George Boyle
Greece is a timeless favourite for honeymooners, with its abundant sunshine, cultural attractions, world-class food, and romantic views. With 6,000 islands and inlets—roughly 200 of which are inhabited—Greece offers unparalleled variety without extensive travel. Santorini and Mykonos are the most popular islands to visit, but there are plenty of other options, including Corfu, Crete, Naxos, and Patmos. If you're looking for a mix of relaxation and nightlife, Mykonos is a great choice, with its beach clubs, upscale shopping, and vibrant restaurants and clubs. Santorini is known for its legendary sunsets and natural thermal pools. For a quieter island experience, Milos and Tinos are great options, and if you want to skip the islands altogether, the Pelion peninsula offers stunning natural beauty with the slopes of Mount Pelion descending into the Aegean Sea.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of islands and inlets | 6,000 (200 inhabited) |
| Popular islands | Santorini, Mykonos, Corfu, Crete, Naxos, Patmos, Milos, Rhodes, Paros |
| Popular peninsulas | Pelion |
| Popular cities | Athens |
| Peak season | April to October |
| Best time to visit | May, June, September |
| Activities | Snorkelling, hiking, sightseeing, wine tours, cooking classes, spa treatments, shopping, partying |
| Food and drinks | Greek wine, feta cheese, olives, Greek yoghurt, fava, phyllo pastry, freddo cappuccino |
| Accommodation | Hotels, home rentals, villas, all-inclusive resorts |
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What You'll Learn
Best times to visit Greece for good weather, fewer crowds and affordable prices
Greece is a timeless favourite for honeymoons, with its abundant sunshine, cultural attractions, world-class food and romantic views. While there is no bad time to visit Greece, there are certain months that are better than others when it comes to good weather, fewer crowds and affordable prices.
If you're looking for warm weather, late spring (April to June) or early fall (September to October) are the best times to visit. During these months, the temperatures are warm but not stifling, and you can expect venues to be open and running. In April and May, the average temperature in Athens ranges from 16.3°C to 23.7°C, while in September, it drops to an average high of 27°C.
To avoid the crowds, the winter months (November to March) are the quietest, with fewer than one million visitors each month. However, the weather is cooler, and some hotels and attractions may be closed. For thinner crowds and warmer weather, May and September are ideal. These months offer a sweet spot before and after the summer crowds, with sea temperatures warm enough for swimming.
For the most affordable prices, consider visiting during the winter low season. November is the cheapest month to fly to Greece, and you can expect more affordable rates at this time.
Overall, the best months to visit Greece for a balance of good weather, fewer crowds and affordable prices are May and September. During these months, you can expect warm temperatures, thinner crowds and more reasonable prices compared to the peak summer months.
When planning your honeymoon, consider the Greek islands for a truly romantic escape. Santorini, with its legendary sunsets and natural thermal pools, is a popular choice. Mykonos, with its blend of relaxation and vibrant nightlife, is another great option. For something more low-key, try Milos or Tinos, which is known as the "spiritual heart of Greece".
With its endless options for islands, immersive culture, fabulous food and boutique hotels, Greece is the perfect destination for a dream honeymoon tailored exactly to your requirements.
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Choosing the right islands to visit
Greece is a timeless favourite when it comes to honeymoon spots, with its abundant sunshine, cultural attractions, world-class food, and romantic views. The country is comprised of 6,000 islands and inlets, roughly 200 of which are inhabited, offering unparalleled variety without extensive travel. With so many islands to choose from, you can find one that perfectly matches your vibe, whether you're focused on relaxation or celebration.
If you're planning a Greece honeymoon in the summer, you're in for a treat. The pace is easy, the pressure is off, and there is a resounding sense of freedom. However, it is important to note that the summer months are the busiest and hottest, with July and August being the peak of the tourism season. If you're looking for a quieter and slightly cooler alternative, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons in April through early May or late September to late October.
