Weather in Athens in October
Expect pleasantly warm, mostly dry weather in Athens in October, autumn. Expect highs of about 24°C / 75°F and overnight lows near 16°C / 61°F. The sea averages about 23°C / 73°F, comfortable for swimming. There are typically 3 rainy days, with around 35 mm of rain in total. Athens sits in a basin ringed by mountains, which traps heat in summer and keeps the city drier than much of Greece. The heat eases, and the sea stays warm long after the summer crowds have gone. You get about 11 hours of daylight a day. Pack layers: T-shirts for the day and a light jacket or sweater for the evenings. Mornings and evenings get noticeably cooler as the month goes on. The weather can change from one week to the next, so pack for both warm and cool days. It's comfortable to be out all day, though the midday sun is still strong.
Swimming in Athens in October
Swimming is excellent in Athens in October, with the sea averaging around 23°C / 73°F. The water is cooling after the warmest months of July, August and September, but it's still pleasant. Good spots include the Athens Riviera, around Glyfada and Vouliagmeni. Beach facilities are only partly open at this time of year. Many coves are rocky or pebbly, so water shoes are useful. No wetsuit needed.
Crowds & Prices in Athens in October
In Athens, October strikes a good balance between atmosphere and space. Hotel rates sit between the winter lows and the summer peak. The busiest spot is the Acropolis; for more space, go at opening time or in the last hours before closing. Weekdays are calmer than weekends at the most popular spots. A few weeks' notice is usually enough to find a good room.
What's Open in Athens in October
As a major city, Athens never really closes, and transport runs year-round. Hotels and restaurants are open as normal. Archaeological sites and museums are on their longer summer hours. Outdoor café terraces are in full use. Cafés and tavernas are busy with locals, especially in the evenings and at weekends. Public transport and services run as normal. Plan ahead for public holidays, when many businesses close.
Festivals & Holidays in Athens in October
28 October, Ochi Day, is a national holiday with parades marking Greece's refusal to surrender in 1940. October brings the start of the olive harvest in many areas, and in some regions, the first tsipouro or raki of the season. Locals in Athens mark these dates in the traditional way, and visitors are welcome to join in. It's a good time to see traditions that have nothing to do with tourism, from harvests to name days.
Is October a Good Time to Visit Athens?
October is one of the best months to visit Athens. In numbers: highs of about 24°C / 75°F, lows of 16°C / 61°F and rain on around 3 days in a typical October. The weather is comfortable for walking all day, the light is lovely and the summer heat hasn't arrived or has already gone. It suits almost every kind of traveler, especially those coming for seeing the Acropolis. Book a little ahead, as it's a popular time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does the sun set in Athens in October?
In early October, the sun sets in Athens at around 7:10 pm, and around 6:50 pm by mid-month. Clocks go back an hour on the last Sunday of October, so by the end of the month sunset is around 5:30 pm. All times are Greek local time. Filopappou Hill and Lycabettus Hill are the classic viewpoints.
Does it rain in Athens in October?
Sometimes. October is mostly pleasant and sunny, but the first autumn rains usually arrive during the month, often as short, heavy showers or thunderstorms. Evenings turn cooler, so pack a light jacket.
Can I visit the Acropolis in October?
Yes. The Acropolis is open, and October is one of the most pleasant times to visit, with comfortable temperatures and fewer visitors than in summer. Check the official opening hours before you go. Book a timed-entry ticket online in advance.
Do I need a car in Athens in October?
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 October or November better for a trip to Athens?
October, for the weather: it's still mild and mostly sunny. November is cooler and wetter, but quieter, with lower hotel prices and short queues at the big sights.
Athens Weather by Month
