October is one of the best months to visit Greece, offering an entirely different kind of travel experience compared to the busy summer season. As the crowds thin out and the weather remains pleasantly mild, this is the perfect time for city breaks, cultural sightseeing, and scenic road trips. From historic landmarks and spiritual landscapes to atmospheric mountain towns and vibrant urban centers, I’ve created this list of places to go in Greece in October to make the most of the season.
Athens: Culture, Culinary Discoveries & the Athenian Riviera
The Greek capital is a must in any season, but October in Athens has a special rhythm. The intense summer heat has softened, making it ideal for walking tours through the Acropolis, exploring ancient landmarks, and visiting museums and galleries without the summer crowds.
This is also when Athens’ cultural calendar bursts back to life, with new exhibitions, concerts, and events filling the city’s agenda. Cafés and rooftop bars stay lively well into the evening, while a wave of new restaurant openings keeps the culinary scene fresh and exciting.
Just a short tram or taxi ride away, the Athenian Riviera offers a refreshing coastal escape. In October, the weather remains mild, perfect for seaside walks, dining by the water, and even a rejuvenating swim in Lake Vouliagmeni — a natural thermal spa lake set against dramatic limestone cliffs. This serene spot stays warm year-round, making it an unforgettable autumn experience. Stroll along Glyfada’s promenades, enjoy the sunset in Vouliagmeni, or relax at one of the elegant beach cafés that remain open throughout the year.
Delphi: The Center of the World
A day trip or overnight stay in Delphi is a highlight of any autumn itinerary. Nestled on the slopes of Mount Parnassus, this ancient sanctuary was once considered the center of the world in Greek mythology. Visiting Delphi in October allows you to explore the archaeological site and museum in cooler temperatures, surrounded by dramatic mountain views tinted with autumn colors. The light at this time of year gives the ancient ruins an almost mystical quality.
If you are renting a car and planning to visit other mainland destinations, I would advise spending the night in Delphi to truly immerse yourself in its magical atmosphere.
Meteora: Spiritual Heights & Autumn Colors
October is a spectacular month to visit Meteora, one of Greece’s most awe-inspiring UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The towering rock formations crowned with centuries-old monasteries take on a magical atmosphere under autumn skies, often wrapped in soft morning mist.
With fewer visitors, you can fully appreciate the serenity of the monasteries and the surrounding landscape. Hiking trails and scenic viewpoints are particularly rewarding at this time of year, offering panoramic views framed by autumn foliage. Meteora is one of the very special places in Greece. You can also visit Meteora on a day trip from Athens with this popular small group tour.
Crete: Warm Seas, History & Autumn Traditions
If you’re wondering where to go in Greece in October for a mix of warm weather, culture, and authentic experiences, Crete is an excellent choice. The island enjoys a prolonged summer well into October, with sea temperatures still inviting for swimming. Beaches such as Elafonissi, Balos, and Falassarna are far quieter than in July and August, allowing you to fully enjoy their beauty without the crowds.
Beyond the coastline, Crete is an island of remarkable contrasts. From fertile plains and dramatic gorges to the wild Lassithi Plateau, the landscapes invite autumn hikes, village exploration, and connection with nature. The season also brings cultural richness — vineyards are harvested, olive groves await picking, and mountain villages celebrate the Kazani festival, marking the distillation of tsipouro and the bounty of the land. Experience the Cretan traditions on this 7-hour tour from Chania.
October is the perfect time to explore Crete’s archaeological treasures, including Knossos and Phaistos, without the summer heat. Meanwhile, Chania, one of Crete’s most beloved cities, feels far more relaxed in autumn. The Venetian harbor, cobbled alleys, and lively markets retain their charm, but with space to breathe and enjoy the atmosphere at your own pace.
On the eastern side, Agios Nikolaos and Elounda offer a more cosmopolitan experience, home to luxury hotels and high-class resorts — many of which remain open in October.
Peloponnese: Mythology, Mountains & Timeless Towns
The Peloponnese is one of the most rewarding regions to explore in Greece in October, blending archaeological treasures, dramatic landscapes, and historic towns with ease. Mild temperatures and quieter roads make this the perfect time for a cultural road trip.
History lovers can wander through Mycenae, Epidaurus, and Ancient Olympia without the summer crowds, taking in some of Greece’s most legendary sites at a slower, more reflective pace. Towns like Nafplio, with its Venetian architecture, neoclassical mansions, and romantic seafront, are especially charming under the soft autumn light.
Further south, Monemvasia transports visitors back in time. This medieval fortress town, carved into a massive rock rising from the sea, exudes a captivating atmosphere in autumn. Its Byzantine churches, quiet cobblestone lanes, and stone-built houses offer a journey through history in an almost theatrical setting.
