Greece in June

As summer kicks into gear, Greece welcomes visitors with open arms. Greece in June is just before the summer rush, so you’ll face thinner crowds and a relaxed atmosphere while still getting the summer heat. Everything is open too, letting you take full advantage of every service without the queue and the hubbub. This is why many favour travelling to Greece in June. 

Sunbathe during the long hours of daylight, island-hop at your own pace, and tackle the gloriously blue seas without the cold feeling. Grab a glass of wine and sit with the locals; relish this more peaceful time before the madness rolls in. 

Read on to find out why June is a prime time to visit Greece. 

Where to Go in Greece in June

Greece in June is a great month for visiting any of the Greek islands; Mykonos, Skiathos, Naxos, Milos, Skopelos, you name it! It is a time when ferries aren’t overcrowded, the sun isn’t as scathing as it would be at the height of summer, and water activities are ample and enjoyable amidst the delightfully warm seas.

Similar to April and May, it is still a good time to sightsee, as the influx of tourists doesn’t compare to the months of July and August. Though noticeably a bit busier, especially in Athens, there are no queues at all.

 

The cooler mornings and late afternoons are the perfect time for outdoor activities, including hiking, climbing, mountain biking and more. The Messenia region in the Peloponnese, due to its diversity in landscape, is a great destination to experiment with such adventures. 

What to Do / Best Places to Visit / Unique Experiences  

Skopelos

One of the best Greek islands to visit in June, Skopelos is nothing short of brilliant! Although the island is beautifully captured in the world-famous film Mamma Mia, nothing compares to exploring Skopelos in person.

It is a gleaming Mediterranean gem that won’t get too crowded, allowing you to fully take in its 

unspoiled ruggedness. Stroll through the narrow alleyways in between traditional houses with bright red, blue, and green painted window shutters and doors that are also draped with bougainvillaea. Don’t miss its humble chapels and churches and its sparkling beaches, such as Panormos. 

Make the most of the long sunny days here on this 9-Day Athens, Skiathos & Skopelos tour!

Messenia

If you’re after one part of Greece with a bit of everything, Messenia is the place to be, as it combines the very best of the land and sea.

Nestled within the southwestern corner of the Peloponnese, the region will blow your mind.

From endless coastlines to large mountains, Byzantine churches and swathes of vineyards, and seaside villages and castle towns, Messenia has it all -and without all the tourist hordes!

The beaches here are among the best in the Mediterranean, and you’ll have more than enough space to lay down your towel. Get in touch with our expert Local Designers to organise a one of a kind Messenia-based trip!

Mykonos

June is a great time to visit the more popular islands like Mykonos. It is one of the best times to savour the glamorous island without overheating. At this time, Mykonos is also fully open (including the all-night beach parties and clubs), and the summer crowds haven’t totally kicked in yet! Not only that, but you’ll score a better accommodation rate during June. 

Festivals / Special Events

Navy Week

Navy week (that takes place at the end of June) celebrates Greece’s long relationship with the sea, and each fishing village and island have their own elaborate customs and traditions to commemorate the special occasion.

There will undoubtedly be plenty of music, dancing, swimming, sailing, and spearfishing during this time.

In the Lesvos towns of Kalloni and Molyvos, glasses of ouzo and fresh sardines are particularly savoured, while the island of Volos re-enacts the great voyage of the Argonauts. 

Mesmerising Hydra throws the Miaoulia festival, which celebrates the local naval hero Admiral Miaoulis and the Hydriot contribution to the War of Independence. Events culminate with a massive firework display over the harbour, and traditional dancing and singing follow.

Navy Week calls for days spent island hopping to experience the breadth of local festivities. Connect with our Local Designers to curate your own Greek island-hopping adventure and go from Hydra to Lesvos and everywhere you desire in between!

Athens and Epidaurus Festival

This festival is a highlight of any Greek summer calendar. The two ancient cities of Athens and Epidaurus are rocked by an intense full-month programme of music, theatre, dance, and visual arts.

Watch riveting performances at the ancient theatres of the Odeon Herodes Atticus at the base of the Acropolis and at the well-preserved Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus. At the latter, you can enjoy classical plays from famous playwrights Sophocles, Euripides, and Aeschylus.

Audiences can also expect phenomenal performances by the Greek National Opera and internationally renowned musicians. To name drop, legendary Frank Sinatra was once a guest. 

Don’t miss out on this one-of-a-kind showcase of Greek culture! Visit both the magical settings of Odeon Herodes Atticus and the Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus on this 14-day Ancient Road of Greece Road Trip. 

Ikarian Panagiria

The majestic island of Ikaria is renowned for its incredibly joyous panagiria – traditional festivals celebrating a saint’s name day or a religious day.

People come from all over to take part in the festivities that start in the early afternoon and go on until the next morning! Don’t miss the memorable opportunity to dance and sing with locals amidst whitewashed villages and stone houses, dine on fresh fish, and guzzle plenty of delectable Ikarian wine.

Panagiria dates to make a note of are the 8th of June (Holy Spirit), 14th of June (All Saints), 24th of June (Saint Ioannis Prodromos), 29th of June (Saints Petros and Pavlos), and the 30th of June (12 Apostles).

Lose track of time and space, and immerse yourself in an authentic panagiri on your own perfectly curated tour, crafted by our Local Designers in Greece!

Weather in Greece in June

Temperatures witness a jump from May (link) to June. Throughout the month, the long days become more predictable since it is generally hot, with temperatures averaging a high of 30ºC across Greece, and evenings are balmy at around 19ºC. 

Packing light and cool clothing for your trip are therefore recommended. And don’t forget your swimsuit! Greece is a great month for ocean swims, with sea temperatures at a pleasant 22ºC!

Being 99% sunny, Crete is June’s hottest island. Kos, Cyprus, and Corfu follow closely behind, seeing average temperatures around 29ºC.

With June experiencing 11 hours of sunshine per day, you’ll be able to make the most of your Greek holiday! Whether it’s at the beach, in the mountains, or in the centre of Athens, June is the ideal month for satisfying heat and clear dreamlike skies.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Self-driving is a great way to explore Greece at your own pace. Just remain aware that the terrain is rough, and many roads are narrow and winding, so take extra care when driving in Greece.

• Greek coffee culture is massive! To fit in with the locals, especially in the summer, order a Freddo (a shot or two of espresso with ice), or a frappe (cold Nescafe topped with foamed milk and sugar), or maybe even try the Freddo cappuccino (espresso and frothed milk).

• Taxis are an affordable way of getting around Greece. Keep in mind that the driver may ask for your destination first before deciding if it suits them or not. And don’t be surprised if the driver stops to take other people while you’re in it – it’s all a part of the adventure!

• Throughout Greece, shops, department stores, and supermarkets are open from 9 am to 9 pm. Smaller local shops have differing hours of operation, so make sure to double-check. Most shops are usually closed on Sundays, except for mini-markets and kiosks.

As Greece heats up, June truly embodies the calm before the storm! To find your dream holiday to Greece in June, scroll through our gallery of fully customisable Greece trips or connect with our Local Designers on the ground and let them help you craft your ultimate Greek stay!