Greek Travel Community

Time of year to visit Greece?

1 - 7 of 7 Posts
C

cubrinj

Active member
The tourist season for this year has been over and it's been a while since I've gone. I want to take my family. When is the best time to go? My kids are home schooled so I don't have to worry about that. I’ve heard different opinions depending on the season, so I’m a bit torn. Summer seems to be popular for island hopping and beach days, but I’m worried about the crowds and high prices. On the other hand, spring and fall sound appealing for fewer tourists and pleasant weather, but I’m not sure if everything is open or if I’d miss out on anything special. Winter is also an option, though I know it’s the off-season.

For those who have been to Greece during different times of the year, when would you recommend visiting and why? I’d appreciate any tips or insights!
 
I’ve been to Greece during multiple seasons, and each has its pros and cons depending on what you're looking for. Summer is ideal for island hopping and beach days, but yes, it does come with higher prices and crowds, especially in popular spots like Santorini and Mykonos.

Spring and fall are excellent choices if you prefer fewer tourists and more pleasant temperatures. Everything is usually open, and you'll still experience the beauty of the islands without the hustle and bustle. Plus, it's a great time for outdoor activities and exploring historical sites. Winter is the off-season, and while some islands slow down, mainland destinations like Athens or Thessaloniki are still lively, offering cultural experiences and fewer crowds.

If you’re not tied to a specific time, I’d recommend late spring (May-June) or early fall (September-October) for the best balance of weather, open attractions, and manageable crowds. I'd like to add that Crete, which is further south, has nice beach days through October and maybe even beyond. I was on a beach on Halloween weekend one year on that island.
 
If you can be a bit flexible, spring (late April to June) and early fall (September to October) are honestly some of the best times to hit up Greece. The weather’s still warm enough for beach days, but you avoid the summer crowds and the steeper prices.
Also, if you’re looking to make the flight a bit more chill, take a look at Discount travel business class Flights to score a comfier seat without spending too much.
 
Last edited:
A current update is that I am thinking that the end of September/ beginning of October might be when I go...
 
It’s great that you’re planning ahead for a family trip! Each season has its own charm, so it really depends on your priorities. Summer is fantastic for island hopping and beach days, but you’re right—crowds and higher prices can be a downside. Spring and fall are wonderful for fewer tourists and more pleasant weather, plus they’re often easier on the budget. While some attractions might have limited hours, you’ll likely still find plenty to enjoy. Winter can be peaceful and relaxing during the off-season, especially if you want to explore without the hustle and bustle.

Since you’re flexible with travel dates, business class flights could be a great way to make the journey enjoyable for the whole family. The extra comfort and space will keep everyone happy, no matter the season you choose. Wherever you decide to go, it sounds like a memorable trip is ahead!
 
Spring and early fall are my favorite times to visit Greece great weather and fewer crowds. If you’re planning to explore Crete, renting a car from Cretarent makes it super easy to see the island’s highlights at your own pace.
 
I completely get your dilemma! When we took our kids to Greece last May, it turned out to be the perfect time. The weather was great—warm but not too hot—and we were able to enjoy the sights without the summer crowds. Since your kids are homeschooled, I’d really recommend spring or early fall. It’s less crowded, and the weather is still beautiful.

When I was planning our trip, I put together a simple itinerary to balance some relaxing island time with exploring cultural spots. It worked really well for us, so I thought I’d share it in case it helps with your planning. You can find the details of the Greece itinerary here.

Hope this helps!
 
1 - 7 of 7 Posts
You must log in or register to reply here.

JOIN THE DISCUSSION AND READ OTHER GREEK INFO:

Favorite small towns in Greece?

I realized recently that some of my favorite places in Greece haven’t actually been the major destinations everyone talks about, but smaller towns that just had a completely different atmosphere to them.

Sometimes it’s a mountain village with one main square and old stone houses, other times it’s a tiny coastal town where everyone seems to know each other and life moves slower. A few of the places I still think about most weren’t even places I had originally planned to visit.

