Best Places in Greece to Visit in May or September?

[voula_slat]

I love to travel to Greece in May and September. They're beautiful months that have great weather and decreased crowds. I'd love your recommendations.

I’m open to anything—mainland gems, lesser-known islands, cultural hotspots, foodie towns, or places with beautiful nature. I’ve been to Athens and Santorini already, so I’d love to explore somewhere new that really shines in spring or early fall.

Do you find the beaches still swimmable in late September? And are most restaurants, tavernas, and attractions still open then? What about May—does everything feel “awake,” or is it still quiet?

 

[k_tsoukalas]

May and September are my absolute favorite months in Greece too—perfect temps, blooming nature in spring, golden light in fall, and fewer tourists! In late September, the sea is still warm from summer, so yes, swimming is still very much a thing. Most tavernas and shops stay open through September, especially in popular or semi-popular spots. May is a little quieter, especially on smaller islands, but it still feels “awake” and fresh, especially from mid-May on.

For May, I highly recommend Nafplio—a stunning Peloponnesian town with history, charm, and great nearby ruins like Mycenae and Epidaurus. In September, head to the island of Naxos or Sifnos—both offer gorgeous beaches, charming villages, and great food without the heavy crowds of July/August.

If you're into nature, consider Zagori in Epirus or the Pelion peninsula—amazing for hiking, lush landscapes, and truly local experiences. So many gems beyond the big-name destinations!

 

[cretarentcarrental]

May and September are amazing for Crete—perfect weather and fewer crowds. I explored the island by car from https://cretarent.gr/ and it was the best way to see beaches, mountains, and villages at my own pace. Totally recommend!

 

[WillC.]

I love to travel to Greece in May and September. They're beautiful months that have great weather and decreased crowds. I'd love your recommendations.

I’m open to anything—mainland gems, lesser-known islands, cultural hotspots, foodie towns, or places with beautiful nature. I’ve been to Athens and Santorini already, so I’d love to explore somewhere new that really shines in spring or early fall.

Do you find the beaches still swimmable in late September? And are most restaurants, tavernas, and attractions still open then? What about May—does everything feel “awake,” or is it still quiet?

I'd recommend Crete to anybody and especially if you haven't been there. It has everything. As busy or as peacefull as you like and with so much history and sights/sites to see. I'm in Kato Stalos at the moment, up a hill, looking out to sea. Been coming to Western Crete since the 1980s.

Good tavernas; nightlife along the coast at Agia Marina/Platanias. The beauty of Chania - the finest city in Greece and with a beautifull harbour and the old town at about 600 years old and much of it intact. Lots of great tavernas/great food and you'd never get bored. Nightlife if you want it. Read up on Western Crete and it's many, many attractions and its history. Glorious beaches, too.

May and September are both good times in Greece's most southerly island - and the sea is warmer in September than in May (but in May it's ok). Things are 'waking up' in May and September is still busyish.

I 've been renting cars from Art Car Rentals for the past 14 years. A Cretan family firm. Nice people and no rip off on prices or service. https://art-carrentals-crete.com/

 

[jenn]

I visited Loutraki last September and loved it! Three days filled with a stunning Corinth Canal cruise, relaxing thermal springs, swimming at Lake Vouliagmeni, and exploring Ancient Corinth. The sea was still warm, places were open, and the town had a charming, local vibe. Here’s my itinerary to Loutraki, Greece—perfect for a laid-back getaway!