Greece in October 2025: Guide for an Autumn Tour

Are you curious about how wine is produced? Then come to Greece in October this year, the grape harvest is ongoing. You can pick grapes with your hands and watch the traditional wine-making process. Besides that, you can also go swimming in the Aegean Sea and taste festive foods at the Walnut Festival. Don't hesitate, just make it happen. It's time to start your October trip to Greece!

Greece's Weather in October

October in Greece is a delightful autumn month, with moderate temperatures and abundant sunshine that isn't too hot. This is also the grape harvest season, when many wineries pick grapes and make wine. While rainfall starts to increase in late October, it's mostly brief showers that generally won't affect your trip. Compared to the hot summer, traveling in October means you're less likely to suffer from heatstroke.

In the northern regions like Thessaloniki, temperatures range from approximately 8°C to 22°C (46℉ to 72℉). It's a bit cooler in the mornings and evenings than in other areas, so a light jacket is recommended. Athens and the surrounding central regions average between 11°C and 24°C (52℉ to 75℉), perfect for exploring ancient sites and enjoying outdoor activities. Southern areas such as Santorini and Mykonos are even warmer, with average temperatures from 17°C to 26°C (63℉ to 79℉), making them suitable for swimming if you wish.

Map of Greece's Weather in October

Crowds & Costs

Visiting Greece in October is a great idea since it is the shoulder season, which means fewer crowds and more affordable prices for accommodation and flights. This allows you to enjoy pleasant weather while saving more compared to the peak season. Do note that bus services may operate on a reduced schedule, so it's advisable to check schedules in advance. For any help with your trip arrangements and transport, feel free to contact Odynovo.

Best Places to Travel in October

Corfu

Corfu Island, located in northwestern Greece, is known as the "Emerald Isle" of the Mediterranean. Visiting in October is ideal for admiring the island's scenery. You can wander through Corfu Old Town, taking in its mix of Baroque and Venetian architectural styles. Explore the Achilleion Palace, built for Austrian Empress Elisabeth (Princess Sissi), where you will find classical sculptures and many cute cats in its garden, along with beautiful sea views from the terrace. Or, climb up to the Kaiser's Throne ruins in Pelekas to overlook Corfu's countryside and catch the most stunning sunset on Greece's west coast.

Rhodes

With its enchanting natural beauty, Rhodes Island is an excellent choice for visiting Greece in October. This time of year is grape harvest season, so it's a great time to go to local vineyards, learn about wine production, and have a glass of authentic wine. October is also one of the best times to see butterflies in the Valley of the Butterflies, where you can watch them gracefully fly through the woods and feel surrounded by them. And the cooler weather makes it especially pleasant to take a hike in the Seven Springs; you can breathe in fresh air on shaded paths and marvel at a spectacular waterfall.

Naxos

Naxos features many quaint mountain villages, and with fewer tourists in October, allowing you to fully enjoy here - you'll definitely fall in love with it. Villages like Halki, Filoti, and Apiranthos are peaceful and full of character, with stone pathways and white buildings that paint a classic Greek picture. Visiting these villages at this time allows you to genuinely experience the purity of local life.

What to See & Do in October

Explore the Archaeological Site of Mycenae

The Archaeological Site of Mycenae is one of Greece's famous prehistoric sites. Located in the Argolis region of the northeast Peloponnese, it is best known for the Lion Gate and its massive Cyclopean walls. Here, ancient tombs, palace ruins, and exquisite stone carvings remain, revealing the splendor of a civilization from 1600 BC. Under the autumn sun, the ruins are clearly outlined, making it easier to immerse yourself in history. It is a good place to learn about ancient Greek culture.

Ancient Royal Tomb in Mycenae, Greece

Swim in the Aegean

In October, the average sea temperature in Greece is around 23℃ (73°F), which is still suitable for swimming. Islands such as Santorini, Milos, and Crete have wonderful beaches where you can enjoy a more tranquil atmosphere than in summer. As mid-October approaches, the water starts to get cooler, so it's advisable to plan your swimming early in the month to make the most of the comfortable water.

Stunning View of the Aegean Sea From Santorini

Join in the Grape Harvest

In Greek mythology, grapes and wine are deeply connected with Dionysus, the god of wine. His images mostly show him holding grapes and a wine cup. Thus, the grape harvest in Greece is not just an agricultural activity but also a cultural tribute to the wine god. In October, vineyards in some regions (like Zakynthos and Naoussa) are still in full harvest. Some wineries provide interactive opportunities where you can pick grapes and see traditional winemaking processes. Compared to just tasting wine, this offers a greater sense of participation and a deeper understanding of Greek rural life and wine culture.

Festivals & Events in October

Here are two of Greece's top festivals. Take a look and see if one catches your eye.

Ohi Day

Ohi Day (or No Day) is a Greek national holiday that falls on October 28th every year. This is to commemorate Prime Minister Ioannis Metaxas's refusal of Italian military entry in 1940. It represents the nation's bravery, unity, and heroism. Across the country, you'll see student parades and military band performances, with blue and white national flags adorning every street. Thessaloniki has the most significant commemorative activities. If you're in Greece a few weeks before the 28th, you might see some students practicing their parades on the streets. Be aware that some stores may be closed on Ohi Day, but many cafes and restaurants will remain open.

Walnut Festival

A festival just for walnuts - how interesting, right? Celebrated on the second Sunday of October each year, many places in Greece hold the Walnut Festival to mark the walnut harvest, and the one on Rhodes Island is especially well-known. You can taste delicious foods made from local ingredients, such as baklava, walnut pie, takakia, and walnut liqueur. You can also enjoy the distinctive nisiotika music performed by local folk musicians. Come and join the locals, feel surrounded by the aroma of walnuts, and be grateful for nature's gifts.

Travel Tips for October

• Remember to book ahead if you want to experience grape harvesting or wine tasting, as some wineries have limited availability.
• Days in October are mostly sunny but mild, so light clothes are fine. However, it's recommended to pack long pants and a light jacket for the cooler evenings.
• As there can be occasional rainfall in October, carrying a light rain jacket or a foldable umbrella is advisable.
• If you plan to go swimming, remember to bring your swimsuit, flip-flops, and a towel.
• Since October is the shoulder season, bus schedules might be reduced, so be sure to check the timetable before your trip.

Enjoy Your Greece in October With Odynovo

October is an ideal time to explore Greece and the golden season for grape harvesting. Contact Odynovo, and let us tailor an itinerary for you, from wine-tasting experiences to seaside relaxation, ensuring you enjoy a wonderful Greek journey under the autumn sun.