Best Time To Visit Greece
Immerse yourself in the cradle of Western civilization as you explore the remnants of Ancient Greece. Stand in awe of the Acropolis, home to the magnificent Parthenon, or wander through the ruins of Delos, believed to be the birthplace of Apollo and Athena. Discover the origins of the Minoan civilization in Crete, and marvel at the intricate mosaics of the Palace of Knossos. Each archaeological site is a window into the country’s storied past, allowing visitors to connect with Greece’s cultural and historical roots.The Greek islands, such as Santorini, Mykonos, and Crete, offer idyllic retreats with charming white-washed villages, picturesque sunsets, and crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling or sailing.
When To Visit
High Season: (June to August): This is peak tourist season. Expect larger crowds, especially on popular islands like Santorini and Mykonos. Accommodation and flight prices are at their highest, but the weather is hot and sunny, making it the perfect time for beach activities and island hopping. Numerous cultural and music festivals are scheduled during this time showcasing theater, dance, and music.
Shoulder Season: (April to May and September to October): We took full advantage of our empty nest status and went to Greece in October. September and October harvest season is perfect for enthusiasts to explore vineyards and enjoy fresh local produce. Our favorite winery was Santos on Santorini. Try the sparkling rose when you sail to the beautiful cities of Fira and Oia perched atop a majestic volcano. We found fewer visitors and lower prices than in high season, which made this an ideal time for seeking a balance between good weather and fewer crowds.
Low Season: (November to March): This season is the least crowded, with the lowest prices for flights and accommodation. Ferry and flight schedules may be reduced in the low season as well. With cooler and wetter weather likely, some islands and resorts may be partially closed, but cities like Athens remain vibrant.
What To Know
Currency: The official currency of Greece is the Euro (EUR). While some tourist areas might accept credit cards or other currencies like US dollars, it’s advisable to carry some euros for smaller purchases, especially in less touristy areas or on remote islands. Check with your bank to see if you can order a stash of euros ahead of time. Caution: do not get euros out of currency exchange ATMs at airports – worse exchange rate! Look for a bank ATM to withdraw euros.
Transportation: Greece offers a variety of transportation options. In cities like Athens, public transportation (metro, buses, trams) is efficient and convenient. For island hopping, cruises are the way to go which is how we did it. But if you opt to stay on one of the Greek isles, ferries are the main mode of transport and are reliable and frequent during the tourist season. Paros is a major ferry hub and might not be as pricey to stay as Santorini and Mykonos. Renting a car is a popular option for exploring the mainland and larger islands, but remember that driving in Greece can be challenging due to narrow roads and unique driving styles.
Language: Greek is the official language. In tourist areas, English is commonly spoken, and you’ll find that many Greeks speak at least some English, especially the younger generation. However, learning a few basic Greek phrases will be appreciated by locals and can enhance your cultural experience.
Dealing with a foreign currency can be a stressful experience, but it doesn’t have to be!
Here are three things to keep in mind for your next international getaway:
Familiarize Yourself with Local Currency: Before traveling, research the local currency of your destination. Understand the conversion rates and familiarize yourself with the denominations and coin types. This knowledge will help you handle transactions more confidently and avoid confusion when making purchases or comparing prices. A currency converting app on your phone is also a beneficial tool to have on hand.
Use a Mix of Payment Methods: Carry a combination of cash and cards. While credit and debit cards are widely accepted in many places and provide a secure way to pay, having some local currency in cash is essential for small purchases, tips, or in areas where cards might not be accepted. Inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid any issues with your cards while abroad.
Be Mindful of Exchange Rates and Fees: Avoid exchanging money at airports or hotels where rates can be unfavorable. Use ATMs affiliated with major banks for better exchange rates and lower fees, and try to withdraw enough for a few days to minimize transaction fees. Additionally, consider using credit or debit cards that offer low or no foreign transaction fees to save money on international purchases. Opt to pay in euros when prompted so that your credit card company is giving you the most favorable rate.
Flights in 2024 will actually be less expensive, according to data analysis. Take advantage of this trend, connect with other empty nest moms, and explore exciting bucket list destinations with us on our Empty Nest Mom Travelers group trips. Here is what we’re planning for 2024 and 2025:
5-12 July 2024 – Alaska Inside Passage Cruise
4-11 December 2024 – Christmas Markets Rhine River Cruise
23-30 March 2025 – Tuscany Food and Wine Escape
11-22 May 2025 – South Africa Safari and Victoria Falls
21-28 September 2025 – Iceland Ring Road Tour
Click here to join my Empty Nest Mom Travelers Facebook Group or email me at leah@escapethenesttravel.com to get all of the exciting details. Space is limited so I hope to connect with you soon!
Escape The Nest Travel
I specialize in helping empty nest moms connect with each other and travel the world together.
Connect with 1200+ empty nest moms in my free Empty Nest Mom Travelers Facebook Group. Click here to join and find out more about our 2024-2025 group trips.
Happy Travels!
Leah Goerke, CTA, Ed.D.
Owner, Escape The Nest Travel
leah@escapethenesttravel.com