Guide To Greece : A Typical Mediterranean Climate
This part of our guide to holidays in Greece covers the climate of the country…
Greece has what is known as a Mediterranean climate – in most years it has a long, warm summer and a short, mild winter.
But despite the country’s relatively small size, there are regional variations; Greece’s northern mountains, southern islands and central mainland having slightly different climates.
From April until November, the whole country is hot and dry with almost constant sunshine. In this dry season, rainfall is rarely more than sporadic and brief. The most pleasant weather is usually in May-June and September-October, with the highest temperatures occurring from mid-July to mid-August. During this period, temperatures average roughly 35 degrees, though heatwaves can see them rise higher. At this time of year, the sun’s rays can be very strong from 11am-4pm and it’s best to stay out of the sun for that part of the day.
Once the dry season is over, the rains begin. This cool, wet period usually starts in November and lasts until late March or early April. Most of the rain falls from December to April, when it rains on roughly one in every three days. In northern Greece, the winters are wetter and colder than in other parts of the country. Flooding can occur and snowfalls are not uncommon.
Summer is Greece’s peak tourist season, but the off-season from November through February has its attractions. Visitors from cooler climates can find this a rewarding time to see the country, especially its driest parts – the southern Aegean and parts of the southeastern mainland. Sun isn’t guaranteed, but the fall in temperatures will be mirrored by drops in prices and crowds.