Greece has a mild Mediterranean climate with hot, balmy summers and cold, wet winters. On the mainland, summer temps can climb to a stifling 32-37°C, so you'll typically find both locals and tourists seeking refuge and a cool breeze on the Greek islands between June and August. In the northern parts of the country, a dusting of snow isn't unusual in the mountains.
Weather in Athens
Greece's capital city experiences scorching summers, with temperatures reaching up to 40°C with little to no cloud cover. Although you'll typically see a decline in visitors at the more popular sites during this time, it's worth checking that your accommodation has air conditioning before booking a trip.
Athens is as pleasant as it gets in the spring and autumn, with mild temperatures perfect for exploring ruins. Winter weather is typically cold and wet, and though the city gets less rainfall than northern cities, the sky is often cloudy and gray from November to February.
MONTH |
AVERAGE HIGH |
AVERAGE LOW |
March to May |
21°C/70°F |
12°C/54°F |
June to August |
33°C/91°F |
21°C/70°F |
September to November |
24°C/75°F |
15°C/59°F |
December to February |
14°C/57°F |
7°C/45°F |
Weather in the Greek Islands
The weather on the Greek Islands is sunny and balmy most of the year, especially in The Cyclades Islands, located in the Aegean Sea. The Cyclades chain (which includes Santorini, Paros, Mykonos, Ios, Naxos and Folegandros) is super popular with holidaymakers in the summer months of June-August due to plentiful sun and warm waters.
The islands are usually breezier and provide a great refuge from the sky-high temps on the mainland. Winters are generally rainy and windy, and many local businesses and services start closing for winter around late October.
MONTH |
AVERAGE HIGH |
AVERAGE LOW |
March to May |
19°C/66°F |
12°C/54°F |
June to August |
27°C/81°F |
22°C/72°F |
September to November |
22°C/72°F |
16°C/61°F |
December to February |
15°C/59°F |
9°C/48°F |
Click to return to Greece FAQs
Read more about the best time to visit Greece
Read more about what to wear on a Greece trip
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