Dreaming of whitewashed villages, crystal-clear waters, ancient ruins, and sunset dinners overlooking the Aegean? A trip to Greece is unforgettable—but it doesn’t have to be expensive. One of the biggest factors that determines how much you’ll spend isn’t where you go or how long you stay, but when you book.
Timing your flight and hotel reservations correctly can save you hundreds, sometimes even thousands, of dollars. Whether you’re planning a summer island escape or a quieter cultural getaway, here’s exactly when to book your Greece trip to get the best deals.
The Best Time to Book Flights to Greece
Book 3–6 Months in Advance
For most travelers, the sweet spot for booking flights to Greece is three to six months before departure. This window usually offers the best balance between price and availability, especially for flights from North America and other long-haul destinations.
Booking earlier than six months can sometimes mean higher prices, as airlines haven’t released competitive fares yet. Waiting too long—especially for summer travel—almost always leads to higher costs.
Summer Travel: Book Earlier
If you’re visiting Greece during peak season (June to August), aim to book flights at least five to seven months ahead. Summer is when demand skyrockets, particularly for destinations like Santorini, Mykonos, Athens, and Crete. Flights fill up quickly, and last-minute bargains are rare.
Shoulder Season Deals
For better airfare deals, consider traveling during the shoulder seasons:
- April to early June
- September to October
Flights during these months are often significantly cheaper, weather conditions are still excellent, and crowds are far more manageable.
Best Days to Book and Fly
While prices fluctuate constantly, studies consistently show:
- Midweek bookings (Tuesday–Thursday) can sometimes yield better fares.
- Flying midweek rather than on weekends is often cheaper.
Using fare-tracking tools and setting price alerts can help you catch dips as soon as they happen.
When to Book Hotels in Greece
Book Hotels 2–4 Months in Advance
For most destinations in Greece, booking hotels two to four months ahead offers the best selection and pricing. This is especially true for boutique hotels, island resorts, and well-reviewed mid-range properties.
Island Destinations Require Earlier Planning
For popular islands like:
- Santorini
- Mykonos
- Paros
- Naxos
It’s wise to book hotels four to six months in advance, particularly if you’re traveling between June and September. The most scenic and affordable rooms sell out quickly.
Athens Is More Flexible
Athens has a wide range of accommodations and generally allows more flexibility. You can often find good hotel deals one to two months before arrival, except during major events or peak summer months.
The Cheapest Time to Visit Greece Overall
If saving money is your top priority, aim for the off-season:
November to March
- Lowest flight and hotel prices
- Fewer tourists
- Cooler weather
While island hopping is limited during winter, this is a fantastic time to explore Athens, Thessaloniki, and mainland Greece. Cultural attractions remain open, and hotels offer deep discounts.
Tips to Score Even Better Deals
Be Flexible With Dates
Even shifting your trip by a few days can result in noticeable savings. Flexibility allows you to choose cheaper flights and avoid peak hotel rates.
Bundle Flights and Hotels
Travel platforms often offer discounts when you book flights and accommodations together. This can be especially effective for island destinations.
Watch for Airline Sales
Major airlines frequently run promotions in:
- January–February
- Late August–September
Subscribing to airline newsletters and deal alerts can help you snag limited-time offers.
Consider Nearby Airports
Flying into Athens and then taking a domestic flight or ferry to the islands is often cheaper than flying directly into smaller island airports.
Luxury vs. Budget Travelers: Timing Matters
- Luxury travelers should book earlier to secure premium rooms with views, especially in Santorini and Mykonos.
- Budget travelers can take advantage of shoulder seasons and last-minute hotel deals, particularly on less touristy islands.
Planning a trip to Greece is all about timing. Book flights three to six months ahead, reserve hotels two to four months in advance, and travel during shoulder or off-season periods to maximize your savings. With the right strategy, you can experience Greece’s beauty, culture, and cuisine without overpaying.
A little planning goes a long way—and in Greece, that planning can turn into unforgettable sunsets, stress-free travel, and money left over for one more island adventure.