Greece is usually seen as the perfect summer destination, with millions of tourists and travelers flocking to the islands to enjoy the sun, the wonderful beaches, and the vibrant nightlife.
What is less known is that you can visit the Greek islands in November, which is thought of as off-season, but has many perks.
If you want to avoid the crowds and have the peace to explore the place without the hustle and bustle, then November is the perfect month for you!
During the fall, the weather is still great but the heat is bearable, and the islands are less busy, so you get to discover the authentic side of them for your laid-back holidays. The accommodation prices drop significantly and so do flights and tickets!
Keep in mind, however, that some shops and restaurants may be closed from November onwards, as they reopen in March usually.
Warmest Greek Islands to Visit in November
Weather in the Greek islands in November
November in Greek islands has shown mild weather with an occasional warm day of about 18 to 20 degrees. Of course, as a fall month, there may be some wet or cold days of about 11 degrees. During the past few years, there is a tendency for a long summer with high temperatures until the very beginning of December, although this may vary!
Generally, the weather is cold during the early morning hours and when the sun sets, but overall it’s neither cold nor unbearable. The weather is in fact quite pleasant during the daylight when the sun is shining on the islands of Greece.
The Cyclades, the Dodecanese, and Crete are among the warmest islands to visit during this period, as mainland Greece and the Ionian Sea tend to be wet and colder.
What to pack for November on the Greek islands
Because the weather might be mild but tricky on the Greek islands in November, you should come organized. Apart from your normal clothes, make sure you also have warm clothing for those days when it’s chilly. A waterproof jacket is a great investment as the weather can get dry anytime. Don’t forget to bring an umbrella, or buy one there.
For daytime use, you should wear:
- jeans
- T-shirts
- long-sleeved shirts
For nightfall:
- (woolen) cardigans
- hoodies
- light jackets
- fleece jackets
- warm socks
Can you swim on the Greek islands in November?
Yes, you can swim and sit in the Sun well until early December in Greece. Of course, there are some tips to make your swimming experience in November enjoyable. Keep in mind that in some places, there are warmer waters during this time. The water temperature during November ranges from 16 to 18 degrees Celsius (roughly about 60F.)
To make things easier, you can invest in a wetsuit to keep you warmer, but even without it, there are some tips to help you swim on the Greek islands in November.
- Go to the beach later in the day when the sun has warmed everything
- Swim first and then sunbathe otherwise your increased body temperature will make the water seem even colder.
- Take it easy. Walk into the sea slowly and get yourself accustomed by wetting some parts gradually.
Best Greek islands to visit in November
So, which are the hottest Greek islands to visit in November? Here’s a list of the best ones and information on what to do there.
Santorini
Santorini is the first hottest Greek island in November on our list. In November, you can explore it without the crowds flocking to the island. In November, Santorini has mild average temperatures of 18 degrees Celsius on sunny days with about 8 hours of sunshine.
The lowest temperatures can go to 14, and there is an estimated 8 days of rainfall during the month. If you choose Santorini, you will have the opportunity to enjoy sightseeing without the relentless summer sun.
Go for the hike from Fira to Oia or vice versa to enjoy wonderful views of the calderas. For sunny days, choose either to go to the beach for a swim or simply stay by the seaside. Alternatively, when it’s cold or rainy, stay in Fira to discover its history by visiting the Archaeological Museum of Santorini and the Museum of Prehistoric Thera.
You can also go to Oia, a favorite island landmark thanks to the panoramic views and Cycladic architecture. There is always the option of going on wine tours in local wineries, where you get to meet local winemakers, taste delightful wines, and learn more about the process.
For a daily trip, head to the city of Akrotiri on the southwestern part of the islands, with its imposing Minoan ruins.
Crete
Crete is the southernmost island in Greece, so the weather is milder all year round. During November, the highest temperature is 20 degrees Celsius and the lowest is usually 12 degrees (at night.) Crete has peace and quiet during fall, with only locals around and most of the resorts closed.
It is perhaps the ideal season to meet true Cretan hospitality and authenticity. During October, the traditional activity of olive harvest starts, and the whole island is in a frenzy to collect the olives from their groves. Get the opportunity to experience this natural, traditional practice by joining the Cretan farmer families who offer this.
Go on culinary walks and try amazing local delicacies in each city or village you visit. Head to Knossos and all the other sights to discover the rich history without a heatstroke!
Apart from all the sights you can see in Chania, Heraklion, and the other big cities, you can explore more of the hiking side, with countless trails both to the mountains (Lefka Ori) and to the canyons.
Rhodes
Thanks to its geographical location, Rhodes is also among the warmest Greek islands in November. The daily temperatures of this month can go as high as 19 degrees Celsius and as low as 14. During this time, the island is a lot quieter and you get the chance to experience Rhodes like a local.
You can visit the lovely beaches for a swim if the weather is warm and sunny, or head to the Old Town in Rhodes for a historical stroll around the castle. The season is perfect for a visit to the stunning Butterfly Valley with millions of butterflies and green surroundings to enjoy.
Try local food at the various restaurants in town and enjoy a drink or two. Go sightseeing in the imposing ancient city of Lindos with the Acropolis and the other ruins. The possibilities are endless, just grab a raincoat and an umbrella because you never know!
Kos
Last but not least on the list of the warmest Greek islands to visit in November is Kos, which, like Rhodes, is located in the Dodecanese. Although winters there are colder than in other seaside regions in Greece, November is still mild with sunny days with highs of 20 degrees and lows of about 12.
The weather is rainy with an anticipated precipitation of 93mm, so make sure you come prepared. The seawater is still warm at about 20 degrees, and the sunlight hits it most of the day. While in Kos, grab the chance to visit the Ancient Agora ruins without the crowds and the unbearable heat.
Go hiking around Kos and explore its rich nature. If you’re into sightseeing, the sights are endless, with the Sanctuary of Asclepius (also known as Asklepieion), the Roman Odeon, the Plane Tree of Hippocrates, the Casa Romana, the popular Venetian Castle in Kos Town, and the Fortress in Antimachia. To see Kos’ authentic character, head to the picturesque village of Zia to eat traditionally.
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