In recent years, more and more travelers choose to visit Greece in October.

There are many explanations for this – they may be overwhelmed by the summer crowds and prices or they may not like the summer heat. Whatever the reason, autumn in Greece offers quite a lot of perks for those who choose to visit during an “unpopular” time of the year.

Whether in Greece in October

The weather in October in Greece is quite…weird. It is pleasant still but can get cooler by the end of the month. The trend, however, is to have quite warm weather in October so don’t worry about having to pack too many warm clothes.
It’s worth it to check the forecast bit in advance though. On the islands, it’s quite windy, so don’t forget that windbreaker at home!

Needless to say, October is not a month to visit Greece if you plant to spend most of the time on the beach. You may still be able to enjoy some nice beach days, but chances are higher to get a bit of rain, or gloomy skies.

Temperatures

• Athens: avg high 22C/73F ; avg low 15C/60F
• Rhodes: avg high 23C/75F ; avg low 18C/65F
• Thessaloniki : avg high 21C/70F ; avg low 11C/52F

>>more information on Weather in Greece

Prices and Other Facilities in Greece in October

At some point in October, the archeological sites go back to the shorter winter hours. So, the afternoons tend to be quieter – which is just perfect for a stroll in the city!

Since it’s technically the start of the “low season”, accommodation on the mainland is plentiful and available at much better rates.

If the budget is a concert, you’ll be happy to know that there are a lot of hotels in Athens to choose from and they cater to all budgets.

If you are heading to the islands, kindly note that some hotels, as well as tavernas, close for the season sometime in October. So always book ahead to make sure they are open.

Getting to Greece in October

Due to high winds, water transportation is often disturbed. The seasonal ferry routes are closed and so are most of the hotels and restaurants on the islands. Some of the domestic flights https://www.greecelogue.com/flights-to-greece/flights-within-greece are also cut back. Prices are moderate to low and your best bet is to visit the mainland. The capital and Thessaloniki are served by regular international flights but it is advisable to check the schedule.

Where to Stay in Greece in October

As mentioned above, accommodation in October on the mainland – Athens and Thessaloniki including – is plentiful and at great rates.

However, if you plan to visit the islands, you’ll have fewer options by now. Some hotels close for the season sometime in October, and the tavernas to the same thing.

That said, some smaller pensions and rentals may stay open longer (and even during the winter).
Do make sure to book in advance so that you are assured of a place to stay.

Booking.com

What to Do in Greece in October

There are plenty of local events and fairs to enjoy in October.

The parade on Ochi Day (October 28) is an important event which makes the traffic stop and businesses close for the day (including most archeological sites). Coastal cities usually have naval parades on this special day.

Ochi Day is the anniversary of General Metaxas’ denial to the Italians’ request for free passage to invade Greece. His denial brought Greece into the war on the Allied side.

In Thessaloniki, the city celebrates its patron saint, Saint Dimitrios (Oct 26), its freedom from Turkey, and commemorates the entry of the country in World War II.

Also in Thessaloniki, you can take a look at the jewelry exhibited at Kosmina (each year, around 17-19 Oct), the only international trade event dedicated to the fashion jewelry and accessories industry in Greece.

What Places to Visit in Greece in October

Crete

>>book your accommodation in Heraklion

Due to its location, Crete enjoys very mild weather, so you can enjoy a trip here at any time of the year. Plus, there are flights and slow ferries available from various domestic hubs.

Put on your hiking shoes and enjoy the varied landscape the island has to offer.

>>Read more about ferries from Athens to Crete

Hydra

Photo credit: dronepicr via Flickr

>>book your accommodation in Hydra

A short ferry ride from Athens, Hydra is ideal for a day trip. Closed for traffic, it’s an ideal place to explore if you fancy exploring places on foot.

It is home to a huge network of trails surrounding the island, so if you are into hiking, it won’t disappoint. Should you plan to tackle a long trail, consider staying overnight.

>>Read more about ferries from Athens to Hydra

Santorini

>>book your accommodation in Oia, Santorini

While some hotels and restaurants do close by sometimes in October, there are enough open for the travelers that make their way here at this time of the year.

The weather is colder than in Crete, so pack accordingly. But you’d still be enjoying balmy days, perfect for exploring a not-so-crowded island.

>>Read more about ferries from Athens to Santorini

Athens

>>book your accommodation in Athens

Chances are you are going to fly into Athens even if you plan to travel to one of the islands or elsewhere on the mainland, so why not plan for at least an overnight here.

Between the major archeological sites – the Acropolis, Roman Agora, the Ancient Agora of Athens, and Temple of Olympian Zeus – , excellent museum, great tavernas, a superb public garden, and lovely city vibes, you’ll fall in love in no time.

In times of uncertainty, flexibility matters. We recommend booking an option with free cancellation in case your travel plans change.

Note: this article includes links that may qualify as affiliate links. If you book through them, I may earn a small commission.