Which Greek island is warmer in May. Holidays in Greece in May
In May, the weather in the country is more tempting than ever. In our latitudes it is still quite cool, but Greece has blossomed with the splendor of colors, aromas, warmth and real summer. Almost throughout the entire territory of Greece, with the exception of mountainous areas, trees are in bloom, meadow grasses are still rich green. Each new day pleases vacationers with clear skies and mild weather without temperature maximums. The average daily air temperature does not exceed 24 degrees Celsius, and the water reached a comfortable +20. Even in the northern regions of Greece, weather conditions allow you to fully experience the arrival of the warm season. There are more and more tourists on the beaches every day, and water sports are becoming incredibly popular along the entire coast of mainland and island Greece. Year after year, rainy weather may occur in certain regions of the country for several days, thanks to which various excursion trips to other regions of the country become incredibly popular. Weather changes are no longer able to affect travelers' holidays.
In May, Greece is most suitable for long stays in the air. Hiking, picnics, walks are incredibly easy, since the real summer heat and midday heat have not yet arrived. Traditionally, tourists go on excursions around the country’s cities, lasting from one to three days. In the coolness of May with a light wind and the still gentle rays of the sun, you don’t have to worry about overwork and heatstroke. Nature provides a wonderful opportunity for travelers to admire the surrounding beauty of reliefs, ancient buildings and seascapes.
While walking through flowering meadows, you should take care of creating a beautiful wreath for one of the most beautiful and ancient holidays in Greece, the Flower Festival. It is celebrated by the Greeks on May 1st. This day became the embodiment of the ancient Roman festival "florealia", which was held in honor of the revered goddess Flora. Nowadays, on the morning of May 1, residents of cities and villages go on a picnic, where they weave wreaths, fly colorful kites and rejoice at the arrival of warmth.
May is also loved by locals and tourists for its cool evenings with magnificent picturesque sunsets. On one of these evenings, May 21, the country celebrates Pyrovassia or Firewalking. After sunset, festival participants light bonfires, walk on hot coals, and glorify Saints Constantine and Helen. Traditionally, Pirovassia is celebrated in the northern regions of Greece, in small towns and villages.
In May, the weather, without exaggeration, is the most comfortable for a leisurely holiday. Greece at this time is not yet overcrowded with vacationers, and you can still spend a couple of weeks in an atmosphere of peace and tranquility.
Sunny Greece has always been popular among our compatriots. And it’s not surprising - the most beautiful places, gorgeous nature, delicious Greek cuisine, interesting culture, good tourist infrastructure, cool beach holidays - all this and much more interests our compatriots and tourists from all over the world.
It is unfortunate that beach season in Greece it does not last so long - from April to October. Well, May is a wonderful month for visiting Greece: it is not too hot yet, but not rainy and pleasant for excursions.
Of course, Greece is a fairly large country, and therefore climate can be divided into three types: Mediterranean, alpine and temperate. Mainland Greece is strongly influenced by the Pindus Mountains - the part that is located to the west of the slopes of Pindus (Epirus) is wetter, and that which is located on the eastern side of the ridge (Thessaly) is a drier region.
Undoubtedly rains can easily happen in May, but in general there are not many of them this month, even in the wettest parts of the country. The wettest resorts are located in the north of mainland Greece. For example, around the quarter of May, it will rain in cities famous for tourists. In other resorts, including on the islands and coastal areas of the mainland, there are 1-4 rainy days in May.
Concerning air temperature, then, again, everything is different in different areas of the country. The average daily air temperature is on average about +24 °C, but sometimes by the end of the month the thermometer in some areas can rise to 35 °C, or even higher. The further south the resort is, the generally hotter it is, but here again there are some peculiarities. For example, in May it is generally warmer in , in than even on the more southern islands. One way or another, on average, temperatures in May in all parts of Greece are more than pleasant - everywhere above +20 degrees during the day, but night temperatures vary. In the central and northern parts of mainland Greece, nights in May are still cool - sometimes dropping to 5-6°C; in more southern parts, nights in May are anywhere from 15-16°C to 19-20°C
One way or another, even in the northern regions of Greece the weather is very pleasant, and allows you to fully experience the arrival of summer.
Greece is a paradise for beach lovers. The country can offer many luxurious beaches, both with pebbles and sand, both on the islands and on the mainland. Yes, in May you will already be able to enjoy swimming, but still the most warm sea- from the end of June to the end of August. However, you will be able to swim properly no earlier than the end of May - by this time the water is already more or less warmed up, but it can hardly be called “fresh milk”. On average, the water temperature off the coast of Greece fluctuates between +18.5°C and +20.5°C, with the water warming towards the end of the month.
