May marks the beginning of the tourist season in Greece, but prices are still quite low, while the weather can even be hot!

The restaurants and hotels are opened on all islands and the ferries and flights increase schedules.

Weather in Greece in May

On mainland the weather is warm and sometimes even hot, while on the islands it’s pleasantly warm, sprinkled with some light breezes. Just perfect for a holiday!

The average temperature in Athens is 70.5 F/ 21.4 C, while in Rhodes is slightly cooler (68.5 F /20.3 C).

>> more information on Greece weather.

Prices and other facilities in Greece in May

Depending on the weather, the tourist season is picking up in Greece. In general, the smaller the island, the slower it will “wake up”. The Cyclades typically start to be crowded by the end of May so if you travel during the first decade, you’d benefit from cheaper prices and lower crowds.

Since May 1 typically kicks off the tourist season, there are even more flights and ferries serving the islands. And the international flights are also increasing.

Getting to Greece in May

The big islands and the big cities are served by regular flights especially from Europe. The low-cost carriers also offer really good bargains. Ferries also work normally connecting the mainland to the islands and to other neighboring countries as well.
Do make sure to book the flights and ferries slightly in advance, though.

Where to stay in Greece in May

Although the prices are not yet at their highest, they do start to rise. But, there are still special offers for accommodation available so make sure to check various options.

While it pays off to book ahead of time, sometimes looking for last minute deals may be quite fruitful, too.

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What to do in Greece in May

May 1 is International Labor Day. In Greece it’s celebrated with parades and other festivities. While public institutions are closed and the traffic might be disrupted in major towns, the summer season is just starting.

Also on May Day, Greeks celebrate also celebrate the Festival of Flowers (“Anthesteria”), a celebration with ancient roots linked to the goddess Demeter.

May 18 marks the International Monuments Day. All over Greece the entrance to all monuments and archeological sites is free.

What places to visit in Greece in May

Rhodes

On Rhodes, however, the Flower Festival is held during the last week of May on the streets of the Old Town . The magnificent space is filled with flowers and streets food, as well as wines of Rhodes.

Crete

All over the island of Crete, the resistance to Hitler’s paratrooper invasion is commemorated on May 20 each year. Major cities commemorate the day with big celebrations, but the festival atmosphere is felt all over the island. Expect some interruptions in the normal travel services and make sure to ask around where the festivities are held.

And if you fancy some beach time and want to get a tan, Crete is the perfect choice for this time of the year. By late May, the weather is really warm and swimming is also possible.

Thessaloniki

Anastenaria is a traditional ritual of fire walking which can be observed in the village of Ayia Eleni, near Serres and Langada close to Thessaloniki.

On May 20, on the eve of the Saints Constantine and Helen, the worshipers gather and start dancing and singing to the music of the Thracian lyre and a large drum. On the next morning, they leave in a procession to a holy well, where they are blessed by its waters. After an animal is sacrificed, a bonfire is lit and as the wood burns, men spread the coals, eventually creating a large oval bed. When everything is ready, the worshipers start walking barefoot on the coals.

Also, the weather is gorgeous for sightseeing in Thessaloniki.

If you want to head to the beach, Paralia Katerini is nearby and really affordable.

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