Greece weather in April

Thinking of visiting Greece before the peak summer season strikes? Read on to find out about the weather in Greece in April, along with what to expect when it comes to costs and crowds. We also share tips on what to do, and itinerary suggestions that are sure to make your trip all the most rewarding.

Greece in April at a glance

• Average temperatures begin to warm up, ranging from 12°C to 20°C (54°F to 68°F).
• April marks a significant decrease in rainfall compared to earlier months.
• April is considered the shoulder tourist season for Greece. Tourist crowds begin to increase slightly as the spring season progresses, but it still remains quieter compared to the peak season.
• Spring blooms are in full swing in April.

Is April a good time to visit Greece?

In a word: yes. April is a good time to visit Greece. In fact, long-time visitors to Greece often hail it as one of the best months to visit. 

And the reasons? While March in Greece remains on the cusp of brighter days, April sees the full swing of spring. The weather is well and truly warming up, nature is blooming, and you can still bag shoulder-season bargains.

In addition, April remains pretty quiet — all the better for exploring top cultural sites with fewer crowds, and for an increased chance of finding yourself an empty beach.

Thinking of visiting Greece in April? Talk to our local Greek travel experts and save yourself the hustle of planning.

Air and sea temperatures in Greece in April

Across the country, the weather in Greece in April sees temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C. Athens, for example, sees an average daytime high of 20°C. Be aware that northern Greece is somewhat cooler, and evenings are brisker everywhere. 

For the warmest weather in Greece in April, you’ll want to head to the Peloponnese, Cyclades, Dodecanese, or Crete. These tend to be a degree or two warmer than other destinations. 

Oh, and if you’re hoping to swim, note that the Aegean and Ionian waters aren’t yet warm enough to bathe in comfortably. The sea averages 15-16°C in April.

Convinced to go? See our fully customisable Greece itineraries.

Can it rain in Greece in April?

While it can — and does — rain in Greece in April, the month heralds a decrease in rainfall from March. 

In Athens, for example, an average of 40mm of rain over six days. You’re also unlikely to see a full day of rain. 

For more details on the weather in Greece around the year, read up on when to go to Greece. 

What about the crowd and cost?

As mentioned above, sitting in the shoulder season, April sees fewer crowds and lower costs than visiting Greece later in the year. 

That said, April means the country is heading towards its peak season, especially around Easter. This means you’ll be in the company of more fellow tourists than if you visit earlier in spring. 

As a result, April could well be the perfect month to visit Greece if you’re looking to bag a bit of a bargain, and fancy mixing up secluded experiences with some buzz in bars and clubs. Think of it as a “best of both worlds” time of year. 

Set on an enjoying spring break? Discover more of the best places to visit in April.

What to wear in Greece in April

While April sees Greece beginning to warm up (hello, shorts and summer dresses!), you’ll also want to bring warmer garb to layer up for cooler days and the chillier evenings, when temperatures slide. 

For example, you might want to bring a fleece or a few pullovers. We also suggest bringing a light raincoat.

Unforgettable and fully customisable Greece itineraries

Longing for a spring break that delivers dazzling scenery, history, food and sunshine? Take inspiration from our Greek itineraries.

What’s more, these suggestions can be customised to your exact wishes, with a local Greece travel expert on hand to take the hassle out of planning and booking.

• Athens — City of the Gods (4 days): if you’re short on time and big on culture, this 3-night trip offers immersive insights into Athens’ ancient wonders and modern verve. From taking in the Classical charm of the Acropolis and the Parthenon, to indulging in the city’s thriving modern food scene in local tavernas, it’s a feast for the senses.
• Epirus and Athens — the Ancient Sites (8 days): shrouded in myths and legends of Greek gods and Roman and Byzantine warriors, sites in the Epirus region of Greece have fascinating tales to tell. Add to that exploring Athens and the magic of mortuaries in Zagori, and this amounts to a diversely exhilarating experience.
• Coast of Crete — a stunning self-drive experience (10 days): Crete, Greece's largest island, delivers thousands of years of unique culture and rich history alongside untamed natural beauty. Crete is also one of the warmest places to go in Greece in March.

What to do in Greece in April

April is a great time to witness the blooming of wildflowers and experience the beautiful landscapes of Greece. Additionally, the tourist crowds are smaller compared to summer months, allowing for a more comfortable travel experience.

Experience April events and festivals

Celebrate Feast of St. George

Normally celebrated on 23^rd April (or on Easter Monday if Easter falls after that date), the Feast of St. George is marked at monasteries and churches. St. George was the patron of shepherds, and so you’ll also see feasts and dancing across and rural communities.

Learn about Easter traditions

When Easter falls in April, you can expect feasts and festivals around the country. Just be aware that many shops and some restaurants close.

Go on an island adventure

With April seeing temperatures rise, perfect spring breaks can be had on many Greek Islands before the colossal crowds of summer descend.

April is an ideal time to explore the charming towns and villages of Corfu without the crowds of peak tourist season. You can visit the Old Town of Corfu, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with its narrow streets, medieval fortresses, and vibrant atmosphere.

The island is famous for its lively Easter processions, where locals gather in the streets, playing traditional music and throwing huge clay pots from balconies to celebrate the resurrection of Christ.

Uncover Athens

To explore Athens’ cultural marvels without the hassle of queuing for hours, April is a good time to visit the capital. 

Places like the Acropolis, Parthenon, Temple of Athena Nike, and National Archaeological Museum are all better appreciated when you don’t have to contend with the hassle of heaving crowds.
 

Planning your April trip to Greece

Fancy visiting Greece in April, or any other time of the year, for that matter? Get yourself a copy of The Rough Guide to Greece to start planning your dream trip. 

Alternatively, if you’re not keen on the whole shizzle of planning, browse our customisable Greece itineraries, and talk to our local Greece travel experts.

Love the sound of exploring Greece away from the mainland? Read up on the best Greek Islands, and get yourself The Rough Guide to Greek Islands. 

Visit Greece in other months

• January
• February
• March
• May
• June
• July
• August
• September
• October
• November
• December