When to visit

🌸 Spring (April–May)

Highs of 20–27 °C

One of the best times to come: pleasant temperatures, wild flowers around the ruins and long days. Orthodox Easter has a special atmosphere, but some places close or change their hours.

☀️ Summer (June–August)

Highs of 32–35 °C, with heatwaves above 40 °C

Lots of sun, lots of people and the highest prices. During heatwaves the Acropolis may close in the middle of the day. On the plus side: rooftop evenings, open-air cinemas and the Athens Epidaurus Festival.

🍂 Autumn (September–October)

Highs of 23–29 °C

Probably the best time of all: the sea is still warm enough for a trip to the coast, the light is beautiful and the queues are shorter than in summer.

🌧️ Winter (November–March)

Highs of 13–17 °C

Few tourists, good prices and some Sundays with free entry to the ancient sites. It can rain and opening hours are shorter, but the Acropolis without the crowds is priceless (well, €30).

Athens Marathon · 8 November 2026

It follows the original route from Marathon to Athens and finishes in the Panathenaic Stadium. Streets close that weekend and hotels fill up. It's usually held on the second Sunday of November.

Apokries and Clean Monday · 15 March 2027

Greek carnival ends with Clean Monday, a public holiday: Athenians head up Philopappos Hill to fly kites and eat seafood and vegetables. Very local, not touristy at all.

Orthodox Easter · 2 May 2027

The biggest celebration of the year. At midnight on Saturday, candles are lit in every church and firecrackers go off. On Good Friday and Easter Monday many museums and shops close or open for fewer hours.

Athens Epidaurus Festival · June–August

Theatre, music and dance in venues such as the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, right below the Acropolis. Seeing a show there at night is something you won't forget.

Ochi Day · 28 October

A national holiday with parades. Entry to the Acropolis and other sites is free, so get there early.