When to go
Greece in February: Weather, Carnival, Almond Blossom and Travel Tips
By the iLoveGreece editorial team · Last reviewed 2026-10 · 1 source listed below
Quick answer
February is still winter in Greece: about 13°C by day in Athens and 14°C in Crete, with rain on around 9–11 days, but sunny spells and almond blossom announce spring. It's a cheap, quiet month for Athens and the mainland, and skiing continues in the mountains. Carnival season (Apokries) starts in the weeks before Lent; in 2027 the big Patras carnival weekend falls in mid-March.
Weather in February
| Place | High | Low | Sea | Sun a day | Days with rain |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Athens | 13°C | 6°C | 14°C | 5 h | 9 |
| Crete (Heraklion) | 14°C | 8°C | 15°C | 5 h | 11 |
What to do in February
- Athens without crowds; free museum Sundays continue until March.
- Skiing at Parnassos and other ski centres.
- Carnival events begin in the three weeks before Lent; Patras hosts the biggest. In 2027, Orthodox Easter is on 2 May, so Clean Monday is 15 March and the main carnival weekend is just before it.
- Almond trees flower across Attica and the islands from late January into February.
Islands in February
- Crete and Rhodes are the best island choices, with open towns.
- Year-round ferries keep running; many small-island hotels reopen from April.
What to pack
- A warm coat and waterproof layer.
- Good walking shoes.
- Sunglasses: bright winter days are common.
FAQ
Is February a good time to visit Greece?
For Athens, the mainland and skiing, yes, and prices are low. For beaches, no.
When is carnival in Greece in 2027?
Carnival season runs in the weeks before Clean Monday, which is 15 March 2027, so the big parades are in early to mid-March.
How warm is Greece in February?
About 13°C by day in Athens and 14°C in Crete, colder at night and in the mountains.
Sources
Related guides
- Greece in December: Weather, Christmas, What's Open and Where to Go
- Greece in January: Weather, Skiing, Free Museums and Is It Worth It?
- Greece in March: Weather, What's Open and Is It Worth It?
- Greece in November: Weather, Sea, What's Open and Is It Worth It?
- Santorini in October: Weather, Sea Temperature and Is It Worth It?
- Crete in October and November: Weather, Sea Temperature and What's Open
Updated 2026-10. General planning guidance. Check with operators and local authorities.