Greece in the Fall

Greece in the fall is a great landscape that offers warm weather and fewer crowds than the summer. In this article, we will provide you with all the information needed for your fall trip. We will present you with a quieter, cozier side that’s perfect for a relaxed yet adventurous getaway. We will show the reasons to travel to Greece in the fall, and we will give you some insider tips for the best destinations, activities, and cultural highlights for an unforgettable trip. Lastly, we will help you pack the necessary clothes and accessories you are going to need for that period of the year. Whatever you are looking for – history, swimming, activities, festivals – you can find it in Greece during the fall.

Why You Should Visit Greece in the Fall

Fall is a wonderful time to visit Greece for many reasons. First, the weather is still warm, allowing for swimming opportunities. Moreover, it is less crowded and touristy, and the prices are lower than the busy months of summer. In addition, there are plenty of outdoor activities to be done in Greece in the fall, and numerous festivals and events you can enjoy.

Learn more about when to visit Greece based on what you ask for.

Weather in Greece in the Fall

While summer weather in Greece is widely known to be excellent, fewer people know that fall in Greece resembles spring with mild temperatures. During September the temperature is around 30ºC (86°F), while in October and November the temperature is between 20ºC and 24ºC (68°F – 75°F). In the evening hours, the temperature might fall below 20ºC (68°F) but that happens mainly in November.

The temperatures mentioned above are more common in Athens and on the mainland. In northern Greece, the temperatures are lower. In the Aegean islands, with their “meltemia” – the cool wind – the temperature may also be lower. However, in the southern islands like Crete, the temperature is higher and resembles summer. 

During the fall there are 10-12 hours of sunshine, which makes it a great time to explore outdoors since there is plenty of light and the temperature is ideal. There is not much rainfall in September and October. They are increased in November. However, the Western part of Greece is more prone to rainfall than the rest of the country. 

Waters and Swimming Opportunities 

As we mentioned, the temperatures in Greece in autumn are mild, so if you are a beach enthusiast, visiting Greece in the fall is a great choice. The water temperature is still warm from the summer. It is around 20ºC (68°F), which is ideal for swimming, especially in September and October. In November, the temperature is lower, but still, the waters are good. All those famous beaches, that are packed during the summer, are now less crowded, which means that you can enjoy much more swimming in the Greek beaches in the fall. 

The Cyclades, the Dodecanese, the Ionian Islands, and famous mainland spots like Chalkidiki and the Peloponnese coast offer magnificent beaches and landscapes. All of these are much more enjoyable during the fall. 

Tourist Crowds and Costs

mother and son in Acropolis, Athens, Greece

Fall in Greece is an off-peak season, so everywhere is less crowded than in summer. So without the touristy vibe, visiting Greece in autumn you can experience the true Greek spirit. That means that wherever you want to go, from the Acropolis and Acropolis Museum to an exhibition or a restaurant, there is much less waiting time. The beaches are, also, less packed so you can enjoy the serenity and calmness of the sea. With fewer visitors, you’ll find the local culture more accessible and authentic.

Traveling to Greece in the fall not only means fewer crowds but also lower prices. Since it’s not peak season, everything costs less than the summer time. You can find accommodation, plane tickets, ferry tickets and events to cost less, which means that you can travel more around the country or visit a museum and experience a luxurious Greek restaurant. If you visit Greece during the fall, you are most likely to manage to find the exact same services and facilities you’d like to book in August for as low as almost half the price. 

Outdoor Activities

With mild temperatures, fall in Greece is perfect for outdoor activities. Besides swimming, which we already mentioned, Greece offers many hiking trails for the adventure seekers. 

Two of the most famous gorges, Vikos gorge and Samaria Gorge, offer a breathtaking walk through the natural beauty of the country. The first one is located in Zagoria villages, and it is a walk through enormous cliffs and traditional stone bridges. You can combine it with a tour of the villages, and a visit to Ioannina city. If you have more days, you can also visit Corfu Island. The second gorge is located in Crete, and it is a must-go for hiking lovers. You can combine the trail with a tour of the island. 

