Visiting Greece in Autumn: Why September & October Are the Underrated Months in 2025

Why choose September for Greece?

September is one of the best times to experience Greece, offering the perfect blend of pleasant weather, lower costs, and authentic charm. The summer crowds thin out, yet the seas remain warm and inviting for swimming, while the days are comfortably sunny without the peak heat of July and August. Travelers benefit from reduced prices on flights, ferries, and accommodations, making it easier to explore more for less. With festivals, wine harvests, and quieter streets, September captures Greece at its most welcoming—vibrant yet relaxed, allowing for a truly memorable journey.

In this guide, we break down why autumn might just be the best time to visit Greece—from wine harvests and mountain trails to budget travel hacks and mobile connectivity tips for off-the-beaten-path adventures.

Greece in the Autumn of September & October

September in Greece offers more than just mild weather—it’s a season filled with tradition, culture, and romance. Wine lovers can enjoy the grape harvest across Crete, Santorini, and Kefalonia, where wineries welcome visitors with tastings and harvest events that highlight Greece’s rich winemaking heritage. September carries the energy of cultural festivals and marathons, while October marks the celebrated Athens International Film Festival, drawing global cinema enthusiasts to the capital. For couples, Greece’s romantic shoulder-season escapes—from Folegandros and Tinos to Chios and Patmos—offer the perfect setting for honeymoons or quiet getaways, blending tranquility with authentic island experiences.

1. Fewer Crowds, Same Views

Landmarks like the Acropolis or Santorini’s Oia are still accessible but minus the shoulder-to-shoulder crowds. You can actually get a photo without 10 tourists in the background.

2. Budget-Friendly Travel

Accommodation and flight prices begin to drop as the peak season ends. Many boutique hotels offer discounts, and restaurants no longer require advance reservations.

3. Perfect Weather

• September: Still summer-like with average highs of 28°C (82°F)
• October: Milder and more pleasant, especially for hiking

You can still enjoy a beach day in September and wear a light jacket by October evening.

4. Vine Harvest Season

Wine lovers rejoice! Autumn is grape harvest time, and many regions offer tours and tastings:

• Nemea in the Peloponnese
• Naoussa in northern Greece
• Santorini’s unique volcanic wines

Best Autumn Destinations in Greece

Autumn transforms Greece into a canvas of golden light, crisp air, and unforgettable experiences — and September 2025 is the perfect time to see it all unfold. Imagine standing among the sky-high monasteries of Meteora, where misty mornings give way to breathtaking views, or hiking the wooded trails of Pelion, where mountain paths meet charming seaside villages. In Zagori, stone bridges and dramatic gorges invite adventure, while Crete tempts with vineyard harvests, rugged landscapes, and seas still warm enough for a swim. Meanwhile, the buzz of Athens and Thessaloniki offers a cultural rhythm of festivals, food, and history that feels more intimate than summer’s rush. These destinations together capture Greece’s autumn magic — a season where beauty, culture, and tranquility blend seamlessly.

1. Meteora

• Monasteries perched on rock pillars
• Crisp air and fall foliage make hikes and photo ops spectacular
• Less touristy than summer, more spiritual and serene

2. Pelion

• Apple orchards, stone mansions, and sea-meets-mountain views
• Perfect for romantic getaways or nature retreats
• Try local tsipouro and homemade spoon sweets

3. Zagori

• Dramatic gorges, old stone bridges, and traditional villages
• Ideal for hiking the Vikos Gorge or experiencing authentic mountain life
• Great off-grid destination with charming guesthouses

4. Crete

• Still warm enough for swimming in early autumn
• Olive oil production begins
• Explore ancient ruins like Knossos without queues

5. Athens and Thessaloniki

• Cultural festivals, museum nights, and open-air concerts
• Comfortable weather for long urban strolls and rooftop drinks

Hidden Gems and Quieter Escapes For Your Soul

In September 2025, Greece reveals a quieter, more authentic side that many travelers miss during the busy summer months. From secret islands to mountain retreats, these destinations promise serenity, natural beauty, and cultural depth away from the usual crowds.

