Weather in Athens in November
November in Athens means late-autumn conditions: mild and fairly changeable. Temperatures typically peak at around 19°C / 66°F in the afternoon and fall to about 12°C / 53°F at night. There are typically 5 rainy days, with around 66 mm of rain in total. The sea averages about 20°C / 68°F, bracing, and too cool for many swimmers. Autumn is gentle, with warm days, and the first rain usually arrives as short thunderstorms. Athens sits in a basin ringed by mountains, which traps heat in summer and keeps the city drier than much of Greece. Days bring around 10 hours of daylight, so plan sightseeing for the middle of the day. Pack layers, including a warm sweater for the evenings and a light waterproof jacket. The light is softer than in summer, which makes it a lovely time for photos and walks. Plan outdoor time around the middle of the day, when it's at its warmest.
Swimming in Athens in November
Swimming in Athens in November is possible but bracing, with the sea at around 20°C / 68°F. The best time for swimming is July, August and September, with August usually the warmest. Good spots include the Athens Riviera, around Glyfada and Vouliagmeni. There are no lifeguards or beach services out of season, so swim with care. A short wetsuit helps if you feel the cold.
Crowds & Prices in Athens in November
Athens is quiet in November, with short queues at museums and sites. Rates for rooms and car hire drop to their yearly lows. With so few visitors, the atmosphere is genuinely local, and people have time to chat. Museums and restaurants are relaxed, and you rarely need a reservation. It's a good time to see everyday life, away from the summer bustle. Last-minute bookings are rarely a problem.
What's Open in Athens in November
As a major city, Athens never really closes, and transport runs year-round. Hotels and tavernas are open as usual, with no seasonal closures to worry about. Archaeological sites and museums keep shorter winter hours. Public transport and services run as normal. Cafés and tavernas are busy with locals, especially in the evenings and at weekends. It's a good time for museums and indoor sights, with few crowds.
Festivals & Holidays in Athens in November
21 November, the Presentation of the Virgin Mary, is marked with church services, and it's also Armed Forces Day. November is olive harvest season, when families gather to pick olives and the first new oil of the year appears. In Athens, these occasions are celebrated much as they are across the rest of Greece. Otherwise, life follows its normal rhythm, with Sunday lunches and busy cafés rather than big events.
Is November a Good Time to Visit Athens?
Yes, November is a smart time for Athens if you want low prices and short queues. In numbers: highs of about 19°C / 66°F, lows of 12°C / 53°F and rain on around 5 days in a typical November. It's cooler and can be rainy, but it's ideal for museums, food and seeing the Acropolis. It suits city-break travelers rather than sun-seekers. For warmer sightseeing weather, come in April, May or October.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does the sun set in Athens in November?
Sunset in Athens is at around 5:30 pm at the start of November, around 5:15 pm in mid-November and around 5:05 pm by the end of the month, in Greek local time. Filopappou Hill and Lycabettus Hill are the classic viewpoints.
Does it rain a lot in Athens in November?
November is one of the wetter months, with more frequent showers and the occasional heavy storm. Rain rarely lasts all day, though, and there are still many mild, sunny days. Pack an umbrella and a warm layer for the evenings.
Can I visit the Acropolis in November?
Yes. The Acropolis is open all year on shorter winter hours, and in November you'll often have it almost to yourself. Like most Greek sites, it may close on some public holidays, so check the official hours before you go. Book a timed-entry ticket online in advance.
Do I need a car in Athens in November?
No. Athens has a good metro, trams and buses, and the historic center is compact and walkable. A car is more hassle than help in the city, though it's useful for day trips to places like Cape Sounion.
Is November or December better for a trip to Athens?
December, for the atmosphere, with Christmas lights, markets and festive events around the city. November is a little milder but often one of the rainiest months. Both are great for museums and food.
Athens Weather by Month
