Weather in Greece in November | Plan a Perfect Mediterranean Trip
Key Takeaways
- November marks the beginning of the winter season in Greece, and temperatures start to cool down. In general, the average daytime temperatures range from 12°C (54°F) to 18°C (64°F).
- November is a relatively wet month in Greece, with an increase in rainfall compared to the summer months.
- It's important to note that some tourist facilities and services may operate on reduced schedules during this time.
- With fewer crowds and milder temperatures, November can be a great time to explore Greece's cultural and historical sites.
Greece is a sun-drenched land of myths and beauty, where archaeological sites and sparkling turquoise waters meet. For some, this Mediterranean paradise might be synonymous with sunny summer days, but autumn brings its own unique charm and beauty.
November is an ideal month to visit Greece if you prefer a relaxed traveling pace and want to immerse yourself fully in the local traditions.
It is a great time to get to know the daily rhythms of Greek life and visit as many cultural sites and galleries as possible.
Despite the cooler weather, there are still plenty of exciting things to do in Greece in November. You can visit historical sites, explore the beautiful islands of the Aegean and Ionian Seas, and experience the local lifestyle and cuisine.
This guide will provide the information you need about Greece and the Greek islands in November, plus some of the top destinations worth visiting.
Why is November a Good Time to Visit Greece?
November is an ideal time to explore the beauty of Greece without breaking the bank. The temperatures are mild, the crowds have thinned out, and hotel rates and airfare are generally lower during this shoulder season.
If that isn’t already enough to convince you, consider all the Instagram-worthy photos you can take of the breathtaking Greek fall scenery.
Another benefit is that there are many things to enjoy regardless of the weather. Sunshine-filled days are perfect for exploring ancient ruins, sightseeing, and journeying through beautiful natural landscapes.
Rainy days are perfect for soaking up the culture and history of this fascinating country by visiting museums and galleries. Not to mention that according to the weather data, the average wind speed are average snowfall levels are not even that high.
Don’t let the cooler fall weather stop you from experiencing all that Greece has to offer. You can always warm up on chilly days with a shot (or two) of ouzo, the country’s signature anise-flavored liqueur that promises holidays you won't forget!
Average Temperature in November Greece
As winter beckons, the average temperatures in Greece become cooler but still remain relatively warm compared to much of Northern Europe. The weather will vary depending on your destination, but you can expect pleasant days and cozy nights.
November is typically a rather rainy month in Greece, maybe even the rainiest month, with a relatively high average rainfall number. The gentle rain and occasional thunderstorms are the perfect opportunities to indulge in some hearty, comforting cuisine.
The average afternoon temperatures countrywide reach an average high of mid-60℉, which is great weather for walking and sightseeing. Evenings tend to get more chilly, with average lows between 50℉ and 60℉.
Be sure to pack a scarf, some layers, and a raincoat - the weather in Greece in November can sometimes be unpredictable based on your location.
Visit Athens in November
There are many thrilling things to do in Athens, from experiencing history and culture to enjoying the city’s vibrant atmosphere.
In November, the town offers comfortable daytime temperatures ranging between 64℉ and a maximum temperature of 72℉. At night, the average temperature drops to around 57℉, perfect for a cozy dinner at one of the many charming Athens restaurants.
Therefore, the weather of November in the capital city allows for amazing Athens experiences.
One of the must-see cultural sites, if you spend November in Athens, is the historic Greek district of Acropolis, where you can explore ancient Greek ruins and some of the city’s most significant landmarks.
This includes the famous Acropolis Museum that exhibits artifacts found on the historic site, some older than 2,400 years.
There are also some great day trips from Athens that you can include in your itinerary if you want to immerse yourself in Greek culture and take advantage of the mild Greece weather.
A highly recommended day trip is visiting Delphi, a UNESCO-listed archeological site dating back to the 8th century BC. The Ancient Greeks considered this site as the center of the world.
The structures were built as a religious sanctuary honoring Apollo, one of the most prolific deities in Greek mythology.
Visiting Athens in November is truly a great experience. Tourist sites are more spacious due to the lack of crowds, allowing you to soak in this remarkable city's ancient history and culture.
Visit Crete In November
If you are looking to find a warmer destination to visit in November with minimal cloud cover, Crete might be the place for you. With an average daily temperature of 66℉ (19℃), the island has sunny days and pleasant weather for the largest part of the month.
It is a much more winter-friendly destination than other locations, such as the Cycladic or Ionian islands, with the infamously cold Ionian Sea.
Crete is home to some of the best beaches in Greece to explore on warmer days. The water temperature might be too chilly for swimming, but it is still a great place to relax and take in the stunning scenery.
Sunny days are also perfect for sightseeing and discovering the variety of archeological sites in Crete and the rest of ancient Greece.
Colder, rainy days are perfect for enjoying the culture and traditions of the city. For those interested in an authentically Greek culinary journey, an Heraklion cooking class will undoubtedly be an unforgettable experience.
With its eclectic mix of outdoor activities and historical sites to explore, Crete offers many opportunities for adventure. No matter what weather November brings; there is sure to be something for everyone to enjoy in Crete.
Visit Santorini in November
With its stunning turquoise sea, picturesque buildings, and sandy white shores, Santorini is a dream destination throughout the year. If enjoying a comprehensive overview of the volcanic island on a bespoke Santorini tour without crowds sounds good, November is the perfect time to visit this idyllic island.
Like the other southern islands, November temperatures are mild and comfortable, averaging a high of 64℉ (18℃) and an average low of 57℉ (14℃). The colorful autumn leaves and occasional moody skies add to the atmosphere and scenery of this Mediterranean paradise.
A great way to soak in the astonishing beauty of Santorini is by taking a Santorini sunset wine tour. The region is home to many acclaimed boutique wineries where you can enjoy the charm of the vineyards. It is also a fantastic opportunity to indulge in delicious Greek food and wine pairings.
Overall, an autumn visit to Santorini during your visit to Greece in November will surely be a memorable and unique experience. Its stunning views, sunsets, and laid-back lifestyle make it an unmissable destination on your journey through Greece.
That being said, you must be aware that the Greek islands in November are significantly colder than mainland Greece, while the Cycladic islands like Santorini are usually rather empty. So if you're looking to experience the cosmopolitan vibe of Santorini, picking November as your preferred month to visit might not be the move.
Final Thoughts on the Weather in Greece in November
November offers mild weather, fewer crowds, and the opportunity to explore indoor attractions and indulge in delicious comfort food.
The cooler temperatures may not be ideal for swimming, but the beaches are still beautiful to relax on.
Overall, November is a great time to discover the history, culture, and beauty of Greece at a leisurely pace. If you want to be as organized as possible before visiting our country, don't forget to read our Greece trip planner. It is a short but valuable read!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is November a good time to visit Greece?
Is Greece still warm in November?
Is Santorini hot in November?
Which Greek island is the hottest in November?
