Greece has something for everyone: sun and sand for the beach bums, archeological sites for the culture nerds, delicious cuisine for the foodies. So the best time to visit Greece depends on what you want to do, see, and eat when you make your way to this jewel of the Mediterranean. Like any well-visited destinations, you’ll find that the most popular times of year to go see a lot of foot traffic, which may impact how you experience the place. As such, shoulder- and off-season trips also offer a wealth of good times—and perhaps even cheaper airfare and hotel rates, giving you more cash to spend on stuffed grape leaves at dinnertime.
When is the best time to visit Greece?
If you want a vacation at the beach, late May to early October is the best time to visit Greece, according to Greece.
The water is warmest from July to September, but this is also when tourist season on islands like Mykonos and Santorini are in full swing. If you want to enjoy the sun and sand but avoid the crowds, late May to early June and September is the best time to visit Greece.
Our scheduled day cruises offer unforgettable experiences aboard elegant motor yachts, spacious catamarans, and rib boats exploring the beauty of Greece. Departing from Athens or any island of your choice, you’ll discover private beaches and crystal-clear waters.
When is peak season in Greece?
Peak season in Greece typically runs from mid-June to early September. However, we can safely say that this period has extended from early June to mid-end September in recent years. This is when the weather is warmest, and both tourists and locals take their summer holidays and flock to the popular islands and cities, making it the busiest time of year for travel.
During this period, destinations like Santorini, Mykonos, and Athens are at their most crowded; hotels and flights are often fully booked. Prices for accommodations and services are also at their highest during this time. A summer in Greece is more than worth it.
How many days are enough for a trip to Greece?
If you’re visiting Greece for the first time, try to go for about seven nights for a mix of city and island experiences. With a week, you can comfortably explore Athens in two or three days, spend a couple of days on one or two islands like Santorini for iconic views or Mykonos for beach time and night life, and possibly include a day trip to a key mainland cultural site like Delphi. If you have extra time, an additional stop on the mainland or another island, such as Crete or the Peloponnese, can provide further depth, from archaeological wonders to beautiful natural landscapes.
As someone visiting Greece for the first time, what are the must-visit sites?
When visiting Greece, most international travelers will pass through Athens, which is a must-see for its blend of ancient landmarks and modern vibrancy. Visiting both the Acropolis (where you can see the iconic Parthenon) as well as the Acropolis Museum to learn all about the site; and the neighborhoods of Plaka and Monastiraki for lively streets full of traditional tavernas and local markets,” where you can experience all types of Greek cuisine. Day trips to explore the Athens Riviera by the sea or Aegina island (most close island from Athens) and Moni Islet, are also fantastic idea yacht charter in Greece.
For your island stop, most first-timers head to Santorini for its white-washed buildings, volcanic beaches, and legendary sunsets. A visit to Oia for its iconic sunset and a trip to the Akrotiri archaeological site to see the well-preserved Minoan ruins are essential stops. There’s also Mykonos, of course, which is perhaps best known for its nights of partying and jet-set crowd, also points out its windmills and beautiful beaches.
Looking to celebrate your birthday in Athens?
Are you ready to celebrate yourself and unforgettable birthday party that’s as unique as you are?
Imagine a sophisticated party on board, designed to your specifications, during which you’ll be able to dance, drink, have fun, and all this in a private area of one of the yachts in our fleet that will belong to you for this special day…
Do Americans need a visa for Greece?
According to the US Department of State, “U.S. citizens may enter Greece without a visa for stays of up to 90 days for tourism or business purposes.” That said, remember that travelers who hold passports issued by the United States will need to complete a new travel document prior to traveling to the European Union. The new visa waiver scheme, known as the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) is anticipated to launch this year.
Plan your stay
Where to Eat, Stay, and Have Fun in Athens – Join the most unique Luxury Yacht Parties members club and enjoy fantastic amenities in all hospitality services during your stay in Athens.