Timing plays a big role when planning a cruise in Greece and the Mediterranean. The right season can shape everything from weather and sea conditions to crowd levels, shore excursion options, and overall trip costs. Greece is known for its sunshine, historic ports, and iconic island scenery, but each month offers a slightly different experience for travelers.
Cruise travelers should consider several factors before choosing their sailing dates. The weather is one of the most important. Summer brings long, sunny days and warm seas, while spring and fall offer cooler temperatures that are ideal for walking tours, archaeological sites, and outdoor dining. Winter months are quieter and more affordable, but cruise options are limited. Explore the ruins at Knossos
Crowds are another key consideration. Popular ports like Santorini, Mykonos, and Athens can feel very busy during peak summer months, especially when multiple ships dock on the same day. Traveling during shoulder season often means fewer people in ports, shorter lines at attractions, and a more relaxed pace on shore.
Cost also varies throughout the year. High demand during summer leads to higher cruise fares and airfare, while shoulder and low seasons often offer better value. Travelers focused on stretching their budget may find spring or fall cruises more appealing without sacrificing good weather.
Finally, activities matter. Beach lovers may prioritize warm water and nightlife, while culture-focused travelers may prefer cooler months for sightseeing and hiking. Understanding how each season affects these factors makes it easier to choose the best time to cruise Greece and the Greek Islands.
The island of Lindos
When is the best time to cruise Greece?
Late spring to early summer or autumn is the best time to take a cruise because the inflated summer prices and crowds are not present, plus there is very manageable weather with no heat waves over 40°C. Blessed with balmy Mediterranean weather, Greece is a year-round travel destination with hot summers, relatively mild winters, and comfortable temperatures rarely dropping under 5°C (41°F). Cruise season in the Greek islands runs from late April through September, but we recommend cruising in late spring and early fall for pleasant outdoor conditions without the excessive crowds of summer.
At a Glance:
High season: May to September
Shoulder season: April, October
Low season: November to March
Busiest months: July and August
High Season: May to September
Warm weather, lively islands, festivals, but higher prices and bigger crowds.
Shoulder Season: April and October
Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds, better deals.
Great choice for those seeking balance.
Low Season: November to March
Colder weather, limited sailings, but lower costs and more authentic cultural experiences.
Busiest Months: July and August
Peak summer; ideal for nightlife and beaches, but most crowded and expensive.
Best Time to Cruise the Greek Islands
With stunning islands like Santorini, Corfu, and Mykonos, island hopping in Greece is one of the biggest draws of visiting this Mediterranean country. Generally, late spring to early fall (May to September) is excellent for sunshine and warm weather, but August can get very crowded as this is when Greek locals enjoy their summer vacation. Location is also worth considering since the southern islands tend to be warmer and have longer summers than the northern archipelagos in the Aegean.
Best Time in Greece for Outdoor Activities
For Beaches (June–September):
The best time to go to Greece beaches is from June to September, when it’s the sunniest, and the waters are warm enough to dive into. Any other month is usually too cold, especially if you’re planning on swimming and snorkeling. If packed bars and live parties are your main interest, July and August are ideal, with flocks of locals and foreigners crowding the nightlife spots. But if you prefer relaxing by the shore with the smallest amount of people, plan your beach trip in September when most tourists have already gone home.
For Hiking and Exploring (April–June & September–October):
April, May, and October are the best months to visit Greece for hiking and cycling adventures. Expect blue skies, plenty of sunshine, and comfortable weather that isn’t too hot for outdoor activities. Spring is especially beautiful as the landscapes come alive with vibrant flowers in full bloom. There is also slightly less rainfall in spring compared to fall. Despite having a little more rain, fall is a lovely season for Greek vacations. Temperatures stay at very comfortable levels, and the golden hues and falling leaves of autumn are a gorgeous sight.
Best Time to Visit Athens
Late spring to early summer, or autumn, is the best time to visit, as the weather is still great and the crowds are much more manageable. Athens has good weather year-round for the most popular activities, such as walking around the city, eating at restaurants outside with tables and chairs, and taking bus tours. Most city activities can be enjoyed any season in Athens, although swimming and sunbathing at the beach are best during summer. Enjoy a wide range of cruises from Athens, with the nearby Piraeus port being one of the most frequented cruise ports in the Mediterranean Sea.
Cheapest Time to Go to Greece
The off-season in Greece is from November to March. During these months, hotel, tour, and cruise prices are significantly lower as there are very few travelers around. If saving money is a priority, November or March would be the best time to enjoy a cruise holiday on the islands. Keep in mind that there are no Greek cruises in December, January, and February due to the cold and sometimes rainy weather. Many hotels and dining establishments on the Greek islands also shut down during the low season, so it’s important to secure your reservations before traveling.
What Is the Best Time of Year to Take a Cruise to Greece and the Greek Islands
The best time to cruise Greece depends on what you want most from your trip. Travelers focused on culture, history, and sightseeing often prefer late spring and early fall, when temperatures are comfortable and crowds are lighter. Beach lovers and nightlife seekers may enjoy the energy of summer, especially in July and August, despite the higher prices and busy ports. Budget-conscious travelers can benefit from shoulder-season or early off-season sailings when deals are more common.
Overall, late spring (May–June) and early fall (September–October) are the top choices for most travelers. These months offer a balance of good weather, fewer crowds, and strong value. Wondering when to go on your dream vacation to Greece? Let our Adventure Life travel experts assist you in planning the perfect Greek islands cruise that works with your schedule.
Best Time to Cruise Greece FAQs:
What is the best month to go to Greece?
May and September are often considered the best months, offering warm weather, fewer crowds, and ideal conditions for cruising and sightseeing. What is the rainiest month in Greece?
December is typically the rainiest month, especially in mainland Greece and northern regions. What's the cheapest month to go to Greece?
January and February are usually the cheapest months, though cruise options are very limited during this period. Which two months are the hottest in Greece?
July and August are the hottest months, with temperatures often reaching their peak across the Greek islands and mainland.
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