Spring in the Greek islands, flower filled trails and mellow weather
The quiet, bright and seriously underrated season to experience the islands without the chaos, with softer light, calmer vibes and friendlier prices.
Spring in the Greek islands is perfect if you want mild temperatures, blooming landscapes, fewer people and lower prices compared to peak summer.
☀️Weather in spring in the Greek islands
From March to May daytime temperatures usually range from about 16 to 24°C, which makes it ideal for walking, exploring villages and shooting photos without overheating.
The sea is still on the fresh side, however in southern islands and Crete the first swims usually start from late April for the brave ones.
- Warm sun during midday, perfect for walks and coastal strolls.
- Cool evenings, you will want a light jacket or sweatshirt.
- Clear spring light, landscapes and colors pop on camera.
For detailed forecasts, check Meteo.
You can also browse more travel tips to plan your trip.
💶Prices and crowds in spring
Spring sits in the shoulder season, which usually means better deals and much calmer streets, beaches and ferries compared to July and August.
- Accommodation is often twenty to forty percent cheaper than high season.
- Way fewer people in villages, on trails and at viewpoints.
- Easter and long weekends are the only moments that may feel busier.
To compare ferry routes and schedules, have a look at Ferryscanner.
Crowds in spring, how quiet are the islands
If your dream island break is peaceful rather than packed, spring will feel like a cheat code. Places like Naxos, Amorgos and the Small Cyclades stay relaxed until late April, with empty beaches and locals going about their everyday life.
Hot spots like Santorini and Mykonos only start waking up properly around Easter and still feel nothing like peak summer.
If you are island hopping around this area, check my Cyclades travel guide.
What to wear for spring in the Greek islands
The secret is layering, light pieces that you can add or remove easily as the day changes.
- Daytime, t shirt, light shirt, comfy trousers or shorts, sneakers.
- Evening, sweatshirt or cardigan, windbreaker, closed shoes and a scarf for the breeze.
- Hiking, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, a small backpack with water and a packable windbreaker.
- Swimming, swimsuit, towel, flip flops and a thin neoprene top if you feel the cold.
Best islands for a spring escape
In spring, islands with mountains, greenery and hiking trails really shine, especially if you love nature and quiet villages more than beach clubs.
🏔️Naxos and the Small Cyclades
Green valleys, hilltop villages, old chapels and paths running through olive groves. Naxos is a little hiking paradise, while Iraklia and Schinoussa feel untouched and slow in spring.
🌊Amorgos in spring
Cliffside trails above deep blue water, whitewashed villages and very few visitors. It is one of the best islands for wild landscapes and long walks.
If you love trails, do not miss the Amorgos hiking routes guide .
🌿Andros
One of the greenest islands in the Cyclades, with streams, springs and a large network of signposted paths. Spring is the sweet spot to walk them without heat or dust.
☀️Crete and the Ionian islands
In Crete, gorges and plateaus are full of flowers and fresh green, while in the Ionian islands mountains and olive groves feel lush and peaceful, long before summer crowds arrive.
For more hiking inspiration and trail ideas, you can browse Hiking Amorgos.
When to go, spring months in the Greek islands
Spring has three different flavors, choose depending on how warm you want it and how early you want to swim.
Still on the cool side, with occasional rain and many seasonal places not yet open, great if you want absolute peace and no beach pressure at all.
Temperatures pick up, nature is at its peak and villages feel more alive, often the best all round month for a spring trip.
A mini version of summer, warmer days, a more welcoming sea and still far fewer people than in July or August.
Tips for a spring island hopping trip
You can explore more ideas in the main destinations section.
