Greece is a Mediterranean country with plenty of appealing attractions for travelers, whether they want to go back in history, nosh on the foods of the gods, or relax beachside. While the capital of Greece, Athens, provides both ancient ruins and modern hotspots, the Greek islands offer luxurious beaches and adventure activities such as hang-gliding and kayaking. Many of the popular places to visit in Greece can be found in the city of Athens. The Acropolis attracts millions of visitors every year, and the Parthenon, a temple dedicated to the goddess Athena, is the largest temple of classical antiquity. The Temple of Olympian Zeus, Hadrian's Arch, and the National Archaeological Museum are only a few of the must-see historical sites. The city's famed nightlife includes traditional Greek music, dance clubs, and music venues. There are more than 200 inhabited Greek islands, and the landscapes and activities they provide are varied. Santorini, for example, offers picture-perfect views of its caldera, whitewashed houses, and wineries. Mykonos, meanwhile, has pristine beaches and happening nightlife to entertain guests all day and night. Flights to Greece may land in Athens International Airport, but some islands also have runways, such as Mykonos Island National Airport and Santorini Island National Airport.

Greece is a year-round destination with four seasons of relatively temperate weather. The summer months are the warmest, but winter temperatures only drop to the low 50s. Still, most travelers come in July or August, rendering other times favorable with fewer crowds, pleasant weather, and often lower prices.

high season: mid-June to September
low season: November to mid--April
shoulder season: mid-April to mid--June, October

Weather Information

Greece enjoys a Mediterranean climate of temperate weather, plenty of sunshine, and minimal rain. Summer's warm temperatures are cooled by soft breezes, and in August, the meltemi, or high gusts of wind, will blow. The mountains generally experience cooler weather. During the winter, the lowland regions receive a small amount of snow and ice, while snow typically covers the mountainous areas.

Crowd Information

The summers in Greece are filled with festivals that attract visitors from all over the world. During July and August, the mayors and organizations of every small town host open-air cinemas and festivals, such as the Athens and the Epidaurus festivals.

Closure Information

Vacation resorts stay open from April through October, then close for winter. However, Crete still attracts many visitors during the winter months, so shops and hotels there remain open. Many hotels in small towns throughout Greece also remain open year-round.

When to Save

The most expensive time to visit Greece is in July and August. Prices are lower from September through October and May through June. The best deals can be found during the winter months, except for the Christmas and New Year's holidays.

Information provided by Greek National Tourism Organisation

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