Autumn is a beautiful season in Greece and the country offers the visitor the best it has to offer: warm colored landscapes, a sea where you can still swim, a serenity far from the tourist hordes of the summer. If you are planning a trip to Greece in October, for the All Saints’ vacation for example, here are some tips that will be useful.
Is the weather in Greece nice in October?
The main question you are probably asking yourself is: what will the weather be like? Generally, the weather in October is still sunny. On average, there are 23 days of sunshine in Greece in October… but 15% of the time is threatened by rain. And precipitation can be abundant in quantity at this time of the year. As for the temperatures, they are on average 19°C.
Can we still swim in Greece in October?
Second big question: is it possible to enjoy the sea when you go to Greece in October? The answer is “it depends”. It all depends on your destination and it all depends on the years. Personally, I often went swimming in Greece during the All Saints’ Day vacations. Not every year, but it is possible I would say every other year. I have wonderful memories of a vacation in Rhodes where it felt like summer even though it was the end of October. Several times, I also bathed in Sounion in autumn.
With a bit of luck on the weather front, swimming is an option, especially if you opt for destinations where, in principle, the sea is still warm at this time of year: Kos, Corfu, Rhodes, Crete…
The water temperature averages 20-22°C, which is generally suitable for swimming.
What are the best destinations for an autumn break in Greece?
October is a very pleasant month to travel in Greece. And at the end of the year, it’s not uncommon to be able to take advantage of discounts, as is currently the case on Booking.
Continental Greece
If you opt for mainland Greece, there are several destinations to choose from.
Athens and Thessaloniki of course, Greece’s two largest cities, lively and bustling in all seasons.
If you prefer more “natural” destinations, opt for the Peloponnese, the Zagories or Pelion. October is olive-picking month, so you’re likely to see owners in their olive groves in full swing.
Nafplio and Monemvassia are also very pleasant in autumn.
Going to an island
If you prefer to go to an island, choose one that’s big enough and lively enough at this time of year. Small islands” will be a bit sad, as everything is closed at this time of year.
We particularly recommend Rhodes, Corfu, Crete and Kos. In the Cyclades, most establishments will be closed. Except perhaps in Santorini…
Sailing on Greek waters
If you love sailing, make the most of it! The month of October is ideal for sailing in the Aegean and Ionian Seas, as the strong summer winds have died down. You can opt for a sailboat cruise or rent a boat with Click&Boat.
Where is the hottest place in Greece in October?
It’s difficult to answer because it depends on the year, but it’s in Kos and Crete that it is the hottest in Greece in October. On the island of Kos, in October, the average temperature is 22°C and the weather is pleasant.
In Crete, there is an average of 24 days of sunshine during the month of October (with a 16% chance of rain) and temperatures of 22-23°C on average.
What to put in your suitcase?
If you are going on vacation to Greece in October, we advise you to take :
- mid-season clothing: canvas pants, short and long sleeve T-shirts
- one or two summer deals
- a bathing suit and a towel
- a wool sweater
- a windproof and waterproof jacket
- a good pair of shoes.
Public holidays in Greece in October
October 28 is an important date in Greece. It is one of Greece’s two national holidays (yes, Greece is lucky enough to have two national holidays: October 28 and March 25). Parades are organized all over the country, and many archaeological sites and museums are free on this day. Beware, however, as most shops are closed. Restaurants and taverns, on the other hand, remain open.
What to do in Greece in Autumn?
Visit archaeological sites
Autumn is the ideal season to discover Greece’s archaeological treasures. The sites generally have little shade, making them difficult to visit in midsummer. In October, the climate is perfect: sunshine without the heat. Delphi, Olympia, Mycenae, Epidaurus and Sounion are just waiting for you! Arm yourself with our small travel guides and set off to discover the most beautiful archaeological sites.
Hiking in Greece
Here again, the weather in October is perfect for hiking.
Discover Athens with your family
We’ve got lots of ideas for enjoying the All Saints’ Day vacations with your children in Athens. Discover our ideas for walks and activities with kids in Athens and around.
Here are some other articles to help you plan your Autumn holiday:
We wish you a wonderful autumn vacation in Greece.
Laure M.