Thus, the beginning of May is more suitable for excursions, the end of the month - for excursions and beach holidays. In any case, don’t forget about warm clothes, windbreakers or sweatshirts, and closed-toed shoes – after all, it’s not summer yet. By the way, it’s pleasant that May is still the beginning of the season, so prices for trips will be slightly lower than at the height of the season, and there will be fewer tourists on the beaches and at attractions, unlike the situation that occurs on hot summer days .
What to do in Greece in May? Firstly, I’ll note that it’s most suitable for long stays outdoors, hiking, picnics, walks and excursions - judge for yourself: in the summer heat, wandering around the sights and shaking on the bus is a bit difficult. Well, entertainment in May is absolutely the same as in other months of the season.
Naturally, all sorts of interesting buildings and religious objects do not disappear anywhere with the onset of spring; they have stood in their places for many, many centuries and will continue to do so. And all this in Greece is simply in bulk - a country with a rich historical heritage!
Ancient amphitheaters There are quite a few throughout Greece, admire a couple, for example, in or in Athens, and the ancient theater in Larissa is also worth attention.
Temples- both dilapidated, and almost wiped off the face of the earth, and operating relatively new ones, there are literally on every corner. Of course, the ancient ones are of greatest interest, such as the Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion, the Temple of Nike Apteros and the Temple of Olympian Zeus on the Athenian Acropolis, the mysterious Temple of Aphaia on the hilltop above the resort of Ayia Marina on the island, the incredible Temple of Hephaestus on the northwestern side of the Athenian agora, Temple of Apollo at Bassae (one of the best preserved in Greece) and many others.
Definitely worth a look cathedrals Greece - for the most part they were built not before our era. Many of them were built in the Middle Ages or in a slightly later period (for example, there is a very beautiful Cathedral of the Three Martyrs (14th century) in (Crete), the largest is the Cathedral of St. Spyridon (16th century), the main Orthodox cathedral - the Cathedral of St. Menas ( 18th century), etc.), although there are even older cathedrals (for example, the Cathedral of St. Titus in Heraklion (10th century)).
It is equally interesting to look at how different religions coexisted in Greece over the centuries. For example, if you find yourself on, be sure to visit synagogue Kahal Shalom, which is located in the old Jewish quarter, is an incredibly beautiful and old building. Few mosques Greece is also pleased with its decoration - the Janissary Mosque in Chania (Crete), the Tsisdaraki Mosque in Athens, the Fethiye Mosque in Ioannina, the ancient Kara Musa Pasha Mosque in (on).
How much is it in Greece? fortresses, now overgrown with trees and grass, but still harsh and gloomy - the Venetian fortress in (Crete), Akronafplia Fortress (Nafplio), Argos fortress, Gardiki fortress (in Corfu), Chios fortress, etc.
About the fact that there are a million in Greece museums, I won’t write anymore. They work all year round, waiting for their tourists: archaeological ones, probably most of all, which is not surprising. No less interesting will be trips to monasteries Greece, of which there are also many: the monasteries of Mount Athos, the monastery of Hosios Loukas, the monasteries of Moni Tari and Moni Filerimou and many others.
Nature of Greece in May especially beautiful: it finally wakes up from hibernation and blooms with all its colors. It's time to go explore the beauties of Greek nature, for example, to its many gorges(especially rich in the most beautiful, tree- and flower-filled gorges of the island of Crete - Milona Gorge, Sarakina Gorge, Ha Gorge, Samaria and the Red Butterfly Gorge).
Mysterious caves Greece is a different story. Many of them are covered in myths and legends, which your guides will tell you about. The most beautiful caves are located on the Greek islands - on Crete (Diktean and Idean caves), on (Blue Caves), on the island of Patmos (Cave of the Apocalypse), on (Antiparos Cave), etc.
The most beautiful lakes Greece is especially good in May - the water is a slightly different shade, brighter and fresher, and a trip to the lakes will definitely be memorable. For example, while on the island of Kefalonia, take a trip to the underground Lake Melissani (however, it is clean and beautiful regardless of the time of year), in Corinth there is Lake Kournas (which is considered a separate attraction), in Rhodes - Lake Apolakchia, near Kastoria - Lake Orestiada (or Lake Kastors, with a variety of lakeside flora and fauna), and, of course, Lake Voulismeni (a freshwater lake in the city of Agios Nikolaos in Crete, with numerous restaurants and bars on the shore).
