When to Visit Thessaloniki: Weather and Sea Temperature Month by Month
“When should we come?” It depends what you're after: a warm sea, a city without crowds, or flamingos on the lagoon. We gathered the averages and added what we see living here.
The table
Average daytime high, average sea temperature and average number of rainy days. Values are rounded, and every year is a little different.
| Month | Air | Sea | Rainy days |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 9 °C | 14 °C | 11 |
| February | 11 °C | 13 °C | 11 |
| March | 14 °C | 13 °C | 12 |
| April | 19 °C | 14 °C | 11 |
| May | 24 °C | 19 °C | 9 |
| June | 28 °C | 24 °C | 6 |
| July | 31 °C | 26 °C | 5 |
| August | 31 °C | 26 °C | 5 |
| September | 27 °C | 24 °C | 7 |
| October | 21 °C | 21 °C | 10 |
| November | 15 °C | 18 °C | 13 |
| December | 10 °C | 15 °C | 12 |
July and August: peak summer
Warm sea, long evenings, busy tavernas. They're also the hottest months, with middays above 30 °C. Do what the locals do: swim in the morning and late afternoon, shade and a nap at midday. On 22 to 23 August there's the Panagia Faneromeni festival.
June and September: our favourites
If you ask us, these are the best months. The sea is around 24 °C, the sun is gentler, the beaches have room and prices are more reasonable. In September the sea has soaked up the whole summer's heat.
Stay at Theodoras House
A 91 m² home with a garden and barbecue in Nea Michaniona, for up to 7 guests, with free parking. Everything in this guide is a short drive away.
May and October: for the city and day trips
Perfect temperatures for walking around Thessaloniki and for day trips to Vergina, Dion or Edessa. The sea is cooler, but there are sunny days that will tempt you in.
November to March: for the quiet ones
Winter on the Thermaic Gulf means calm water, long walks and fish soup at the harbour. It's when the most flamingos gather on the Angelochori lagoon, and when the northerly brings out the experienced kitesurfers. If swimming isn't the point, it's a lovely, and very affordable, time to get to know the area.
FAQ
What is the best month for swimming in Thessaloniki?
July and August have the warmest sea, around 26 °C. June and September have the sea at around 24 °C, fewer people and gentler sun.
Can I swim in October?
If you're brave, yes. The sea is still around 21 °C early in the month, but rainy days become more frequent.
Sources: Avionero, Thessaloniki weather by month · Greeka, Thessaloniki weather