The Ionian Islands and the Peloponnese are ideal for bike riding. Since the roads are not so crowded as in the summer, these places offer great coastal roads and charming villages that can be explored by bike. In combination with the mild weather where there is neither heat nor cold, but a cooling air, it is the perfect time to ride your bike in Greece.

See the best bicycle routes in Greece.

If you are a fan of water sports, then a visit to the Cycladic Islands during autumn is a must. Due to its winds, Paros, Naxos, and the rest of the islands are the right spots for surfing, kite surfing, and windsurfing. It is a common destination for many water sports enthusiasts, so you will have the chance to meet more members of this community. 

Rafting in Greece is an activity mainly for autumn after the first rains and, of course, in spring and winter. When the rivers drop a lot of water, as the snow melts, you will experience unique moments rafting on Voidomatis, Lucius, Alpheus, Acheloos, and Tavropos with their bright, crystal clear waters. Landscapes of incomparable beauty and masterpiece arched bridges await you. 

Harvest Season

The harvest season for grapes and olives, which are the most popular Greek goods, takes place during the fall months in Greece due to the much warmer temperature. You will get the chance to witness first hand every step of the olive oil and winemaking production processes if you visit Greece during this period. Additionally, you will get the opportunity to sample wine and olive oil, which will make your vacation even more memorable. Take advantage of this opportunity to discover ancient traditions that have influenced Greek and global culture!   

Fall Festivals and Events

Autumn is a time of celebration in Greece.Most places host festivals or special events open to everyone, providing a wonderful opportunity to participate. Let’s see some of the most famous festivities.

• Athens Coffee Festival: This festival takes place in September, in Technopolis, Athens. It is a celebration of coffee, where new products, innovative solutions, and the expertise of baristas take place. If you are a coffee lover, then that’s the place for you.
• Rhodes Walnut Festival: During every second Sunday of October, in a village called Dimylia, in Rhodes, the walnut festival takes place. It is the end of the walnut harvest and the locals come together with delicacies based on walnuts, music, and dancing. 
• Raki Festival in Crete: Raki is the local drink of Crete. This is not a festival that takes place in a village, but there are many festivals in many different villages in Crete, from mid-October to mid-November. It is the time of the year when the drink is made, and there are plenty of celebrations about that.
• Thessaloniki Film Festival: One of the most prominent film festivals in Europe, takes place each November in Thessaloniki. The city fills with film enthusiasts, while famous directors and actors arrive to be present at the festival. 
• Athens Art Book Fair: Lastly, in October a big book festival takes place in Athens for 3 days. The Athens Art Book Fair is a haven for art book enthusiasts, featuring a captivating collection of works from diverse cultures and genres. 

Places to Visit

There are many places you can visit in Greece during the fall. Each region has its own unique style and something special to offer. We will suggest places from all around the country, in which you can travel or combine them.

Athens

Visiting Athens in the fall is perfect, especially for those who want to explore Greece’s capital without the summer heat and tourist crowds. The city’s ancient sites, like the Acropolis and the Temple of Zeus, are more enjoyable in the cooler weather, and you can walk around the neighborhoods of Plaka and Monastiraki with ease.

Moreover, besides the ancient aura of the city, Athens is a very lively city full of nice cafes, restaurants, bars, and events. You can find exhibitions, theater performances, and music festivals, especially in the autumn months. A nice walk through the National Garden or a visit to the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center can be a nice morning activity that will help you relax and enjoy the city. 

Santorini

Santorini in the fall is like visiting a different island. The atmosphere is much quieter and everything is less busy. You can walk to Oia and enjoy the sunset in a much more relaxed atmosphere since it is not packed. The temperature is lower than the summer with some cool breezes, so you can walk the path from Fira to Oia without the burning summer heat. You’ll be able to explore the caldera views and ancient sites, like Akrotiri, without the intense summer heat.

