Moving from the UK to Greece means swapping grey skies, drizzle and cold snaps for a classic
Mediterranean climate. With more than 3,000 hours of sunshine each year, Greece offers hot and dry summers, with temperatures regularly exceeding 30°C in July and August. It’s a different story in winter, with much milder temperatures, especially in the south. In fact, some mountainous regions can even see frost and snowfall on occasion.
Though Greece is often described as having Mediterranean weather, the reality is slightly more varied. If you’re planning a move, understanding the regional differences in Greece’s climate and how they differ from the UK’s is key.
What You Need to Know
- Greece has hot, dry summers and milder, brighter winters than the UK.
- July and August can bring intense heat, especially inland and in cities.
- Coastal areas and islands may feel cooler thanks to sea breezes and the Meltemi wind.
- Northern Greece and mountain regions can be much colder in winter.
- Daily life often shifts around the climate, with slower afternoons and more outdoor living.
Swapping Climates: Greece vs. the UK
Once you’ve organised your removals to Greece, it’s time to think about what to expect when you arrive, and that includes the climate. In much of Greece, summer means virtually guaranteed sunshine. Rainfall is minimal in July and August, and skies are clear for weeks at a time. It’s easy to see why outdoor living becomes the norm.
Winters, while cooler, are shorter and brighter than what you’re used to in the UK. You certainly won’t experience months of damp days and dark nights in most regions, like you would at home. One thing you will notice is that Greek homes are built for heat, not cold, which makes winter preparation key. You can’t simply turn on the radiators, snuggle up and enjoy the warmth like you would in the UK, as many Greek homes lack central heating.
One of our clients, Sarah, moved to Crete in 2021, and she described the sunshine as being a novelty, saying: “Even in winter we have bright days and the long summers mean we spend most evenings outdoors. The slower pace of life in the heat took some getting used to, but now I wouldn’t change it.”
Summer in Greece
July and August are the hottest months in Greece, and that’s the case across the country. Temperatures during the day reach the mid 30s°C in many areas and heatwaves can push things beyond 40°C in urban areas, such as Athens.
Coastal Areas and the Meltemi
If you’re moving to the islands or eastern coastal regions, you’ll soon become familiar with the Meltemi, which is a strong, dry northern wind that blows across the Aegean Sea during peak summer. It’s especially noticeable in the Cyclades, where it provides welcome relief from intense heat. Though the Meltemi keeps temperatures more comfortable, it can also make the sea much choppier.
Inland Heat
Inland and mainland cities, particularly in northern and central Greece, tend to experience heavier, more stagnant heat during summer. Without consistent sea breezes, temperatures can feel higher than they do in other parts of the country, and evenings remain warm well into the night. This is a big change from the UK. It’s easy to see why air conditioning is common and often essential during July and August.
Winter in Greece
There’s no one-size-fits-all example when it comes to winter in Greece, as the climate can vary hugely depending on where you decide to move to.
Southern Islands
If you’ve sold your house as quickly as possible and are keen to head to Greece in search of year-round warmth, southern islands such as Crete and Rhodes offer some of the mildest winter temperatures in Europe. Daytime highs often sit comfortably in the teens, and freezing conditions are rare if you’re at sea level. These regions are ideal if you’re looking to avoid harsh winters altogether.
Mainland and Mountain Regions
Winter is completely different if you head north or inland, with northern cities like Thessaloniki experiencing frosty mornings and colder, wetter winters. Mountainous areas on the mainland regularly see snowfall, and ski resorts in Greece operate through the winter months. Rainfall mainly happens between late autumn and early spring, with November through February being the wettest period in most regions.
Helen, who moved to Thessaloniki in 2023, said: “I didn’t realise how different the climate would be in the north. Summers are still very hot, but winters can be surprisingly chilly and much wetter than the islands.”
Spring and Autumn
A lot of expats will tell you that spring and autumn are the real highlights of living in Greece, and with good reason. In April and June, the climate is warm, but not too warm. You can expect blooming landscapes and ideal temperatures for exploring your new home. In September and October, the sea remains warm from the summer, with many people still swimming well into Octobe
How the Greek Climate Impacts Daily Life
Regardless of when you decide is the best time of year you move to Greece, you need to prepare. Whether you arrive in the heat of summer or the chill of winter, you’re going to experience a lifestyle that’s very different from the UK.
The Messimeri Tradition
One of the biggest cultural adjustments for expats arriving in Greece is the afternoon quiet period, known as messimeri. During the hottest part of the day – which is typically between 2pm and 5pm – many shops close, particularly in smaller towns and villages. The heat can be intense, and daily life shifts to early mornings and late evenings during summer to make day-to-day life more comfortable.
Indoor to Outdoor Living
Greece’s climate naturally encourages an outdoor, social lifestyle. Even in cities like Athens or Thessaloniki, evenings are spent outside. This could be at cafés, on balconies, in parks and gardens, or by the sea. Homes in Greece are often designed with terraces, courtyards and shaded spaces in mind, making outdoor living easy.
Heating in Winter
Although winters are mild compared to the UK, Greek homes are often less insulated and tend to be better suited to the summer climate. Stone floors and minimal central heating can make January and February feel surprisingly chilly indoors, especially if you’re used to having a radiator in every room. Fireplaces, electric heaters and heat-pump systems are common, so it’s worth checking your new home’s heating setup before you arrive.
Organising Your Move to Greece
Relocating from the UK to Greece means you gain longer summers, brighter winters and significantly more time outdoors, but you’ll also need to adapt to intense heat, regional weather differences and seasonal living patterns. Understanding Greece’s climate will help you to settle in and make the most of the weather from day one.
Of course, if you’re planning a move, preparing for the weather isn’t all you need to do. You also need to organise your belongings, including how you’re going to get them to your new home. Working with United International Removals is often the easiest, smoothest approach. You can hand the logistics over to us and focus on a stress-free, exciting lead-up to your big move. Get in touch to find out more.