Greece

Spring and autumn is by far the best times to visit Greece. The weather is enjoyably warm in the majority of places, but not too hot; beaches and ancient sites are relatively un-crowded; public transport runs on close to full schedules; and lodging is cheaper and easier to find than in the mid-June to end of August high season. In the winter months, temperatures are often below 10°C (50°F), which is sufficient for touring, but typically too cold to swim or lay on the beach.

Winter is pretty much a dead loss outside the major cities as most of the tourist traffic goes into hibernation from the middle of October until the beginning of April. This is slowly changing, however; on the busiest tourist islands, a few restaurants, hotels and bars stay open year-round.

HOLIDAYS

January - New Year's Day

January - Epiphany

January - The Three Holy Hierarchs

March - Ash Monday

March - Greek Independence Day

April - Easter Day

April - Easter Monday

May - Labour Day

June - Holy Spirit Monday

July - The Restoration of Democracy

August - Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary

October - Ochi Day

November - Polytechneio

December - Christmas Day

December - Boxing Day

Non-Holiday Observances

October - St. Demetrius, Patron Saint's Day in Thessaloniki

You should know:

Public holidays occurring on a weekend are not moved

Weekend Saturday,Sunday