Find out what to do in Santorini: Top Activities and Attractions

The beaches of Santorini are still warm enough for swimming, especially unique spots like Red Beach and Perissa’s black sands. Wine tasting at one of the local wineries,like Santo Wines, becomes even more pleasant in the cooler weather, and you can enjoy the views over a glass of Vinsanto or Assyrtiko. Fall in Santorini is perfect for couples seeking a romantic escape or solo travelers who want to capture the island’s magic without the rush.

Crete

Crete in the fall feels alive, yet calmer than during the summer. The island is vast, so you can experience everything from historic sites to nature hikes. Visiting the ancient Minoan palace of Knossos near Heraklion is more comfortable in fall’s cooler weather, allowing you to take in the fascinating ruins and myths of the Minoan civilization.

Chania, with its Venetian harbor and charming old town, is beautiful in autumn. The nearby Samaria Gorge is also open until mid-October, making this season the best time for adventurous hikes. In the south, beaches like Elafonissi have fewer visitors, letting you enjoy the pink sands and turquoise waters peacefully. Cretan food, with fresh olive oil, herbs, and local cheeses, is always a highlight, and many festivals continue into fall, celebrating the island’s agricultural richness.

Corfu

Corfu in autumn offers the perfect blend of culture, history, and nature. Known for its lush green landscapes and Venetian architecture, Corfu becomes a calm paradise in the fall. The weather is still mild, and you can explore the island’s beautiful beaches, like Paleokastritsa, without the crowds. The island’s olive groves, traditional villages, and Corfu Town’s UNESCO World Heritage site streets all look stunning under the softer autumn sun.

In the fall, Corfu also has a rich cultural scene. Local festivals, especially harvest festivals, give you a taste of local traditions, music, and dance. Not all of these are in the center, but they spread in villages, all over the island. Besides exploring rural life, you can walk in the kantounia, the narrow streets of Corfu town, and enjoy the panoramic view from the Old or the New Fortress. The pace of the island in the autumn is slower, which means that you can enjoy the same things as the summer but in a more relaxed way. 

Milos

Milos is the ideal island for a romantic escape. Especially in the fall when the volcanic landscapes and the beautiful beaches are calmer. So if you seek a place to relax and live your love then Milos is the perfect destination. In autumn, the crowds have thinned, but the water is still warm, perfect for a swim at Sarakiniko, where the white rocks look even more surreal against the autumn sun.

In Milos, the charm extends beyond the beaches. The town of Plaka, with its narrow streets and views from Kastro, is simply magical, especially in the softer fall light. One of the most beautiful villages is Klima, where you can find local tavernas for fresh seafood. Tavernas stay open, and you’ll find it easy to chat with locals who now have more time to share stories, traditions, and a bit of tsipouro. Milos is for those who want a taste of Cycladic life without the rush and crowds—fall is simply perfect for this.

Rhodes

Rhodes is fantastic in the fall, a season that brings out the island’s rich medieval heritage and natural beauty. You’ll find Rhodes Town’s old medieval center quieter, making it easier to explore the Palace of the Grand Master and the cobblestone streets of the Old Town. Fall weather is ideal for walking tours and for discovering Rhodes’ blend of Greek, Ottoman, and Italian influences.

The beaches are still inviting, especially along the eastern coast. Places like Lindos offer warm waters, fewer crowds, and a more relaxed vibe. Hiking paths, such as the route up to the ancient acropolis in Lindos, are a must-try in fall, providing both physical activity and spectacular views of the Aegean Sea. Rhodes in the fall is ideal for history buffs and those who appreciate stunning coastal landscapes.

