Greece Holidays in October

Several parts of Greece keep their summer warmth well into October, though the mainland and the southern islands generally hold heat better than the north.

• Crete: Crete is the warmest choice on this list for an October trip, because its southern coast keeps a settled, sunny climate for longer than most of mainland Greece. Greece's largest island offers long sandy beaches on its north coast, though the sea is best enjoyed on the sheltered southern side later in the month. Mountain walks in the interior are also more comfortable than in peak summer heat. We recommend this island for travellers who want reliable warmth and a wide choice of landscapes. Crete holidays
• Rhodes: Rhodes lies in the far south-east of the Aegean and tends to hold warm daytime temperatures into October, which makes it a dependable choice for swimming and beach days. The resort beaches remain open through the month, though some evening entertainment winds down as the season closes. The medieval old town is pleasant to explore in the cooler morning and late afternoon hours. We suggest this island for those who want guaranteed sunshine with a historic town on the doorstep. It is exactly the brief our Rhodes holidays deals are built around.
• Athens: Athens is a strong October option because the weather is usually warm enough for outdoor sightseeing without the punishing heat that arrives in July and August. The historic hilltop monuments are best visited early in the morning or later in the afternoon, when the light is softer and the paths feel less crowded. Mild evenings suit a stroll through the old quarters and a long dinner in the open air. We recommend the capital as a base for travellers who want warmth alongside culture and easy access to the sea. Athens holidays
• Corfu: Corfu is often somewhat cooler and greener than the southern Aegean islands, so October there tends to feel mild rather than hot. The sandy beaches on the east and west coasts remain pleasant for a dip on calmer days, and the warm autumn sea is still inviting when the air is soft. The Venetian old quarter is excellent for walking in cooler weather. We suggest this island for travellers who prefer gentle warmth and lush scenery to full summer heat. Corfu holidays
• Milos: Milos is a volcanic island in the Cyclades that is less visited than its neighbours, and October brings a calm and settled feel to its coves and harbour villages. Some island services reduce outside summer, so ferry timings should be checked carefully before you travel. The coloured rock formations and quiet beaches are far more enjoyable without the crowds of peak season. We recommend this island for those who want warmth with plenty of space and a slower island pace, the same brief our Cheap Greece Holidays deals are built around.