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 itinerary suggestions that will make your trip all the most unforgettable.

Greece in February at a glance

• Average temperatures range from  8°C to 14°C (46°F to 57°F).
• 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 cheaper accommodation.

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 chillier walks on the wild side, February is a darn good time to visit Greece. 

That’s especially so if you’re watching the pennies. With February being way outside the peak summer season, there are big bargains to be had on flights and accommodation.

Set on taking a trip to Greece? Talk to our local Greek travel experts and save yourself the hustle of planning.

Air and sea temperatures in Greece in February

On the Greek mainland, the average temperature is around 10°C in February, with highs of 13°C and lows of 7°C. 

Even on the warmer Greek islands, the weather remains mostly chilly — expect average highs of around 14°C. 

Taking Crete as an example, in February, this island sees an average daily temperature of 12°C, with the potential to reach highs of 16°C, should sun-seekers get lucky!

Thinking of travelling by ferry? Note that the Aegean can be very windy at this time of year, so steel yourself for a bumpier sea crossing than you’d experience during the summer. 

Talking of the sea, while it’s warmer than the average air temperature (it averages around 15°C), it remains too cold to swim comfortably.

Bear in mind that the weather in Greece in February is markedly different at either end of the month. That is to say, by the last couple of weeks of February, it’s a little warmer, and less grey — hooray!

Thinking of visiting Greece in February? Browse our inspirational Greece itineraries to start planning your perfect trip.

Can it rain in Greece in February?

It sure can! While Greece has a generally mild Mediterranean climate, winter months still bring rainfall, particularly in the northern parts of the country and its mountainous regions.

Across the country, Greece sees around 60mm of rain during February, typically distributed across 7—8 showery days.

For more details on the weather in Greece around the year, read up on when to go to Greece.

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 queue 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.

Set on enjoying a break in winter? For more inspo, discover more of the best places to visit in February.

What to wear in Greece in February

Given the info we’ve just shared about average temperatures and the possibility of rain, you’ll want to wear clothes that keep you warm while you take advantage of exploring near-empty cultural sites. 

The same goes for when you want to enjoy crowd-free strolls on beautiful beaches. We’re talking sweaters, raincoats and scarves. You should also bring a brolly.

Unforgettable and fully customisable Greece itineraries

Are you longing for a late-winter break to put a spring in your step? Take inspiration from our Greek itineraries.

What’s more, these suggestions can be customised to your wishes, with a local Greek travel expert on hand to take the hassle out of planning. Use our tailor-made travel service and enjoy itineraries like:

• Athens — City of the Gods (4 days): if you’re short on time and big on culture, this 3-night trip offers immersive insights into Athens’ ancient wonders and modern verve. From taking in the Classical charm of the Acropolis and the Parthenon, to indulging in the city’s thriving modern food scene in local tavernas, it’s a feast for the senses.
• Epirus and Athens — the Ancient Sites (8 days): shrouded in myths and legends of Greek gods and Roman and Byzantine warriors, sites in the Epirus region of Greece have fascinating tales to tell. Add to that exploring Athens and the magic of mortuaries in Zagori, which amounts to a diversely exhilarating experience.
• Coast of Crete — a stunning self-drive experience (10 days): if you’re longing for awe-inspiring scenery, ancient culture, and a sense of freedom, this self-drive trip along Crete’s coast has your name all over it. Crete, Greece's largest island, delivers thousands of years of unique culture and rich history alongside untamed natural beauty. Crete is also one of the warmest places to go in Greece in February.

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 ain’t sunbathing season! Instead, you’re looking at brisk scenic walks and having ancient sites all but to yourself.

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.

Want more ideas for a Greek Island break in February? We also recommend Corfu, Rhodes, Santorini and Mykonos.

Uncover Athens

From the Acropolis and Parthenon to the Temple of Athena Nike and the National Archeological 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.

Experience Greek Apokries (Carnival)

Held in the run-up to Easter, Apokreas — Greece's Carnival season — reaches a heady climax on last the 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.

Up for visiting Greece out of season? Discover more reasons to visit Greece in winter.

Planning your February trip to Greece

If you fancy visiting Greece in February — or any other time of the year, for that matter — read The Rough Guide to Greece to start planning your dream trip. 

Alternatively, if you’re not keen on the whole shizzle of planning, browse our customisable Greece itineraries, and talk to our local Greece travel experts.

Love the sound of exploring Greece away from the mainland? Read up on the best Greek Islands, and get yourself The Rough Guide to Greek Islands. 

Visit Greece in other months

• January
• March
• April
• May
• June
• July
• August
• September
• October
• November
• December