Feel like getting away from the monotony of everyday life? Need an excursion to discover authentic food and culture? Want some soul-melting relaxation amid turquoise seas and sandy beach shores? Greece is the answer! Yes, Greece has it all! For the best in culture, history, cuisine, and nature relaxation, this European island cluster is the place to visit in October. Curious about what awaits you in Greece in October? Discover it all here.
Is October a good time to visit Greece
Greece is blessed with a sprawling shoreline thanks to its strategic position in the southeast of Europe. Flanked by the Aegean Sea, the Mediterranean Sea, and the Ionian Sea on three sides, Greece is as Mediterranean as it gets in terms of climate. This means sunshine throughout the year. However, October is a transitional month, and the summer sun dips down in scorching intensity . The temperature drops, and so do the hotel and flight prices. This makes it an ideal time to visit Greece, enjoying fewer crowds and affordable travel while still experiencing its stunning beauty.
Weather in Greece in October
After the sweltering summer months, Greece transitions into a cozy autumn, with October offering pleasant temperatures ranging from 16 to 28 degrees Celsius. The milder weather and reduced crowds make it the perfect time to explore popular attractions without long queues. While the South of Greece enjoys warmer temperatures, Central and Northern Greece showcase breathtaking fall foliage. However, the change in season reveals a vibrant side of Greece, distinct from its usual white and azure hues.
- Temperature: Low: 16 degrees Celsius, High: 28 degrees Celsius
- Humidity: 60–65%
- Chance of Rain (%): 20–30% (ctober is the start of the rainy season in Greece)
- Daylight (Hrs): 10 Hrs
- Sunrise: 7.20 AM
- Sunset: 7.05 PM
Things to do in Greece in October
Visit the Ancient Ruins of Greece
You can’t miss visiting Athens when you are in Greece! You should get outdoors and explore this enigmatic ancient city, teeming with ruins and past historic architecture. Watch in awe the grandeur of the Acropolis, the Temple of Zeus, and the Agora of Athens. Take a day trip to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Delphi, where you can view the majestic Temple of Apollo. Crete welcomes you to explore attractions like the Minoan Palace of Knossos and Phaistos when you aren’t busy strolling on sandy beach shores. Greece has archaic grandeur, and every Greek island offers unique historical and architectural gems waiting to be explored.
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Featured Get Pampered at Spa Retreats
Longing for that ultimate spa break? One of the best things to do in Greece is to rejuvenate in its gorgeous scenery and relax. Add a touch of Greek spa wellness and holistic treatments, and you will feel the stress melt away from your body. Tweak up the experience with a luxury spa getaway at opulent spa resorts overlooking the blue sea at Angsana Corfu Hotel & Spa, Amanzoe, Six Senses Spa Elounda, and Andronis Concept Wellness Resort, to name a few.
Island Hopping
When there are so many Greek islands to explore, don’t limit yourself to just one. October has ideal weather for an island-hopping adventure. Dive into crystal-clear waters, explore ancient ruins, and savor delicious local cuisine, all while soaking up the sun-drenched beauty of the Greek Isles. From over 200 inhabited islands, our top picks for island hopping in October are Milos Island, Cyclades, Sifnos, Santorini, Crete, Kefalonia, Ithaca, and Syros. Book Athens cruises with excursions to nearby islands for convenience rather than taking individual ferries to different islands. You can also reserve a Windstar cruise for a more relaxed vacation away from busy crowds. Unlike enormous cruise ships, Windstar’s cozy yachts easily traverse the Aegean Sea, letting you find secret coves and quaint harbours that are off-limits to larger ships. The northern Greek islands, such as Samothraki and Thassos, are best known for their untouched natural splendours, particularly for some of the country’s most beautiful natural swimming pools.
