5 reasons to visit the Greek islands off-season

Every summer, Greece is known around the world for its vibrant islands, which provide tourists with one-of-a-kind experiences in the hot sun and sea. However, some people also enjoy winter trips to the Greek islands. We probably know what you're thinking; is it a good idea to visit the islands during fall and winter? 

Well, the Ferryhopper team is here to present you with 5 reasons why you should visit the Greek islands off-season. Take a look! 

Here are our top 5 reasons for visiting the Greek islands off-season:

• Spend a mild autumn and winter
• Discover the authentic, less crowded side of the islands
• Taste the seasonal delicacies of Greek cuisine
• Explore the Greek islands hiking
• Feel the ultimate serenity

A village in Skiathos under the autumn sun

Spend a mild autumn and winter

One of the best things about visiting the Greek islands is that you can do it any time of the year. The off-season months for Greece are actually quite mild, with temperatures that don't drop very low.

Greece has a Mediterranean climate, which means that there are both dry winters and dry summers. Bear in mind that the weather is mostly sunny throughout the year.

Tip: are you ready to choose the island for your winter getaway? Then, check out the Greek islands with a warmer climate to visit during the winter.

The port of Naxos on a sunny winter day

Discover the authentic, less crowded side of the islands

When you visit the Greek islands in the off-season, you’ll discover the genuine side of the islands. It’s a great opportunity to blend in with the locals and get an authentic taste of Greek life. In fact, we think that they'll be happy to show you around, drink a cup of coffee or play backgammon with you.

Remember that many restaurants, bars, big resorts, and hotels are closed during this time, but there are still plenty of opportunities to enjoy yourself and embrace the late-night cafe culture.

Tip: most tourist destinations offer some form of accommodation at discounted rates during the off-season months. 

A Greek restaurant in a village in Corfu is waiting for the summer to come

Taste the seasonal delicacies of Greek cuisine

Greece offers a wide range of traditional dishes and sweets, not only during summer but also during winter. 

In the off-season, Greece offers you the chance to truly experience what Greek cuisine means. Taste the traditional winter dishes, soups of all kinds, Christmas sweets such as melomakarona (biscuits with honey) and kourambiedes (biscuits with almonds), and all other delicacies.

Tip: don't leave the islands before tasting Greece's national dish, fasolada (bean soup). It's made with white beans and tomatoes, and it's delicious!

The delicious fasolada, hot and steamy, is waiting for you

Explore the Greek islands by hiking

Yes! Yes! Yes! There's no better way to explore the Greek islands than on foot. The weather is ideal for hiking and finding hidden corners of the island you're visiting.

Head out on a hiking adventure in Amorgos, with its extensive hiking network, or in Corfu, Crete, or Rhodes. This way, you'll discover forgotten places, villages and mesmerizing views.

Tip: heading to Amorgos? Read our suggestions for the best hiking trails in Amorgos. Alternatively, for a short escape from Athens, you can also check out the best hiking trails in Aegina.

Hiking with a view in Amorgos

Feel the ultimate serenity

Unpopular opinion: the islands are at their most beautiful in winter, as the cloudy sky gives a special atmosphere to the scenery. What is more, there are fewer tourists, so you will find yourself alone in some places and able to move through your days at a more leisurely pace.

Have you ever thought about visiting archaeological sites in the winter? Well, now is the time. We also recommend going to the beach for some extra peaceful moments. Even during winter, sunny days are never missing.

No one disturbs a cat during the off-season

Book ferry tickets to the Greek islands online

Don't get cold feet when thinking about the Greek islands in autumn or winter! Check all the available routes on our Map of Ferries and book your ferry tickets online on Ferryhopper. Are you ready to discover another side of the Greek islands?