I’m curious what small towns or villages have really stayed with people after traveling in Greece. Could be because of the scenery, the food, the people, the history, or just the overall feeling of the place.

Would love to hear everyone’s favorites, especially places that don’t always make the typical travel lists.

A Greek Architect’s Guide to Choosing a Professional CT Limo Service

I’m originally from Greece and work as an architect, and due to a recent job rotation, I’ve relocated to Connecticut for corporate projects. Since I’m still getting familiar with the area, I’ve been researching reliable CT limo service options for business travel, airport transfers, and professional meetings. I’ve noticed there are several technical factors people often overlook, such as fleet maintenance standards, chauffeur training, proper licensing, insurance coverage, and real-time ride tracking, all of which seem important for safety and reliability. I came across Wood Black Car Service during my comparisons, which piqued my curiosity about how different companies manage their operations behind the scenes. For those who regularly use limousine services in Connecticut, what features or standards do you think matter most when choosing a truly professional provider?

Best Way to Get a Car Service to JFK Airport Before a Flight to Greece?

Hi everyone, I'm flying out of JFK next month for a trip to Greece and trying to figure out the best way to get to the airport without the usual stress. My flight leaves early in the morning, and I don't want to deal with parking for two weeks or ask a family member to drive me at 4 a.m. I've been looking into booking a car service to JFK Airport instead of a rideshare, mainly because international flights need more buffer time, and I'd rather have a proper chauffeur waiting curbside than risk a driver cancelling at the last minute with all my luggage in tow. A friend of mine recently used Blue Nile Livery for a JFK run and said her chauffeur showed up early, helped load the bags, and tracked the flight the whole way, so she suggested I try them for this trip too.
I'm still trying to figure out whether it's worth booking the chauffeur service a few days in advance or if that's overkill for a domestic pickup, whether a sedan is fine or if an SUV is smarter given how much luggage most of us end up hauling back and forth to Greece, and if anyone has had a chauffeur reroute or adjust pickup timing because of a flight delay before an international departure. For those of you who fly out of JFK often for trips back to Greece, what's worked best for you, and is there a chauffeur service you'd genuinely recommend for an early morning run like this? Any tips appreciated!

Best Greek Destinations for History Lovers

I’m thinking about planning a Greece trip next year that is focused almost entirely on history, and I’d love some ideas for the best places to include.

Athens would obviously be part of the itinerary for the Acropolis, Ancient Agora, museums, and other archaeological sites. I’m also considering Delphi, Mycenae, Epidaurus, Olympia, and maybe spending more time exploring the Peloponnese. Meteora is on my list too, although that would add a different type of historical experience.

I’m especially interested in places where you can really spend time exploring rather than just stopping briefly to see one major site.

If you were planning a history-focused trip to Greece, which destinations would you consider essential? Are there lesser-known archaeological sites, historic towns, museums, Byzantine sites, or ancient ruins that deserve more attention? I’d also love suggestions for putting together an itinerary without trying to cover too much ground.

Which Greek island feels the least touristy in the summer?

I know that July and August are busy almost everywhere in Greece, especially on the more famous islands, but I’m curious about places that still feel relatively local and relaxed even during peak season.

I’m not necessarily looking for somewhere completely empty. I’d just love an island where you can still find traditional villages, local tavernas, quieter beaches, and a slower pace without feeling like the entire island is built around tourism.

Have you visited an island in the summer that still felt authentic and not overly crowded? I’d especially be interested in places where locals still seem to set the rhythm of daily life rather than visitors.

Which island would you recommend, and what made it feel less touristy to you? Was it the beaches, villages, restaurants, fewer cruise ships, or just the overall atmosphere?
Sign up for a free account and share your thoughts, photos, questions about Greek food, travel and culture!

WorldwideGreeks.com is a free online forum community where people can discuss Greek food, travel, traditions, history and mythology.
Join Worldwide Greeks here!

JOIN COMMUNITY FOR FREE

LOGIN TO YOUR ACCOUNT
Back
Top