What You Need to Know About the Worst Time to Visit Greece. Greece is a popular destination for travelers who want to enjoy the sun, the sea, and the rich culture and history of this ancient country. However, not all seasons are equally suitable for visiting Greece. In fact, there is one time of the year that you should avoid at all costs: the summer.

The summer months, especially July and August, are the worst time to visit Greece for several reasons. Here are some of the drawbacks of traveling to Greece in the summer and how you can avoid them.

High Temperatures and Humidity

One of the main reasons why summer is the worst time to visit Greece is the unbearable heat and humidity. The average temperature in July and August is around 30°C (86°F), but it can reach up to 40°C (104°F) or more in some areas. The humidity is also very high, making the air feel sticky and suffocating.

The high temperatures and humidity can make your travel experience very uncomfortable and even dangerous. You may suffer from heat exhaustion, dehydration, sunburn, or heatstroke if you are not careful. You may also find it hard to sleep at night, as most hotels and accommodations do not have air conditioning or adequate ventilation.

To avoid the heat and humidity, you should travel to Greece in the late spring (May) or early fall (September-October), when the weather is more pleasant and mild. You should also avoid the mainland and the southern islands, which are hotter and drier, and opt for the northern islands, which are cooler and greener. You should also drink plenty of water, wear sunscreen and a hat, and avoid outdoor activities during the hottest hours of the day.

Crowds and Tourist Overload

Another reason why summer is the worst time to visit Greece is the crowds and tourist overload. The summer months are the peak season for tourism in Greece, as millions of visitors flock to the country to enjoy its attractions and beaches. This means that you will have to deal with long lines, crowded buses, overbooked hotels, and noisy streets.

The crowds and tourist overload can make your travel experience less enjoyable and more stressful. You may not be able to see the sights you want, find a place to stay, or enjoy the local culture and atmosphere. You may also have to pay higher prices for everything, as the demand for goods and services increases.

To avoid the crowds and tourist overload, you should travel to Greece in the off-season, such as the winter (December-January) or the shoulder season (April-June and September-October). You should also avoid the most popular destinations, such as Athens, Santorini, Mykonos, and Crete, and explore the less-known and less-visited places, such as the Peloponnese, the Ionian Islands, or the mainland villages. You should also book your flights, hotels, and tours in advance, and use public transportation or rent a car to get around.

Limited Authenticity and Cultural Experience

A third reason why summer is the worst time to visit Greece is the limited authenticity and cultural experience. The summer months are the time when Greece caters to the mass tourism market, which means that many of the attractions, restaurants, and shops are geared towards the tourists’ needs and preferences. This means that you may not be able to experience the real Greece, its traditions, its cuisine, and its people.

The limited authenticity and cultural experience can make your travel experience less meaningful and rewarding. You may not be able to learn about the history, the art, and the religion of Greece, or taste the authentic Greek food and wine, or interact with the locals and learn about their way of life. You may also miss out on some of the festivals, events, and celebrations that take place throughout the year, such as Easter, Carnival, or the Feast of the Assumption.

To avoid the limited authenticity and cultural experience, you should travel to Greece in the off-season or the shoulder season, when the country is more relaxed and less touristy. You should also visit the places that are not on the tourist radar, such as the monasteries, the archaeological sites, or the rural areas. You should also try the local food and drink, learn some basic Greek words and phrases, and join the local activities and customs.

Environmental Impact and Sustainability

A fourth reason why summer is the worst time to visit Greece is the environmental impact and sustainability. The summer months are the time when Greece faces the most pressure and challenges in terms of its natural resources, its infrastructure, and its ecology. This means that you may contribute to the environmental problems and issues that Greece is facing, such as water scarcity, waste management, air pollution, or biodiversity loss.

The environmental impact and sustainability can make your travel experience less responsible and ethical. You may not be aware of the consequences of your actions and choices on the environment and the local community. You may also not be able to enjoy the natural beauty and diversity of Greece, as some of the landscapes, beaches, and wildlife may be damaged or endangered.

To avoid the environmental impact and sustainability, you should travel to Greece in the off-season or the shoulder season, when the tourism pressure and demand are lower. You should also choose the destinations that are more eco-friendly and sustainable, such as the islands that use renewable energy sources, the hotels that have green certifications, or the tours that support conservation projects. You should also follow the best practices and tips for responsible and ethical travel, such as saving water and energy, reducing waste and plastic, respecting the wildlife and the culture, and supporting the local economy and society.

Conclusion on worst time to visit Greece

Greece is a wonderful country to visit, but not all times of the year are equally suitable for traveling there. The summer months, especially July and August, are the worst time to visit Greece, as they have many drawbacks and disadvantages, such as high temperatures and humidity, crowds and tourist overload, limited authenticity and cultural experience, and environmental impact and sustainability. To avoid these problems and issues, you should travel to Greece in the off-season or the shoulder season, and choose the destinations and activities that are more suitable for your interests and preferences. By doing so, you will have a more enjoyable, comfortable, and rewarding travel experience in Greece.