Monemvasia

Monemvasia feels like stepping back in time, especially in the cooler months of fall when this ancient rock fortress seems to glow against the autumn light. Monemvasia is a medieval castle town carved from a giant rock by the sea. During autumn, the heat is more comfortable, and wandering through the stone pathways and alleyways lined with Byzantine churches and traditional tavernas becomes a dream.

In fall, Monemvasia has fewer tourists, allowing you to explore the Lower and Upper Town in peace. You should consider hiking up the Upper Town to enjoy the majestic view. On your way back you can stop at a traditional taverna and enjoy the local cuisine. The regional specialty is saitia, which is a type of savory pie, and Malvasia wine.  

Kefalonia

Kefalonia in the fall is a nice place to be for nature lovers and peace seekers. The island’s forests, mountains, and beaches have an untamed beauty, and fall weather is perfect for exploring places like Myrtos Beach, one of the most scenic beaches in Greece. But it’s most of Kefalonia’s beaches in the autumn that have crystal clear waters and sandy beaches, almost empty and ready for you to enjoy them fully. 

A must-see place is Melissani Cave and Lake, which are especially beautiful in the fall. Kefalonia’s smaller villages, like Assos and Fiskardo, are quieter, allowing you to experience local life and cuisine at your own pace. Fall is the ideal season to take leisurely drives around the island, stopping at family-run tavernas and wineries that offer a true taste of Kefalonian hospitality.

Naxos

Naxos in autumn is the perfect blend of Cycladic charm and island warmth. It’s the largest island in the Cyclades, so you’ll find plenty to do even as the season changes. Naxos Town, with its medieval architecture and seaside views, has a warm, relaxed vibe in fall, and exploring the Venetian castle and narrow alleys is pleasant without the summer crowds.

Autumn is also a great time for outdoor activities. Naxos is known for its mountains and hiking trails, and the cooler temperatures make climbing Mount Zas (the highest peak in the Cyclades) more comfortable. The local food, rich in products like potatoes, cheeses, and local meats, is unforgettable. In autumn, you’ll find the island’s authentic flavors and meet locals who are happy to share their traditions.

Andros

Andros in the fall is a dream for nature lovers and those seeking a serene escape. Known as one of the greenest Cycladic islands, Andros is perfect for hiking, with trails winding through lush landscapes, waterfalls, and picturesque villages. The island’s unique mix of lush greenery and traditional Cycladic architecture feels even more special in the mild autumn weather.

In Chora, the island’s main town, you’ll find a combination of neoclassical mansions, Venetian castles, and quaint cafes where you can take a break and soak up the views of the Aegean. The beaches, such as Tis Grias to Pidima and Vitali, are still warm enough for a quiet swim. Andros is also known for its local art scene, with several museums and galleries open year-round. If you’re an art or nature enthusiast, Andros in the fall is the ideal place to immerse yourself in beauty and culture.

Syros

Syros, although being the capital island of the Cyclades, is a less touristy island. Especially during the fall months, you can enjoy its neoclassical Venetian architecture. Especially in the capital city, Ermoupolis, where you can also find the Apollo Theater. It also has many beautiful beaches. If you are interested in the Greek traditional music of Rembetiko, then you can find music festivals and museums about it.

One of Syros’ highlights is Ano Syros, a medieval settlement perched above Ermoupoli with incredible panoramic views and charming narrow streets. Fall is also a wonderful time to experience Syros’ culinary scene, with local flavors like loukoumi and fresh seafood that can be enjoyed in quieter tavernas along the harbor. In autumn, Syros also hosts some cultural events and festivals, giving visitors a unique glimpse into local life.

Volos

Volos is a unique coastal city known for its blend of mythological history, seafront charm, and vibrant culture. In the fall, the temperatures are perfect for exploring this city at the base of Mount Pelion, especially for a scenic walk along its long promenade lined with traditional tsipouradika taverns, where you can try small plates of meze with local tsipouro.

