The land of mythology, olives, and the most beautiful views of the Mediterranean sea. With more than 200 islands to explore, this country is worthy of everyone’s bucket list—which is why it’s one of the most heavily traveled places in the world and can be overflowing with tourists. However, you can easily avoid the crowds and enjoy all Greece has to offer if you have the inside scoop and when to go and where to visit. Here are our best tips for making the most out of a trip to Greece.
Visit in September
Due to its popularity as a tourist destination, September is the best time to visit Greece, as the summer crowd of May to August will have dwindled down. Most other travelers are returning home for school and work, and prices will start to fall as the off-season arrives. The weather will still be nice enough for outdoor active adventures, there will be plenty of cultural events to immerse yourself in, and the sun will be just right for kicking back and relaxing.
Explore Lesser-Known (But Just as Beautiful) Islands
You’ve probably heard of the popular Greek islands of Mykonos and Santorini, but even in the off-season, these islands will have packed crowds and high price tags. Consider some of these lesser-known islands that have all the beauty, culture, and excitement of the popular ones.
Crete
This is Greece’s largest island and the birthplace of Zeus! Crete has ancient ruins, snow-capped peaks, and pink beaches, and sunshine is present year-round. Supposedly, the air of Crete even has healing powers. Among Crete’s most notable characteristics are its millennial history and extensive archaeological sites. Crete is covered with ancient settlements and ruins, which gave it the name of “the cradle of western civilization.” While some other islands can have animals you wouldn’t want to meet, all the animals on the island are harmless. According to ancient Crete mythology, Hercules killed all dangerous animals in honor of his father, Zeus.
Aegina
Home of the first coins in modern history and within commuting distance of Athens, Aegina town was once the capital of Greece. The town of Aegina itself has a pleasant crescent-shaped harbor backed by brightly painted buildings. The countryside around Aegina, famous for its pistachios grown on the island, offers many attractions. You can even take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the town. But the island’s star attraction is the 5th century BC Temple of Aphaia, a definite must-see.
Thasos
If you love lounging around all day and drinking fine Greek wine, this is the perfect island for you. Famed for its gold mines in ancient times, the Greek island of Thasos has a beautiful natural setting. It’s close to the coast of the Greek mainland, making it a popular destination for families. Many consider Thasos the jewel of the Aegean seas—more people visit it on their second trip to Greece than any other Greek island.
Thasos is also one of the greenest islands, given its near-perfect climate of hot summer sun and cool winters. The traditional architecture, with its stone-made houses, narrow paved streets, and gray-tiled roofs, will be perfect for Instagram pictures. Some notable sites we suggest visiting include the Archeological Museum of Thasos and Archangel’s Michael Monastery.
Rhodes
Also known as the “Knights’ island,” Rhodes has a rich historical past. Its medieval castles will make you believe you are in a living fairytale. Rhodes Old Town is the island’s most important monument. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval towns and attracts millions of tourists yearly. Take a stroll down the paved alleys to visit the Venetian Castle, the Palace of the Grand Master, and the Acropolis of Lindos. Rhodes Island is full of adventure!
Milos
Say hello to the volcanic island where Aphrodite’s graceful likeness first appeared. With over 70 beaches of black, red, and golden sand beaches, Milos has the most diverse and dramatic coastline of all the Greek Islands. Sarakiniko Beach and Kleftiko Beach are two of the best spots to visit in the whole country. The sea temperatures will remain high in September, around 23°C, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or scuba diving. Though Milos doesn’t have many museums or historical sites, it is perfect for those looking to spend the day with light leisure activities and eating phenomenal cuisine.
Visit Greece in September with Tru Aviation
Greece is a country with attractions that are so iconic everybody wants to see some of them at least once. And if you can avoid those crowded peak months, you’ll likely have a better holiday experience in Greece overall. You can avoid even more crowds and tourists with Tru Aviation. We’ll design a personalized private jet charter experience for you directly to Greece so you can avoid long lines at the airport. You’ll have luxury, comfort, and space to yourself instead of packing onto a crowded commercial flight. Contact us today to start planning the best flight to the best Greek vacation ever.
