Best Time to Visit Greece

The climate in Greece is typical of the Mediterranean climate with two real seasons - a warm and dry summer, and a mild and wet winter. Summer is a long season with temperatures climbing to a pleasant degree as early as late February. However, March and even April can be somewhat unpredictable months with the occasional rain shower and windy conditions. On the plus side though, at this time of year the landscapes are decorated with wild flowers.

The shoulder months between May and June still offer lovely weather conditions but without the crowds. It's warm on the islands and the waters are nice enough for a swim. Peak tourist season doesn't start until mid-June and lasts until early September. During this time the islands are buzzing with people, both travellers and locals alike. If you're visiting during this time it's best to book hotels, flights and local ferries as far as in advance as possible to avoid disappointment and secure better prices.

Between September and mid-October the soft light and delicate colours are particularly suited to photography. The sea water retains the heat of the mid-summer months so swimming is definitely still on the cards.

By late-October many parts of Greece begin to experience stormy conditions with more frequent cloud cover and rain showers. The tourist season comes to an end and prices drop off considerably. Few international travellers visit the Greek islands between November and February so crowds are thin.

Easter is a spectacular celebration in Greece. It's one of the most important events of the year with festivities throughout the week leading up to Easter Sunday. During this time candle-lit processions take to the streets and firework displays fill the night sky. As a religious event, many of the week's celebrations are focused around church with daily services and hymn singing. At home, Greeks feast on lamb.

Known as Apokriátika in Greek, the annual Carnival is a three-week event before the 40-day Lent. The celebrations date back to the pagan world of ancient Greece when the god of wine and fertility, Dionysos, was worshipped and his rebirth signalled the start of spring. During the 19th century, celebrations took inspiration from the famous Venetian carnival and still to this day Apokriátika is known for its glamorous parades featuring colourful floats and dancing, and wild parties where revellers don fun costumes and masks.