Greece in October offers the perfect escape, boasting comfortably warm weather and inviting seas still basking in the afterglow of summer. Take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters of Rhodes, Crete, or Kos, where swimming remains delightful well into the month. And with the heat dialed down, October unveils Greece’s true adventurous spirit.
Hike through breathtaking landscapes, explore ancient ruins like Delphi and Mystras, or marvel at the sky-high monasteries of Meteora, all without breaking a sweat. Immerse yourself in vibrant local festivals, indulge in delicious seasonal cuisine, and discover the magic of Greece beyond the peak summer crowds.
Don’t forget the financial benefits of traveling in October! Hotels shed their summer prices, offering significant savings. Plus, with fewer crowds, expect exceptional service and genuine interactions with locals who have more time to share their culture and recommendations. It’s a win-win!
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Best Things to Do in Greece in October
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1. Visit Classy Spetses Island
I visit a lot of islands, some of them multiple times because I just love them and have a great time there with old friends. Spetses is one of them, a unique island with a blend of charm and sophistication. Unlike its bustling neighbors, this classy island in the Argosaronic Gulf flaunts fancy 19th-century mansions along its cobblestone streets, sharing stories of its fascinating maritime past.
Relax on secluded beaches, explore hidden coves by kayak, or wander through charming boutiques – Spetses has something for everyone seeking a laid-back yet refined Aegean escape. And the best part? Poros, Hydra, and Aegina are just a short ferry ride away, making Spetses an ideal base for island-hopping adventures.
Ferry Tip: The ferries in October are not as frequent as they are during the summer. You better check the ferries that run in October at FerryScanner.
Where to Stay in Spetses
Here are some of the best places to stay in Spetses, depending on your budget and preferences:
- Poseidonion Grand Hotel Spetses (luxury): This iconic hotel is the epitome of luxury in Spetses, offering stunning sea views, private balconies, a spa, and multiple restaurants.
- Armata Boutique Hotel Spetses Greece (mid-range): This charming boutique hotel is located in the heart of Spetses, just steps from the beach and the harbor. It features beautiful gardens, an outdoor pool, and a rooftop terrace with panoramic views.
- Ethereal Stay (budget): A fantastic property in an excellent location right next to the old port and main activities with beautifully decorated rooms.
2. Discover Andros Island
For a change of pace, consider Andros – just a 2-hour ferry ride from Athens’ Rafina port. Unlike its sun-scorched Cycladic neighbors, Andros boasts verdant landscapes nurtured by 7 mineral water springs, the most famous being Sariza. This green oasis offers a refreshing escape in October, ideal for hiking amidst lush valleys, or charming villages without the summer crowds.
Chora, the island’s main town is the star, with its mix of fancy neoclassical buildings and cute whitewashed houses. Picture strolling down narrow streets lined with cafes and art galleries, then exploring the cool Venetian Castle for epic sea views. Art lovers? Andros has museums overflowing with treasures, from Picasso and Matisse at the Goulandris to ancient finds at the Archaeological Museum.
If history isn’t your thing, no worries! Hike up the impressive Tourlitis Lighthouse for jaw-dropping Aegean panoramas. And let’s talk beaches – Andros boasts some of the best in the Cyclades, perfect for soaking up the sun or splashing in the turquoise waters.
But if you’re more of an active explorer, lace up your boots! Andros boasts a whopping 170 km of hiking trails, many of them well-marked and interconnected. The crown jewel is the 100 km Andros Routes network, linking north and south for epic adventures.
Andros has a wealth of things to do and see in an elegant and peaceful environment.
Where to Stay in Andros
Aegean Castle Andros (luxury, adults only, buffer breakfast) is a lovely mansion with amazing views, very friendly and attentive staff, and delicious food, in a secluded green area of Agia Eleousa in Andros for an unforgettable experience!
Blue Bay Resort Village (mid-range, child and pet-friendly, buffet breakfast) is located in a stunning location in Batsi Andros, the Blue Bay Resort offers heartwarming hospitality with finely decorated rooms and a classy environment.
Villa George (budget, family-friendly) in Batsi Andros is perfectly located in front of the sea with a fantastic beach to swim in, quiet, super clean with friendly and helpful staff. Batsi village is just a 5-minute walk from Villa George.
3. Explore Santorini’s Magic in October
Imagine ditching the shoulder-to-shoulder summer crowds and having Santorini practically to yourself! October paints the island in a whole new light with comfy sunshine, perfect for chilling in cute villages and snapping epic cliff pics without melting.
The Aegean Sea is still warm enough for a dip, and the markets are bursting with colorful harvest goodies, making every meal a feast. Plus, forget waiting in line for that perfect caldera view – October means fewer tourists and more epic moments just for you.
Whether you’re chasing epic sunsets, sipping delicious local wine, or conquering those Insta-worthy hiking trails, Santorini in October is all about affordability, chilled vibes, and soaking up the real island charm. So, pack your swimsuit, and your sense of adventure, and get ready to discover Santorini’s hidden gems – October is waiting!
