Greece: The Best Time to Visit
A Surprising Answer

Greece and Italy routinely vie for the most requested destinations among my European first-timers. Right now, Greece is edging out Italy a bit. As such, the main question I get is, ” When is the Best Time To Visit Greece?”

So, I am just going to get this week’s controversial opinion out of the way right here:

The best time to visit Greece is Fall! I am particularly fond of October and encourage my clients to travel even the Greek Isles then. Additionally, there are four locations I suggest for my first-time Greece travelers as “must-sees”; they’re all well-known (a departure I know from my usual “Don’t go to tourist sights first” mantra). But, the way I suggest seeing them is to look beyond the tourist sights (with one exception) and dig (see what I did there?) for the authentic Greek experience.

This brings me to the first two reasons I suggest Greece in the late shoulder season:

• Avoid the crowds
• Enjoy the summer-like weather.

By mid-September, the cruise ships (which account for the majority of the crowds in all the top sights during peak season) have trickled down to a few a day, and before sunset, they are usually heading to open water. This allows for relatively uncrowded towns and villages from mid-afternoon on each day. So I suggest spending the first part of the day lounging by the pool or at one of the MANY beach clubs, taking a late lunch, shower, and then head out for local experiences, a cooking class, photo-opts or shopping, and sunset late afternoon, before dinner and possibly club hopping in the evening.

Additionally, summer in Greece is notoriously HOT, but by late September, things start to cool down ( a little bit). Most days’ highs reach the 80s (F), and even some 90-degree days and the sea is still relatively warm. So, if you are a water baby, you’ll definitely get your suntan and swim vibe on.

Another reason to travel to Greece in the fall is that the lower occupancy is reflected in greater availability and lower lodging prices, especially in the Greek Isles, as some resorts start winding down for the season. There’s been a move towards extending the season in the isles; however, the weather and lack of guests eventually necessitate the closing of many of the resorts until spring.

My Four Must-see Greek Destinations

Beyond its historical treasures, Greece’s natural beauty is captivating. This country provides a diverse landscape, ranging from golden sand beaches and turquoise waters to rugged mountains and lush valleys. Greece is the ancient birthplace of Western civilization, and you may find yourself simply standing in awe of the Acropolis. The Greek Isles are idyllic retreats dotted with charming, white-washed villages, picturesque sunsets, and crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or boating. Following are my suggestions for your itinerary and what makes each special.

Athens:

The portal of Greece. Odds are good that you will fly in AND out of the “Heart and Soul of Greece.” Athens truly is mesmerizing. On my first visit, I remember thinking, “I might have to cheat on my beloved Italy,” as Athens overwhelmed me with its history while also giving off a modern vibe. You can see the Acropolis and the Parthenon from almost everywhere in the city, but get up on a rooftop restaurant (there are many to choose from) and enjoy the fantastic food scene simultaneously as you take in the iconic views. Of course, a private guided tour of the Acropolis is a must.

Additionally, the city buzzes with lively markets, vibrant neighborhoods, and a thriving culinary scene. Take advantage of the historic Plaka district, with shops new and old. This is the only European “touristy” city I’ve ever felt the need to embrace by going all out, buying more than a bit of linen, jewelry with Greek symbols, and even a Laurel Wreath, and laughing at ALL the ways Greeks display the evil eye. As a Christian, I was moved to see and touch a plague at the site near the Acropolis, Areopagus, where Apostle Paul preached the sermon recounted in Acts 17:16–34 around 50 AD.

Mykonos:

Yes, Mykonos is known as the party scene of the Greek Isles. However, it is so much more. Mykonos is a charming town with windmills standing guard on the shore. But the real star here is the fantastic beach club culture, possibly rivaling the south of France, along with luxurious and restful coastal resorts that cater to relaxation and fabulous food.

Old town Mykonos (C/Hora – Greek for “Town”) is filled with cobblestone alleyways, purple bougainvillea, and white-washed houses with doors and balconies painted Aegean blue. The shopping is also fantastic, and Mykonos town features its own “Little Venice.”

Naxos:

Largest of the Cyclades islands, Naxos is a more laid-back and authentic Greek experience. Here, it is all about the lush valleys, orchards, mountainous landscapes (stone quarries, too), and long sandy beaches. This is a nature lover’s paradise. Naxos has its share of ancient ruins like the Temple of Demeter.

The other experience that touched me profoundly was when I was introduced to an olive tree that had been growing for over 2000 years. It has been growing in an orchard in the high hills above Naxos and has had its age-certified. To think this tree began its life at about the same time as the birth of Christ is mind-blowing.

The island’s many villages offer glimpses into traditional Greek life. For beach enthusiasts, Plaka Beach is a jewel. In Naxos, I often arrange traditional cooking classes, a local potter’s studio trip, and dinner up in the hills in a village where you’d swear you stepped back in time. This island is the perfect pause before heading to my final suggestion…

Santorini:

Often seen as the quintessential Greek island, Santorini is famous for its stunning sunsets, unique volcanic landscape, and Cave-style hotels clinging to the cliffs overlooking the Aegean Caldera.

Chances are if you picture the Greek Isles, Santorini, and, more specifically, Oia(EE-ah) comes to mind. People talk incessantly about the iconic sunsets viewed from the bluffs and hotels along the caldera coast of the island. However, I’m offering a different perspective. The secret is that the best view of the sunsets in Santorini (especially in fall) is NOT from land overlooking the Caldera but instead from the deck of a yacht just OUTSIDE the Caldera. Imagine taking a private charter around the island in the afternoon, cooling off with a dip in the sea near the volcano (maybe a brief hike on its rugged shore), then settling in for a chef-prepared dinner on the deck, followed by a chilled glass of wine. At the same time, the sun explodes into a fireball on the horizon, silhouetting yachts and sailboats bobbing around the sea. That’s bliss and will likely ruin every other sunset ever.

How do you wrap it all up?

It’s a quick flight from Santorini back to Athens. You may fly non-stop directly to several US International Airports (my favorite is Atlanta because of all the Delta Sky Lounges). Or you may be interested in taking a quick detour to Venice, Dubrovnik, or Paris, which are all easily added to a Greece itinerary.

Whatever you decide, I’m confident Greece will have you exclaiming “Opa!” for quite some time.

Additional Greece Intel:

• Currency: The official currency of Greece is the Euro (EUR). While some tourist areas might accept credit cards or other currencies like US dollars, carrying some euros for smaller purchases is advisable, especially in less touristy areas or on remote islands.
• Transportation: Greece offers a variety of transportation options. Public transportation (metro, buses, trams) is efficient and convenient in cities like Athens. For island hopping, high-speed ferries are the primary mode of transport. They are reliable and frequent during the tourist season, but Agean Air also offers convenient flights to most islands. Renting a car can be one way of exploring the mainland and larger islands. However, driving in Greece can be challenging due to narrow roads and unique driving styles.
• Language: Greek is the official language. In tourist areas, English is commonly spoken, and you’ll find that many Greeks speak at least some English, especially the younger generation. However, learning a few basic Greek phrases will likely enhance your cultural experience. Oh, and don’t expect Google Translate to be very helpful here unless you have a Greek-lettered keyboard on your device.

Coming up in future P & P Blogs: The difference between a travel agent and a travel advisor, secret travel advisor lingo, and unique takes on destinations around the world

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Ciao for now!