Best time to go to Athens Average weather of Athens, Greece
Lucie Lhortolat and Tony Samson last update: 17/04/2024When is the best time to go to Athens?
Capital and largest city of Greece, Athens is one of the European cities with the richest historical heritage. It is possible to visit throughout the year, but it should be noted that the climate is more favorable from March to November. Indeed, the best time to visit Athens is during the summer, spring, and early autumn. This is when the sun shines the most, giving you the opportunity to discover the city's greatest monuments.
Athens can be considered one of the oldest cities in the world and therefore is full of remains, such as the Parthenon or the Agora. Sites that you must see during your holidays. During spring and autumn, you can enjoy the more peaceful atmosphere of the city, while having pleasant weather. In fact, average temperatures range between 15 and 20°C (68°F) in April and November.
During the summer, temperatures often rise above 30°C (86°F) , but the atmosphere remains pleasant for visits.
Furthermore, if you are wondering when to go to Athens, you could consider winter. Even during the coldest months, Athens experiences decent temperatures (around 10 to 15°C (59°F) ). The mild winter will allow you to fully enjoy the beauty of this Greek city. Moreover, in February, you can travel during Apokries, which corresponds to the Greek carnival.
The only issue with traveling to Athens in the low season is the limited ferry or flight connections with the Greek islands compared to summer.
Finally, if you dream of going to Athens to swim, know that the sea temperature is very pleasant from June to early October. Thus, Athens ensures you beautiful moments of swimming and sunbathing for many months. In fact, Glyfada beach is relatively deserted from October onwards. It will be the perfect opportunity to admire the sunset there.
So, when is the best time to go to Athens? Here's some more information to help you in your decision:
- The best months for good weather in Athens are March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October and November
- On average, the warmest months are June, July and August
- Athens has dry periods in July and August
- January is the coldest month of the year
- The rainiest months are January, February and December
- August is the best month for swimming
Annual weather in Athens
Weather details in Athens month by month
Weather and climate in Athens
Ideal destination for history enthusiasts, the city of Athens also attracts tourists for its sunny climate and superb beaches. Indeed, the climate in Athens is semi-arid, resulting in very little rainfall throughout the year. One can enjoy beautiful sunny days in any season.
Similar to Southern Italy, winters in Athens are mild, despite some humidity. On the other hand, summers are hot and dry, perfect for enjoying swims in the Aegean Sea. Additionally, while spring in Athens offers a preview of great weather, it is worth noting that autumn is also ideal for a sunny vacation.
Climate in Athens in Spring
The weather in Athens in spring is characterized by a decrease in precipitation and a rise in temperatures. By the end of March, temperatures can reach around 17°C (63°F) on average.
During this period, the weather conditions resemble those of Santorini. There are numerous beautiful sunny days and the heat gradually increases over the months. By May, temperatures range from 21 to 25°C (77°F) on average.
Moreover, while some showers may occur in March, they are almost non-existent in May, with less than 50mm of rainfall for the month.
April and May will therefore be ideal periods to enjoy favorable weather while avoiding the peak tourist season.
Climate in Athens in Summer
In summer, from late June to late September, the heat is at its peak. Temperatures easily exceed 30°C (86°F) , as in most Greek locations during the same period. In July and August, temperatures range from 27 to 32°C (90°F) on average. However, June and September are also very hot months.
This period is ideal for enjoying the beaches surrounding Athens, with sea temperatures being very pleasant from June to October. Additionally, the sun and blue skies are omnipresent during this season.
Furthermore, the weather in Athens in summer is marked by significant dryness. Rainfall is non-existent in July and August, and very rare in June and September.
It is important to note that this lack of precipitation can increase the risk of wildfires. Therefore, it is advisable to stay informed about the news during your vacation, especially if you plan on venturing outside the city.
Climate in Athens in Autumn
In autumn, the sun is not only found in the Greek islands like Mykonos. Indeed, the capital of Greece experiences a sunny and very pleasant season.
In Athens, the heat persists in October and November with temperatures around 20°C (68°F) . It is still possible to swim without fearing the cold until at least mid-October.
If you are looking for a period when the weather is ideal but the atmosphere is calmer, October or November may appeal to you.
It is only in December that the coolness begins to be felt, with temperatures ranging from 10 to 15°C (59°F) on average.
Moreover, autumn is characterized by an increase in precipitation with about 4 rainy days per month from October. Nevertheless, blue skies prevail, allowing you to fully enjoy your stay.
Climate in Athens in Winter
The climate in Athens in winter remains relatively mild. Indeed, temperatures range between 9 and 13°C (56°F) in January and 10 and 15°C (59°F) in February. They are generally milder than those in Delphi. Thus, the mild atmosphere and presence of the sun make the weather in Athens in winter quite suitable for a stay.
Travelers often seek to escape the harsh winter in other European regions and opt for a weekend in Athens.
However, one must consider the risk of precipitation, as winter is the rainiest season in Athens. Of course, it is far from the monsoon in the Philippines, as there is less than 100 mm of rainfall per month and generally fewer than 5 days. This leaves you with 25 days of blue skies during your vacation!
Charts: temperature and rainfall in Athens
In the charts below, you can see the following seasonal norms for the city of Athens: the minimum and maximum outdoor temperature, the risk and amount of monthly rainfall, daily average sunshine, sea temperature, and relative humidity for each month of the year.
Outside temperature
Precipitation (rainfall)
Daily sunshine hours
Sea temperature
Humidity
Peak visitor numbers and tourist seasons in Athens
Find out when Athens has its high tourist season (the period when the influx of tourists is highest) and off-peak tourist season using our data and figures.
Tourist seasons in Athens
- Very low season in Athens
The months with the lowest number of tourists are: January, February, March and November. - Low season in Athens
The months with low numbers of tourists are: April and December. - High season in Athens
The number of visitors to Athens is high in: May and October. - Peak season in Athens
The largest number of tourists visiting Athens is during: June, July, August and September.
Figure: Visitor index for Athens month by month
Best time for low prices in Athens
Average prices of hotels in Athens month by month
Generally, December is the month with the lowest hotel prices in Athens. So this is a great time to save on your holiday! In contrast, June is statistically the most expensive month of the year for hotels.
Find the best price for your hotel room
Average price for flights to Athens
A return flight between London and Athens is generally cheaper if you go in january ($ 109 on average): this is the best time for travellers on a tight budget. In contrast, you may end up paying $ 189 more for your airline ticket to Athens if you go in august.
Find the best price for your flight
Average price of hiring a car in Athens
On average, it costs $ 24 per day to hire a car in Athens. This price varies by $ 37 depending on the month. In march, hiring a car costs an average of $ 13 per 24 hours, so this is the best time to save money! In contrast, the average price in august is $ 49.
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