Many travellers would agree that visiting Greece in May and June is your best bet to take advantage of the beaches and beat the heat and the crowds. During the winter, hotels and restaurants at many small island resorts close, so if you come early in the season, you'll get their full attention and experience legendary Greek hospitality.
You can visit the islands of the Aegean and the Ionian sea—Donoussa, Schinoussa, Kimolos, Halki, Kastelorizo—by ferry or boat. They resume operations after the winter with maximum capacity. Enjoy water activities at Perivolos in Santorini, Psarou, Paradise and Paranga in Mykonos, the Athenian Riviera, Lefkada, Rhodes, and Halkidiki.
September and October mark the end of beach season and prices drop, but the weather is still great and there is still plenty of sun. It's a great time to visit touristic places such as Santorini without the crowds.
Practical info
When is the best time to visit Greece to enjoy the beaches?
Greece offers beautiful beaches, and the best time to visit is between May and October. During May and June, the crowd is minimal, and the prices are lower. September and October are also fantastic months because prices are relatively low, and the weather is lovely. These months offer fantastic opportunities to visit popular destinations like Santorini without a lot of crowds or tourists. As it is a popular place, you'll find great hospitality, including hotels, restaurants, and other facilities. Show more
What are some of the lesser-known islands to visit in Greece?
Greek Islands are perfect for natural beauty, and a lot of lesser-known islands give an extraordinary experience to visitors. Kimolos, Schinoussa, and Donoussa are the islands that attract few tourists and have minimal ferries. Kastelorizo is a marvelous island situated on the southern coast of Turkey that has unique architecture, stunning harbor, and sense of isolation. Halki has amazing and clean beaches, intriguing town, and laid-back charm, thus making it a top choice for people looking for a relaxed atmosphere. Show more
Where are the best places to participate in water activities in Greece?
Greece offers various activities for water-sport enthusiasts, and many places have fantastic facilities for these activities. The best places to participate in these water activities include Santorini and Mykonos. Santorini has crystal-clear waters and a black volcanic beach, while Psarou, Paradise, and Paranga are famous for their water sports on Mykonos Island. The beaches of Halkidiki are ideal for families to enjoy swimming, water skiing, and sea kayaking. Athens Riviera, Lefkada, and Rhodes are also excellent options, with popular windsurfing destinations. Show more
What is the peak visiting season in Greece?
Peak tourism season in Greece starts in June and continues until August. Pre-booking is essential during this period because it is the busiest time in Greece and all the popular destinations will be crowded. During peak season, some areas' temperatures may become scorching hot, but the weather's beauty makes up for this. Generally, it's best to visit during May, September, or October—the best time to avoid crowds and the high prices that come with peak tourism season. During this period, you will still enjoy the beautiful weather and great services at lower prices. Show more
What are some activities to enjoy in Greece during the off-season?
Visiting Greece during the off-season offers a multitude of opportunities with fewer tourists and a calmer atmosphere. You could look at visiting museums and festivals or spend the winter season enjoying classical music events and visiting Christmas markets. Greece has many winter destinations that offer fantastic outdoor activities like skiing, canoeing, or hiking, including Metsovo, Pelion, and Zagori regions. Finally, the thermal baths and spas in towns such as Kamena Voura, Edipsos, and Loutraki are also very popular to visit during off-season. Show more
