Summer is the ultimate time of year in Greece. It is the period, when people from all over the world come to admire the stunning beaches, the beautiful villages and the turquoise waters of the Aegean and the Ionian Sea. The time when everyone is happy and ready to explore new things, new destinations, new experiences. Greece is a blessed country since summer lasts for more than 4 months, from May to September. All Greeks every year wait for the moment when the can say that summer is here. And you know that summer in Greece has eventually come when these 5 things happen:
1. The sun shines every day for many hours
Many places in Greece, such as Crete, Rhodes and Cyclades, has the most days of sunshine in Europe (about 300 days of sunshine per year). However, during the summer period, the sun shines in almost every place of Greece, and you can forget rainy or cloudy days.
2. Open-air cinemas and theatres begin their operation
During summer, in almost every village and island of Greece, there is an open-air cinema or theatre. The most amazing thing with movies in Greece is that they are not dubbed; contrariwise, you can watch it in its original language with Greek subtitles. On the other hand, music and theatre performances are organised in open-air theatres, which are commonly ancient theatres, such as the ancient theatre of Epidavros or Dodoni, where ancient drama is performed.
Open-air cinema in Athens
3. People spend much time on the beach
Every place in Greece has a beach. Even in a mountainous village, the distance from the sea is less than one hour by car. Greeks love the sea, and they spend their vacations swimming, eating seafood in traditional taverns or drinking cocktail in a bar by the sea. It is also considered very romantic to lie at night on the beach and watch the stars with your other half.
4. Ouzo is served in the taverns
Ouzo is the ultimate drink of the summer. It is perfectly combined with seafood and has a cool taste and aroma that suits with the summery evenings after the swimming.
Traditional Greek tavern by the sea
5. The islands get crowded
The Aegean Islands and the Ionian Islands gather the residents of the big Greek cities as well as the tourists that want to understand why the Greek islands are internationally famous. There are numerous islands, and you can surely find the best for you and your wishes to spend in Greece unforgettable vacations.