Key Takeaways
- May is considered one of the best months to visit Greece, as the weather is generally mild and comfortable.
- You can expect an average of 9 to 11 hours of sunshine per day, providing ample time to explore and engage in outdoor pursuits.
- While May is generally a dry month, occasional rain showers are still possible, as well as a higher average wind speed.
- Average sea temperature ranges from 17°C to 20°C (63°F to 68°F), so it is ideal for a first dip.
Ah, Greece in May! The land of the gods and goddesses beckons with its ancient ruins, turquoise waters, romantic sunsets, and Greek islands that put a whole other meaning to the word 'beautiful.'
There are also dozens of things to do, and the month is rightly mentioned frequently when people talk about the best times to visit Greece.
But what about the weather? Have you ever wondered if there's rain or shine in store for your next Greek holiday?
Well, fret no more — we're here to cover all you need to know about forecasting the (not-always-so) unpredictable weather of Greece in May! You can also see our guide for the weather in Greece in April if you're thinking about visiting Greece earlier in the spring.
Greece Weather in May: What’s It Like?
May is when Greece waves goodbye to spring and prepares for summer and the hordes of tourists it brings.
That means you’re in for pleasant weather where the sun is out, but it isn’t scorching enough to require a whole day spent by the beach — not that anyone would judge you.
Expect the Greece temperature in May to average maximum temperature of 73°F (23°C), with around 10.5mm of rain and nearly 12 hours of sunshine.
The beginning of May is a little cooler, and the heat ramps up towards the end of the month. The country has a Mediterranean climate, but there are also differing climates in different parts of the country.
The Greek islands in the north are cooler but still offer balmy conditions you can take on without a jacket.
Being the shoulder season, there are also complimentary positives that make visiting Greece in May excellent, including:
- Fewer crowds than in summer - Everyone loves the summer conditions in Greece, but in return, you get a crowded destination.
- In May, you can get the best of both worlds - incredible temperatures and avoiding the crowds. Can you think of a much better one? We certainly can’t.
- Lower costs - May is right by the end of the Greek shoulder tourist season, so your wallet is guaranteed to love it as much as you do.
Where to Go in Greece in May
Sure, you now know what the latter parts of spring in Greece look like in terms of weather, and the average weather conditions are more than pleasant, but there’s still more to consider. Where exactly should you go in Greece during May?
Considering the splendor found at the different isles, you’re in for an incredible time at just about each one. However, some stand head and shoulders above the rest, including the following.
Santorini
Santorini in May is magical; it may just be the best time to visit Santorini to avoid the scrothing hit and overwhelming crowds of the summer months.
Can anything top the clear blue skies and turqoise hues of the Aegean Sea shining in contrast to the whitewashed towns when the sun sets? Probably, but you’ll likely have to jump into an abyss of fictional fantasy books to find it.
The beautiful Greek island experiences an average temperature ranging from an average low of 58°F to an average high temperature of 77°F (14°C to 25°C), 12 hours of sunshine, and just three rainy days.
This is perfect for enjoying a tour of Santorini highlights, grabbing Greek food from the street stalls, and everything in-between.
After a day of exploring, take our travel advice and take a dip in the clear waters of Perivolos Beach or spend the day soaking up the sun at Red Beach, one of the best Santorini beaches.
You can also venture inland on hikes to some of the highest spots in Santorini, like Prophet Elias, for a scenic vista. If you and your legs have no time for all that walking, then just take a leisurely stroll to Oia for another picturesque view.
Crete
Balmy temperatures? Check. Long and sunny days? Double check. A beautiful coastline with golden-sand beaches? Stop with the rhetorical questions already; Crete basically has everything you’d ask a genie for, including the best weather for exploring it on foot!
You can expect temperatures between 59°F to 75°F (15°C to 24°C), 11mm of rainfall, minimal cloud cover, and eight hours of sunshine. This sets the stage for the plethora of things to do in Crete, including a private Heraklion food tour that leaves no part of Crete gastronomy hidden.
Outside, you can take on a myriad of outdoor activities, such as scuba diving, snorkeling, and hiking. The Greece weather may bring a light drizzle from time-to-time.
When it rains, you can tuck away inside the Heraklion Archaeological Museum or discover the plethora of archaeological sites. Think Minoan palaces, tombs, and frescoes extant from Ancient Greek culture.
Mykonos
What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you hear ‘Mykonos’? The beaches, right? Fantastic, because May is perfect for enjoying a dip in the island’s incredible waters with temperatures between 57°F and 73°F (14°C and 23°C) and 12 hours of sunshine.
Stroll through The Little Venice district for a romantic view of the sunset, or visit the Archaeological Museum to delve into ancient Greek culture.
And if you want to dive into the waters of Mykonos, don't think twice, as the average water temperature is mild enough for even the less adventurous swimmers.
Trade in the tradition of traveling by car for a quirky, painted scooter to get around. It’ll be some of the most fun you have while on a shopping spree, from chic boutiques to traditional mom-and-pop shops on Matogianni Street.
Don’t forget to get a taste of Mykonos cuisine from places like Local Mykonos and Sakis. You don’t have to forget about the island’s gastronomical excellence when you leave; take a piece of it with you at this Mykonos traditional cooking class.
Paxos
Paxos is one of the more unknown Greek islands, but nobody can hide the isle’s mostly fantastic weather.
It features temperatures ranging from 55°F to 75°F (13°C to 24°C) and nine hours of sunshine.
Unfortunately, you’ll be in for eight days of rain (which is the average rainfall weathercast), but a little rain is a small price to pay for the tranquility found here. At least you won't be afraid of an average snowfall level, as there is none!
In Paxos, the Mediterranean Sea sparkles beneath the warm sun, providing a calming presence as the gentle breeze floats through the tree leaves. Wildflowers line pathways leading to white-sand beaches and secret bays perfect for afternoon picnics.
Everywhere you look, there are vibrant colors delivered by nature's brushstrokes. You can stroll the quaint streets of picturesque villas that provide ideal spots to watch life unfold.
Final Thoughts on the Greece May Weather
May is a wonderful time to visit Greece. The temperatures in Greece in May aren’t scalding, the crowds are manageable, and there’s just so much to see and do.
So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today; the May weather in Greece couldn’t be any more perfect.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to Dress in Greece in May?
Can You Swim in Greece in May?
Which Greek Island is the Warmest in May?
