Weather in the Greek Islands

climate and weather in the greek islandsThe Greek Archipelago accounts for nearly half of Greece’s 16,000 kilometres (9942 miles) of coastline, islands filled with holiday resorts by quaint villages. The Mediterranean climate of Greece prevails over these islands, characterised by a hot, dry summer and a mild, but wet winter. Home to many of Europe’s Blue Flag Beaches (water sports locations), the waters are clear and safe, and the island ports are so close to one another that island hopping is easy.

Spring is an unpredictable time of year, but it is typically cool, lows of 6°C (43°F), and wet in the early days.By mid May however, expect 24°C (75°F) heat, little rain and sunshine. It's best to go to Greece at the end of spring for good weather.

Find many European holiday makers, especially the Brits, cruising the Greek Islands in summer. This is the place to be for dry, sunny days with temperatures from 16°C to 29°C (61°F to 84°F), and some scorchers in the low 40s (over 104°F). 

Early autumn is still warm and dry in the low 20s (68°F). Stay for a month or two, however, and it will be cool with heavy showers, up to 170mm (6.69in) monthly.

By wintertime the days are dark, cool and wet, but it is still warmer than most European countries as, in the heart of winter, it rarely drops below 6°C.

There is often a dry spot on some island during the winter, and island hopping is relatively easy, but plan in advance because the rain and lack of tourism does affect the frequency of ferries.

 

When is the best time to go to the Greek Islands?

These islands are the destinations for summer holidays in Greece. The biggest problem in summer is finding a spot on the beach among the bustling crowds, even the peak season prices are reasonable when compared to other European destinations.

Alternatively, travel in May, June or September for less crowded beaches and summer weather at lower prices. These months may even be preferable to summer, because it can get uncomfortably hot in peak season.

Another alternative is to visit in the winter. Granted, it is wet, but this is the only time of year when the food, the festivals and even the people are all Greek.

 

What to pack for a holiday in the Greek Islands

The best mantra is ‘keep it light and simple’. T-shirts and a few pairs of shorts, preferably some shorts that double as swimwear, light cotton dresses and skirts, sunglasses, hats and sunscreen are all one needs for most of the year.

Take two pairs of shoes, one open and one closed, such as a pair of sandals and breathable trainers or open toed flat heel walking shoes. Comfortable walking shoes are advisable for treks. For the cool and wet months, carry a light raincoat, a warm jersey or two, and some synthetic trousers that dry easily. Add a few long sleeved shirts and light tops for some extra warmth.

While typically casual in their approach to dress, the Greeks require modesty at monasteries, certain ceremonies and sacred places, and some nightclubs and events require formal wear, so pack something smart as well. 

 

Weather in Greek Islands in January

Average temperature in Greek Islands in January: 5°C to 16°C (43°F to 61°F) 
Average sea Temperature in Greek Islands in January: 15°C (59°F) 
Average rainfall in Greek Islands in January: 60mm to 140mm (2.4in to 5.5in)
Events: New Year’s Day is the feast day of St Basil, so enjoy more festivities after a good New Year’s Eve party.  Religious celebrations in Greece are often more festive than sombre, so enjoy the Epiphany Festival and holy days, including celebrations of Saint Adonis, Saint Athanasios and Saint Crisostomo

 

Weather in Greek Islands in February

Average temperature in Greek Islands in February: 6°C to 16°C (43°F to 61°F) 
Average sea Temperature in Greek Islands in February: 15°C (59°F) 
Average rainfall in Greek Islands in February: 40mm to 140mm (1.6in to 5.5in) 
Events: This is carnival season in Greece and from mid-February to the end of March there will be many Mardi Gras style festivals happening across the islands. There are a number of religious festivals local to specific islands and don’t forget to take a special islands cruise on Valentine’s Day. 

 

Weather in Greek Islands in March

Average temperature in Greek Islands in March: 6°C to 17°C (43°F to 63°F) 
Average sea Temperature in Greek Islands in March: 15°C (59°F) 
Average rainfall in Greek Islands in March: 40mm to 90mm (1.6in to 3.6in)
Events: The Greek National Anniversary celebrates the Greeks Victory over the Turks and this is the equivalent of Independence Day in the US, so expect massive celebrations. 

 

Weather in Greek Islands in April

Average temperature in Greek Islands in April: 8°C to 20°C (46°F to 68°F)
Average sea Temperature in Greek Islands in April: 15°C (59°F) 
Average rainfall in Greek Islands in April: 20mm to 80mm (0.8in to 3.1in) 
Notes: Some locals might be visiting family during this time, so be aware that accommodation might be full in some places.  
Events: Easter in the Greek Islands is one of the biggest celebrations of the year. However, bear in mind that they do not follow the western calendar for Easter celebrations so, Easter celebrations might shift each year. 

