Greece

Greece has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters, though the mountainous interior adds alpine conditions. Athens averages 10°C in January and 28°C in July, with summer temperatures frequently reaching 35°C in the city center. The Greek islands enjoy sea breezes that moderate summer heat: Mykonos, Santorini, and Crete sit at 26-29°C from June to September with virtually no rain. The Meltemi wind blows strong across the Aegean from July to September, refreshing the Cyclades but sometimes disrupting ferry schedules. Winter on the islands is quiet and mild (10-15°C) but many hotels and restaurants close from November to March. Mountain regions in northern Greece and the Peloponnese get snow from December to March, with skiing available at Mount Parnassus near Delphi. The best months for sightseeing are April to June and September to October when temperatures are comfortable and crowds thinner.