Once, vacationing in June and September was considered off-season vacationing. Now, it is no longer the case. Accommodation capacities are fully booked from June 20th to September 10th. The first half of June and the second half of September are in high demand, but we are receiving more requests for vacations in May and October.

May is the time when the season is already in full swing in the south of Greece. In May, Crete and the Cyclades are like the north of Greece in June, so if you want to swim in May, Crete is the perfect choice for you. October in Crete, and the beginning of November, are also excellent periods to visit these beautiful islands.

Halkidiki, Thassos, the region of Thessaloniki, and the region of Mount Olympus are just beginning to wake up in May. Although there are tourists who swim during that time, for most people the sea is still cold, around 20 degrees.

However, the days are perfect for lounging on the beach, sunbathing, and resting. The average temperature in May is around 17-18 degrees. The highest temperature is 22 degrees. Mornings are beautiful, and the sea is perfectly clean after winter, crystal clear and transparent, with colors never more beautiful. If swimming in warm sea water is not a priority for you, vacationing or resting in May in Greece can be more pleasant than during the season.

In May, cafes and restaurants open, the first tourists arrive, and the atmosphere is lovely and lively.
Spring by the sea! There is nothing more beautiful.

For average sea temperatures for each resort, check out our interactive map: Average Sea Temperatures in Greece

September is also lovely in northern Greece, especially the first half. It may rain on some days, but it is mostly sunny. Beaches empty out, there is no more noise and crowds, plenty of parking spots, and the sea is still warm, around 23 degrees. The air temperature is between 23 and 26 degrees. The sunsets in September are the most beautiful.

The beginning of October is also often sunny, but already too cold for swimming. The sea is not as cold (20-21 degrees), but the air temperature drops to 15 to a maximum of 19 degrees, and a chilly breeze often starts blowing already, persisting until the end of winter. Nevertheless, October is great for walks by the sea and lounging on the beach with a good book.

We must mention that Sithonia is two degrees warmer in May and September compared to Thassos, and that Thassos has fewer rainy days.

Although it is often said that the Ionian Sea is colder, that is not entirely true, it is sometimes even warmer than the Aegean. However, whether the sea at a specific beach will be warmer or colder depends on whether there are underwater springs nearby. There are plenty of them around Parga and Sivota, for example, the beach in Ammoudia near Preveza is colder due to the mouth of the Acheron River, but generally, the temperatures of both seas are very similar with a possible slight difference of a degree or two. The Ionian Sea is even a degree or two warmer in September compared to the Aegean, while the Aegean is a degree or two warmer in May and June.

Here we will briefly summarize the temperatures for the two regions that we are most often asked about.

Briefly - temperatures on Thassos off-season

May

Air temperature: ~25°C (sometimes up to 30°C)
Sea temperature: 18 - 20°C
Ideal for a peaceful vacation, walks, and sunbathing. The sea is still fresh for swimming.

June

Air temperature: ~26°C (in the second half and over 30°C)
Sea temperature: ~23°C
According to many, the best month for vacationing - warm, but without crowds.

September

Air temperature: ~27°C (cool nights: 14°C)
Sea temperature: ~24°C
Still warm for swimming, but fewer tourists and a more pleasant atmosphere.

October

Air temperature: pleasant, but variable
Sea temperature: ~23°C
Does not guarantee swimming, but perfect for quiet, walks, and sightseeing.

Note: Nights are cool, so bring warmer clothes. Off-season prices are lower, fewer crowds, and the nature is beautiful.
For more details, read our article: Thassos - Vacation and Weather in May, June, September, and October

Briefly - temperatures on Sithonia off-season

May

Air temperature: ~24 - 26°C (sometimes higher)
Sea temperature: 18 - 20°C
Ideal for peace, walks, and enjoying nature. The sea is fresh, but pleasant for swimming in the sun.

June

Air temperature: ~28 - 32°C
Sea temperature: ~22 - 23°C
According to many, the perfect month - warm, without crowds, and the sea colors are beautiful.

September

Air temperature: ~27 - 29°C (nights: 17°C)
Sea temperature: ~23 - 24°C
The weather is still summery, fewer people, quieter beaches. The first half of the month is like the peak of the season.

October

Air temperature: ~22 - 25°C (variable)
Sea temperature: ~20 - 22°C
Swimming possible at the beginning of the month. Great for peace, walks, trips, and visiting Thessaloniki.
Holidays and long weekends (e.g., May Day, Easter)
Bonus: The most beautiful photos of Sithonia are taken in May - the light and colors are unreal.
More details: Sithonia off-season - in May, June, September, and October

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