Greece In February: Weather & Travel Tips

Not sure what to expect of weather in Greece in February? Is it too cold, or too rainy? And might it be costly, or crowded? Read on to discover the answers to all those questions, along with Greece travel itinerary suggestions that will make your trip all the more unforgettable.

Greece in February at a glance

• Average temperatures range from 46°F to 57°F (8°C to 14°C).
• February in Greece continues to experience the rainy season, especially in the northern regions and islands, with an average of around 8 to 10 rainy days throughout the month.
• February is considered the low tourist season for Greece, meaning fewer crowds and less expensive accommodation.

What is the weather like in Greece in February?

February is still winter in Greece, so you’ll want to pack for cool weather and the chance of rain. Rainfall isn’t extreme (Athens gets about 45 to 50mm this month) but expect a few drizzly days.

Island travel is limited this time of year. Some ferries run less frequently, and lots of smaller places shut down for winter. But in cities and mainland areas, it’s a peaceful time to explore ruins and museums without the summer crowds. Mountain areas even get snow, so you’ll find ski resorts open in spots like Mount Parnassus.

The weather in Greece in February won’t suit a beach trip, but if you’re here for the culture, views, and off-season calm, it can still be a rewarding time to go. This is a great time to plan your Greece itinerary. 
 

Average daily temperatures in February

February in Greece is still winter, so expect cool, sometimes wet days. Athens stays mild, around 57°F (14°C), but head north to Thessaloniki and it’s colder—closer to 50°F (10°C). The islands like Crete or Rhodes stay a little warmer at 59°F (15°C), but evenings everywhere can drop to 37 to 48°F (3 to 9°C).

You’ll get the occasional sunny day, but rain is frequent, especially on the mainland. Sea temps stay cold—59 to 61°F (15 to 16°C). It’s not ideal for swimming unless you’re brave. Days are short, with around 10 to 11 hours of light.

The weather in Greece in February keeps the crowds away, and that’s the tradeoff: it’s not beach season, but archaeological sites and cities are peaceful. Pack a raincoat and warm layers, and you’ll be set for slower travel with more room to explore.

Ready to see Greece? Have our local Greece travel experts create the perfect customized itinerary.

Is February a good time to visit Greece?

The answer to “Is February a good time to visit Greece?” depends entirely on what kind of trip you have in mind. For example, if the country conjures nothing but images of blazing sunshine and bath-warm seas, you might want to look elsewhere! For example, check out some of the best winter sun destinations around the world.

If, on the other hand, you like the sound of exploring Greece’s cultural attractions without the crowds and aren’t averse to colder walks on the wild side, February is a darn good time to visit Greece.

This is especially true if you are watching your money. Since February is well past the peak of the summer season, you can find great deals on flights and accommodation. For more tips, see our guide to how to plan a trip to Greece.

• Lowest prices of the year
• No crowds at archaeological sites
• Most island facilities closed
• Cold, rainy weather limits activities
• Authentic local atmosphere in cities 
   

What about the crowd and cost?

Sitting in low season, visiting Greece in February means far smaller crowds than during the peak summer months. Of course, this is all the better for getting up close to top attractions — and not having to line up in the first place.

With fewer crowds comes lower prices. That goes for your flights and accommodation, though you should be aware that some hotels (especially beach resorts – no surprise there), keep their doors closed until later in spring. 

In addition, ferry operators and airlines run reduced schedules through out-of-season months like February.  See more in our guide to the best time to visit Greece. 

Where to go to Greece in February

February strips Greece down to its essentials. Without the crowds, the monuments feel more monumental, and the cities show their real pace. Here are some of the best places to visit in Greece. 

Athens

Athens in February gives you the time and space to really see it. The Acropolis isn’t shoulder-to-shoulder, and the Parthenon looks even better when you're not squinting through heat haze. The National Archaeological Museum is quieter, and you’ll notice details that are easy to miss when it’s busy. In the neighborhoods, locals are out and about again. Plaka and Psyrri feel like neighborhoods, not theme parks. See our list of the best things to do in Athens.

Crete

Crete in February is for slow travelers and winter walkers. You get a full range of landscapes, from snowy peaks in the White Mountains to green hills blooming early with wildflowers. The ruins at Knossos are wide open, and you can take your time with the Minoan stories. In Heraklion, the museums are calm and warm. See our pick of the best beaches on Crete.

Meteora

Meteora’s already surreal landscape gets an extra layer of magic in February. Morning fog moves through the cliffs, and fresh snow sometimes settles on the sandstone spires. It’s quiet too. You can walk between monasteries without seeing more than a few other people. Inside, the frescoes feel personal. There’s time to sit and absorb or chat with the monks if they’re around. The hiking trails are cooler but still manageable. 

What to do in Greece in February

Overall, February is a pretty good month to visit Greece to explore the likes of ancient sites and museums in crowd-free conditions. 

For those of you who are yearning for a glimmer of spring sunshine, the Greek Islands have your name all over them. Just bear in mind this still isn’t sunbathing season! Instead, you’re looking at brisk scenic walks and having ancient sites all but to yourself. Here are some of the best things to do in Greece. 

Visit Crete off-season

If you prefer natural beauty, culture, and adventure to big crowds and even bigger parties, February is a great time to visit the Greek Islands.

One of the warmest Greek islands to visit in February, Crete comes recommended for offering exhilarating hikes and walks, world-class wine, and true wonders of the ancient world — hello Knossos! Put simply, there are plenty of reasons cosmopolitan Crete is one of Greece’s best-loved islands.

Uncover Athens

From the Acropolis and Parthenon to the Temple of Athena Nike and the National Archaeological Museum, Athens’ cultural treasures are abundant and, understandably, trendy.

So, to enjoy them without the hassle of queuing for hours and navigating big crowds, visiting Athens in February is recommended. Planning a longer stay in Athens? Explore the best places to stay in Athens.

Experience Greek Apokries (Carnival)

Held in the run-up to Easter, Apokreas—Greece's Carnival season—reaches a heady climax on the last Sunday before Lent and closes on Ash Monday.

Expect a period of partying, with plenty of eating, drinking, and dancing across the whole country, with festivities on Crete and Corfu among the most memorable.

Planning your itinerary

Our Greece itineraries are crafted to help you experience the best of the country, stress-free. Think of them as a starting point—perfect for planning but flexible enough to adjust to your own pace and interests. After all, travel is about freedom, but a little planning goes a long way.

• Greece itinerary 7 days: A week in Greece covers the essentials—often a mix of Athens and a few iconic islands. Expect to see ancient ruins, charming villages, and picturesque beaches.
• Greece itinerary 10 days: Ten days allows you to explore both mainland highlights and more islands, giving you a taste of Greece’s history, culture, and island life.
• Crete itinerary: A journey through Crete's rugged landscapes, ancient ruins, and stunning beaches. A combination of historic towns, secluded beaches, and traditional Cretan cuisine awaits you.
• Santorini itinerary: A focused itinerary on Santorini’s breathtaking views, volcanic beaches, and famous sunsets. Perfect for those looking to relax, explore charming villages, and enjoy the island’s romantic atmosphere.