Greece is a wonderful country to visit all year long. Its best known for its islands and beaches. It is considered by most people a summer destination. However, autumn in Greece has a special charm you won't find anywhere else.
Autumn in Greece is one of the most wonderful times of the year. The weather is perfect for exploring, and there are plenty of festivals and events to experience.
Let's dive into the top 5 reasons to book your holiday in Greece this autumn.
Fantastic weather:
Greece can get very hot during summer. The average temperature in Athens is around 27 degrees Celsius (80 degrees Fahrenheit), but temperatures may reach 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit) or higher. The air quality is also very poor and can make breathing difficult.
Needless to say that activities like hiking or walking around Athens are confined to early morning or afternoon or may be altogether out of the question during a heat wave. During autumn, though, the weather is cool enough to be outside all day but warm enough to enjoy swimming and water sports.
On top of it, the sunsets are even more beautiful, and the sea is also calmer in autumn, and it's a perfect time to go sailing or simply a romantic boat ride.
Better prices:
While ferries and restaurants will probably have the same prices as in the high season, the accommodation prices can vary tremendously, and it's not uncommon to find accommodation of all types at prices as much as 70%!
Hotels are looking for ways to make their rooms more affordable in the fall. With the same budget to get a mid-range room in August, you can enjoy a more comfortable room in September and October.
photo from Anna Kloots
Fewer crowds:
Whether you plan to visit a museum, spend a day at the beach, or dine in the cute tavern, you spotted during high season. You have to account for crowds, long queues, and mandatory reservations.
Almost everything is open for business during the fall, but it's much easier to get around.
Personally, l can't think of a greater luxury than having the beach to myself and then popping into whatever restaurant l feel like without having to make complicated plans ahead.
Whether you are visitng the big cities or the beach you will encounter fewer crowds
Amazing nature & cultural events:
Autumn is the olive and grape harvest season in Greece. If you have the opportunity to experience either of those, you will not regret it.
For a more urban getaway, autumn is when you can get to know the two major cities, Athens and Thessaloniki. Walk around their neighborhoods, shop with Greek designers, dip into their numerous museums and galleries, and discover the night scene.
Two popular cultural events in Greece in autumn are the two major Film Festivals. They focus on art films and other independent movies, attracting hundreds of Greeks and foreign visitors.
The Athens Festival happens in late September / early October where dozens of new movies are presented each year.
The Thessaloniki International Film Festival takes place in November. Apart from independent movies, you can also see a range of documentaries.
Olive and Vine
A more relaxed atmosphere:
While Greeks are friendly and sociable, during the crazy days of July and August, everyone is usually stressed, tired and overworked. After everything settles down, it's much easier to mingle with locals and experience the culture. Whatever you do, you'll do it like a local.
Photo from @katemyday_
FAQs
What is the best month to visit?
If swimming is a priority from September to mid-October. October and November are also great if you plan to hike or explore the bigger cities.
What are the usual temperatures?
The average temperature around the country ranges between 20 and 26 degrees. Sunset is around 19.00 – 19.30, giving you plenty of daylight without the summer heatwaves.
October and November are cooler, as temperatures drop to about 15 to 20 degrees. Still, they are warm in many country areas, like Crete or Rhodes. You may also get a few days of rain.
Can l still swim?
Most likely you will find the water to be warmer than you expect and definitely warmer than if you were vsiting in the Srpint. Most travellers will enjoy swimming in the sea in Greece in September and much of October. November will be cold for many travelers, but it depends on where you are coming from and which part are you visiting.
What to pack?
Below you will find my go to light traveller's list for about a week long trip
- 2-3 tank tops/t-shirts
- One pair of shorts or short skirt
- 2 dresses, one casual one dressier
- 1 light jacket
- 2 bikinis
- 5 pieces of underwear
- 2 bras
- A pair of leggings
- 1 pair of comfortable walking shoes or hiking shoes if you plan to explore the trials
- 1 pair of slides
- 1 pair of dressier sandals
- 1 hat
- 1 scarf
Conclusion
I hope that l have tempted you to consider an autumn visit to Greece. With great weather, bargain prices, breathtaking nature and so much going on, you will be happy you booked your holiday on this time of the year.
