20 Best Places to Visit in Greece in October

The weather in Greece in October is mild and pleasant, making it an attractive time for travelers looking to explore the country’s natural beauty. Temperatures are generally comfortable, neither too hot nor too cold. In this ultimate guide, we’ll share 20 of the best places to visit in Greece in October. Crystal-clear waters, ancient ruins, whitewashed villages and stunning landscapes are all worth exploring. The Greek Mediterranean paradise is not just famous for the sunsets of Santorini and the ruins of Athens; it offers a magical mix of history, culture, gastronomy and natural beauty, and there’s plenty to see beyond the usual hotspots. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover or beach bum, this list has something for every kind of traveler.

1. Athens – The Timeless Capital

Athens is one of the best places to visit in Greece in October, if you prefer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.

No trip to Greece is complete without setting foot in Athens, the birthplace of democracy. The Acropolis is one of the world’s most iconic landmarks, and it’s even more magical when illuminated at night. However, Athens isn’t just about ruins; it’s also a vibrant hub of contemporary art, gastronomy, and nightlife.

Known for:

• The Great Meteoron Monastery
• Sunset viewpoints
• Kalabaka village

2. Mykonos – best place to visit Greece in october

Mykonos is a cosmopolitan Greek island known for its charming mix of traditional charm and vibrant nightlife. Known as the “Island of the Winds”, Mykonos features whitewashed buildings painted blue, narrow cobblestone streets, and iconic windmills.

Mykonos is one of the best places to visit in Greece in October as it’s not as crowded as August, the sea is still warm and perfect for swimming, and there’s a gentle, relaxed atmosphere on the island as the tourist season winds down.

Known for:

• Paradise beach
• Windmills in Mykonos
• Little venice

3. Santorini – One of the best places to visit in Greece in october

Santorini is one of the best places to visit in Greece in October, if you prefer smaller crowds and slightly cooler weather.

With its dazzling sunsets, blue-domed churches, and dramatic cliffs, Santorini is a postcard-perfect island that truly lives up to the hype. In 2025, sustainable tourism initiatives will be preserving their charm while enhancing visitor experiences.

Known for:

• Sunset in Oia
• Red Beach and Black Beach
• Wine tasting in Pyrgos or Megalochori

4. Meteora – monasteries in the Sky

This is one of the unique places in Greece. Meteora in October offers a pleasant autumn experience with warm, dry weather. This weather is ideal for hiking and swimming. The landscape also has beautiful fall colors, and making it a great time to visit.

Huge rock formations emerge from the ground, on which centuries-old monasteries are built. This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and that is perfect for hiking, photography and spirituality.

That’s why Meteora is one of the best places to visit in Greece in October.

Known for

• The Great Meteoron Monastery
• Sunset viewpoints
• Kalabaka village

5. Crete – The Island of Legends

The largest Greek island is Crete and October is considered a great time to visit the island as the tourist crowds have thinned out considerably compared to the peak summer months and the weather is still warm enough to enjoy outdoor activities. It is popular for its ancient ruins, forested mountains, valleys and idyllic beaches. Home to the Minoan civilization, it also has the Palace of Knossos and some of the most delicious food in the country.
Crete is one of the best places to visit in Greece in October.

Known for

• Knossos Palace
• Elafonissi Beach
• Samaria Gorge trek

6. Nafplio – The Elegant Escape

Nafpilo, the capital of Nafpilo, is one of the most romantic cities in the country. It is a coastal town located in the eastern Peloponnese region of Greece, about 150 kilometers from Athens. Known for its neoclassical buildings, cobblestone streets, seaside cafes and historical and cultural significance, it is a must-visit on the Peloponnese peninsula.

Nafplio is also one of the best places to visit in Greece in October, as Nafplio in October offers a pleasant climate and fewer crowds, making it an ideal time to explore the history and culture of the city.

Known for

• Climb Palamidi Fortress
• Walk along Arvanitia Promenade
• Day trip to Epidaurus or Mycenae

7. Thessaloniki – The Cultural Capital

Thessaloniki is one of the most affordable places to vacation in Greece, especially when it comes to food. Thessa;oniki blends the old and the new in a vibrant mosaic of cultures, cuisines and creativity. It is Greece’s second-largest city and a hotspot for music festivals, Byzantine ruins and street food.

