditional Easter celebrations that are deeply ingrained into Greek culture.
Here are some of the key details you should know about this season when planning a trip to Greece:
| Weather | Pleasant and warm |
| Temperature | 5°C to 29°C |
| Season | Moderate |
| Season for Localities | International Museums Day, Greek Easter, Independence Day and Flower Feast |
| Key Highlights |
|
June-August (Summer Season)
During the summer months, visitors can expect hot weather throughout Greece, making it an ideal time for beach holidays or island hopping. Also, there are many festivals, nightclubs, and dining outside under the moonlight. Finally, during this season, tourists can visit the Acropolis when it's not raining or discover coastlines and towns on a small vessel.
Here are some of the key details you should know about this season when planning a trip to Greece:
| Weather | Hot and sunny |
| Temperature | 15°C to 33°C |
| Season | Peak |
| Season for Localities | Day of Saint John, Santorini Jazz Festival and Athens Epidaurus Festival |
| Key Highlights |
|
September-November (Autumn Season)
Autumn in Greece is characterised by moderate temperatures and hues of orange, gold and brown. Milder temperatures come with autumn after the scorching summer heat; thus, you can have fun at beautiful sites such as the Acropolis.
The Mediterranean sun still shines brightly over this region, providing perfect conditions for beach lovers and those interested in exploring the rich traditions and past of Greece while tasting their original food.
Here are some of the key details you should know about this season when planning for a trip to Greece:
| Weather | Pleasant with occasional showers |
| Temperature | 8°C to 29°C |
| Season | Moderate to Peak |
| Season for Localities | Athens Marathon, Thessaloniki Documentary Festival and Ohi (NO) Day |
| Key Highlights |
|
December-February (Winter Season)
In winter, Greece experiences climatic differences across regions, mainly resulting in a dip in temperatures and occasional snowfall, particularly across the northern parts of the country, such as Macedonia and Thrace. Conversely, southern sides, such as the Peloponnese and islands, have moderated winters which hardly witness rain.
Here are some of the key details you should know about this season when planning for a trip to Greece:
| Weather | Cold with rains |
| Temperature | -3°C to 20°C |
| Season | Off |
| Season for Localities | Protohronia, Epiphany, Apokries (Carnivals), Christmas and New Year celebrations |
| Key Highlights |
|
When to Avoid Visiting Greece?
Though Greece is beautiful throughout all seasons, there are moments when it might not be desirable to visit for various reasons. To plan a trip that will give you joy, one must understand those times, it's better to keep off moving around.
| Months to Avoid | Reason |
| December to February (Winter Season) |
|
Seasonal Travel Costs of Visiting Greece from India
Travelling to Greece from India can be affordable if you choose the right time of year. The cost of flights and hotels varies significantly between seasons. Below is a detailed table outlining the different months/seasons and their respective pricing for various parameters:
| Season | Average Flight Cost | Average Hotel Cost per Night | Description |
| Spring (March-May) | ₹27,000 - ₹40,000 | ₹6,000 - ₹10,000 | Moderate prices; ideal for exploring ancient ruins and enjoying mild weather. |
| Summer (June-August) | ₹30,000 - ₹45,000 | ₹8,000 - ₹15,000 | Peak season with higher prices due to increased tourism; perfect for beach activities. |
| Autumn (September-November) | ₹25,000 - ₹35,000 | ₹6,000 - ₹10,000 | Moderate prices; great for sightseeing and experiencing the grape harvest season. |
| Winter (December-February) | ₹23,000 - ₹35,000 | ₹5,500 - ₹9,000 | Low season with lower prices; best for exploring historical sites and enjoying winter festivals. |
Things to Know Before Visiting Greece
Now that you have to know about the ideal and not-so-ideal times for visiting Greece, let us explore the vital things that you must know before visiting Greece:
- It is crucial to choose the season for travelling wisely.
- Greeks would love it if you could speak a bit of their local language.
- Dress modestly if you plan to visit churches.
- Driving might be difficult in the winding streets of Greece.
- Drinking is popular in Greece, but Greeks do not get really drunk.
- If you are planning to travel to Greece during high season, book tickets for a hotel and ship early.
Tips for Travelling in Greece
Listed below are important tips if you are travelling in Greece:
- Always keep some cash on you.
- Make sure you are vaccinated.
- Try tipping 5-10% after you eat at a restaurant.
- While you can drink tap water in mainland Greece, opt for bottled water if you are visiting islands.
- Taste the delectable and diverse food options.
- Try exploring the beauty of the islands instead of just hitting the beach.
- Remember that opening hours for shops, supermarkets and departmental stores is from 9 AM to 9 PM.
- Do not flush toilet paper. Throw it in the bin.
- Wear proper adventure clothes like hiking footwear for those activities.
What Phrases Should You Know Before Travelling to Greece?