• Karpathos – Peaceful beaches, mountain villages, and a slower pace away from mass tourism.
• Poros, Hydra, Aegina, Spetses – Easy-to-reach islands from Athens, perfect for day trips or relaxing weekend breaks.
• Milos – Home to over 70 beaches and charming villages, still authentic despite its growing popularity.
• Naxos – Rich in heritage, local farming traditions, and authentic island hospitality.
• Corfu, Kefalonia, Monemvasia, Rhodes, Andros, Pelion – Diverse autumn escapes, from medieval castles and lush forests to tranquil coastlines glowing in autumn light.

Autumn Activities You Shouldn’t Miss

• Hiking in Zagori or Pelion with golden leaves underfoot
• Harvest festivals in villages like Archanes (Crete) or Kalavryta
• Hot springs in Loutraki or Edipsos
• Local cooking classes featuring seasonal produce like mushrooms and chestnuts

Seasonal Delights and Immersive Experiences

Autumn in Greece is more than landscapes — it’s a season of traditions, culture, and romance. In September 2025, travelers can embrace unique celebrations and experiences that make the journey unforgettable.

• Wine Harvesting Season – Crete, Santorini, and Kefalonia come alive with grape harvests, tastings, and vineyard celebrations.
• Cultural Festivals and Events – September brings local marathons and music gatherings, with October marking the Athens International Film Festival.
• Romantic Shoulder-Season Escapes – Folegandros, Tinos, Chios, and Patmos offer intimate island getaways, ideal for honeymoons or quiet retreats.

Mobile Coverage Tip: Stay Connected in Rural Greece

Autumn travelers often head to quieter regions with weaker Wi-Fi and mobile signals. That’s where Voye Global’s Greece eSIM becomes essential:

• Works instantly via QR activation
• Stronger mobile data signal than typical roaming options
• Ideal for GPS, translation apps, bookings, and checking ferry times
• No physical SIM card swap needed

Also traveling through Europe? Consider a Europe eSIM plan to stay connected across borders.

What to Pack for Autumn in Greece?

• Light layers: T-shirts for day, jackets for night
• Comfortable walking shoes for hikes or old towns
• Swimsuit (yes, still useful in September!)
• Travel umbrella or light rain jacket (occasional October showers)
• Portable charger and your eSIM QR code

FAQs: Greece in September & October

Is Greece still warm in October?
Yes, especially in southern regions and islands like Crete and Rhodes.

Can you still swim in the sea?
Definitely in September. Early October is swimmable in southern parts.

Are ferries still running?
Yes, though less frequently. Check schedules in advance.

Are tourist attractions still open?
Most remain open through October, with shorter hours.

Is rural Greece safe and accessible?
Yes, and even easier with mobile data via a reliable eSIM like Voye.

Final Word: Don’t Overlook Greece in Autumn

Greece in autumn is all about balance—between warm and cool, adventure and relaxation, crowds and calm. With cheaper prices, authentic experiences, and golden-hour lighting all day long, it’s the perfect time to explore beyond the beaches.

Whether you’re hiking in Meteora, sipping wine in Pelion, or watching the Aegean from a quiet cove in Crete, make it seamless with your digital tools, smart planning, and a Voye eSIM to keep you connected wherever fall takes you.

Discover More Greek Travel Guides

To deepen your autumn adventure in Greece, start by exploring must-see cities across the country — from historic urban centers to vibrant coastal towns. If you’re intrigued by island hopping, don’t miss our curated guide to the best Greek islands for a September 2025 escape from Athens. For a more immersive experience, venture to Crete and uncover its autumn harvest villages and scenic coastal hikes. Back in the capital, our Athens September Travel Guide offers practical tips for navigating the city during this magical month. If you’re considering a side trip off the beaten path, our suggestions for a short trip to Larissa bring Greek inland charm into focus. And for solo travelers, our solo trip to Athens post delivers personalized advice tailored to independent exploration.