With tourism being less prevalent here than on the island and in the south, it is perfect for those travling for those traveling on a budget. It is one of the best places to visit in Greece in October for those who are on a budget and are foodies.

Known for

• Rotunda and Arch of Galerius
• Ladadika District nightlife
• Modiano Market

8. Milos – The Secret Cycladic Gem

Milos is one of the best places to visit in Greece in October as September and October are the months that have the most activities, thanks to the mild weather, warm seas and fewer crowds.

Less crowded than Santorini or Athens, Milos has surreal landscapes, lively fishing villages and over 70 beaches.

It is very close to other famous Greek islands like Mykonos, Santorini and Naxos. It is a paradise for explorers and couples seeking romance away from the crowds.

Known for

• Sarakiniko’s lunar beach
• Klima village
• Kleftiko caves by boat

9. Rhodes – Where History Comes Alive

Rhodes boasts medieval charm and sunny beaches. It is the fourth largest island in Greece and is renowned for its stunning beaches, fascinating culture and architecture, and delicious food. From the ancient Acropolis of Lindos to the Knights Quarter in the Old Town, it feels as though you are walking through a living museum.

Rhodes is among the best places to visit in Greece in October. The ideal time to visit Rhodes is between April and October. To avoid crowds, October is the best month, and the weather is also pleasant.

Known for

• Rhodes Old Town (UNESCO-listed)
• Lindos village and the Acropolis
• Prasonisi for windsurfing

10. Hydra – The Car Free Island

Hydra is a small island in the Saronic Gulf, located a short distance from Athens in Greece. This island has no cars, only donkeys, paved roads and 19th-century mansions. It is known for its rich history and charming cafés. There is a wonderful harbor where you can stroll around the dramatic white and orange-roofed houses situated on the slopes of the island. It makes for an excellent day trip or weekend getaway, offering a feeling of stepping back in time.

Hydra is one of the best places to visit in Greece in October. Although the temperature drops slightly in October, the weather is perfect for walking, and the sea is also ideal for swimming.

Known for

• Harbor strolls and sunset cafes
• Historical mansions and museums
• Hiking to Prophet Elias Monastery

11. Zakynthos – Home of Navagio Beach

Zakynthos, also known as Zante, is famous for the Shipwreck Beach (Navagio), a unique island renowned for its white cliffs stretching along the sea, dreamy hilltop villages, monasteries, picturesque landscapes and amazing activities. But this lush Ionian island has much more to offer – like sea turtles, sea caves and a vibrant nightlife.

Zakynthos is one of the best places to visit in Greece in October, a great time if you want to see harvests and local produce, the ideal time for sea swimming and boat trips to see the surrounding wildlife.

Known for

• Navagio viewpoint
• Blue Caves boat tour
• Turtle spotting at Laganes Bay

12. Delphi – The Navel of the World

Once believed to be the center of the Earth by the ancient Greeks, Delphi is a mysterious archaeological site located on Mount Parnassus and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Greece. Ideal for a day trip from Athens, it offers a blend of mythology, history, and nature.

It is one of the best places to visit in Greece in October. Delphi offers a good time to visit, with fewer crowds and pleasant weather in October for exploring the archaeological site.

Known for:

• Temple of Apollo
• Delphi Archaeological Museum
• Scenic mountain hikes

13. Corfu – Venetian Grace Meets Greek Warmth

Corfu has a unique blend of Greek, Italian, and British influences. Its old town is a UNESCO site, and its beaches range from sandy coves to dramatic cliffs, with crystal clear waters, luscious green landscapes, and a rich history and cultural heritage.

It is one of the best places to visit in Greece in October. When the weather remains mild, it makes a favorable time for tourists who love outdoor activities. Temperatures are comfortable, but rain is likely.

Known for:

• Old Fortress of Corfu
• Paleokastritsa Monastery
• Canal d’Amour

14. Paros – The Laid-Back Cycladic Star

Paros offers the best activities in the Cyclades, but it is not too crowded. Known for its whitewashed villages, windsurfing beaches, hidden tavernas and lively nightlife, Paros is considered the perfect blend of Mykonos and Naxos, offering both types of entertainment.

If you prefer sightseeing rather than swimming and sunbathing, Paros is one of the best places to visit in Greece in October.