Explore Santorini Without the Crowds
The iconic image of Santorini’s striking blue-domed churches set against the backdrop of pristine white-washed structures and dramatic cliffs, framed by the endless expanse of the shimmering cerulean sea, is a sight that sears itself indelibly into the mind of anyone fortunate enough to witness it. As the summer crowds ebb, Santorini is one of the best places to visit in Greece in October, unhindered and at your own pace. Wandering the quaint, winding streets, get hypnotized by the tantalizing aromas of freshly baked bread, sizzling seafood, and the fragrance of olive oil and citrus that permeates the air. Locals and tourists alike linger over rich, strong Greek coffee and indulge in traditional pastries while soaking in the laid-back island ambience of this lively and inviting cafe culture.
Places to See in Greece in October
Apart from the above things to do in Greece in October, visit these remarkable Greek islands that are not frequently included in travel itineraries to venture beyond what’s familiar and enjoy extraordinary island getaways. It’s time to take a journey to the island less travelled.
Zakynthos Island
Part of the Ionian Islands, Zakynthos Island charms you with its strong Italian essence rather than Greek influence. The shadows of Venetian rule on the islands have left an indelible mark that has evolved into a unique culture infused with Grecian elements. Even in terms of landscape, you will find cliffside towns with Roman-style cobblestone alleys and piazzas with hues of green verdant gardens rather than the quintessential white and blue swatches of Greek townships. The island boasts serene beaches with sea-carved caves and clear aquamarine waters that loggerhead sea turtles love to swim in. Zakynthos Island provides some of the most tranquil and picturesque beaches for you to enjoy a relaxing beach time.
Naxos
Naxos boasts endless beaches lapped by azure waters under clear, open skies and a landscape teeming with seaside townships. This island in southern Greece’s Cyclades Island group is a great place to travel with family, friends, and children. The medieval historic buildings and traditional Greek houses with whitewashed walls are scattered throughout Chora town. You can find quaint cafes and restaurants nestled among the maze of alleys, as well as charming markets like Naxos Old Market. Another lovely town worth visiting is Apiranthos, which boasts a superb assortment of museums and historical landmarks. Finish your day with a beautiful sunset at Agios Prokopios Beach.
Rhodes
The largest island in the Dodecanese, Rhodes, is the perfect spot to enjoy the last sunny rays of the summer sun. This Greek destination offers clear blue waters with the perfect temperature for swimming and soaking. The postcard-perfect scenery of the white, sandy beaches contrasts with blue skies dotted with streaks of cloud or a fiery auburn sunset. The earthy tones and medieval townships create a striking contrast in the landscapes. The townships on the island are a great place to take a leisurely stroll while admiring some of Greece’s most stunning historical features.
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Greece Festivals and Events in October
Curious about the events and festivals in Greece in October? Well, get ready to join a fantastic assortment of activities that Greek towns beckon you with open arms.
October Festivals in Greece
We Are Nature 2025 – International Kefalonian Festival of Environmental Arts
This international festival blends art, science, and ecology, highlighting the connection between people and the natural environment of Kefalonia and Ithaca. Founded by Dr. Pierre Leichner and the Ionion Center for the Arts & Culture, it features installations, performances, and workshops using natural or recycled materials. Events include art in public spaces, panel discussions with scientists and artists, and presentations of local gastronomy, music, and culture. The goal is to foster environmental awareness while positioning Kefalonia as a destination for education, ecology, and the arts.
When: October 3–5, 2025
Location: Kefalonia & Ithaca, Greece
Kids Radio Spooky Festival
Back for its 4th year, the Kids Radio Spooky Festival turns Technopolis into a Halloween wonderland for families. Across two days, children and parents can enjoy theatrical performances, concerts, creative workshops, bubble shows, magic tricks, a Halloween parade, and even a new musical premiere. With ghosts, pumpkins, wizards, and live music, it’s a playful and festive way to celebrate Halloween in Athens.
