Weather
Greece in July is invariably hot, averaging 81 Fahrenheit in Athens (but reaching an average high of 91.5 Fahrenheit in the afternoon, with many days topping a sweltering 100 Fahrenheit). Many of the islands, plus the mountainous areas, can be a little cooler. This is dry season, too, with little chance of rain. There’s no need to pack a huge suitcase in July: even by night, you’re not likely to need a sweater or jacket. Just be sure to pack your sunscreen and swimwear.
Crowds & Costs
This is the high season, when families flock and the beach resorts, and the islands in particular, get crowded. Expect many of the most popular sightseeing spots throughout Greece to be packed with visitors spoiling the views. Hotel rates are high everywhere, and there are few bargains to be had.
Where to Go
The sea temperatures have warmed sufficiently to make this a perfect month for swimming, and this is a wonderful time to visit the islands for sunning and bathing (although they’re at their busiest). Accordingly, the ferry companies schedule more services. This is also a great month for nightlife, especially on the “party islands” of Ios, Mykonos, Paros, and Santorini, when guest DJs make the rounds and the clubs are at their hottest. However, some of the fun can get rowdy, so think twice about visiting these particular isles if you're seeking nocturnal peace and quiet.
Athens and other mainland cities can be stifling in July, but the skies are always blue, and dining outside on patios and sidewalks is a delight, especially at night.
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
What to Do
July is really all about a beach vacation, especially with kids in tow—they'll be happy cooling off splashing about in the sea or a hotel pool. Consider visiting some amazing beaches in Crete, or cruise through a volcanic crater in Santorini. Although it's not the best month for sailing, it's nonetheless a good month to island-hop by cruiser or yacht to make the most of cooling breezes.
July Events
Hippocratia Festival, Kos – Beginning in July, this summer-long series of events on Kos (in the Dodecanese) spans the spectrum, from art exhibitions and music concerts to theater.
Hydra Puppet Festival – No, not puppets of the mythological multi-headed Hydra! This festival draws puppeteers to the Saronic island of Hydra.
Philippi Festival, Kavala – The second oldest festival in Greece (only that of Epidavros is older) is held in the ancient theater of Philippi and features classical and contemporary drama, dance, music, and more.
Sani Festival, Halkidiki — For three decades the Sani Resort, at Kassandra, on Halkidi (in Thessaloniki), has hosted this month-long festival of cinema music, and theater. It extends into August.
Traveling to Greece in July? Check out these great itineraries.
Laidback Athens, Mykonos, Santorini, Tinos, and Crete. And island-hopping trip pairing classic stops with hidden gems—perfect for summer. Start with street food and native wine varietals in Athens, before heading to tiny Tinos for a cultural tour. Glamorous Mykonos and Santorini are next, followed by Crete, where turquoise lagoons and village tours making sure you're fully blissed out.
Sailing the Greek Cyclades Islands. Sailing the Greek islands for a week sounds amazing for good reason. Board a catamaran with an experienced crew to hop from island to stunning island in the Cyclades. Along the way, explore the best of Mykonos and watch the sunset from Santorini, see ancient ruins, and swim in the azure Aegean waters before bedding down in your boat each night.
Paros and Naxos Family Adventure. Visit the world-renowned sea sports paradise of Paros and Naxos islands for 8 days of oceanside hikes, windsurfing, and stand-up paddleboarding. And when you're not taking on all the active adventures the islands have to offer? Explore the unique local architecture, delectable cuisine, cosmopolitan nightlife, and impressive archaeological sites.
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