Waterfalls Greece is famous for less than its temples, and in vain - there are a huge number of waterfalls, for example, on the island of Samothrace, there are several on Crete - of course, it’s difficult to find them on your own.
In general, Greece has a lot of attractions – both natural and man-made. As far as entertainment is concerned, this business is not worth it either. In resort towns and villages, clubs, bars and restaurants are already in full swing by May; water parks Greece (for example, "Aqua Splash" in Crete, "Water Park" in the area (Rhodes), as well as a water park in Naoussa, etc.). Zoos Greece are open all year round - I advise you to visit the Attica Zoo in Athens.
Thus, Greece in May is an excellent option for those who want to do not only a beach holiday, but also sightseeing.
Greece is one of those countries that can provide tourists with the most unusual sights, traditions and customs, magnificent monasteries, museums, and cultural monuments.
Unforgettable the impression will remain from the May holiday in this country, since this month optimal climate for this.
Weather and general feeling
In May, warm air finally “gains” its dominance, only occasionally Azores cyclones are possible, opening access for hot wind sirocco. It blows from the Sahara, bringing with it inclement weather to the Balkans.
However, although Greece is a small state, its territory has May weather unequal, since in central mountain areas more rain and significantly cooler. But on the sea coast already hot and quite dry. This can be explained by the Mediterranean mild climate.
May holiday 2019 – magnificent pastime for travelers who can’t stand the heat, and preferring moderately warm weather. This month Greece is capable of delighting mild climate, amazing nature, fresh breeze from the sea, unearthly beauty of blooming flowers.
Air temperature
At the beginning of the last spring month the weather is not hot: average daily temperature in Corfu and mainland 19–25°C. Quite a bit - just a couple of degrees cooler in Thassos, Thrace and the Chalkidiki peninsulas.
But in Santorini, Crete and the Cyclades and Dodecanese archipelagos warmer by a few degrees. Although at night the troposphere has time to significantly cool down, so the temperature drops to a value 6-10°C. Unprecedentedly high May temperatures in the capital of Greece - 26°C and Thessaloniki - 25°C.
Air on average by the end of May warming up throughout the territory up to 25°C. Even being in the northern Greek regions you can fully feel the offensive warm season.
Sea water temperature
In the first decade of May, the water of the Aegean Sea is warmed up only to 19°C. Off the coast of Corfu it is even colder - 17°C.
But in the second ten days of the month the temperature of sea water near the island of Crete is already 22°C, so it is quite possible not only sunbathe, but also buy in.
The water near the island of Elafonisos, which is located southeast of the Peloponnese, has a similar temperature.
Tourists speak positively about the water temperature in Greece in the second half of May.
It should be especially emphasized that already in May the Greeks the beach season is fully opened, splashing with might and main in warm water.
Precipitation
Although precipitation in late spring on Greek territory A little, but you shouldn’t exclude them at all. When compiling a certain “May raininess rating”, we can safely place the island of Thassos, the northern edge of the peninsula of Chalkidiki and Thessaloniki, in the top position, since the number of rainy days there is almost ten.
The second “honorable” place will be taken by Corfu, Athens and the entire center of Greece - it rains here five days. Crete and the Aegean Islands (Santorini, Mykonos, Rhodes and others) close this “hit parade” - there is no more couples days possible precipitation.
Order of prices. In season or out of season
On the first days of May, holidays for our compatriots, it is typical unprecedented demand for Greek tours. Russians traditionally prefer to celebrate the May Day holidays away from dusty and dirty domestic cities.
Most often, May Day tours are organized to the islands and, where the weather already in early May is favorable for a beach holiday. Such excitement naturally leads to jump in the cost of tourist holidays.
However, already in the second half of the month it is typical noticeable decline in visitor activity, which immediately affects prices- they are very are significantly decreasing and you can do it decently save money not only on the flight, but also on accommodation in pre-booked hotels.
What to do on holiday in Greece in May 2019
Arriving in May 2019 on vacation in Hellas, you can visit famous museums for free, even open at night. This is due to the fact that May 18 is celebrated in Greece. Museum Day. The event traditionally involves the Archaeological Museums of the capital, Thessaloniki, Delphi, and many other similar institutions.