 

Weather in Greek Islands in May

Average temperature in Greek Islands in May: 12°C to 24°C (54°F to 75°F)
Average sea Temperature in Greek Islands in May: 17°C (63°F)
Average rainfall in Greek Islands in May: 10mm to 50mm (0.4in to 2in)
Notes: This is a great month for budget holidays in Greece as the weather is good and the prices are relatively low. It is the most opportune time to go hiking in Greece, or adventure through the islands, because the weather is not too hot, but still warm. 
Events: Rhodes hosts a grand Medieval Festival toward the end of May, as well as a floral festival for those who wish to enjoy the spring blooms. 

 

Weather in Greek Islands in June

Average temperature in Greek Islands in June: 16°C to 28°C (61°F to 82°F) 
Average sea Temperature in Greek Islands in June: 21°C (70°F) 
Average rainfall in Greek Islands in June: 10mm to 20mm (0.4in to 0.8in) 
Events: The Athens Epidaurus Festival has celebrated music, art and theatre for over five decades in the most spectacular locations in this ancient city, a great place to experience the cultural arts of the world and Greece this summer. The Rockwave Festival is a more modern pop festival with the best international artists and rock musicians entertaining the summer crowds. 

 

Weather in Greek Islands in July

Average temperature in Greek Islands in July: 18°C to 29°C (64°F to 84°F) 
Average sea Temperature in Greek Islands in July: 23°C (73°F) 
Average rainfall in Greek Islands in July: 10mm to 20mm (0.4in to 0.8in) 
Notes: July has the highest temperatures in the Greek Islands and is peak season.
Events: The Festival of the Aegean attracts excellent musicians, dancers and actors from dozens of countries in order to celebrate the performing arts. Upper Koufunisi hosts the annual Up Festival on the beach and it is free.

 

Weather in Greek Islands in August

Average temperature in Greek Islands in August: 18°C to 29°C (64°F to 84°F) 
Average sea Temperature in Greek Islands in August: 24°C (75°F) 
Average rainfall in Greek Islands in August: 10mm to 30mm (0.4in to 1.2in) 
Notes: August has the highest temperatures in the Greek Islands and is peak season.
Events: August is the month for classical culture and art in Greece, starting with the International Classical Musical Festival of the Cyclades in Syros. The Naxos Festival and the Megaro Gyzi Festival feature two similar events that showcase the best music, theatre and art in Greece, with some lectures and seminars for festival goers. 

 

Weather in Greek Islands in September

Average temperature in Greek Islands in September: 16°C to 24°C (61°F to 75°F)
Average sea Temperature in Greek Islands in September: 23°C (73°F) 
Average rainfall in Greek Islands in September: 10mm to 40mm (0.4in to 1.6in) 
Events: The Sani Festival is a well renowned arts festival in Greece and the Aegina Festiki Festival is a food and music celebration for all ages.

 

Weather in Greek Islands in October

Average temperature in Greek Islands in October: 11°C to 21°C (52°F to 70°F) 
Average sea Temperature in Greek Islands in October: 22°C (72°F) 
Average rainfall in Greek Islands in October: 30mm to 170mm (1.2in to 6.7in) 
Events: The Dimitria Festival at the port town of Thessaloniki is great for island hoppers wishing to experience authentic Greek arts and culture on the mainland, just a short boat ride away.  

 

Weather in Greek Islands in November

Average temperature in Greek Islands in November: 9°C to 20°C (48°F to 68°F)
Average sea Temperature in Greek Islands in November: 19°C (66°F) 
Average rainfall in Greek Islands in November: 70mm to 170mm (2.8in to 6.7in) 
Events: The International Film Festival at the port of Thessaloniki is only a boat ride away from many of the islands, attracting over 50,000 people annually.  

 

Weather in Greek Islands in December

Average temperature in Greek Islands in December: 6°C to 17°C (43°F to 63°F) 
Average sea Temperature in Greek Islands in December: 16°C (61°F) 
Average rainfall in Greek Islands in December: 60mm to 175mm (2.4in to 6.9in) 
Notes: This is the rainy season in the Greek Islands and December is the wettest month of the year. 
Events: Christmas celebrations in Greece will begin in early December and there will be many festivals and events in the Greek Islands.