The Worst Time To Visit Greece (Unbearable Summer Heat)

Are you dreaming of a sunny escape to Greece but not sure if it is the right timing for your trip?

You’re not alone. Each season in Greece offers something different — from fewer crowds in some places to improved prices at certain properties.

So, when is the worst time to visit this beautiful country? We’ll get into that shortly! But first, let’s explore some of what makes visiting Greece so special throughout the year.

Soaring mountains provide a perfect backdrop and appeal to outdoor adventurers who want more than just beach life on vacation.

With so much exciting history in each region along with excellent hospitality, delicious local food options and stunningly diverse natural beauty; there’s no wonder why Greeks hold such immense pride for their incredible country.

Let’s take a closer look at the best times – and worst times – to visit Greece before planning your holiday this summer!

Greece Months Weather Pattern: Exploring Each Month

Here’s a breakdown of the weather in Greece, month by month:

January

• Weather: Winter in Greece, with temperatures averaging around 50°F (10°C). Rainfall is common.
• Tourism: Off-peak season, many attractions and islands experience reduced hours or closures.
• Events: New Year’s Day celebrations, Epiphany (Theofania) on January 6th with traditional blessings of waters.
• Advantages: Lower prices, fewer crowds, authentic local experiences in less touristy areas.
• Considerations: Limited outdoor activities, some attractions closed, weather not ideal for beach visits.

February

• Weather: Still winter with similar temperatures to January. Chance of rain continues.
• Tourism: Tourism remains low; some islands begin to prepare for the upcoming season.
• Events: Carnival celebrations across the country, with Patras Carnival being one of the most famous.
• Advantages: Festive atmosphere during Carnival, ideal for cultural experiences, cheaper travel.
• Considerations: Cold weather, limited beach activities, fewer tourist services available.

March

• Weather: Transition to spring begins, temperatures rise to around 57°F (14°C). More sunshine.
• Tourism: Moderate, especially towards the end of the month. Some attractions may reopen.
• Events: Clean Monday (Kathara Deftera), the start of Lent, celebrated with outdoor picnics and kite flying.
• Advantages: Comfortable weather for sightseeing, blooming landscapes, fewer tourists than peak season.
• Considerations: Some attractions still closed, not warm enough for swimming.

April

• Weather: Spring fully arrives, temperatures around 64°F (18°C). Rainfall decreases.
• Tourism: Start of the tourist season, most attractions and islands become fully operational.
• Events: Greek Orthodox Easter, celebrated with unique traditions, including midnight church services and feasting.
• Advantages: Pleasant weather, vibrant festivals, blossoming flowers, ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
• Considerations: Increasing crowds, prices begin to rise, Easter can be busy.

May

• Weather: Spring continues with temperatures around 72°F (22°C). Dry and sunny days become common.
• Tourism: Increasing numbers of tourists, but not as crowded as peak summer months.
• Events: Labor Day on May 1st, many locals take extended weekends.
• Advantages: Warm and pleasant weather, beaches become more inviting, pre-peak season crowds.
• Considerations: Popular destinations can still get crowded, prices rising.

June

• Weather: Early summer with temperatures around 81°F (27°C). Dry and sunny weather.
• Tourism: Beginning of the peak tourist season, many attractions and islands experience high demand.
• Events: Numerous cultural festivals and local celebrations.
• Advantages: Beautiful weather, lively atmosphere, open-air events and festivities.
• Considerations: Crowds and high prices, popular islands can become crowded.

July

• Weather: High summer with temperatures around 86°F (30°C). Hot and dry weather.
• Tourism: Peak tourist season, many islands and beaches are at their busiest.
• Events: Numerous cultural events, concerts, and festivals.
• Advantages: Beach-friendly weather, vibrant nightlife, ideal for outdoor activities.
• Considerations: Crowded beaches, long lines at attractions, high accommodation prices.

August

• Weather: Continued high summer with temperatures around 86°F (30°C). Dry and warm conditions.
• Tourism: Peak of the tourist season, many popular destinations are extremely crowded.
• Events: Local festivals and events continue, including traditional feasts.
• Advantages: Ideal beach weather, lively atmosphere, outdoor events and parties.
• Considerations: Overcrowded attractions, difficulty finding accommodation, high prices.

September

• Weather: Late summer with temperatures around 81°F (27°C). Weather starts to cool down.
• Tourism: High season tapers off, crowds decrease compared to July and August.
• Events: Wine festivals and cultural events celebrating the harvest season.
• Advantages: Warm weather, fewer tourists, more affordable accommodations.
• Considerations: Some tourist services might start to wind down, not as lively as peak summer.

October

• Weather: Early fall with temperatures around 72°F (22°C). More rainfall compared to summer.
• Tourism: Shoulder season, fewer tourists, more serene travel experience.
• Events: Ochi Day on October 28th, celebrating Greece’s refusal to surrender during World War II.
• Advantages: Comfortable weather for sightseeing, lower prices, autumn foliage.
• Considerations: Some attractions may reduce operating hours, increased chance of rain.

November

• Weather: Late fall with temperatures around 64°F (18°C). More rainfall and occasional storms.
• Tourism: Off-peak season, fewer visitors, many island services may be limited.
• Events: Greek Independence Day on November 17th, marked by parades and celebrations.
• Advantages: Quiet travel experience, lower prices, chance to experience local culture.
• Considerations: Limited tourist services, weather can be unpredictable.

