When is the Best Time & Month to Visit Greek Islands?

A Greek Islands cruise is a wonderful way to see some of the world's most beautiful places. You can visit ancient history, stunning beaches, and charming villages all on one trip. Planning your cruise well makes the trip better. This guide gives you tips to help you plan a Greece cruise that you will never forget.

Choosing the Best Time to Go Greek Island cruise

Photo by MSC Cruises

The season you choose matters a lot for your experience. Knowing the Greek Islands cruise season helps you decide when to book your trip.

High Season (June, July, August)

• Weather: Expect very hot temperatures and clear skies.
• Crowds: These months are the most popular. Ports like Santorini and Mykonos will be crowded with many tourists.
• Prices: Cruise fares and flights are at their highest during this time.
• The Benefit: You have the best chance for swimming and sunbathing.

Shoulder Season (April, May, September, October)

• Weather: The weather is warm and sunny, but not too hot. Sea temperatures are still pleasant in September and October.
• Crowds: There are fewer tourists compared to summer. You can enjoy the sights with more space.
• Prices: Fares are usually lower than in peak summer. This is often the best time to cruise the Greek Islands.
• The Benefit: This season offers a balance of good weather and smaller crowds. May and September are especially nice.

Low Season (November to March)

• Weather: It is cooler and sometimes rainy. The sea can be rougher.
• Cruises: Few cruise lines operate full itineraries during these months.aa
• The Benefit: If you find a cruise, the prices will be the lowest. You will see local life without the tourist rush. Keep in mind that many tourist shops and restaurants will be closed.

Recommendation: For your first visit, aim for the shoulder season. May or late September will give you great weather and manageable crowds. 

Selecting Your Greek Islands Cruise Itinerary

Cruises range from short three-day trips to longer two-week voyages. Your choice depends on how much time you have and what islands you want to see. Look carefully at the Greek Islands cruise itinerary before booking.

Popular Island Groups

• Cyclades: This group includes the famous islands of Santorini, Mykonos, and Rhodes. This is a classic itinerary for a reason. Santorini offers breathtaking volcanic views. Mykonos is known for its nightlife and beautiful beaches.
• Dodecanese: This group features Rhodes, which has an impressive medieval Old Town. Kos is another island in this group with ancient ruins.
• Ionian Islands: These islands, like Corfu and Kefalonia, are closer to Italy. They feature lush green landscapes and Venetian architecture. These are often included in longer Mediterranean cruise Greece routes.

Itinerary Length

• 3 to 5 Days: These are fast-paced trips. You will only see two or three key islands, such as Santorini and Mykonos. They are good for a quick look.
• 7 Days: This is the most common and balanced choice. A typical route covers four to six islands. You get enough time to feel each island's character.
• 10+ Days: This allows you to explore different island groups or spend more time at each port.

Key Tip: Do not pick a cruise that stops in too many ports in too little time. You will feel rushed. Choose an itinerary that gives you a full day, or at least eight hours, on the islands you want to see most.

Booking and Budgeting Your Trip

Planning your finances early helps avoid stress later. Use these Greek cruise budget tips for a smoother journey.

Book Early for Better Prices

Cruise lines release their schedules about 18 months in advance. Booking early gets you the best cabin selection and often the lowest price. Waiting until the last minute can sometimes give a discount, but the choice of cabins will be poor.

Watch Out for Hidden Costs

The advertised price often does not include everything. You must budget for these extra costs:

• Flights: Airfare to and from the starting port.
• Gratuities: Daily service charges for the staff. These are often $15 to $20 per person per day.
• Shore Excursions: Guided tours in each port.
• Drinks: Alcohol, specialty coffees, and sometimes even soda and bottled water are extra.
• Wi-Fi: Internet service on ships is usually expensive. 

Shore Excursion Decisions

Greek cruise shore excursions can be costly if booked through the cruise line. You have two main options:

• Cruise Line Tours: These tours guarantee the ship will wait for you if the tour is late. They are convenient but expensive.
• Independent Tours: You can book a local tour guide or simply walk around on your own. This is cheaper and gives you more control. Always plan to be back on the ship at least one hour before the official departure time. This reduces the risk of being left behind.

Preparing for Your Greek Cruise

A little preparation goes a long way. This Greece cruise planning advice makes your packing and paperwork simple.

