Greece is one of the top places people think about when planning their “Eurosummer”, with peak temperatures, beach days and exploring island life. While Greece is one of the best destinations for a summer away, the magic definitely doesn’t fade with the bright sun. Instead, the milder weather makes activities more bearable and the mountain sceneries show their charm. The villages and tavernas are cozy, and the experiences give you plenty of reasons to make the most out of your autumn season. So, if you think the best of Greece is reserved for summer, autumn also might just surprise you.
Mountain village: Arachova
Nestled on the slopes of Mount Parnassus, Arachova is a place where traditional stone houses, stores, tavernas give a fuzzy warm feeling while wandering. Cobbled narrow streets and the mountain views set the scene for an escape further away from the mass-touristic areas. In early autumn, the coziness of the village can also already remind you subtly of Christmas.
Through the village you find many coffee spots and places to try its local specialty: formaela cheese. Which is often grilled and served as part of a meal. And alongside the village, you can’t miss the surrounding mountain landscapes to walk around in the cooler weather.
For a little sightseeing, climb the steps leading to the Church of Agios Georgios, where you can enjoy views across the town. You can also spot Arachova’s distinctive clock perched on a rocky outcrop, one of its most recognisable landmarks. Arachova is often combined with a visit to the historical sites of Delphi. Which can fill your day with sightseeing both historic and beautiful walks and views.
Region: Magnesia
For a different kind of autumn escape, head to the Pelion peninsula in Magnesia. Here the traditional mountain villages meet with wide landscapes and views on the Aegean Sea. Villages such as Makrinitsa and Portaria are known for their stone-built mansions, cobbled streets and charming squares.
In Makrinitsa, often nicknamed the “balcony of Pelion” for its panoramic views towards Volos and the Pagasetic Gulf, you can wander through narrow lanes before stopping for a coffee in the village square. Portaria offers another inviting stop, with traditional architecture, local tavernas and old stone-paved paths, known as kalderimia, that wind through the surrounding countryside.
Autumn is a lovely opportunity to enjoy these villages beyond the summer rush, whether you’re heading out for a scenic walk or taking time to discover the flavours of the region. Look out for spetzofai, a traditional Pelion dish made with sausage and peppers, often served as a hearty meal.
Seeing history without the summer heat
Autumn is a lovely time to explore Greece’s rich history, especially when the milder weather makes walking around historical sites more comfortable. Around Sparta, you can discover the remains of the ancient city and learn about the history of one of Greece’s most well-known city-states. Ancient Sparta was famous for its military society and war battle stories.
A visit to nearby Mystras is also worth adding to your day, where the remains of a Byzantine town stretch across the hillside, surrounded by mountain landscapes. As you walk along the stone pathways, you can discover old churches, monasteries, palaces and the remains of a castle overlooking the surrounding valley. The combination of historic buildings, mountain views and greenery makes it a beautiful place to explore at a slower pace.
Activities in nature
With the milder weather, activities like hiking and walking through nature become more enjoyable, especially in the mountainous areas. You can explore scenic trails, discover small villages along the way or simply take in the beautiful views that you might otherwise miss during the busy summer months. You can take a ferry to a nearby island, try local specialities at a traditional taverna or simply enjoy a peaceful walk through the countryside.
For those who like to stay active during their travels, autumn is also a great time to explore the outdoors in Greece. The cooler weather makes it more comfortable to spend time walking through mountain landscapes, discovering hiking trails or exploring the countryside by bike. If you are looking for something more adventurous, you can also try activities such as canyoning in the gorges of Zagori, rafting along a river or kayaking along the Greek coastline.
Autumn brings a different kind of magic to Greece, from cosy mountain villages and historical discoveries to outdoor adventures. So, put on your walking shoes and discover how Greece can make your autumn just as memorable as your summer!