Weather in Greece in May

Is May a good time to visit Greece?

May is the beginning of the summer period in Greece. School and summer holidays haven’t officially started yet so it is still possible to find cheap holiday deals during May. The ferry and boat services begin to happen more frequently and many of the islands and cities seem to wake up in May and begin preparing for summer and all the festivities that come with it.

 

Climate in Greece in May

The weather in Greece in May is the start of summer weather. Temperatures begin to rise quite considerably and some parts of Greece can get uncomfortably hot. Rainfall on mainland Greece during May is quite low, however islands such as Crete, experience significant precipitation during this period 116mm (4.5 inches). Average temperatures in Greece vary from region to region. The average temperatures in Athens during May range from lows of 16°C (61°F) to highs of 25°C (77°F). Average temperatures further south amongst the Greek islands are only slightly cooler. The average sea temperature in May around most of Greece is 19°C (66°F). Holidaymakers can expect roughly nine hours of sunshine per day in Athens in May while further south there will only be eight hours of sunshine each day.

 

What’s on in Greece in May

May marks the beginning of the Lycabettus Hill Festival, which lasts throughout summer until September. This popular event in Athens showcases various rock, pop, jazz and dance shows throughout the season. The Lycabettus Hill Amphitheatre, situated just outside of Athens, is a great venue for the event. Many of the popular Greek islands, such as Corfu and Rhodes, put on sound and light shows from May and throughout the summer period. May is also a great month to visit Crete as May 20 marks the commemoration of the Battle of Crete and the island’s resistance against the Nazis in World War Two.

 

What to pack for a holiday in Greece in May

A raincoat or umbrella is essential for a trip to Greece in May, particularly when travelling to the islands. That being said, rainfall in Athens is not very common during this period though. Temperatures in Greece begin to rise during May, making light and cool clothes are essential, as are sun hats, sunscreen, beachwear and bikinis. Visitors should pack at least on pair of comfortable walking shoes for island and ancient ruin explorations. As with any holiday abroad, a camera is vital, particularly for the wildflowers in Greece in early May.