When: October 11–12, 2025, 11:00–21:00
Location: Technopolis Athens, Pireos 100, Athens
Ohi Day
Greece commemorates October 28th as a significant historic day when the country recalls its courageous refusal of the Italian army’s attempt to seize Greek territory and boldly declared its unwavering determination to defend its homeland. This was the turning point that brought Greece into World War II. Throughout Greece, the streets come alive with a sea of blue and white flags – the colours of the Greek national flag, as communities, schools, and military units come together in grand parades and celebrations. Around this day, a lot of historical sites and museums also host special events and exhibitions.
When: October 28, 2025
Location: Throughout Greece
October Events in Greece
Chestnut and Tsipouro Festival
October in Greece is harvest season, and villages across the country celebrate with chestnut and tsipouro festivals. These gatherings mix food, drink, and tradition, offering a taste of rural life. Expect roasted and boiled chestnuts, homemade raki and tsipouro, honey, traditional pies, and local wines, all served alongside music and dancing. In Elos, Crete, the Chestnut Festival highlights the region’s harvest with roasted chestnuts, honey, and local drinks. In Nafpaktia, the Chestnut and Raki Festival takes place around mid-October, serving raki, chestnuts, sweets, pies, and goat stew. Messimeri in Edessa hosts the Tsipouro Festival, where visitors enjoy food, dancing, and the distillation of tsipouro itself. The month ends with the Chestnut Festival in Palaiohori, Kavala, on the last Sunday of October, featuring wine, tsipouro, and chestnut-picking in the nearby forest.
When: October 2025
Location: Elos (Crete), Nafpaktia, Messimeri (Edessa), Palaiohori (Kavala)
Chania International Film Festival (CFF)
This is one of the major cultural events in Crete, blending the local heritage of the region with international movies. Within the last 10+ years, it has grown into a vibrant celebration with screenings, workshops, and educational programs for all ages. Each year, thousands of visitors take part in film premieres, discussions, and parallel cultural events across Chania. The 13th edition will bring filmmakers and audiences together in Chania, Crete, showcasing a diverse program of films and parallel activities. Submissions for films will open in February and close at the end of May, with all applications handled online.
When: 15–26 October 2025
Location: Chania, Crete
Legion of the Damned – Mediterranea Metal Cruise 2025
The historic city of Athens will be hosting one of the biggest metal events as part of the Mediterranea Metal Cruise 2025. You can expect a big night of thrash and death metal on this festive cruise. This event will feature Legion of the Damned, Enforcer, and Bullet in the lineup. With this magical setting at sea, combined with the raw adrenaline energy, this concert will blend travel and music into an unforgettable experience.
When: 31 October- 3 Nov 2025
Location:Mediterranea Metal Cruise, departing Athens, Greece
Travel Tips to Visit Greece in October
- If you need a Greek visa, ensure to apply well in advance. With over 200 islands to explore, planning your trip can be overwhelming. Consider using the services of a tour operator to streamline your visa process and create a personalized itinerary.
- Weather can vary in October, so do check the forecast daily.
- Though Greece boasts a sunny climate all year round, it’s best to keep rain gear handy to tackle any unexpected rain showers.
- Even though major islands and Athens are scarcely crowded with tourists, venture out to off-beat destinations such as Milos, Tinos, and the Peloponnese region, which are hidden gems of Greece and are worth a visit.
Things to Know Before Visit Greece in October
What to Pack for Greece in October
- Bring airy, cotton clothes, light jackets, and sweaters to add as layers.
- Don’t forget your essentials: swimwear, sunscreen, sunglasses, flip-flops, hats, and tote bags for those perfect beach days.
- Invest in a good day bag to carry important documents safely, along with essential medications and toiletries for daily travel.
- Carry a rain jacket or umbrella in case you get caught in a rain drizzle unexpectedly.
- Keep some cash in hand for local purchases.
- Stay connected with a universal travel adapter, a power bank, and a local SIM card.
