Climate, temperature and weather Athens

Weather Athens : today and in the next three days

What is the weather like today in Athens? And tomorrow? And when I come in May, October or August? What is the temperature in Athens? Will I get sun or rain? Is it cold in Greece?

In short, when choosing a vacation, the weather factor must be taken into account. So, to be able to adapt your activities and leisure, we tell you everything or almost … because the weather is obviously not an exact science.

To get an idea of the weather in Athens today, you can check the My Weather.com website.

When to go to Greece? Sunshine, rain and weather in Athens…

The city of Athens enjoys a warm and dry Mediterranean climate in summer with relatively mild winters.

Don’t get me wrong. Although Greece is often associated with islands, beaches and sunshine, it also rains in Athens. And it even snows on some winter days.

daylight_sunshine-en
https://www.weather-atlas.com/

The most pleasant months

athens in spring
Georges D. winner of our photo contest on FB (March 2019)

The most pleasant periods to visit Athens are undoubtedly September, April and May. With temperatures around 20 degrees you will be able to visit the open air sites very pleasantly. The city, with its terraces, its hills and its shady streets, offers itself to you. Tourists are less numerous and you live fully Athens at the rhythm of the Athenians.

Athens in September: The temperatures are still very pleasant and you can even go swimming, as the sea is still warm after the summer months. On the other hand, the days are shorter.

Athens in April: Despite still cool temperatures in the morning, the days are sunny. On the other hand, you can attend the Easter celebrations, a beautiful moment full of festivities. The nature is very beautiful because the trees are all in bloom (for the allergic persons, be careful, it is the month of the pollens!). The sea is still fresh (around 17°C on average), the brave ones swim there.

Athens in May: The summer season really starts. It is often during the weekend of May 1st that the businesses on the seaside reopen. Activity is also picking up on the islands. Enjoy a day on the islands near Athens (Kea, Aegina or Hydra for example). Open-air cinemas also open their doors.

Summer in Athens

School vacations are the most touristic months, July and August. However, this is not the most pleasant time to visit Athens. The temperatures can be scorching and the streets of Athens are stifling. Enjoy the museums, the cooler evenings in the center (festivals, open-air cinemas, terraces, the streets of Plaka and walks around the Acropolis), and the nearby beaches. You can also take a walk on the hills around Athens and the northern districts which often benefit from a light breeze (Mount Pendeli, Kifisia, Cap Sounion).

Athens in June: The temperature in Athens often exceeds 30°C. So don’t get caught off guard and pack a good sunscreen. Adapt to the local rhythm by taking a nap during the hottest hours of the day as the days are long.

Athens in July: Athens is full of festivals at this time of year: concerts, plays and open-air cinemas are a real treat. Do not miss the festival of Athens and Epidaurus.

Athens in August: Athenians usually leave the city in August for their vacations. Thus, you benefit from a city free of traffic jams. The city is then calmer but hot. Enjoy the terraces in the evening and the open-air cinema.

Winter in Athens

Destinations for a winter in Greece
Sophie B.

From October onwards, the temperature in Athens starts to drop. But it is really November that marks the transition to winter. No more risk of rain of course but also and despite everything still sunshine which offers a superb luminosity. The city is full of activities, so you can also enjoy the capital during these months.

Athens in October: More beautiful sunny days. However, take your umbrella. In the islands and ports, it’s the back season, fewer crossings and businesses that close. Favour the more touristic sites. It’s time for outdoor sports: biking, surfing, windsurfing, hiking…

Athens in November and December: As far as visits are concerned, the main archaeological sites are at winter rates: almost half the price! Take advantage of it. It is also the time to discover the city at the rhythm of the Athenians: markets, craftsmen, bars… In November and December, running races take place in Athens, including the famous Marathon.

Athens in January, February and March: At only two hours from Athens you can put on your skis and enjoy a nice fire in a mountain chalet. Unusual and truly exotic experience at Mount Parnassus or at Kalavryta. There are also many holidays that are good for eating and discovering traditions: Christmas and New Year, Carnival, Lent, Pure Monday, Spring Day… If the weather is good, you can also go for long walks along the sea.

Sophie B.

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