By June, summertime is in full effect in Athens. The temperatures are hot (sometimes bordering on stifling) and it's muggy throughout the city. It's the perfect time to hit the beach or head to one of the islands for a weekend trip. In the urban areas, you'll find heavy crowds but the atmosphere is fun and festive so it can be worth braving the masses. Plus, you won't have to worry about rain.

Weather

After a long spring that typically falls into the "warm and pleasant" category, the month of June ushers in the full-blown "hot season" in Athens. Temperatures in the city average about 80°F (27°C) and it can feel muggy in certain places. The beginning of the month starts out milder and it gets balmier as you get closer to July.

It's definitely shorts and tank tops season so pack plenty of hot weather clothes (and don't forget your swimsuit). The beaches will be open by this point and the water temperatures will be about 72°F (22°C). With one average day of precipitation all month, the chance of experiencing rain is almost zero. 

For more on weather this month, see Greece in June: Travel Tips, Weather, and More. 

Crowds and Costs

The only drawback to visiting Athens in June is that the hot, sunny weather brings crowds. Not only that, both European tourists and folks from overseas are on summer breaks so that adds to the numbers. If you plan to hit any of the major tourist sites such as the Acropolis or the Parthenon, expect to see tour buses lined up outside and the Hop-On, Hop-Off shuttle overflowing with people.

You'll also find higher costs this time of year. Hotels will have switched over to high-season pricing (which can sometimes be double the off-season rates) and airfare will be more expensive, too. The good news is that restaurants and activities will cost about the same. 

Where to Go

Although you'll be contending with hot weather and big crowds, most of Athens is nevertheless enjoyable this time of year. The weather is uniform throughout the city so there isn't really one particular zone or neighborhood that's better than others. It's a good time to visit the major outdoor attractions like the Acropolis because you won't have to worry about getting rained on. If you're heat-averse, check out the many air-conditioned museums, restaurants, and art galleries.

If you want to escape the mugginess of the city, it's also a great month to take a day trip up to Delphi which is about two hours northwest of the city. This ancient archaeological site is at a higher elevation so it will be slightly cooler and not quite as humid. You could also head in the other direction to the Attica wine region where vineyard tours are popular this time of year. 

For people with their sights set on a beach vacation, skip down to any of the islands for a weekend trip (or even longer). All of the resorts are open in June, the ferries are running, and the water is plenty warm for swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving.

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What To Do

In Athens proper, check out the vast Acropolis complex—this famous archaeological site is home to the Parthenon, the Propylaia, Hadrian's Library, the Temple of Athena Nike, and other well-known structures. Just prepare for crowds—there will be tour buses in rows at the entrances and hundreds of people flocking for photos. That said, it's more than worth it if you're someone who enjoys history and culture.

Up in Delphi, about two hours outside of town, visit the Sanctuary of Apollo (also called the Oracle of Apollo). The temperatures won't be quite as hot here and you can stroll through the crumbling ruins in comfort. This is the site the Greeks once revered as the center of the world. If you tire of ancient history, head to the Attica vineyards where you can check out the tasting rooms at places like Papagiannakos Winery or the Strofilia Estate.

If you decide to hit the islands for a weekend excursion, take your pick from pretty much any of them. On Santorini, you can snorkel in the crystal blue waters, or take a hike from Fira to Oia. On Mykonos, dance all night at the famous nightclubs or sip wine in Little Venice. Wherever you go, you'll find warm weather, sunny beaches, and happy people. 

Events in June

Athens-Epidavros Festival (June to October): June is typically the month when the Athens-Epidavros Festival kicks off in the city (although sometimes it starts as early as May). The festival, which lasts until October, occurs in the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, an amphitheater on the southwest hill of the Acropolis; the Epidaurus Ancient Theatre two hours south; and other select locations. It involves music, theater, dance, and other performing arts. 

Agiou Pnevmatos (dates change): This holy day in June, which is also called Orthodox Holy Spirit Monday, falls the day after the Christian holy day of Pentecost (Pentkosti or Whit Sunday). It takes place 50 days after Easter and involves feasts on both days, the latter of which is a national holiday. Banks and government buildings are often closed so plan ahead. 

Traveling to Athens in June? Check out these great itineraries

Highlights of Athens - 5 Days. This five-day itinerary includes a versatile assortment of Athens sites and activities. You'll learn about ancient traditions at the Acropolis and take a food tour of the bustling, savory markets. At the end, there is a bonus trip to the stunning Athens Riviera where you'll visit the ancient Temple of Poseidon.

Discover Athens, Mykonos, Santorini, and Crete - 10 Days. On top of a fascinating Athens Greek Mythology Tour, along with other sites in the city, this 10-day trip will take you on a tour of the spectacularly scenic Greek Isles. You'll visit Mykonos, Santorini, and Crete where activities will include a catamaran cruise, a tour of Bronze Age ruins, and the sampling of olive oils, honeys, cheeses, and cured meats at the market.

More Useful Information

Athens in May
Athens in July
Best Time of Year to Visit Greece
How Many Days Should You Spend in Athens?