The May holiday provides the opportunity to spend a lot of time examining outstanding masterpieces of antiquity, one of which was built over six centuries.
Over such a long period, more than a hundred columns were installed, making the building huge and powerful, quite worthy of the main god. Now you can not see the whole temple, only its corner with 15 columns remains, however, even such a “grain” amazes with its grandeur.
When visiting Greece, you cannot ignore the majestic building of the ancient period - Temple of Poseidon. Even in ancient times, it was a symbol for sailors that home was already close. Unfortunately, this building has not been preserved in its original form.
The ruins of the sanctuary named after Athens Sunia. There, tourists can see the remains of two previously great temples, one of which was built five centuries before the birth of Christ. The history of the second is covered with many secrets, scientists are struggling to solve them. There is a version that it is dedicated to the goddess Athena.
Arriving at Crete, you can't help but visit Knossos palace, which is considered the most ancient structure of the island and the birthplace of local civilization. This palace is labyrinth of minos. It is he who is often mentioned by Greek legends when talking about the Minotaur, Minos, Ariadne and Theseus. The palace is well preserved and quite attractive to thousands of tourists.
Conclusion
Visiting Greece only to go sightseeing at a crazy pace is a crime, as is spending your entire vacation on the beach.
In this state it is necessary enjoy everything: wine and food, midday heat and the sea, nature and communication with residents, silence and antiquities, fun and discos. And everyone at once - anyway, it won’t work out differently here.
May is the most stunning period of the year on Greek soil. The Mediterranean riot of nature appears in all its beauty and fragrance. Everything is blooming and lush, the wind carries waves of fabulous aromas of southern flowers, especially after warm rain. Local residents like to travel out of town during this period. Lovers of nature and pastoral landscapes will find something to fill their imagination: lush meadows, paradise, an incredible abundance of all kinds of flowers, sparkling waterfalls, crystal streams. Add the high blue sky and clear azure sea to this idyllic picture - this is Greece in May!
Weather and climate
The weather in Greece in May is already leaning towards summer - significant warming is felt, rains are less frequent, but they are still there. Compared to April, precipitation is two times less. It rains more often in Thessaloniki, Corfu, Chalkidiki and Thassos - a dozen cloudy days, yes. In the capital, Athens, there is up to 5 rains per month. But in Crete, May is the sunniest; here only three rains fall in a month.
The temperature on the mainland and islands is approximately the same from 22°C to 24°C, on some days it can rise to 28°C. Evening walks will take place when the temperature drops by 10 degrees, so warm clothes are still relevant in May. If you want to go where it is warmer in Greece, you will need to head to Athens - up to 25°C during the day, and up to 15°C at night. The same weather persists on the islands (Mykonos, Rhodes, Santorini, Crete). In Corfu, May is 23°C during the day and 13°C at night.
The water temperature is not yet conducive to active swimming; only seasoned adults can take a short dip in the 18-degree sea. Greece already welcomes lovers of water procedures at the end of May, because... the sea begins to warm up to 20° and above on most islands.
The forecast for May 2017 promises very warm weather, which usually occurs in early June. But the water is not yet warm enough to bathe children. The resort island of Crete will boast 22°C seas. Therefore, this is the best place to go on holiday with the whole family.
Leisure and entertainment
Holidays in Greece in May are calm, without fuss and thousands of crowds of vacationers. Sightseeing, trips to museums, entertainment in water parks and attractions take place without queues, at a comfortable air temperature.
Excursions
May in Greece is the height of the excursion season. The weather is whispering to go on one of the many trips around the country. In travel agencies, which are located at almost every step, you can consider many offers and choose according to your taste and budget. Excursions cover all regions of the country. If you have an international driving license, then renting a car will allow you to travel around all the planned attractions on your own.
The most visited architectural monuments are the Palace of Knossos, where the legendary labyrinth of the Minotaur is located. Everyone must visit the Athenian Acropolis and contemplate the mythological Mount Olympus, the abode of the gods. Tourists are attracted by numerous ancient temples erected in honor of the gods, as well as temples of the Christian era, where the relics of saints are kept. There is a perfectly preserved knight's castle in Rhodes.
Entertainment
If the sea is not attractive for water procedures, then you can go on a cruise along the coast of Greece. The vast sea area with many islands makes sea travel exciting, and on-board entertainment activities will add fun and excitement to the trip. You can simply rent a yacht and go explore the islands on your own in search of secluded picturesque bays. Fishing trips in the waters of the Mediterranean and Aegean Seas are also popular.