Here is a list of essential phrases you must know before visiting Greece. However, it would help if you remembered that the dialects of different places in Greece might vary:
| English | Greek |
| Hello | Yeia sou (casual), Yeia sas (formal), ya (very informal) |
| Good morning | Kalimera |
| Good night | Kalinikta |
| Goodbye | Andio |
| Thank You | Efharisto |
| Good Evening | Kalispera |
| Please, and You are welcome | Parakelo |
| Excuse me or sorry | Signomi |
| To our health (Cheers) | Yamas |
| My friend | Fili mou |
| Yes | Nai |
| No | Oxi |
| It’s okay | Endaxi |
| Come or come on | Ela |
| My name is… | Me lene |
| Where is the bathroom? | Pou eínai i toualéta |
| How do I get to…? | Pos pao sto |
| Where does this train/bus go? | Pou paei afto to trno/leoforeio |
| Restaurant | Estiatorio |
| How much? | Poso |
| Do you speak English? | Milas anglika? |
| I do not understand | Den katalavaino |
| I don’t speak Greek | Den milao ellinika |
| I don’t know | Den gnorizo |
| 1 | Ena |
| 2 | Dyo |
| 3 | Tria |
| 4 | Tessera |
| 5 | Pente |
Travelling to Greece will be an experience that you will never forget. This blog has provided the details about the best time to visit Greece. It has also offered essential tips and phrases that will help readers. So, do not wait longer. Start planning and packing and head to this place that reeks of beauty and culture.
FAQs about Best Time to Visit Greece
Do Indians need a visa for Greece?
Yes, Indian citizens need a visa to travel to Greece for tourism or other short-term purposes.
Which month is there snow in Greece?
Snowfall in Greece typically occurs from December to February, especially in mountainous regions like the Pindus Mountains and Mount Olympus.
Which month is good for Greece?
The best time to visit Greece is from April to June and September to October when the weather is pleasant, and the tourist crowds are smaller.
Why is Greece worth visiting?
Greece is worth visiting for its rich history, stunning beaches, ancient ruins, delicious cuisine, and beautiful islands like Santorini and Mykonos.
Is Athens worth visiting?
Yes, Athens is worth visiting for its iconic historical sites like the Acropolis and Parthenon, vibrant neighbourhoods, and rich cultural heritage.
Is Athens hot or cold?
Athens experiences hot summers with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C and mild winters with temperatures averaging around 7°C to 15°C.
Is it safe to go to Athens at night?
Yes, Athens is generally safe to visit at night, but like any major city, it's advisable to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings, especially in less crowded areas or unfamiliar neighbourhoods.
Is Greece good for nightlife?
Yes, Greece offers a vibrant nightlife scene, especially in cities like Athens and on islands like Mykonos, with numerous bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.
What is the speciality of Greece?
Greece is known for its ancient history, stunning islands, delicious Mediterranean cuisine, and contributions to philosophy, democracy, and the arts.
What is the most visited place in Greece?
The most visited place in Greece is Athens, with attractions such as the Acropolis, Parthenon, and the Acropolis Museum drawing millions of tourists each year.
What is the prettiest place in Greece?
One of the prettiest places in Greece is Santorini, known for its stunning sunsets, white-washed buildings, and beautiful views of the Aegean Sea.
What to buy from Greece or Athens?
Popular items to buy from Greece or Athens include olive oil, Greek honey, handmade ceramics, leather goods, and traditional jewellery.
What foods is Greece famous for?
Greece is famous for dishes such as moussaka, souvlaki, tzatziki, spanakopita, and desserts like baklava and loukoumades.
What are 5 facts about Greece?
Here are 5 facts about Greece:
- Greece is considered the cradle of Western civilization and democracy.
- The country has over 6,000 islands, with about 227 inhabited.
- Greek is one of the oldest written languages still in use.
- Greece is home to 18 UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
- The Greek diet, part of the Mediterranean diet, is known for its health benefits.
Is Greece good for shopping?
Yes, Greece offers a variety of shopping experiences, from high-end boutiques in Athens to traditional markets and souvenir shops on the islands.
What is the peak season in Greece?
The peak tourist season in Greece is during the summer months of June to August when the weather is warm and ideal for beach and outdoor activities.
What is the moderate season in Greece?
Greece's moderate seasons are spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October), which offer mild weather and fewer tourists.
What is the off-season in Greece?
The off-season in Greece is during the winter months from November to March, characterised by cooler weather and fewer visitors, except for some winter sports destinations.
What are the hottest and coldest months in Greece?
The hottest months in Greece are usually July and August, with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 33°C. The coldest months are January and February, with temperatures ranging from -3°C to 20°C.
Is winter a good time to visit Greece?
No, some island activities may be limited due to the off-season. However, Winter can be a good time to visit Greece for those interested in cultural experiences, exploring historical sites without crowds, and enjoying lower prices.
Which months does it snow in Greece?
Snowfall in Greece typically occurs from December to February, especially in the mountainous regions.
What month is the rainy season in Greece?
Greece doesn't have a distinct rainy season, but the wettest months are usually November to February, with more rainfall in the western part of the country.
How many days are enough for Greece?
A trip of around 10 to 14 days is generally sufficient to explore major cities like Athens, visit key islands like Santorini and Mykonos, and experience the diverse culture and history of Greece.
Is Greece a tourist-friendly country?
Yes, Greece is known for its tourist-friendly amenities, safe environment, and warm hospitality, making it an ideal destination for visitors from around the world.
What currency to take to Greece?
The currency used in Greece is the Euro (EUR). It's advisable to carry Euros for transactions while visiting Greece.
Is Greece expensive to visit?
Yes but, Greece can be relatively affordable compared to other European destinations, especially if you visit during the shoulder seasons or stay in less touristy areas.
When to go to Athens?
The best time to visit Athens is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) months when the weather is mild, and the tourist crowds are smaller.