What to wear in Greece in October
Think breezy attire for your October holiday in Greece. It is mostly a T-shirt, shorts, and a summer dress kind of weather. Carry a light jacket, sweater, stole, or cardigan to layer up in case the Greek weather in October turns chilly in the evenings. Comfortable walking shoes are a must-have for any Greek vacation. Don’t forget your beachwear; October has some of the best swimmable waters and shores for soaking up the sun. Invest in good-quality beach totes and crossbody bags for shopping for souvenirs, and have plenty of room for essentials like sunscreen, a water bottle, and a portable charger. Be sure to pack a sun hat and sunglasses. Not only does it look chic, it keeps your head and your eyes protected on hot days.
Getting Around Greece in October
Flights and ferries are your best buddies in Greece. Mostly, all visitors fly to Athens in Mainland Greece. When you travel to a Greek island, check if the island you are visiting has an international airport, as not all Greek islands have international terminals. Many islands are serviced by domestic carriers like Aegean Airlines, Sky Express, and Olympic Air, which can let you fly to neighbouring islands. However, some of the most popular islands, like Crete and Santorini, have international airports where you can fly directly from worldwide. If you fly to an island and want to hop to another Greek island, ferries are a cheaper mode of transfer than domestic airlines. Ferry routes offer convenient connections between inhabited Greek islands, making island hopping a breeze. Choose from high-speed ferries, luxurious catamarans, traditional boats, or overnight services to suit your preferences and budget. For an even more extravagant experience, consider a Greece cruise package. To explore the islands at your own pace, rent a car on the island if you have an international driver’s license. You can also opt for the Hellenic Train to traverse through Greece’s scenic landscapes.
Where to Stay in Greece in October
Greece is reasonably rated in October. The warm weather and low prices are the perfect ingredients for a budget-friendly Greece getaway. For backpackers and budget-conscious travellers, Greece offers plenty of options, right from cozy homestays to budget hotels. But if you can extend your budget or even splurge on this Greek holiday, October is ideal for luxury stays. The rates are comparatively lower than in the summer months, and you get to choose from a wide range of luxury hotel and resort properties, such as Four Seasons, One & Only Resorts, and Mar-bella Collections, to name a few. No matter your budget, you will definitely find yourself in bliss, overlooking the aquamarine sea and stunning beaches. Base your stay on the purpose of your visit. For family vacationers, look for kid-friendly stays with play activities for them and not places famous for honeymooners. Few Greek resorts, such as Esperos Village Blue&Spa Resort, Castello Boutique Resort & Spa, and Lindos Blu Luxury Hotel & Suites, are ‘only-adults’ hotels where visitors cannot stay with children above 17 years of age.
What to eat in Greece in October
Greece is a food lover’s delight! There is no doubt that after the breathtaking scenery, the next thing you will fall in love with is the Greek food. Heavily laden with olive oil, fresh lime, and cheese, and served with local wine, Greek food incorporates a riot of flavors, creating a hearty sumptuousness for its visitors . Dig into freshly baked Eliopsomo (Greek olive bread) served with fresh marmalades, Tiropita, Ladenia, Greek yoghurt, and feta cheese salad for wholesome breakfasts. Greek meals include Moussaka, Spanakopita, Dolmades, and Gyros. Head to Sifnos to indulge in Greek cuisine made in earthenware made by locals, which gives an earthy flavour to revitháda. Seafood lovers shouldn’t miss the chance to indulge in dishes from Santorini and Mykonos, featuring delicious shrimp, squid, and mussel dishes. You can even try out grilled octopus if you feel like trying something unique. Don’t forget to complete the meals with a glass of wine or tempting Greek desserts. Whether you are a vegetarian, vegan, pescatarian, or non-vegetarian, you get meals that suit your diet throughout Greece.
FAQs about Visiting Greece in October
1. Is finding good deals on flights and accommodations in Greece during October?
2. Can I enjoy water activities in Greece in October?
3. What are some lesser-known Greek islands to visit in October?
Conclusion
Let Greece be your choice of adventure this October, and experience a journey like no other. Pack your bags and get ready to embark on a food and culture expedition of a lifetime in this captivating destination.
