Greece in May: Where to Go, What to Do, the Weather & More

Average Temperatures in Athens, Greece: 81°F High • 64°F Low

The weather in Greece in May is pleasant, with mild temperatures and sunny conditions making it an ideal time to visit in spring. Temperatures average around 70°F across most of the country, making May a fantastic time to visit the Greek islands as it is not too hot that spending time on the beaches becomes uncomfortable.

The Aegean Islands and coastal areas like Athens see daily highs up to 81°F. It's slightly cooler in the north and at higher elevations, with Thessaloniki and other northern cities reaching highs in the upper 60s F. There is very little rain in May, and though afternoon showers occasionally occur, the frequent clear skies make May arguably the best month for exploring Greece.

Athens • Best Place for Great Weather

Athens is an excellent destination in May to take advantage of its ideal springtime weather. As the capital and a coastal city, it sees warm temperatures and abundant sunshine. Rain is unlikely, with only a couple of days during the month typically seeing any precipitation.

With comfortable conditions, you can visit the Acropolis and other famous sites without dealing with summer heat or crowds. The pleasant weather also makes exploring the lively neighborhoods like Monastiraki and Plaka on foot comfortable. Athens' nearby beaches become inviting in May as well. It's warm enough for swimming and sunbathing during the long days.

From cultural sites to urban explorations and wandering the coast, Athens offers a variety that's best experienced with the city's great spring weather.

Learn more: Athens and Santorini Vacation Packages & Tours

Crete • Best Place for Families with Children

The island of Crete is a top pick for families visiting Greece in May thanks to its range of kid-friendly activities and weather that’s ideal for the outdoors. The temperatures allow for time at the beach without getting too hot. And there are ample sunny days to experience Crete’s family-oriented activities.

With cultural sites like the Palace of Knossos along with outdoor pursuits like hiking and biking, parents can easily balance education and adventure. The towns of Chania and Rethymno are very walkable and filled with ice cream shops and cafés to please little ones. May also brings Crete’s average rainfall down making outdoor plans reliable.

Learn more: Greece Family Vacations & Tour Packages

Santorini • Best Place for Romantic Scenery

The island of Santorini shines as a romantic destination in May when you can enjoy its iconic scenery without peak season crowds. The temperatures create pleasant days to take in the dazzling views across its caldera and whitewashed villages. With limited rainfall, you can witness Santorini’s famous sunsets over the blue Aegean Sea on most evenings.

During May, the slopes come alive with colorful wildflowers adding to the island’s beauty. With fewer crowds, you and your loved one can unwind at quieter cafés and boutique wineries. Strolling the streets of Oia and Fira also becomes more relaxed. Santorini in May allows you to immerse yourself in its romantic setting minus the peak season buzz.

Learn more: Santorini Vacations, Tours & Trips

Rhodes • Best Place to Avoid the Crowds

The island of Rhodes provides a more peaceful Greek island escape in May before the summer crowds arrive. The pleasant springtime weather and limited rainfall make it ideal for sightseeing without large crowds.

Rhodes Town transports visitors back to medieval times with its walled old town and imposing Palace of the Grand Master. You can wander its cobbled lanes and stop tavernas at a leisurely pace. The island's villages like Lindos also take on a more relaxed atmosphere in May. Rhodes' beaches are less packed, allowing you to enjoy swimming and sunbathing with plenty of space.

Learn more: Rhodes Vacations, Tours & Itineraries

Follow the Stories of Greek Mythology

Tracing the myths and legends of Ancient Greece provides a fascinating lens through which to explore the country. With pleasant May weather, you can comfortably visit the ancient sites featured in these iconic tales.

In Athens, retrace the Minotaur myth at the Palace of Knossos in Crete or explore the landscape where Icarus once flew too close to the sun on the island of Naxos. At the Acropolis, stand upon the hill where Athena battled Poseidon. See the sanctuary of Delphi where Oedipus learned of his fate, or travel to the Oracle at Delos. Mt. Olympus is another mythical site where you can follow in the footsteps of Greek gods.

From the temples of Athens to the islands dotting the seas, Greece's ruins and natural landmarks will bring the rich stories of Greek mythology to life.

Sample the Flavors of Traditional Greek Cuisine

Greece is a feast for the senses, especially the taste buds. The warm days of spring make May an ideal time to savor the bright, fresh flavors of authentic Greek cuisine.

Indulge in meze, like juicy grilled octopus drizzled with lemon and olive oil, or a classic Greek salad bursting with tomatoes, feta, onions, and olives. Order the catch of the day simply grilled at a seaside taverna or handmade dolmades stuffed with rice and herbs. Whip up a batch of tzatziki dip or spanakopita spun from flaky layers of phyllo.

From rustic tavernas in the countryside to upscale restaurants in cities like Athens, Greece offers a culinary journey across its islands and mainland.

Sail between the Greek Islands

For many, sailing through the Greek islands is the quintessential experience. With 3,000 islands dotting the seas, you could spend weeks hopping across the Aegean. May brings ideal conditions for island-hopping under the sails with few rainy days, light winds, and comfortable temperatures.

Cruise to sunny Santorini, lively Mykonos, historic Delos, and more. Spend the days swimming in emerald coves, strolling whitewashed villages, or hiking volcanic cliffs. Then return at night to your boat, falling asleep to gentle ocean waves. For the ultimate sailing adventure, charter a boat to follow routes like the Cyclades to explore these famous islands at your own pace.

Whether looking for a seven-day Greece trip or the perfect way to spend 12 days in Greece, May acts as the opening of resort season while still seeing fewer crowds. As the spring edges into summer, you can find inspiration for your personalized trip with our Greece tours and vacations.

For more ideas and information to help guide your planning, discover our Greece travel guide before speaking to a local travel specialist who can help customize your experience to your interests and needs.