Visa and Documents

Greece is part of the Schengen Area. If you are a citizen from outside this area, check if you need a Schengen visa. Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months before your return date. Keep copies of your passport and cruise documents in a separate bag from the originals.

Creating Your Greek Islands Travel Checklist

Create a simple checklist for your last-minute tasks.

• Confirm your flight times.
• Check the weather forecast for your islands.
• Inform your bank and credit card companies about your travel dates.
• Download maps of the ports to your phone for offline use.

What to Pack for Your Greek Islands Cruise

Packing for a cruise is different from packing for a hotel stay. Cabin space is limited. Use this Greek Islands cruise packing list to help you decide what to pack for a Greek cruise.

Clothing

• Lightweight fabrics: Cotton and linen are best for hot, sunny weather.
• Swimwear: Pack at least two swimsuits so one can dry while you wear the other.
• Comfortable shoes: You will walk a lot on tours and in the port towns. Walking shoes or sturdy sandals are necessary.
• Dress clothes: Most cruises have one or two formal nights. Pack a nice dress or a suit if you want to attend. Check your cruise line dress code.
• Light jacket or sweater: Evenings can be cool, especially when sailing on the open sea.

Essentials and Gear

• Sun protection: Sunscreen with high SPF, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses are vital. The sun is very strong.
• Small backpack or tote bag: Use this for your Greek cruise port tips, it holds water, sunscreen, and souvenirs when you are on shore.
• Power adapter: European plugs have two round pins. Bring an adapter for your electronics.
• Small first-aid kit: Include pain relievers, stomach medicine, and bandages.
• Seasickness medication: Pack over-the-counter motion sickness patches or pills if you worry about rough seas.

Also Read: Tips to plan a cruise to the Greek Islands

Port Day Pointers: Making the Most of Shore Time

Your time in each port is short, so you must use it well. Follow these Greece cruise port tips.

Get Off the Ship Early

The best way to see the islands is to start before the crowds arrive. Try to be among the first groups leaving the ship, especially in very popular ports like Santorini.

Navigating Santorini and Mykonos

• Santorini: The main town, Fira, is at the top of a high cliff. You can take a cable car, walk up steep steps, or ride a donkey. The cable car line gets very long in the middle of the day. Get your ticket early. Visit Oia village for the famous sunset view but plan your return to the ship carefully.
• Mykonos: The main town, Mykonos Town, is easy to walk around. It is famous for Little Venice and the windmills. The streets are confusing, but that is part of the charm. Wear your comfortable walking shoes.

Finding Local Food

Skip the restaurants right next to the pier, as they often cater only to tourists and are more expensive. Walk a few streets away from the main port area to find authentic Greek tavernas. Try local specialties like souvlaki (grilled meat skewers) or moussaka (baked eggplant and meat dish).

Handling Money

The official currency of Greece is the Euro (€). While credit cards are widely accepted in larger tourist areas, it is smart to carry some cash for small purchases, local markets, or tipping. Find an ATM (cash machine) on shore rather than using the one on the ship, which may charge higher fees.

Final Thoughts for First-Time Cruisers

A Greek Islands cruise provides a seamless way to see several different places without having to pack and unpack constantly. Follow these tips for first time cruise to Greece to keep your trip enjoyable and relaxed.

Know the Tender Process

In some ports, like Mykonos and Santorini, the ship cannot dock. A smaller boat called a tender takes you from the ship to the shore. This process takes time, especially for large ships. The cruise line will give you a numbered ticket. This helps control the crowds. Listen carefully to the announcements for your number.

Stay Safe and Hydrated

The Greek Islands are safe, but standard travel precautions apply. Keep your valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings in crowded areas. The heat in the summer can be intense. Always carry a bottle of water and drink often to stay hydrated.

Learn a Few Greek Phrases

Greeks are friendly and welcome tourists. Learning simple phrases like "Yassas" (hello/goodbye) and "Efharisto" (thank you) shows respect. The local people will appreciate your efforts.

Planning a cruise to the Greek Islands is an exciting adventure. By considering the best time to travel, selecting a smart itinerary, and packing well, you are ready for a trip full of history, beautiful blue waters, and delicious food. You are now prepared to enjoy the best of the Aegean Sea.