Greece Weather in October

Season: autumn
In short: mild, windy, big temperature difference between day and night, intermittent showers

Greece enjoys mild climate in October. On average, the temperature lies in 13-23℃ (55.4-73.4℉), with a relatively large temperature difference between day and night. In the sun, it is always warm; in the morning and evening, it can be a little cold with blowing wind. Averagely, the sea temperature in October is 23℃ (73.4℉). By mid-October, showers occur in most areas, which can be violent and time-concentrating at times. The average precipitation of the whole month is 48mm (1.9in), scattering in 9 days. After the first rain in October, you may feel that autumn is coming. Late sunrise at 7-8am and early sunset at 6-7 pm, combined with increasing cloudy days, lead to a decrease of sunlight hours. 

The coldest city in Greece in October:
Thessaloniki: 12-22℃ (53.6-71.6℉) 
The warmest city in Greece in October:
Rhodes: 19-25℃ (66.2-77℉)

Clothing Guide & Packing List

At daytime: Breathable and comfortable clothes including T-shirts, light pants and skirts or dress are suitable for outdoor activities in the sun. Due to long-time walking, it is recommended to wear lightweight sneakers or walking shoes.

At night: In blowing wind, a long-sleeve T-shirt or hoodie is needed. You can also add a thin coat or windbreaker outside the daytime wearing to keep warm. 

Other Necessity: If you plan to start the journey in mid-to-late October, remember to pack raingear in case it rains.

Recommended Things to Do in October

Tourism Rate: 

Going Hiking in Pleasant Weather

With pleasant weather and diverse terrain, Greece in autumn is a paradise for hikers. Whether on lands or islands, there are miles of scenic hiking trails. On the way, you can appreciate brilliant historical relics, admire breathtaking fall colors on mountains, or overlook the charming Aegean Sea from the cliffs.  

In Peloponnese, you can hike to visit the Archaeological Site of Olympia, the birthplace of the Olympic Games. The Acropolis of Athens located on a limestone hill at the heart of Athens is also a good choice. Traveling to Meteora, you will see ancient monasteries surrounded by clouds and mists from a distance, looking like they were built in the air. If you want to explore the natural beauty of autumn, it is advised to go hiking in Vikos Gorge in Zagori, which is the deepest gorge in the world. Crete is a must-go place for experienced hikers. On this island, you can have an easy walk along the coast or challenge yourself on mountain trails that require rock climbing skills.

Experiencing a Bountiful Harvest

October in Greece is a harvest month when grapes, olives, chestnuts, pomegranates and various vegetables ripen. Farmers are the busiest in this month. If you want to experience the joy of harvest, you can schedule your trip in October 2024.

Peloponnese is one of the main olive-growing regions in Greece. Traveling there in autumn, you have the chance to experience olive picking and olive oil making. In Crete, grand harvest festival is held in villages every October when grapes are ripe. You can work with local farmers to pick grapes and learn from them about wine-making techniques. In the festival, you can also appreciate traditional Greek music and dance performance. A wide variety of food such as cheeses and grilled meats is prepared for tourists, and you can indulge in a delicious meal.

Oxi Day on October 28

Oxi Day, considered as the second national day of Greece, is celebrated across the country on October 28 every year. On this day, you will see Greek people hang the national flags on their balconies. In the morning, they go to the streets to shout “ΟΧΙ” (meaning “NO”) in procession. The student parade is an important part of the celebrations. They wear uniforms and wave the national flags effusively. Besides, many archaeological sites and museums are open to the public free of charge to celebrate the festival. 

Tips for Traveling to Greece in October

1. If you want to have fun in water in October, it is advisable to do it in sunny days to avoid catching a cold.

2. October belongs to the tourist shoulder season. Some service places for tourists are closed. Therefore, you need to check the opening time of touristy restaurants, hotels and more in advance. 

Weather of Major Greece Cities in October

City	Temp	Rainfall (mm)	Humidity (%)	Sunrise / Sunset
Athens	17 - 24℃ (62.6 - 75.2℉)	28.4	61	7:20 - 7:49 / 18:27 - 19:08
Santorini	18 - 23℃ (64.4 - 73.4℉)	30.0	69	7:13 - 7:40 / 18:23 - 19:02
Patra	14 - 24℃ (57.2 - 75.2℉)	42.3	73	7:28 - 7:57 / 18:35 - 19:16
Delphi	17 - 24℃ (62.6 - 75.2℉)	28.4	61	7:20 - 7:49 / 18:26 - 19:08
Olympia	13 - 24℃ (55.4 - 75.2℉)	75.0	74	7:28 - 7:57 / 18:36 - 19:17
Crete	17 - 24℃ (62.6 - 75.2℉)	49.4	70	7:14 - 7:40 / 18:27 - 19:04
Rhodes	19 - 25℃ (66.2 - 77℉)	36.7	71	7:01 - 7:28 / 18:12 - 18:51
Mykonos	16 - 24℃ (60.8 - 75.2℉)	56.3	69	7:13 - 7:41 / 18:22 - 19:02
Corfu	14 - 24℃ (57.2 - 75.2℉)	129.4	78	7:36 - 8:07 / 18:40 - 19:23
Thessaloniki	12 - 22℃ (53.6 - 71.6℉)	49.0	71	7:24 - 7:56 / 18:26 - 19:11
Zakynthos	15 - 24℃ (59 - 75.2℉)	90.0	73	7:30 - 8:00 / 18:39 - 19:20
Meteora	17 - 24℃ (62.6 - 75.2℉)	28.4	61	7:19 - 7:49 / 18:26 - 19:08