Packing Tips for Every Season in the Aegean

Whether you’re planning an island-hopping trip or simply visiting cultural and religious sites, avoid t-shirts with slogans that scream “tourist” and stick to a neutral color palette.

A crisp white shirt and skinny tie are Ferry’s go-to style staples, along with leather trousers — which look even more Ivy League when paired with wide peak lapels.

Summer

When planning a summer trip to the Greek islands, you’ll want to pack clothing that keeps you cool and comfortable. This is because Greece has a warm Mediterranean climate, which hits its peak during July and August.

A comfortable pair of running shoes or sandals is a must. This footwear is important because you will be spending a lot of time walking around a ferry terminal, cabins and the exterior decks while your ship is in motion. It’s also important to consider the strong sun ray reflection on any channel crossing and to pack sunglasses.

The weather in Greece during summer is warm and sunny. This means that you’ll want to pack a few light layers in your bag. These will keep you warm while on the ferry or when hiking in the mountains. You’ll also want to bring a hat, sunglasses and plenty of sunscreen.

From the ancient ruins of Athens to hopping between the crystalline islands, this summer getaway offers an unforgettable mix of adventure and romance. Book our Iconic Aegean tour to discover awe-inspiring landmarks and authentic cuisine as you glide through the emerald waters. This remarkable trip departs from Athens, giving you an unforgettable experience of Greek culture and gastronomy.

Spring

The spring of the Aegean islands brings a new life. The nature and the gastronomy are blooming and reveal their treasures. Your journeys around the islands will steal your heart with their captivating scents and delicious flavours.

The fertile soil of the Aegean islands produce top-quality agricultural products for both Greece and the rest of the world: extra virgin olive oil, renowned for its taste and aroma; tenderly cooked pulses such as black eyed beans, string beans, tiny fava beans, or chickpeas; home-grown tasty vegetables traditionally grown on dry soil; bread and rusks with the robust flavor of the local wheat and barley varieties; fresh pelagic fishes and exceptional wines cultivated from ancient Greek grape varieties.

From mid-March to early June, the weather is still mild. It’s not warm enough to wear super summery clothes, so it is good to pack a semi-warm jacket and pants to keep you comfortable.

For the ferry trip itself, as you are seated inside (salon, passenger lounge or cabin) for most of the crossing, your usual travel clothes will be sufficient. However, if you take the fast and short routes you will have to spend a few minutes outside while embarking and disembarking so make sure to bring a light windproof jacket or cotton sweater. Also, due to the strong sun ray reflexions in the water you may experience, a pair of sunglasses is a must.

Fall

Fall is one of the best times to visit Greece. The summer tourist crowds are starting to fade and the temperatures are still comfortably warm. Beaches are a little less crowded and the encircling sea is still quite comfortable for swimming and snorkeling. The only drawback to this season is that the weather can be a bit more sporadic with the occasional shower.

The key to packing for a cruise in autumn is layers. The days are typically warm and sunny, but the evenings can get cool and a sweater or jacket is helpful if you plan to dine al fresco.

A good, light rain jacket is also a must-have item. It will protect you if a sudden shower pops up while you are out sightseeing, or enjoying the Lawn Club and other outdoor spaces onboard.

While Ferry dresses down in his off-duty wear, he still maintains a high level of style. For a smart yet casual look, Ferry often wears tailored trousers with a white button-down shirt and silk striped tie.

Another must-have item for a Greek island hopping adventure is a waterproof phone case. Your phone will probably get wet if you go swimming, snorkeling, or kayaking, and this waterproof case is perfect for keeping your phone safe from water damage. Plus, it has a transparent back so you can keep your favorite Instagram photos!

Winter

The winter months (December to February) are generally mild along Greece’s coast, but it can be quite cold in the northern and mountainous regions. It can also rain fairly frequently during this time. As such, you’ll want to bring a rain jacket and umbrella, along with warm attire and layers that are easy to add or remove as the temperature fluctuates.

A pair of well-fitting, comfortable walking shoes should be on your list as well, especially if you plan to do some sightseeing in Athens. The city’s cobbled streets are tricky enough to navigate without a twisted ankle, and you’ll likely want to be comfortable after a long day of exploring the Parthenon and Anafiotika.

Maxi or midi skirts are another wardrobe staple for your trip to Greece, and they’re a great choice for touring the ancient ruins of Athens as well as relaxing on the beach. They’re also versatile enough to wear on a warm evening, when paired with a light sweater or cardigan. Lastly, you’ll want to pack a waterproof phone case to use while boating around The Aegean Sea or taking photos on the crystalline islands. This one is affordable and works on touch screens, which is perfect for snapping selfies while underwater! It also comes in a variety of colors, so you can find the one that matches your swimwear and personal style.