For those seeking nature, Arcadia, in the heart of the Peloponnese, is a dream for autumn hiking. Trails weave through forests painted in warm shades, rivers run clear, and stone villages perch gracefully on hillsides, inviting exploration. The crisp air and vibrant landscapes make it one of the most scenic places in Greece during this season.
The region is also home to Nemea, one of Greece’s most important wine-producing areas. Visiting wineries in October is a relaxed and intimate experience — you can sample exceptional local varieties such as Agiorgitiko, learn about winemaking traditions, and enjoy tastings surrounded by serene vineyard landscapes.
Thessaloniki: Urban Energy & Culinary Delights
Thessaloniki in October offers the perfect balance of cosmopolitan energy and local authenticity. With students returning and cultural events filling the calendar, the city buzzes with life. The weather is ideal for strolling along the waterfront promenade, exploring UNESCO-listed Byzantine monuments, or simply enjoying a coffee at a lively café terrace.
The city’s gastronomy is legendary — from bougatsa for breakfast to modern creative dining, Thessaloniki is a paradise for food lovers. Autumn is also festival season, with plenty of cultural happenings to enjoy.
Kavala: Architectural Charm & Cross-Cultural Heritage
Perched between sea and mountains, Kavala is an underrated autumn destination. The old town of Panagia blends neoclassical mansions, Ottoman buildings, and Byzantine walls, reflecting the city’s layered past.
Notable landmarks include the house of Muhammad Ali, the founder of modern Egypt, and the historic Imaret, which has reopened after an extensive renovation. A walk up to the Fortress rewards visitors with sweeping views over the harbor. Kavala’s location also makes it a convenient base for visiting Thassos island or Philippi, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Check out this Kavala: Authentic City Tour by Eco Friendly Tuk Tuk.
Ioannina: Lakeside Mist & Monastic Heritage
Ioannina, in Epirus, has a poetic autumn atmosphere. Mornings often begin with mist drifting over Lake Pamvotis, creating a dreamlike setting. A short boat ride takes you to Ioannina Island, the third largest monastic state in Greece after Mount Athos and Meteora, where centuries-old monasteries reveal their spiritual and historical importance.
A 2.5 km walk around the island unveils tranquil courtyards, frescoed chapels, and lakeside tavernas serving frog legs and eel, local delicacies with a long tradition.
The Muhammad Ali Museum offers fascinating insights into the city’s multicultural past. Nearby, the Zagori villages burst with autumn colors — ideal for hiking and exploring stone bridges set in pristine nature.
Nafpaktos: Autumn Festivities & Living History
Set on the northern shores of the Corinthian Gulf, Nafpaktos is a charming seaside town that truly shines in October. With its Venetian harbor, medieval walls climbing the hillside, and a relaxed autumn atmosphere, it’s a place where history and tradition come together beautifully.
Early October marks the annual Lepanto Celebration, commemorating the historic naval Battle of Lepanto (1571). The town comes alive with reenactments, cultural events, and fireworks, honoring its role in this significant moment of Mediterranean history. It’s a vibrant celebration that blends local pride with living heritage.
Later in the month, the Chestnut Festival takes place in nearby mountain villages of Oreini Nafpaktia, celebrating the autumn harvest with roasted chestnuts, local delicacies, music, and dancing. It’s a warm, communal experience that perfectly captures the spirit of rural Greece in autumn.
Messolonghi: Lagoon Landscapes & Poetic Heritage
Just a short drive from Nafpaktos, Messolonghi offers a completely different kind of autumn escape — quiet, poetic, and deeply tied to Greek history. Known for its vast lagoon, serene landscapes, and heroic role during the Greek War of Independence, the town exudes a sense of reflection and authenticity.
Visitors can explore the Garden of Heroes, dedicated to those who fell during the siege of Messolonghi, and cycle or walk through the lagoon, where flamingos often gather in October. The scenery, bathed in soft autumn light, is ideal for slow travel and nature lovers.
Messolonghi is also famous for its avgotaraho (cured mullet roe called bottarga) — a prized local delicacy with PDO status. Tasting it here, where it’s traditionally produced, is a true highlight for gastronomy enthusiasts.
Why Visit Greece in October
Visiting Greece in October allows you to experience the country at a slower, more authentic pace, blending cultural exploration with natural beauty and culinary discoveries. Whether you’re tracing the footsteps of ancient civilizations, wandering through medieval towns, or enjoying the last warm swims of the year, October is a truly special time to explore Greece.