Known for

1. Naoussa fishing village
2. Kolymbithres Beach
3. Parikia Old Town

15. Kefalonia – Emerald Waters and Underground Lakes

Kefalonia is an untouched paradise that is a nature lover’s dream come true with its mountains, beaches, and mysterious caves. The Melissani Cave, where sunlight turns the water into a surreal turquoise color, is worth visiting.

It has breathtaking contrasts of sapphire, white, and emerald green colors, romantic sunsets, rich vegetation, and diverse landscapes. Travelers are attracted to the island’s natural beauty as well as its famous beaches and bays that are perfect for swimming and sailing. Kefalonia is one of the best places to visit in Greece in October, as October has moderate rainfall and ample sunshine, providing a comfortable environment for outdoor activities.

Known for

• Myrtos Beach
• Melissani and Drogarati Caves
• Assos village

16. Samos – Birthplace of Pythagoras

Samos offers a laid-back Greek experience with a rich history and lush landscape. It is ideal for hiking, wine tasting and connecting with authentic Greek culture.

Often referred to as the “Queen of the Eastern Aegean,” Samos is home to abundant greenery, traditional villages, and picturesque beaches.

Samos is one of the best places to visit in Greece in October, with temperatures being quite comfortable, rainfall relatively moderate and the island receiving ample sunshine, making it a favorable time to visit.

Known for:

• Heraion and Pythagoreion ruins
• Potami Waterfalls
• Samos sweet Muscat wine

17. Skopelos – The Mamma Mia Island

Located between Skiathos and Alonissos, Skopelos is an island in the Sporades known for its rich vegetation, pine forests, foreign beaches and quaint villages. It remains a peaceful retreat with traditional charm.

Skopelos is one of the best places to visit in Greece in October. Towns and villages on the island are popular for their unique architecture and photogenic scenery, the most spectacular being Skopelos. Skopelos was made famous by the movie “Mamma Mia”.

Known for:

• Agios Ioannis Chapel (wedding church)
• Kastani Beach
• Skopelos Town nightlife

18. Syros – The Elegant Cycladic Capital

Often overlooked, Syros boasta a stunning neoclassical town (Ermoupoli), Catholic and orthodox churches, and a vibrant arts scene. The island is a true Greek delight with exciting beaches, and significant historical and cultural significance. It serves as the capital of the Cyclades and is rich in cultural sophistication. Syros is one of the best places to visit in Greece in October, offering a pleasant, mild climate compared to the peak summer months, with plenty of sunshine. While the sea is cooler the in summer, it is still possible to swim.

Known for:

• Miaouli Square
• Apollo Theate
• Vaporia district

19. Kythira – Off the Beaten Track

Nestled between the Peloponnese and Crete, Kythira is steeped in Greek myths. Its hidden beaches, waterfalls, and tranquil villages create an ideal retreat for those seeking solitude. This is one of the best places to visit in Greece in October.

Known for:

• Secluded beaches like Kaladi
• Mylopotamos Waterfall
• Venetian Castle in Chora

20. kos

Kos is one of the best places to visit in Greece in October when temperatures are comfortable and conditions are ideal for tourism.

Kos is renowned for its long, unpolluted coastline, featuring pristine beaches, lush vegetation, and several famous historical sites. It is a verdant island that is also popular for its picturesque villages, delicious cuisine, ancient ruins, and vibrant nightlife.

Activities include sailing, snorkeling, soaking in geothermal springs, windsurfing, kiteboarding, and cycling along the expansive coastline. Posa, a sheep milk cheese, is a local favorite in Kos.

Known for:

• Asklipieio Kos
• Kos Old Town
•  Therma Beach

Conclusion:

Autumn is arguably the best time to visit Greece, as the long summer heat lasts from September to early October. In October, Days are usually sunny and clear, and the sea is still toasty warm for swimming. From iconic wonders like Santorini and the Acropolis to hidden gems like Kythira and Ikaria, Greece in 2025 is packed with opportunities for unforgettable adventures. Whether you’re strolling through ancient ruins, swimming in turquoise bays, or sipping ouzo in a quiet village square, Greece will win your heart.

So, pack your bags, plan your route, and get ready to explore the 20 best places to visit in Greece in October 2025.