When it comes to choosing the right islands to visit, here are some options to consider:
- Santorini is often the first choice for honeymooners, with its legendary sunsets and natural thermal pools ideal for a romantic soak surrounded by breathtaking volcanic landscapes. It also offers black sand beaches, upscale shopping, exhilarating experiences, and high-end dining. However, it tends to be very touristy, and you may want to consider other options if you're looking for a more relaxed and secluded honeymoon.
- Mykonos is perfect for couples seeking a blend of relaxation and vibrant nightlife. This photogenic island hosts several beach clubs, upscale shopping, and exhilarating daytime experiences. After sunset, the streets come alive with fine dining restaurants and vibrant clubs.
- Milos is a small but manageable island that offers a prime experience for honeymooners. Its narrow, quaint streets and four-wheeler adventures create a cosy and romantic atmosphere.
- Tinos is known as the "spiritual heart of Greece" due to its plentiful churches and religious feasts. It is a favourite among Greeks for domestic getaways, offering beautiful shorelines with fewer sunbathers.
- Corfu, Crete, Naxos, and Patmos are steadily rising in popularity for honeymoons. These islands offer a myriad of options, from buzzy party isles to subdued, small-scale archipelagos.
- Rhodes offers a completely different feel from the more popular islands and is worth considering if you're looking for a unique experience.
When planning your island-hopping itinerary, keep in mind that ferry crossings can take up a significant amount of time. Consider your travel preferences and whether you prefer a more relaxed pace or a variety of destinations.
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Planning your itinerary
First, consider the time of year you wish to travel. Greece is a year-round destination, but the peak season is between April and October, with July and August being the busiest and hottest months. May, June, and September are less touristy, with more pleasant weather. The shoulder seasons of April, early May, late September, and October offer thinner crowds and the chance of better deals on accommodations.
Next, decide on your main destinations. With around 200 inhabited islands, Greece offers unparalleled variety. Santorini and Mykonos are the most popular, with their legendary sunsets, natural pools, vibrant nightlife, and photogenic streets. For a blend of relaxation and nightlife, Mykonos is ideal, with its beach clubs, upscale shopping, and high-end dining. Santorini offers iconic sunset views, black sand beaches, and natural thermal pools. If you're looking for somewhere less touristy, try the islands of Corfu, Crete, Naxos, or Patmos, which are growing in popularity. For a mix of beautiful shoreline and fewer tourists, Tinos is known as the "spiritual heart of Greece", with its plentiful churches and religious feasts.
If you want to explore multiple destinations, consider a trip to three islands, plus Athens, for a total of 10 days. Athens is a great starting point, as it's likely to be your entry point to Greece, and it offers a rich history and ancient ruins.
When planning your itinerary, be mindful of travel time between destinations. Ferry services are available, but they don't always run on time, so build some flexibility into your schedule.
Finally, consider booking with a travel agency to take the stress out of planning. They can organise private tours, culinary experiences, and luxury transfers to suit your preferences and create a unique and romantic trip.
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Where to stay
Greece is a timeless favourite when it comes to honeymoon spots, with its abundant sunshine, cultural attractions, world-class food, and romantic views. The country offers unparalleled variety, with roughly 200 inhabited islands out of 6,000 in total.
When it comes to where to stay, Santorini is often the first place that comes to mind, with its legendary sunsets and natural thermal pools ideal for a romantic soak surrounded by breathtaking volcanic landscapes. It is also known for its black sand beaches, sapphire waters, and vibrant nightlife. Santorini tends to be very touristy, so it is recommended to visit during the off-peak season. The spring or early summer months between mid-April and mid-June are ideal for milder temperatures, vibrant landscapes, and fewer crowds. Early autumn in September is another great option, as the warm weather persists and the crowds ease, allowing couples to enjoy stunning sunsets and crystal-clear skies.
Mykonos is another popular choice for honeymooners, known for its blend of relaxation and vibrant nightlife. This photogenic island offers beach clubs, upscale shopping, exhilarating experiences, high-end dining, and dance-the-night-away clubs. However, like Santorini, it can get quite busy during the peak season.