December

• Weather: Winter returns with temperatures around 54°F (12°C). Rainfall and occasional storms.
• Tourism: Off-peak season, many attractions and islands may have reduced hours or be closed.
• Events: Christmas and New Year’s Eve celebrations, festive markets.
• Advantages: Festive atmosphere, authentic local experiences, lower prices.
• Considerations: Cold weather, some tourist services closed, limited outdoor activities.

What’s the worst time to visit Greece?

Greece is a highly sought-after tourist destination that attracts millions of visitors from around the world every year.

However, there are certain times of the year when the country might not be the ideal place to visit.

If you are planning a trip to Greece, you should be aware that the worst time to visit the country is during the peak summer months, which are July and August.

During these months, the temperatures soar to extreme levels, reaching up to 40°C (104°F) or even higher.

The intense heat and the humidity can make it unbearable to stay outdoors for long periods, causing heat exhaustion, dehydration, and other related health issues.

Moreover, the crowds at tourist spots are overwhelming, and you might have to wait in long lines to access popular attractions.

Reasons why summer might be considered the worst time to visit Greece:

There are several reasons why summer might be considered the worst time to visit Greece.

High Temperatures:

• Greece experiences scorching temperatures during the summer months, especially in July and August.
• The heat can make outdoor activities uncomfortable and even risky for some travelers.

Crowds and Tourist Overload:

• Summer is the peak tourist season in Greece, leading to overcrowded attractions, beaches, and popular destinations.
• Long lines, congested streets, and limited accommodation options can diminish the overall travel experience.

Elevated Prices:

• Due to high demand, prices for accommodations, flights, and even basic goods can be significantly inflated during the summer.
• This can strain travel budgets and make the trip more expensive than other times of the year.

Limited Authenticity:

• The influx of tourists during summer can impact the authenticity of local experiences, as some areas may cater more to tourists’ preferences than offering genuine cultural encounters.
• Some traditional events and festivals may also be altered or diluted for the tourist market.

Environmental Impact:

• The surge in tourism during summer can strain local resources and infrastructure, potentially leading to increased waste, energy consumption, and water usage.
• Popular natural sites might suffer from overcrowding and environmental degradation.

Things to consider during the worst time (Summer Months) of visiting Greece:

Here are main considerations to keep in mind when visiting Greece during the peak summer months (July and August):

Crowds:

• Tourist Attractions: Popular sites can become extremely crowded, leading to long lines and wait times.
• Beaches: Beaches, especially well-known ones, can get crowded, limiting space for relaxation.
• Restaurants and Cafes: Popular dining establishments might have longer wait times for tables due to higher demand.
• Local Events: Festivals and events may draw large crowds, impacting accessibility and local experiences.
• Mitigation: Plan visits to attractions during off-peak hours to avoid the rush. Opt for lesser-known beaches for a quieter experience. Make reservations for dining or explore local eateries.

Accommodation:

• Limited Availability: High demand can lead to a shortage of available accommodations, particularly in sought-after areas.
• Higher Prices: Accommodation rates tend to rise during peak season, affecting your budget.
• Variety: Limited availability might restrict your choice of accommodations to what’s left.
• Booking Timing: Waiting until the last minute might result in fewer options and higher costs.
• Mitigation: Book accommodations well in advance to secure your preferred options and potentially get better rates. Consider staying slightly outside the busiest areas for more choices.

Heat:

• High Temperatures: July and August are characterized by scorching temperatures, especially in inland regions.
• Sun Exposure: Prolonged sun exposure can lead to sunburn and heat-related illnesses.
• Outdoor Activities: Strenuous outdoor activities might become challenging due to the heat.
• Hydration: Staying hydrated is crucial to avoid dehydration and heat exhaustion.
• Mitigation: Stay hydrated by carrying water with you. Wear lightweight and breathable clothing, use sunscreen, and plan indoor activities or beach visits during the hottest parts of the day.

Transportation:

• Traffic Congestion: Roads can become congested due to increased tourist and local traffic.
• Public Transit: Public transportation systems can be busier than usual, leading to potential delays.
• Island Ferries: Ferry schedules might be influenced by weather conditions and high demand.
• Airport Crowds: Airports can experience higher passenger volumes, leading to longer check-in and security lines.
• Mitigation: Plan for extra travel time when moving between destinations. Consider booking transportation tickets in advance to secure your preferred times.

Local Traditions and Businesses:

• Business Closures: August is a popular time for locals to take their vacations, leading to some businesses temporarily closing.
• Limited Services: Some services, like local tours or shops, might operate with reduced hours or availability.
• Local Experience: Fewer locals might be around, affecting the authenticity of your cultural interactions.
• Festivals and Events: Some cultural events might not be as lively due to locals being away.
• Mitigation: Research local schedules and plan accordingly. Embrace the chance to experience the quieter side of a destination, and explore local festivities that are still taking place.

By considering these factors and taking proactive measures to mitigate their impacts, you can make the most of your trip to Greece even during the bustling summer months.

Conclusion

Greece, with its enchanting landscapes, fascinating history, and vibrant culture, remains a captivating destination year-round.

However, understanding the potential downsides of certain times of the year can help you plan a more enjoyable and stress-free trip.

Whether it’s battling the winter chill, navigating the August tourist rush, accommodating the siesta culture, or working around public holidays, each period has its own challenges.

By making informed decisions, you can make the most of your visit to Greece and create unforgettable memories without unnecessary inconveniences.

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