Where to Stay in Santorini with Caldera Views
Here are some hotels in Santorini, categorized by budget and all offering caldera views, perfect for your October trip:
Katikies Hotel (luxury): Arguably one of the most iconic hotels in Santorini, Katikies boasts breathtaking caldera views from its private balconies, infinity pools, and Michelin-starred restaurant. It’s known for its luxurious amenities, exceptional service, and romantic atmosphere.
Canaves Oia Luxury Suites: This boutique hotel offers stunning cave suites carved into the caldera cliffs, each with its own private plunge pool and balcony overlooking the Aegean Sea. Guests can enjoy personalized service, a world-class spa, and gourmet dining experiences.
Dana Villas & Infinity Suites (mid-range): Located in Firostefani, Dana Villas offers charming cave houses with private balconies and hot tubs, all with amazing caldera views. The property boasts a beautiful pool, friendly staff, and a delicious breakfast included in the stay.
White Pearl Cavalieri (mid-range): Situated in Imerovigli, this hotel offers stunning views of the caldera and the Aegean Sea from its rooftop terrace and infinity pool. Guests can enjoy spacious rooms with balconies, a delicious breakfast buffet, and a relaxed atmosphere.
Kokkinos Villas (budget): Located in Akrotiri, Kokkinos Villas offers traditional cave houses with balconies and shared terraces, all with caldera views. The property boasts a friendly atmosphere, affordable rates, and a basic breakfast included.
Are you looking for the best Santorini budget hotels? Check out this informative post.
4. Enjoy a 3-Day Trip to Delphi and Meteora
Greece is a mountainous country so some sites are much more difficult to get to them than others especially if you are visiting during the heat of the Greek summer. Two great examples are the steep uphills of the Delphi and the endless steps to get to some of the Meteora Monasteries.
Delphi and Meteora are best visited when the weather is much cooler between October and April and on a 3-day trip, spending a night in Delphi and one night in Meteora. A draft of the itinerary can be:
Day 1: Athens – Ancient Olympia in the Peloponnese – Galaxidi seaside town, 30 km away from Delphi. Spend your evening in the beautiful Galaxidi and stay at the best Boutique Hotel in town with the most delicious handmade marmalades: Ganimede Hotel, Galaxidi.
Day 2: Visit the Delphi Archaeological Site, stroll Arachova town, go to UNESCO Osios Loukas Monastery, drive to Meteora, and stay overnight in Kalambaka town. The best Hotel to stay at in Kalambaka is Archontiko Mesohori Suites & Apartments.
Day 3: Visit UNESCO Meteora Monasteries. Discover the captivating Meteora Monasteries in Kalambaka, where ancient structures cling to towering rock formations. Dating back to the 14th century, these monasteries offer both a glimpse into Byzantine history and stunning panoramic views of the surrounding valleys. A visit to Meteora promises an unforgettable blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.
5. Explore Athens in October
Athens in October is simply amazing. The vast majority of tourists are gone, and you will mostly find the locals hurrying around to their busy schedules. This is the best time to visit in a relaxing way the most famous Greek landmarks in the world: the Acropolis Hill and the Parthenon.
If you head toward Athens Riviera you will realize that Athenians continue to swim even in October.
Athens is also perfect as a city break destination. If you are traveling to Europe you can fly for a long weekend to Athens and get the best of what the city has to offer.
My favorite things to do and visit in Athens are:
- Travel the Athens Riviera to the Temple of Poseidon in Cape Sounion and watch the stunning sunset there
- Choose any of the numerous beaches in the Attika region and swim in the clear waters. One of the best beaches and nearest in Athens center is in Vouliagmeni or Kavouri beach, where you can also find some of the best waterfront restaurants in Athens
- Go to the Chocolate Festival organized in Technopolis in the Gkazi area in mid-October
- Watch the OCHI DAY, a military parade in central Athens, celebrating the refusal of Greeks to surrender to the Italians back on 28th October 1940. It’s celebrated nationwide and all the sites /museums will be closed for that day.
If you would like to get a full tour of Athens, check my full Guide on the Best Athens Monuments so that you do not miss a site!
Where to Stay in Athens
You can find all types of hotels in Athens from super luxury hotels like Grande Bretagne in Athens center and seafront Four Seasons Astir Palace to the best hotels and apartments near old Athens Plaka and Acropolis Parthenon in my complete list below:
- Where to Stay in Plaka, Athens’ Old Town (Hotels and Apartments)
- Acropolis View Hotels & Apartments in Athens
- Best Athens Beach Hotels (By the Athens Riviera Coastline)
- Central Apartments in Athens (near Acropolis)
- Athens Budget Apartments
- Athens Budget Hotels
6. Hike in Pelion Mountain
Greece is made for walking, so the answer is almost everywhere in the country. There is a mountain or a hill or a nearby forest or a river or a lake to hike, climb, or cross, wherever you go in Greece.
My favorite place to hike in Greece is Pelion Mountain located in mid-eastern Greece.
Imagine a deeply forested peninsula with 28 traditional, beautiful villages full of old mansions and monuments, trees laden with pears, apples, chestnuts, planes, streams, and centuries-old bridges.
The most famous Pelion villages are:
As if that was not enough, the peninsula is surrounded by endless golden sandy beaches, some of the best in Greece. In autumn the forest leaves take red and orange hues creating magnificent landscapes that you would just love to hike!
