The Ultimate Fall Travel Guide to Greece

Fewer crowds, lower airfares, and long sun-warmed days that still feel like summer—fall is arguably the best time to experience Greece. From September through early November, the heat mellows into golden afternoons and breezy evenings, cruise ship crowds thin, transatlantic flight prices drop, hotel availability opens up, and locals reclaim their beaches and cafés. It’s when Greece slows down yet comes alive in its most authentic way.

Where to Go

Athens – Beyond its ancient landmarks, the capital comes alive in autumn with art openings, bustling cafés, and cooler weather for climbing the Acropolis.
Santorini – The island’s famed sunsets and cliffside villages shine even brighter in the quieter months. Hike Oia to Fira without the summer heat or take a boat across the caldera to sleepy Thirassia.
Costa Navarino (Peloponnese coast) – With golden beaches, ancient ruins, and a Mediterranean climate that lingers well into October, this region blends luxury with unspoiled landscapes, and harvest season brings fresh olive oil and wine.

Where to Stay

Athens – NEW Hotel: A design-forward property in the city center, with interiors by Brazilian designers Campana Brothers and balconies overlooking the historic district.
Santorini – Santo Collection: Three boutique, eco-conscious retreats carved into the cliffs near Oia, offering panoramic caldera views and an atmosphere far removed from the cruise ship bustle.
Costa Navarino – Mandarin Oriental, Costa Navarino: The brand’s first Greek resort, set on the Ionian coast, with sea-view suites, a hammam-inspired spa, and menus celebrating Messenian olive oil and produce.

What to Do

Athens – Tour the Acropolis Museum, explore the Ancient Agora, and browse Greek-made beauty products at the Hondos Center.
Santorini – Sail the caldera, hike its dramatic ridges, or explore Thirassia by foot or e-bike for a glimpse of island life untouched by mass tourism.
Costa Navarino – Play a round at one of its championship golf courses, cycle along the Ionian coast, or join an olive oil tasting during the autumn harvest.

Where to Dine

Athens – Grab a classic souvlaki at Kostas, then sip inventive cocktails at A for Athens or The Clumsies (both which have graced the list of the World’s 50 Best Bars).
Santorini – For a quintessential cliffside meal, book a table at Amoudi Fish Tavern in Oia or the refined Alme at the recently-opened Santo Mine.
Costa Navarino – Enjoy refined Greek dishes at Oliviera, Mediterranean-meets-Asian cuisine at Tahir, or freshly caught seafood at nearby Gialova village tavernas.

How to Get There

Nonstop flights from major U.S. hubs—New York (JFK/EWR), Boston (BOS), Philadelphia (PHL), Chicago (ORD), Washington, D.C. (IAD), and Atlanta (ATL)—arrive daily in Athens. By September, prices often drop significantly from their summer peaks.

Before You Go: Learn a few Greek phrases – even in tourism hotspots, small gestures of language go a long way in showing gratitude for being welcomed into someone’s year-round home.