Best Time to Visit the Greek Islands

Best Months: May • June • July • August • September • October

The Greek Islands promise gorgeous beaches, with vibrant colors and crystal-clear waters, and the best time to visit is between late May and early October.

From the famous coastline of Mykonos to the rainbow-colored shores of Santorini, explore some of the 15 Best Beaches in Greece on Mykonos and Santorini Vacations during the sunny summer months of June, July, and August. You can also visit the secluded corners of Crete on Athens, Santorini, and Crete Itineraries & Vacations or find refuge in the serene shelters of Corfu on Corfu Vacations, Tours & Itineraries during the best times to go to the islands.

The crowds and heat swell between July and August, but you can still find the right beaches for you when visiting in late spring and warm summer.

Learn more: Greece Vacations in July

Best Months: April • May • June • September • October • November

The best time for sightseeing across the Greek Islands is from April to June or September to November.

On the edges of summer, they retain their warmth and charm, without the heat and crowds growing in the depths of July and August. Sightseeing on the islands can give you the perfect sunset, unveil boutique shops, give you a more authentic look at island culture, or highlight the wonders of ancient ruins.

Explore the 10 Best Greek Islands to Visit during June or combine your stay at the 6 Best Places to Visit in Greece with the picturesque isles during more of the best times to visit for sightseeing.

Learn more: Greece Tours & Vacations in June

Best Months: April • May • June • July • August • September • October • November

Greece has a long, warm season, with the best time for sailing around the Greek Islands lasting from April to November.

Across the Mediterranean Sea, you can discover flowers blossoming in spring, the waters glistening in summer, and the snorkeling perfect in the fall, experiencing many of the Top 7 Things to Do in Greece that revolve around sailing the seas.

With plenty of sunshine and the promise of active exploration or quiet relaxation, you can enjoy the sea breeze and find opulent harbors, secluded marinas, or the expanse of open water on a day trip or an island excursion that lasts weeks.

Best Months: May • June • September • October

The best time to visit the Greek Islands with family is from May to June or September to October when the weather is hot, but still comfortable for sightseeing.

With smaller crowds and warm days, you and your kids can enjoy the 8 Best Islands to Visit in Greece with Family, uncovering rich archeological history, sailing the waters, or hiking the mountains.

When visiting the Greek Islands as a family in early summer and early autumn, you can embrace the best of land, sea, culture, and communities at your preferred pace, enjoying the Top 6 Things to Do in Greece with Family.

Learn more: Greece Family Vacations & Tour Packages • Greece Family Travel Guide

Best Months: April • May • June • July • August • September • October • November

The best time to visit the Greek Islands for a romantic trip or honeymoon is from April to November.

The Greek Islands are diverse and enchanting, places where you can get lost in ancient villages, discover opulent seaside promenades, enjoy a sunset cruise, or sample wine while overlooking panoramic cliffs. These are just a few of the things to do on 11 Most Romantic Things to Do in Greece for Couples.

When visiting the 10 Most Romantic Places in Greece for Couples on a trip from spring to fall, you can experience the difference in the seasons and island cultures as you lounge on the beach in the peak of August or find peaceful solitude at the edge of November.

Learn more: Romantic Greece Tours & Vacations for Couples • Greece Honeymoons Packages & Vacations

Best Months: April • May • June • July

In spring and summer, the Greek Islands soak up the Mediterranean sunlight. As the weather warms from spring to summer, crowds grow until they peak in July and August.

Whether looking for the perfect beach or excited to walk the unearthed streets of an ancient city once covered in volcanic ash, you can find the best ways to enjoy the Greek Islands in spring and summer according to your preferences.

Activities: Beaches • Sailing • Snorkeling • Cooking classes • Wine tasting • Sightseeing • Ancient ruin tours • Hiking • Shopping

Learn more: Greece Tours in April

Best Months: October • November • December • January

In fall and winter, the Greek Islands become a quiet escape in contrast to the more popular summer months. You can still enjoy warm water as the weather cools or explore beyond the beaches to experience more authentic culture and history.

From islands famous for ancient ruins to villages celebrated for their art galleries, you can find the best way to discover the Greek Islands in the fall and winter, according to your preferences, with an array of possible activities.

Activities: Sailing • Cooking classes • Sightseeing • Ancient-ruin tours • Hiking • Shopping • Horseback riding

The best time to visit the Greek isles can show you an entirely new side of island heritage, pristine coastline, or essential activities you can experience on Greek Island Hopping Itineraries & Vacation Packages.

Whether eager to absorb the panoramas along the cliffs of Santorini or bask on the beaches of Corfu, you can find the right time for your visit based on how you prefer to discover the islands, with insight in our Greece Travel Guide.