Athens has a subtropical Mediterranean climate. The dominant feature of Athens’s climate is alternation between prolonged hot and dry summers and mild, wet winters. With an average of 414.1 millimeters (16.30 in) of yearly precipitation, rainfall occurs largely between the months of October and April. July and August are the driest months, where thunderstorms occur sparsely once or twice a month.
Athens is known to be one of the sunniest cities in Europe, with a semi-arid climate and low average annual rainfall. The rain that does occur falls during the winter months, between mid-October and mid-April, usually as short, heavy showers. Summers are very hot, exacerbated by smoggy conditions, and heat waves are common during July and August when the mercury soars to over 104°F (40ºC). Winters are mild although frost can occur and nights can be cold. Even winter is guaranteed to be sunny though. The best time to travel to Athens is during the cooler, fine weather of spring and early summer, in late April, May or early June. Autumn, September and October, can also be a pleasant time to holiday in and around Athens. Athens is a year-round destination because all seasons have advantages and there are almost always blue skies and sun – although winter may be a bit chillier the rain is not sufficient to dampen tourist spirits or ruin a holiday.
Although summer can be oppressively hot it is still peak tourist season and the period when the beaches and attractions are most crowded.