Early autumn is one of the best times to visit Greece to experience its charm without the summer rush, making it a popular holiday destination for holidaymakers seeking a more relaxed getaway. With warm, comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds, it’s perfect for exploring the country’s stunning beaches, historical landmarks, and lively culture.
Greece in September and October presents the ideal balance of pleasant weather and tranquillity, making it a top destination to book right now.
Best Times To Visit Greece For Pleasant Weather Without The Summer Heat
During September and October, Greece enjoys warm but more comfortable temperatures, making it an ideal destination for autumn travel. Average daily temperatures in September range from 20 to 28°C, while October offers a pleasant 18 to 24°C.
This milder climate is perfect for enjoying Greece’s stunning beaches, exploring ancient ruins, or embarking on outdoor adventures without the intense heat of the summer months. Regions, from the idyllic Greek Islands to vibrant mainland cities like Athens and Thessaloniki, are popular holiday destinations to visit which still offer beach weather and outdoor activities while avoiding the peak summer crowds.
Quieter Beaches & Attractions
During Greece’s sun-soaked summer, it’s easy to find yourself surrounded by crowds at its most famous beaches and historical landmarks. But early autumn paints a different picture. As the peak season fades, Greece transforms into an idyllic retreat. Picture wandering through the ancient ruins of Delphi or standing before the Acropolis in Athens, with fewer people and more space to fully absorb the history and grandeur.
On the beaches, the energy shifts too, offering quieter moments where you can truly unwind and appreciate the natural beauty, without the typical buzz of summer tourists. Late in the year is one of the best times to visit Greece and explore locations such as Corfu, which are particularly appealing this time of year. Corfu’s stunning beaches, like Rovinia and Glyfada, become quieter while maintaining a lively cultural atmosphere.
Beyond the beaches, Corfu’s Old Town is a must-see in the autumn months. A UNESCO World Heritage site, its Venetian architecture and maze-like alleyways invite slow exploration. Visitors can soak in the island’s rich history without the summer crowds, browse local shops, and enjoy a leisurely meal at a taverna while watching the day unfold in this historic, charming setting.
Fine Dining & Exclusive Culinary Experiences
Early autumn is one of the best times to visit Greece to explore its rich food culture while enjoying the country’s many luxury offerings. The warm, pleasant weather invites diners to enjoy meals al fresco, with fewer crowds and more availability at some of the country’s most exclusive restaurants.
In Athens, the Michelin-starred Tudor Hall offers an unforgettable dining experience, where modern interpretations of Greek cuisine are paired with stunning views of the Acropolis. Known for its innovative dishes and elegant setting, Tudor Hall is a must for anyone seeking a refined journey through Greece’s traditional flavours.
Beyond Athens, the Greek islands offer luxurious culinary experiences with an emphasis on fresh, locally sourced seafood and farm-to-table meals. Santorini’s cliffside restaurants, for example, combine breathtaking sunset views with gourmet dining and blend Mediterranean cuisine with contemporary flair.
Autumn also marks harvest season, making it an excellent time to partake in wine tours and tastings, especially in regions like Crete and the Peloponnese, where wineries offer intimate experiences for wine connoisseurs.
Popular Holiday Destinations For Outdoor Adventures & Sightseeing
The mild autumn weather at the end of the year makes it one of the best times to visit Greece to enjoy outdoor adventures without the intense summer heat. Hiking enthusiasts will find ideal conditions to explore some of the country’s most scenic trails, such as the awe-inspiring Samaria Gorge in Crete, a stunning 16-kilometre trek that winds through dramatic landscapes.
As well as hiking, there are plenty of other land-based activities to try in Greece including horseback riding, climbing, and mountain biking. Tourists can enjoy horseback riding in locations like Mount Pelion, home to the mythical Centaurs according to Greek mythology. There’s also plenty of countryside scenery to take in while exploring Rethymno by bike.
For those interested in history and culture, Greece has many museums and sites to explore in popular holiday destinations. Holidaymakers can book private guided tours of ancient sites like the Acropolis or Delphi providing a more exclusive and immersive experience, with the added benefit of beating the summer crowds.
If you’re seeking a luxurious getaway, private yacht charters are an excellent way to explore the Greek islands in style. Sailing around the iconic Cyclades, you’ll have exclusive access to secluded beaches and hidden coves, all while enjoying the serenity of the Aegean Sea. The islands of Mykonos and Crete are also home to exclusive resorts offering spa treatments, yoga sessions, and holistic therapies designed to refresh and rejuvenate both body and mind.
Cultural Festivals & Local Experiences
Early autumn in Greece is a vibrant time for cultural festivals and local events, offering visitors a unique opportunity to experience the country's traditions and heritage firsthand. September and October bring a more authentic and intimate look at Greek life, with festivals celebrating everything from music and art to food and wine.
One of the most notable celebrations during this period is the Athens International Film Festival, held in early October. This prestigious event showcases the best in international cinema and provides a fantastic cultural experience for visitors to the capital. If you’re a film fan, there are plenty of other great film festivals to see in Greece late in the year including the Thessaloniki International Film Festival.
Meanwhile, on the islands and in rural areas, the harvest season is in full swing, with grape festivals in wine-producing regions like Nemea and Crete, where you can partake in wine tastings and experience the excitement of the grape harvest.
In northern Greece, Thessaloniki also hosts the Dimitria Festival from September to October, a cultural extravaganza featuring theatre, dance, music, and visual arts. It’s the perfect way to immerse yourself in the local artistic scene. For a more traditional experience, many villages hold smaller, local festivals celebrating patron saints, where tourists are welcomed to join in the festivities, dance, and enjoy home-cooked meals.