A special place is given to gastronomic pleasures that introduce the culinary culture of the Greeks. Many cellars, taverns, and cafes welcome guests with fine wines and snacks. In addition, after attending local festivals, you can taste traditional home-cooked dishes and taste homemade wines.
Beach holiday
The country's May climate is conducive to a beach holiday, which has already started. The warm sun beckons you to plunge into its rays and get a beautiful, even tan. Sunscreen will come in handy, because... The sun is already hot enough to cause burns. Not everyone will like swimming in the cool sea, so most tourists laze on sun loungers, sipping delicious cocktails.
Swimming enthusiasts, when going to a sea power, always look for beaches where the sea is warmer. If water at 20-22°C is suitable for swimming, then the best option is a holiday in Crete. At the opening of the swimming season, you can go to Rhodes, where the water temperature is 19°C. These two islands are very popular among May holidaymakers. Warm sea, a large number of ancient monuments, beautiful nature, developed infrastructure, high level of service - everything is conducive to an excellent vacation.
Holidays in May
The weather in Greece in May with its mild summer is comfortable for visiting national holidays, where you can get up close and personal with local traditions and become immersed in the ancient culture of the country.
Moscow and Athens march together in parades on the first of May together with their countries and peoples. Parades and demonstrations of workers are held with great enthusiasm. Flower festivals take place in early May. Woven wreaths and arranged bouquets these days will be stored until June; on the day of the summer solstice they will be burned on ritual bonfires to ward off the spell of evil spirits.
The holiday of Anastenaria is filled with a special pagan spirit. It was timed to commemorate the Christian saints Constantine and Helena. The holiday is marked by the ritual of walking and dancing on hot coals; the spectacle is certainly not for the faint of heart. The ritual is performed in many regions, for example, in Melik, Langadas, Verrias, etc.
Europe Day is celebrated on a grand scale in Athens and Kerkyra. It is celebrated on May 9, and Russian tourists associate it with Remembrance Day. But the inhabitants of Crete celebrate their Victory Day on May 20. On this day more than 60 years ago, the island was liberated from fascist occupation. “Night of Museums,” when all such establishments are open to the public at night, takes place on May 18.
A medieval festival with a flower parade is held in Rhodes on the twentieth of the month. In Patras you can witness a grand pan-European rally.
Cost of the trip
Tours to Greece in May 2018 will still retain their position as a “low season”. They are 35% cheaper than expected in July and 20% lower than in June. Closer to the day of the trip, the price of tours becomes higher, so it is better to book a place in advance. A last minute tour can cost 100,000 rubles for two adults and two children in a 4* hotel (according to 2017 data).
I love Greece in May. Without hesitation, I decided to spend my May holiday in Crete. I decided quickly on the resort: I specifically chose a cove to protect myself from the winds.
Weather in May in Greece
At the end of spring, I prefer the southern islands of Greece to the mainland - I want to swim. It's sunny outside, but it gets really hot at noon. Evenings are relatively cool. You must wear a long-sleeved sweatshirt or sweatshirt. The most annoying thing is the winds - in May it is difficult to escape from them. Weak in the morning, then they become stronger. In the bay where I was resting (the village of Bali), it was calmer.
The beaches were tiny. Fortunately, the season begins in May, there are few tourists, there was enough space. On the shore there is sand with small pebbles, the sea is transparent and grayish in color. I didn’t notice any particular beauty - a typical marine look. The sunset is good and calm. The coastal strip is not wide, barely accommodating three rows of sun loungers. We swam often - the water temperature allowed. Sunbathed with sunscreen.
It’s good to go on excursions in May – it’s not hot, it’s comfortable. I liked that the attractions were not crowded - we looked around calmly and spent a long time studying the accompanying materials.
Trip to Rethymnon
Taking advantage of the good weather, we decided to go to the most beautiful town on the island. Rethymnon has a gorgeous beach: wide, sandy, free.
The promenade is excellent:
- smooth paths;
- comfortable benches;
- interesting art objects.
Along the sea we reached the main attraction - the local fortress. The area is a bit boring and deserted, but there are beautiful views. I enjoyed walking along the pretty narrow streets next to the fortress - seeing philistine Greece.
They returned to the car along the street parallel to the shore. It is considered a shopping center. There are few brands. There are interesting local boutiques and tourist shops. In May there is a large summer assortment - dresses, sundresses, shorts, and many swimsuits.