Greece in October: An Autumn Weather Escape

Whether picking olives in Kalamata or digging your toes deep into the black sand at Santorini, a trip to Greece in October is an attractive holiday escapade. After the scorching months of July and August, the country heaves a sigh of relief as the pleasant weather takes over in October. The tourist crowd retreats, the sun is kinder, and winter rains are still a month away. With fewer people, fantastic water temperature, clear skies, and lower rates, Greek Islands like Mykonos, Corfu, and Kefalonia beckon budget travelers. Enjoy their myriad highlights like the beautiful Balkan lakes, historical fortresses, internationally acclaimed boutiques, and picturesque alleys.

GREECE WEATHER IN OCTOBER

Come October, the Greek capital of Athens has shrugged off its summer title of being the hottest European capital city and cooled down amply. With average temperatures ranging from 15°C at night to daytime highs of 25°C, and very little rain, it is an apt time for outdoor excursions to Athens. Temperatures on the Greek Islands like Santorini, Mykonos, and Kefalonia sit a little cooler than Athens, with average highs of 18 to 21°C, perfect for unwinding on secluded beaches, outdoor sightseeing, and catching the magical sunsets. Generally, the weather in Greece in October is warm — not too hot — and days are still long, ideal to pack in plenty in a day.

WHY VISIT GREECE IN OCTOBER

Lower prices: October falls right in the middle of the autumnal shoulder season when tourist demands plummet. This drop hugely affects prices, from international flight tickets to domestic transits, from hotel rates to activity tickets.

Fewer crowds: Summer cruise ships have sailed away, and the country's schools have also reopened. That means you can escape the twin troubles of overseas and local crowds and devote time to any experience or leisure with zero hassle or hustle.

Swimming: Though it is not as warm as in high summer months, water temperatures are still inviting, hovering between 20°C to 23°C in most of the coastal cities of Greece like Athens, Kefalonia Island, Corfu Island, and the Greek Islands of Cyclades.

Island hopping: The Greek Islands are a delight now with no peak season crowd or cost. The seasonal strong Meltemi winds have also died down, leaving the Aegean islands fit for sun, sand, and surf time. The beach hours can be stretched long as the sun sets between 7 and 7:30 pm. With softer sun, expect less sunburn and more awesome tan.

Festivals in October: Take part in Ohi Day on 28th October when Greece celebrates the 'Anniversary of the No’, a custom with roots back to World War II. Participate in parades and feasts or enjoy free entries at many of their tourist attractions.

Harvest month: Both grapes and olives are harvested during or around the fall. To experience an authentic rural Greece laced with traditional practices, choose an olive tour where you can pick olives and see how oil is made.

WHERE TO GO AND WHAT TO DO

For an epic adventure, climb the mountain of the gods on a hiking trip to Mount Olympus. Be ready to find snow at higher altitudes and maybe some unpredicted rain, but not enough to deter a hiker. Down in the plains, the ancient citadel of Acropolis in Athens is a must-visit. Unlike the sunny summer, you will not have to hide from the heat. Plan a museum visit or two with some beach fun and in-between bites of scrumptious Mediterranean fares to craft a complete Athens experience. For some cultural immersion, October in Greece is a great month to explore the wine scene at Santorini and Attica at a slow pace. Also, now is the undisputed ideal time to make the most of the Greek Islands. Savor a colorful port life in Poros or lose yourself hiking the rugged wilderness of Hydra. For a brag-worthy swimming adventure, snorkel in the crystal-clear water of Kleftiko Bay and explore its dramatic sea caves and volcanic rocks. For more of our recommendations, check our guide on how many days to spend in Greece. The ideal length to explore the country in full would be 7 days for an all-around trip.

MM