Join the October Pelion Festivals
In the first week of October in Tsagkarada the locals organize the Escape Festival.
The Festival is a fully outdoor activity celebration that includes canyoning, hiking, rock climbing, archery, sea kayaking, horse riding, flying fox, and yoga. All participation and events are free of charge.
2. On The last days of October, usually between the 26-28 of the month, in a small village close to Tsagkarada, in Xourichti, the “delicious” Chestnut Festival is organized by the local authorities.
There is no entrance fee and the visitors can taste boiled and baked local chestnuts (Pelion is huge in chestnut production), food cooked with chestnuts, dance with the locals, and enjoy an authentic local Greek feast (the poster says that free wine is included as well!).
The last and very important reason to visit Greece in October? Prices and rates are low and the local businesses devote a lot of quality time to offering their guests the best experience in their place.
So that when you go back home, Greece will stay in your heart forever.
Where to Stay in Tsagarada Pelion
12 Months Luxury Resort: Immerse yourself in ultimate luxury at this 5-star resort, featuring an infinity pool with breathtaking Aegean Sea views, a spa, gourmet dining, and elegant suites with private balconies.
Amalthia Traditional Guesthouse (mid-range): Enjoy a warm and welcoming atmosphere at this traditional guesthouse, offering comfortable rooms, a swimming pool, and a delicious homemade breakfast. Explore the beautiful gardens and soak in the serene mountain views.
Stilvi (budget): Find affordable comfort at this family-run hotel, offering clean and basic rooms with balconies or terraces. Enjoy the friendly atmosphere and convenient location within walking distance of restaurants and shops.
FAQs for Traveling to Greece in October
What is the Weather Like in Greece in October?
If you can’t stand the crazy hot temperatures of Greek summers (30-45 C in July and August) then October is your ideal month to explore Greece. Summer meltemia (Aegean Sea north winds) have stopped blowing everyone’s hair and it is now much more enjoyable to sail in Greece.
The daily temperature in Athens in October is usually around 25 to 26 C while in the evening drops around to 17 C. Toward the end of October, it might get a bit cooler but nothing too dramatic. There might be some rain for 4-5 days of the month. Greek nature and forests are beautiful with red and orange colors making the hikes in the hills one of the best things to do in Greece in October.
What to Wear in Greece in October
Athens October’s highest temperatures varied between 16 and 26 C and the lowest between 10 and 18 C. For this kind of weather, you need to pack a smart combination of light (t-shirts and light long pants) and warmer clothes for cooler nights or a sudden change of weather.
For a smart outfit for your night outs, a smart jumpsuit is perfect and you can combine it with a different jacket. Another essential item is Spyder Women’s Encore Fleece Jacket (amazon), warm, classy, and convenient for any outdoor activity or the chillier nights in Greece.
Read my Detailed Packing List for Greece here
Are there any festivals or events happening in October?
Yes! Some notable events include:
- Vinsanto Festival (Santorini): Celebrate the island’s renowned wine production with tastings, events, and cultural performances.
- Oia Film Festival (Santorini): Immerse yourself in independent cinema under the stars.
- Dionysia Festival (Athens): Witness ancient theatrical performances in a unique setting.
- Kastoria International Dragon Boat Festival: Enjoy adrenaline-pumping races and cultural festivities.
Should I book accommodation in advance?
While October is less crowded, it’s still advisable to book accommodation in advance, especially for popular destinations and during events. Early booking might also secure better deals.
How do I get around Greece?
A: Greece has a good public transportation system with ferries, buses, and trains connecting major islands and cities. Renting a car is also an option for flexible exploration.
Plan My Trip to Greece
Do you need a custom travel itinerary or a transfer within Greece? Are you traveling solo, with your family or friends and need a tailor-made multi-day tour or a transfer?
If yes, please visit my dedicated Plan My Trip Page for a free itinerary!
How to Get to Pireaus Port from Athens Airport
- Bus: If you are arriving at Athens International Airport you can travel straight to the port by taking the X96 express bus (€5.5, children <6 yo, free entrance), which departs every 40 minutes and the average trip lasts 1 hour – runs 24/7.
- Metro: (€9) is easily found across airport arrivals (blue line – M3) going directly to Piraeus port. The average trip to Piraeus lasts 1 hour.
- Taxis are available in front of the airport (around €40 to Athens, €55-60 to Piraeus (depending on the traffic in Kifisos), and take up to 3 or 4 people with small luggage)
- Rent a car with Discover Cars for reliable, new cars at affordable prices
- You don’t like driving but love hassle-free solutions? Book a Private transfer with an English-speaking driver from Athens International Airport to Piraeus Ferries, or anywhere else in Greece
- Are you looking for domestic flights in Greece? Check out the official Aegean Airlines Website.
Where is your dream summer destination? Would you go to Greece in October?
I’d love to hear about where you’re spending your vacation this year, especially if you have any exciting travel plans! There are so many things to do in Greece in October. I hope that you get the chance to try as many as possible. Till next time, Evgenia❤️
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Essential Greek Travel Info
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