Athens
Athens
Greece
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Athens, the historical heartbeat of Europe, is a city where ancient ruins and contemporary Mediterranean life coexist under nearly year-round sunshine. Understanding the city's Mediterranean climate i...
About Athens
Athens, the historical heartbeat of Europe, is a city where ancient ruins and contemporary Mediterranean life coexist under nearly year-round sunshine. Understanding the city's Mediterranean climate is key to a perfect trip; while the summers can be intensely hot and crowded, the spring and autumn months offer a sublime balance of warmth and walkability. If you are looking for a more relaxed, northern alternative, you might also explore the cultural capital of [Thessaloniki](/best-time-to-visit/thessaloniki). For most travelers, the peak season runs from June to August, the shoulder months are April–May and September–October, and the off-peak winter period spans November to March.
Fly from Halifax, or anywhere in Atlantic Canada, and discover Athens at its best. We'll show you when to go, what to see, and where to eat, so you can simply enjoy the journey.
March, April, May
Spring (March–May)
June, July, August
Summer (June–August)
September, October, November
Autumn (September–November)
December, January, February
Winter (December–February)
What's Included
Seasonal Guide
Complete 12-month breakdown with weather, crowds & pricing
Flights from Halifax
Routes: Halifax — Athens, or via major hubs from Atlantic Canada
Neighborhoods
5 curated areas to stay, from budget to luxury
Budget Guide
Euro (€) daily budgets: €50–€80/day to €350+/day
At a Glance: When to Visit Athens
Best Overall
April–June, September–October
Cheapest
January–February
Busiest
July–August
Best Weather
May and September
For Events
June–August (Athens & Epidaurus Festival)
For Families
May and October
For Couples
September
Budget Travel
November–March
From Atlantic Canada
Halifax to Athens.
Month by month.
Everything you need to know about travelling from Canada to Athens — the best seasons, what to pack, and how to save.
Month-by-Month Guide to Athens
January
7°C–13°C (45°F–55°F). Rainy with approx. 3 sunshine hours/day.
“Best for budget travelers and those who want the ancient sites to themselves.”
February
7°C–14°C (45°F–57°F). Occasional cold snaps, mild overall.
“Perfect for foodies and culture seekers enjoying the low prices.”
March
9°C–17°C (48°F–63°F). Spring begins with blooming wildflowers.
“Great for hiking and sightseeing before the heat arrives.”
April
12°C–20°C (54°F–68°F). Pleasant, mild, and increasingly sunny.
“The best month for religious culture and perfect walking weather.”
May
16°C–25°C (61°F–77°F). Beautiful weather, flowers in full bloom.
“The 'sweet spot' for weather, festivals, and outdoor life.”
June
21°C–30°C (70°F–86°F). Hot and dry with 12 hours of sun.
“Ideal for those who love high-energy festivals and warm nights.”
July
24°C–33°C (75°F–91°F). Peak heat, often exceeding 35°C.
“Best for sun-seekers, but expect high heat and large crowds.”
August
24°C–34°C (75°F–93°F). Very hot; many locals leave for the islands.
“A unique time where the city center feels quieter but the coast is packed.”
September
20°C–29°C (68°F–84°F). Warm sea temperatures and cooling air.
“Arguably the best month for a combination of city and sea.”
October
16°C–24°C (61°F–75°F). Mild autumn weather with occasional rain.
“Best for those who want pleasant weather and fewer tourists.”
November
12°C–19°C (54°F–66°F). Cooler temperatures and some rain.
“Ideal for runners and travelers seeking local urban vibes.”
December
9°C–15°C (48°F–59°F). The wettest month but full of festive light.
“A magical, low-cost time to experience Greek Christmas traditions.”
Festivals & Events in Athens
Comicdom Con Athens
A huge celebration of comic arts in the Technopolis of Gazi.
Low impact on hotels; mostly local attendance.Dionyssia Wine Festival
The city's biggest wine tasting event held at the Zappeion Megaron.
Popular with locals; book tavernas in advance.Greek Independence Day
Major military parades and religious ceremonies city-wide.
Public transport disruptions; many museums closed.Orthodox Easter
The most important holiday in Greece with candlelit processions and feasts.
High; many locals travel, but city hotels are often busy.Athens Jazz Festival
Free week-long jazz festival at Technopolis.
Moderate; Gazi area becomes very busy in the evenings.Athens & Epidaurus Festival
Ancient drama, opera, and music in historic venues.
High; book tickets and central hotels months in advance.August Full Moon
Archaeological sites stay open late with free admission and concerts.
High for sites; expect long lines for the free entry.Athens International Film Festival
Showcasing independent cinema across the city's theaters.
Moderate; artsy neighborhoods like Exarcheia are lively.Ohi Day
National holiday commemorating Greece's 'No' to the Axis powers.
Parades in Syntagma; some site closures.Athens Authentic Marathon
Thousands of runners finish the historic route at the Panathenaic Stadium.
High; hotels near the stadium and center sell out early.Budget Guide: How Much Does It Cost to Visit Athens?
Euro (€)
Daily Budget
Peak
€180–€250/night
Off-Peak
€70–€120/night
Accommodation prices fluctuate wildly, with winter rates often being 50% lower than peak July prices. Dining and transport remain relatively stable year-round.
Where to Stay in Athens by Season
Plaka
Moderate to PremiumSpring / Autumn
The oldest neighborhood, ideal for walking to all major ancient sites.
Psirri
Budget to ModerateWinter
The nightlife hub with cozy bars and street art; stays lively year-round.
Glyfada (Athens Riviera)
PremiumSummer
Best for those who want beach access and high-end seaside dining.
Kolonaki
PremiumAutumn
Upscale residential area with high-end shopping and museum access.
Koukaki
ModerateSpring
A local, trendy vibe near the Acropolis Museum with great brunch spots.
What to Pack for Athens
Spring
Pro tip: Layers are vital as mornings can be crisp while afternoons are warm.
Summer
Pro tip: Avoid synthetics; stick to natural fibers to survive the 35°C+ heat.
Autumn
Pro tip: The sea is still warm in October, so don't leave your swimwear behind.
Winter
Pro tip: Athens is hillier than it looks; choose waterproof shoes with good traction.
FAQs: Visiting Athens
What is the best month to visit Athens?
May and September are the best months, offering warm temperatures, full event calendars, and manageable crowds.
When is the cheapest time to fly to Athens?
January and February are typically the cheapest months for flights and accommodation.
Is Athens too hot in July and August?
Yes, for many travelers, temperatures above 35°C (95°F) make midday sightseeing difficult. Early morning or late evening visits are essential.
Is Athens worth visiting in winter?
Absolutely. It's the best time for museum-goers and budget travelers to enjoy the city without the queues.
How many days do I need in Athens?
3 to 4 days is perfect to see the major archaeological sites and soak in the neighborhood vibes.
When does the swimming season start in Athens?
Locals start swimming in May, but the water is most comfortable from June through October.
Are museums free in Athens?
There are several free days (like the first Sunday of the month from Nov-Mar). Check the official Ministry of Culture site for current dates.
Can I combine Athens and Thessaloniki in one trip?
Yes, it is a 4.5-hour train ride or a 50-minute flight. Both cities offer distinct seasonal vibes.
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