Athens in April or October?

[RatSalad]

We’re looking to go to Athens to see the historical sights with our DD13 outside of the hottest season but still want it to be pleasant.

I’ve looked at average temps but wondered if the season has an additional effect. I’ve never been to Greece so I don’t know how spring compares to autumn really.

We’re considering splitting the time between the city and somewhere coastal. We’re not big lazing on the beach people, so not necessarily after sunbathing/sea swimming, but a nice villa with a pool and a view sounds nice.

Any thoughts would be appreciated.

I'm wondering exactly the same thing. For some reason I'm assuming April is more pleasant but I'm basing that on absolutely nothing.

We went in October a few years ago, before the half term holiday. The weather was perfect for sightseeing.

There's so much to do in Athens if you like history that if it's just the half term week, personally I wouldn't split it. We stayed in a nice hotel centrally which had a rooftop pool (though we didn't have time to use it) and breakfast overlooking the acropolis. A trip out to Mycenae and/or Delphi is worth considering.

Thanks Errol, yes just the half term week.

Perhaps we should do day trips instead if we find we have time

Good to know October is still pleasant.

I took a look at the monthly weather, seems like October is likely to be a bit warmer than April though not much in it. A bit of a chance of rain but don't forget there's tons (literally!) of good stuff is indoors - we didn't have any rain in the fortnight we were there but in any case we visited both the acropolis museum and the National Archaeological museum twice (the latter is large and has the most amazing collection, too much to take in one go). There are other good museums too such as the Museum of Cycladic art and the one in the stoa at the agora.

We went in 2018 and writing that I want to go back!

Whatever your thoughts about the legalities, I would encourage you to visit the British Museum both before and after you visit the museums in Athens.

Absolutely, @FinallyHere We’ve already done the British Museum in anticipation of the trip.

It would be interesting to go again once we have more perspective.

@ErrolTheDragon Thanks for the tips!