This city is also a nice stop before going to the villages of Pelion. Volos in autumn is great for those who love a mix of seaside atmosphere, history, and access to nearby nature adventures. From there you can also take a day trip to Meteora. 

Pelion

Pelion, known as the mountain of the minotaurs, is one of the most beautiful regions of Greece. It combines forestry landscapes, mountains and some of the most beautiful mainland beaches in Greece. Some of its most famous traditional villages are Makrinitsa and Portaria. Some of the most famous beaches are Agios Ioannis, Mylopotamos, Chorefto, and Potistika.

The cooler weather is perfect for hiking the scenic trails around the villages, and you’ll find waterfalls, old bridges, and sweeping views of the Pagasetic Gulf. Fall is also the season for fresh apples, chestnuts, and mushrooms, which you can savor in local dishes at mountain tavernas. Pelion is an ideal spot for travelers who want to experience Greece’s autumn beauty, cozy village life, and hearty seasonal food.

Mani

Mani is a Peninsula in the southern region of Peloponnese. In the autumn the landscape is extremely beautiful and colorful. In this small town you may find many stone towers and wild scenery. Mani offers a more intimate look at Greek culture and traditions. In fall, the weather is still warm enough for exploring the coast, with beaches like Skoutari and Marmari remaining relatively empty, allowing for peaceful seaside moments.

The historic town of Areopoli is a must-visit, with its stone alleys, old churches, and family-run tavernas. Fall is also the ideal season for hiking through Mani’s dramatic landscapes, where you’ll find ancient olive trees, Byzantine churches, and old towers that add to the region’s unique character. Mani is perfect for travelers who want a raw, authentic experience and a taste of Greece’s untamed beauty.

Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki is the second largest city in Greece, but it offers a more relaxed vibe than Athens. It has a rich history and culture. The cooler weather makes it ideal for exploring landmarks like the iconic White Tower and a walk along the Thermaic Gulf. Aristotelous Square, lined with cafes, is perfect for enjoying a warm cup of Greek coffee and bougatsa, the city’s famous sweet pastry. Thessaloniki’s rich Byzantine heritage comes alive in the stunning churches of Hagia Sophia and the Rotunda, where ancient mosaics tell stories of the past.

Fall is also festival season, with plenty of film screenings, art shows, and music events. In the evenings, the historic Ladadika district offers a cozy atmosphere with its traditional tavernas and lively bars. Known as Greece’s culinary capital, Thessaloniki is full of delicious surprises, from meze to street food. Exploring the Modiano Market or dining with a view in the Upper Town lets you experience the city’s unique flavors and friendly spirit, making Thessaloniki a warm and welcoming autumn escape.

Packing Tips 

What to wear in Greece in the fall may differ from the place you are planning to visit or the month you are traveling. However, we have a short guide with some packaging tips that will make it easier to pack your suitcase.

The key for fall traveling to Greece is layering. Be versatile while packing, by taking with you a lightweight sweater, a blazer or light coat for the cooler days, comfortable pants, and breathable tops. 

Other things you should take when thinking about what to wear in Greece in the fall are footwear for exploration. Since the Greek terrain is rough, especially if you want to go hiking, be sure to have comfortable walking shoes. If you are planning to visit islands and beaches you can also have practical sandals or espadrilles. 

Lastly, don’t forget to take sun protection with you. Get a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses. Also, get your beach basics such as swimwear and a quick-dry cover-up. But since at night the temperature may fall, it’s good to have with you a light scarf and a weatherproof jacket.

Final thoughts

Greece in the fall is a paradise ready to be discovered. The temperature is high, but not as hot as in the summer, it is less crowded, and the prices are lower than during the peak season. The beaches are warm and less touristy, and there are plenty of outdoor activities, festivals, and events to participate in. Besides the beautiful islands of the Aegean and the Ionian, there are many places in mainland Greece where you can travel too. Whether you seek a solo traveling experience, a romantic getaway, or a family trip, then Greece is the place and fall is the time!