Greece In July – Your Ideal Destinations For Each Month Of Greece

The travel guide for Greece in July! Greece in July is ideal if you are after sunlight, days by the beach and clear skies.

You are, however, more likely to be competing against plenty of other travellers, both international and Greeks, for the best accommodation rates. The beautiful crystal water beaches also attract plenty of people that want to cool down from the high temperatures, so as long as you are okay with sharing your space, view and water with others you are good to go.

For those that want the best of both worlds, pick harder to reach destinations without airports or regular ferry services. Yes, it might take longer to get there, but it’s less crowded!

Where to go in Greece in July?

For summer lovers, July has some of the best weather.

So whether you pick an island in the north, like Lemnos or head to Crete in the south, the temperature of the water will not vary greatly. Since, July is considered high season, expect equally high prices in most places, especially the more popular, Mykonos, Santorini, Paros and Crete. But that doesn’t mean you should ignore these destinations completely.

Summer in the islands, and especially in July, means joining in the celebratory vibe. Experiencing the friendly hospitality, never ending nightlife and wearing swimsuits for as long as possible during the day. A place that combines the Cycladic postcard beauty, with the blue and white touches, quality accommodation and exceptional nightlife options, is of course Mykonos.

Since the humble beginnings of Mykonos, as an alternative, quieter Ibiza, much has changed. Now, it attracts some of the biggest celebrities worldwide, who choose to park their yachts in the southern wind-protected bays and bask under the Greek sun all day, while staying up partying all night. This popularity means that Mykonos has its own high season, and it is all summer long. Deals are hard to find and travelling earlier or later in the year, will give off a much different vibe when all the people have gone. So, why not go in July?

Where is that?

While the name is undoubtedly familiar, we won’t be surprised if you can’t find Mykonos on a map. The complex of islands that includes Mykonos is called Cyclades, or “circular” and what they circle is Delos, the birthplace of twin gods Artemis and Apollo, and a site of immense historical and religious significance in ancient Greece.

Travelling by ferry?

Embark on a delightful water adventure by booking your ferry tickets effortlessly using the form below.

How to get there?

Mykonos is easily reached from the capital, Athens, which is where if time allows you should aim to spend at least a few days, sightseeing and acquainting yourself with Greek history. The port of Athens, Piraeus, has more than two daily ferry departures in July. Fast ferries complete the trip in under 3 hours, but the slower vessels can take around 5 hours (one way). The early ferries might be an ideal choice for most visitors, arriving in Mykonos around midday which is when most hotels allow you to check in. Any earlier, and you might be carrying around bags for much longer than you have to!

Ferry tickets, can and do sell out, so it pays to book ahead especially if you are a big group!
There are more than a dozen daily flights departing from Athens to Mykonos. The trip takes only about 35 minutes but you need to include travel time to the airport, clearance checks and baggage pick up. Flights in July can sell out a lot quicker than ferry tickets, so if you are not a fan of water travel, book ahead.

What is there to do in Greece in July?

There are countless options for things to see and do in Greece in July, but sightseeing can often be limited due to the high temperatures during the day.

In general, you will find that locals choose to wake up early then head back home around midday for a little siesta. The sun is both hot but also drains your energy levels, so a nap is not the worst idea. After 5 or 6 PM, life starts to appear again in the city. If you feel like walking around the island alleyways at 3 or 4 at midday, you may notice the lack of sounds, the soft creaking of chairs or the clacking of dishes being cleaned after lunch. Later, the window sills will start opening, and preparations for coffee will begin. Out of nowhere, the sounds of the city are back in full swing and it is now time to get ready for some evening fun.

So, by now you may understand that Greece in July is perfect for all sorts of activities, according to your hobbies and desires. 

Swimming

In July, you can bet that everyone is trying find a few hours to sneak away for a refreshing swim. Carrying a swimsuit with you everywhere is not a bad idea, considering you may come across a small bay with perfect waters, calling out your name.

If you prefer to avoid the crowds, head to the beach early in the morning or very late in the afternoon. Even after dark, the water remains warm, making it ideal for a night time swim. Just pick a beach you have been to before and know the ins and outs of!

☞ Related: 7 Greek Beaches You Definitely Need To Put On Your Bucket List

Outdoor Cinema

Therino as the Greeks call it, are open-air summer theatres that initially became popular in Greece at the start of the 20th century in the capital, Athens. The simplicity of the set-up, a few chairs, a wall and large white sheet, ensured the popularity of this form of entertainment. Nowadays, you can find a therino cinema in most Greek cities. In Athens, have a stop by Cine Thission in the heart of the city, where you can watch a movie as well as gaze at the Parthenon!

In Mykonos, Cine Manto promises a relaxing movie going experience away from the hustle and bustle of the main city. The garden of palm and pine trees, offers much needed shade in the morning and evening, when the site operates as a bar. At night you can enjoy your film under the stars, while dining on Greek delicacies and wine. A must have experience for every one wanting to experience a Greek summer.

The Ancient Site of Delos

Mykonos may be known for its dazzling coastline, exclusive nightlife and top restaurants but there is another side to it as well, albeit one that is getting harder and harder to find.

Delos was one of the reasons for the first wave of visitors to the island, Ancient Greek history enthusiasts, that used Mykonos as their base while archaeological excavations were underway. A small island, protected by the The Hellenic Ministry of Culture, Education and Religious Affairs, and also a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, Delos has been uninhabited since the 7 century AD which significantly contributed to the preservation of the ancient ruins.

The only modern construction that has ever been built on the island is the museum that holds an extensive collection of the artifacts found in the area.

There are multiple daily tours leaving Mykonos port to Delos. I would strongly suggest booking a group or private tour guide experience, which can also arrange transport to and from your hotel. While access to the ruins is open to anyone that pays the $12 fee and you are more than able to walk around and experience the site solo, the careful guidance and stories of an experienced archaeologist will give you an insight look into what the sanctuary of Delos used to be like. Bare in mind that in the hot July days, you will need to walk under the sun.

Skip The Beach Bars: Go To The Farm

If you want to experience the beauty of Mykonos but also get some peace and quiet away from the busy streets, you need to visit Vioma Organic Farm. Here you can taste and purchase local products and learn about the cultivation process of Mykonian wine, that requires specific techniques due the lack of water and harsh winds. For something different, consider taking a guided biking tour of the area. The family run business will welcome you to their farm and show you around the whole area, sharing stories of a life on an island that is so often thought of so as just a party place!

Greece in July: Events and Festivals

Rockwave Festival Athens – A massive annual event that is now permanently located outside of Athens, in Malakasa. The dates for this rock music festival change from late May to July but in general it takes place around June.

Greece in July: Average Weather Temperatures

July is hot, there is no way around it! The best advice is to always keep water, sunscreen and a hat close by and avoid being out during the hottest part of the day, which is from 1 PM to 3 PM.

For your packing list, do not forget sunglasses, lots of light cotton layers and of course your swimsuit.

The average temperature in Greece in July is around 33 degrees and expect slightly less early in the day (25) and a drop after 9 PM, when Greek dinner is served! There is very little chance of rain in most places!

☞ Related: Packing List For A Summer in Greece – Everything You Need To Know