The average temperature throughout the year is a warm 17°C or 63°F. In the summer season, the temperatures do rise up to the higher nineties, sometimes even 99°F or a hot 37°C. The mountain regions also get a cooling breeze so the temperatures tend to be slightly cooler than in other areas. The highest peak in Greece is none other than Mount Olympus, which measures 2,916 meters or 9,570 feet tall. Those in the lower areas that do experience hot temperatures will find some relief from the seasonal winds called meltemi, strong dry north winds coming from the Aegean Sea from mid-May to around the middle of September.

On average, the hottest temperatures are in the summer months between June to September, peaking sometime in July and August. The months of June, July and August also have the most sunshine, averaging over eleven hours of sunshine a day. December to March are the coolest times of the year, with temperatures reaching only about 10°C to 12°C. The least amount of sun is in the month of December, which only gets less than four hours of sunshine a day. The wettest months tend to fall in November, February and March.

Given the diversity of the typography of Greece, the country does experience variations in climatic conditions. The type of weather you will experience will depend on the area that you are in. Travelers going to Thrace and Macedonia will find the temperatures to be quite pleasant. This part of Greece experiences Continental Mediterranean weather. It tends to rain here more, but it is cooler than the rest of the country.

The weather in Greece is divided into two different regions, the northern part of Greece as well as the southern part. It’s not uncommon to get hot temperatures on one side and cool breezy weather in the other.

Northern Greece tends to have extreme temperatures between seasons, with hot dry summers and freezing winters. The cities in the Aegean Islands and in the islands of Dodecanese and Cyclades, in Evia and Attica and some parts of Peloponnesus experience dry Mediterranean weather. Between July and August, the meltemi winds or northerly winds sweep through the mainland and in the islands found on the blue Aegean Sea. In the southern part of Greece, the city of Crete can be quite warm. It tends to be wetter on this side of Greece. Starting mid-October and all the way to February, expect rain.

If you’ll be staying in Athens, keep in mind that it can get warmer here than in other parts of Greece due to the urban heat island effect. Due to the amount of human activity in the city, it can get much warmer here. This means don’t be surprised if it feels warmer in Athens even if the thermometer readings show otherwise.

Travelers going to Greece should pack for warm weather. If you’re going in the summer season, the temperatures can be especially warm. Shorts, sleeveless tops and lightweight clothing are a must. Don’t forget to pack a tube of sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun’s rays. Wearing a hat or cap is also advisable. Even if you aren’t planning to go to the beach, you still need sun protection, especially if you’ll be touring all day. Also, bring a bottle of water with you as you tour, since the hot temperatures can make you thirstier than usual.

A lightweight jacket is also recommended, especially during the rainy season. There’s no need to pack a parka. Dressing in layers should do the trick so you can adjust your clothing depending on the temperature and weather for the day. Keep in mind that although it can be warm in Greece, the country does experience some winds so you may get uncomfortable if you aren’t dressed appropriately.

With these in mind, you can now prepare for a fabulous time in one of the most interesting countries in the world! When traveling to Greece, it’s best to be aware of the specific climate in Greece and temperature in Greece during the time of your stay, so you can pack the appropriate clothes and plan the appropriate activities.