WHEN TO TRAVEL to Greece

Location

Climate

Tourist seasons in Greece: low, medium and high season

Greece's Mediterranean climate is characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The coldest months are January and February, while the hottest are July and August. Generally speaking, there are three tourist seasons:

• Low season : November to March: a cooler climate and fewer tourists. It's the ideal time to visit archaeological sites and museums without the crowds.
• Intermediate season : April to June and September to October, these months offer pleasant temperatures and a moderate influx of visitors. Enjoy beaches without the crowds and discover spring and autumn festivals.
• High season : From July to August, temperatures can be very high. This is the time of year when you'll come across the greatest number of tourists, both on the beaches and at the historic sites.

Major cultural events in Greece

Greece offers a rich calendar of cultural events throughout the year. Among the most important are

Athens and Epidaurus Festival

From June to September, this festival celebrates the performing arts, with theatrical performances, concerts, ballets and exhibitions. Performances take place in exceptional historical sites such as the Odeon of Herod Atticus and the Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus.

Patras Carnival

The Patras Carnival is one of the biggest festive events in Greece. It takes place every year between January and March, culminating in the weekend before the start of Orthodox Lent. Festivities include float parades, masked balls, concerts and street performances.

Holy Week and Orthodox Easter

Holy Week and Easter are among the most important religious celebrations in Greece. Dates vary from year to year, but they generally take place between March and May. Festivities include processions, masses, fireworks and the traditional burning of the effigy of Judas.

National holiday on March 25

This festival commemorates Greece's independence from the Ottoman Empire in 1821. Military parades and official ceremonies take place throughout the country, including in Athens, where visitors can watch the parade in Syntagma Square.

Public holidays in Greece

Here is a list of public holidays in Greece, which may affect the opening times of tourist sites and services:

• January 1st : New Year's Day (Protochronia)
• January 6 : Epiphany (Theofania)
• March 25 : National holiday
• Good Friday and Easter Monday: dates vary according to the Orthodox calendar
• May 1st : Labor Day (Protomagia)
• August 15 : Assumption of the Virgin Mary (Dekapentavgoustos)
• October 28 : National holiday (Ochi Day), commemorating the Greek refusal of the Italian ultimatum in 1940.
• December 25 and 26 : Christmas (Christougenna) and Boxing Day

Popular travel dates for Greece

For a pleasant stay without too many tourists, prefer the months ofApril to June and September to Octoberwhich correspond to the shoulder seasons. You'll enjoy milder temperatures and a moderate influx of visitors. In addition, find out about major cultural events and public holidays, so you can take full advantage of local festivities during your trip to Greece.

Demographic data and immigration statistics for Greece

Greece has seen a significant change in its immigrant population in recent decades. According to data from the Greek Statistics Office (ELSTAT), in 2021 around 8% of the total population was made up of foreigners, or almost 850,000 people. The main countries of origin of immigrants in Greece are :

• Albania
• Bulgaria
• Romania
• Pakistan
• Georgia

It is important to note that these figures do not include asylum seekers and refugees who have also sought refuge in Greece in recent years.

Most popular visas in Greece

Visas are required for non-European Union (EU) nationals wishing to enter Greece. The most popular types of visa are :

Schengen visa (type C)

THE Schengen visa is intended for short stays in the Schengen area, which includes Greece and 25 other European countries. This visa allows foreigners to stay for up to 90 days within a 180-day period for reasons such as tourism, business or family visits.

National visa (type D)

THE national visaalso known as the long-stay visa, is intended for people wishing to stay in Greece for more than 90 days. It is often requested by those wishing to work, study or live with their family in Greece.

Investor Visa

Greece offers a "golden visa" program for non-EU investors who invest at least 250,000 euros in Greek real estate. This visa allows the investor and his/her family to reside in Greece and travel freely within the Schengen area.

International tourism in Greece: key figures

Tourism is a key economic sector for Greece, accounting for around 20% of the country's GDP and providing many jobs for Greek citizens and migrants. In 2019, Greece welcomed nearly 34 million international tourists. The main countries of origin of tourists to Greece are:

• Germany
• United Kingdom
• France
• Italy
• Poland

Impact of immigration and tourism on the Greek economy

Immigration and tourism contribute significantly to the Greek economy. Immigrants bring an additional workforce and diversify the population, which can stimulate economic growth and development. Immigrants can also set up new businesses and invest in the local economy. On the other hand, tourism is a major source of income for Greece, providing jobs for thousands of people and generating revenue from tourist spending. The tourism sector also has a multiplier effect on other areas such as hotels, restaurants and transport.