Why you should visit the Greek Islands in the off-season

The Greek Islands are popular in summer, but did you know that they also make a great holiday destination in the off-season? Travel to Greece between November and March and you'll see a whole different side to the islands. One where arid landscapes turn vibrant shades of green, scorching heat fades into pleasant temperatures and tourist-packed streets give way to local life. Not to mention the lower prices that make it the perfect time to visit for travellers on a budget. 

Fancy a taste of authentic Greek life? Here are the top reasons why you should visit the Greek Islands in the off-season...

Milder temperatures

If you fancy escaping the cold British weather, then a trip to the Greek Islands is exactly what you need. Even in the off-season, temperatures never drop too low. November can see highs of 20°C and the colder months of January and February can still reach 15 to 17°C. Sunny blue skies are common in the Greek Islands in autumn and winter, making it the perfect place to get some much-needed Vitamin D. 

Tip: Although the Greek Islands see nowhere near as much rain as back home, showers are more likely in the off-season so make sure you bring an umbrella. Evenings also tend to be a lot cooler so we'd recommend packing a jacket too.

Quieter and more authentic

If you've ever visited Santorini in the high season, then you'll know just how busy the Greek Islands can get in summer. Go out of season however and the crowds disperse, leaving behind quieter streets that reveal a more authentic side to the islands. Not only do the lack of crowds make exploring easier, but it also means there are no queues for popular attractions and no restaurant reservations needed. You’ll even be able to get photos without anyone in them, whereas in places like Santorini in summer that’s pretty much impossible without a good editing app! You also won't have to fight for a spot on the beach. In fact, lounger-lined coastlines become relaxing stretches of sand that you can enjoy all to yourself! 

Tip: If you still want a bit of buzz, we recommend heading to the more well-known Greek islands like Crete and Rhodes rather than more off-the-beaten track destinations that will be extra quiet in the off-season.

Cheaper prices

Another reason to visit the Greek Islands in the off season is the prices. If you’re looking for a cheap Greek Island holiday then travelling out of season is definitely your best bet. Firstly, it’s so much cheaper to get there. Out of season, you can often get great deals on flights and once you're there, ferries between the islands are generally a lot cheaper. Secondly, you'll find that the cost of accommodation in the Greek Islands is lower in the off-season too, so you can usually get a very good deal on a fancy hotel that may be unaffordable in the summer months. And thirdly, you’ll find that prices are cheaper when you’re there too. In the summer months, restaurants sometimes hike up their prices and even attractions can be more expensive. So, travelling to the Greek Islands in the off-season is the perfect way to save some pennies.

Beautiful scenery

Once the sun-soaked days of summer have passed, Greece gets even more beautiful. The colours of the landscapes change from browns to lush green shades that contrast beautifully with the vibrant blue of the sea and the sunny skies above. Hazy sunsets beam down over whitewashed villages and olive groves thrive in the lower temperatures. The landscape on some islands is more dramatic than others. For example, on Crete you can often find snow on the peaks of its rugged mountains. Paired with milder temperatures and less crowds, visiting the Greek Islands in the off-season is the best time to experience the natural beauty of Greece.

Seasonal dishes

In summer, meals often consist of fresh seafood and colourful fruits and vegetables. In winter however, you’ll get to experience a whole new side to Greek cooking. Think warming comfort foods like hearty stews and soups and slow-cooked meats bursting with flavour. Must-try dishes in the Greek Islands in the off-season include stifado, a slow-cooked beef stew, fasolada, a white bean soup and revithosoupa, a lemon chickpea soup. You'll also find delicious savoury pies and freshly baked goods on the menu. For dessert, melomakarona, Greek Christmas honey cookies, are a popular sweet treat during the festive season.

Fun activities and attractions

If you're visiting the Greek Islands for a sun, sea and sand type holiday then you can't really beat the Greek Islands in summer with their sun-drenched bays and warm shallow waters. However, the off-season is the best time for other activities like hiking which can be unbearable in the high-season heat. Popular hikes like the Samaria Gorge and Agia Irini Gorge in Crete, the calderia trail in Santorini, Mount Eros in Hydra, and the Corfu trail are a lot more enjoyable out of season. Not only are the temperatures better, but they come without the crowds too. Olive picking is also a popular activity in the off-season, with the olive harvest taking place from around October to February. Along with fun activities, there are also a range of attractions out of season too such as Christmas markets, New Year celebrations and local festivals such as the Elos Chestnut Festival in Crete and Saint Averkios Day in Santorini.

Everything you need to know about travelling to the Greek Islands in off-season

Do the Greek Islands close in winter?

No, the Greek Islands don't close in winter. In fact, winter is one of the best times to experience the Greek Islands as you get to see them from a different perspective and without the tourist crowds. However, you will find that a lot of tourist-focused businesses do shut and the island's tend to cater towards locals instead. In turn, visiting in the off-season offers a more authentic experience.

What is the weather like in winter in the Greek Islands?

The weather can vary year by year but in general, temperatures in the Greek Islands never drop too low. Days will often be sunny with clear skies and although you'll need a jacket at night, you may be able to wear a T-shirt during the day at some times of the year. In the off-season, rain is also more likely so we'd recommend bringing a raincoat or an umbrella.

What is the warmest Greek Island in winter?

Generally, the further south you go, the warmer the temperatures are. So, if you're seeking some winter sun, we'd recommend heading to southern Greek Islands like Crete and the Dodecanese islands of Kos, Rhodes, Kalymnos, Karpathos and Patmos.

What is the best Greek Island to visit in winter?

The best Greek Island to visit in winter all depends on what type of holiday you're looking for. If you're looking for somewhere that's still relatively lively with shops and restaurants open, then we'd recommend heading to the more famous Greek Islands such as Crete, Rhodes, Corfu, Santorini and Mykonos. But if you're just there for the relaxed pace of life and beautiful scenery, you'll enjoy any of the Greek Islands including the quieter ones like Folegandros, Symi and Tinos.

How do I get to the Greek Islands in the off-season?

Getting to the islands in the off-season is slightly harder as a lot of flights from the UK to the Greek Islands are seasonal. However, flights to Athens are available from major UK airports all year round. Once you're in Athens, you can get then get a ferry to the Cyclades Islands, Crete, the Dodecanese, Saronic Islands, and islands in the North Aegean.

Can I travel between the Greek Islands in the off-season?

Yes, you can travel between the Greek Islands in the off-season, with popular ferry routes like Athens to Mykonos and Heraklion to Santorini operating all year round. However, it's worth noting that ferries are often less frequent in the off-season so you'll need to plan your trip in advance.

Whether you fancy hiking through lush green landscapes, sampling the hearty Greek cuisine, exploring deserted whitewashed villages or simply soaking up some winter sun, the Greek Islands make a great destination in the off-season. Experience a new side to Greece and plan your trip to the Greek Islands today.