For those looking for something a little more off the beaten path, the island of Milos is a great option. It is small but manageable, with narrow streets and a quaint, charming character. Tinos is another island that is accessible by ferry from the mainland. Known as the "spiritual heart of Greece", it is a favourite among Greeks for domestic getaways, offering beautiful shorelines and fewer sunbathers.
Athens, the nation's capital, is also worth considering as a starting point for your honeymoon. It is a great place to acclimate to Europe and explore the country's rich history and ancient ruins. The city is typically at its peak between May and September, with average temperatures in the 70s and 80s.
When planning your trip, keep in mind that Greece is a popular destination, and it is advisable to book your stay and experiences as early as possible to avoid sold-out properties and higher costs.
- Atrium Palace Thalasso Spa Resort & Villas in Kós
- A highly-rated hotel in Nea Moudania with a junior suite that has a swim-up pool and a breathtaking view of Mount Olympus
- Mitsis Laguna in Crete, which offers a honeymoon spa experience and romantic beachfront meals
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Things to do
Greece is a timeless favourite when it comes to honeymoon spots, with its abundant sunshine, cultural attractions, world-class food, and romantic views. Here are some things to do when honeymooning in Greece:
Island Hopping
Greece is comprised of 6,000 islands and inlets, roughly 200 of which are inhabited, so island hopping is a popular option for couples. Some of the most popular islands to visit include Santorini, Mykonos, Corfu, Crete, Naxos, and Patmos. Keep in mind that travelling between islands by ferry can take up a lot of time, so plan accordingly.
Food and Wine
Food is a big part of Greek culture, so be sure to indulge in some culinary experiences. Join a food and wine tour to sample island-produced wines and gastronomic delights, or take a cooking class in a small traditional village to learn how to make authentic local dishes. Don't miss out on the country's famous feta cheese, olives, and Greek yoghurt.
Beaches and Swimming
Greece offers pristine beaches with calm, glistening waters perfect for swimming, snorkelling, or simply relaxing on a sunbed. Some popular beaches include Ornos Beach in Mykonos and the beaches of the Pelion peninsula.
Historical and Cultural Attractions
Athens, the nation's capital, is replete with mesmerizing history and ancient ruins. The ruins of Delphi, Knossos, and the Acropolis are also popular destinations for cultural sightseeing.
Luxury and Relaxation
Greece offers luxurious spa treatments in stunning locations, with a range of modern and ancient therapeutic traditions to choose from. There are also many five-star hotels and resorts with exclusive amenities such as swim-up bars and private beachfront meals.
Outdoor Activities
For those who enjoy the outdoors, Greece offers plenty of hiking trails on its islands and throughout its mainland. The country is also known for its abundant olive groves and gorgeous roads carving against hulking trails of coastline.
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Frequently asked questions
Greece is a timeless favourite when it comes to honeymoons, thanks to its abundant sunshine, cultural attractions, world-class food, and romantic views. The country offers unparalleled variety without a lot of travel, with roughly 200 inhabited islands out of 6,000.
The peak season in Greece is between May and September, with July and August being the busiest and hottest months. The shoulder seasons of April to early May and late September to late October are also good options, with thinner crowds and more affordable prices.
Santorini is a popular choice for its legendary sunsets and natural thermal pools. Mykonos is also a good option for those looking for a blend of relaxation and vibrant nightlife. Other islands that are steadily rising in popularity include Corfu, Crete, Naxos, and Patmos.
Greece offers a range of experiences for honeymooning couples, from snorkelling and swimming in the Mediterranean Sea to exploring ancient ruins and historical sites. Couples can also enjoy romantic dinners on the beach, luxury spa treatments, and culinary experiences such as food and wine tours.
Planning a honeymoon in Greece can be overwhelming due to the abundance of options. It is recommended to book your stay and experiences as early as possible, especially during peak season. Consider using a travel agency to take care of the logistics and create a customised itinerary based on your preferences.
