Want to travel to Greece? Here’s our meteorologist’s top advice

I wouldn't be surprised if Greece was on the top of your bucket list, and for good reason — the history, the islands, the cuisine. 

But one element could entirely change the experience in your dream destination: the weather. 

Before you plan your trip, let’s talk all things travel and weather, so it's not all Greek to you.

When To Go

My family packed up and headed out on our own “Big Fat Greek” vacation with plans to see ancient ruins, enjoy island-time and eat as much Greek food as our stomachs could handle.

But before we even booked tickets or made any plans, we let the weather do some deciding.

We chose to visit in May because it's part of “shoulder season” in Greece. 

(MORE: All You Need To Know About Spring Shoulder Season Travel)

Shoulder season is simply the period of time between the off season and the peak season, when places are less crowded and the weather is better.

For Greece, this falls in the spring and fall — avoiding the crazy influx of summer tourists and brutally hot temperatures.

And let me tell you, the weather was perfect! Highs in the 70s, sunny with some clouds and just chilly enough at night to need a light jacket.

It should be noted, however, that I can’t guarantee that the weather will be stellar for every shoulder season trip to Greece. But you at least have the odds stacked in your favor.

Athens' Iconic Acropolis

If you make your way to the capital city, chances are you want to see the Acropolis and, most notably, the Parthenon.

We did too.

But the key is to make your reservation as early in the morning as possible.

The funny thing about taking a tour of one of the highest hills in the city is that there is nowhere to hide from the sun.

Even with an 8 o'clock tour in May, I was feeling the heat by the time we finished walking around the Acropolis.

So, pro tip — beat the midday temperatures which will also help you beat the midday crowds.

Must-Sees In Santorini

For the nature-lover, Santorini is a dream with endless views of the Mediterranean. Not to mention that you are literally staying on a caldera from a collapsed volcano.

But, there are two things you definitely don't want to miss:

Hike Around The Caldera

The nearly 7-mile hike from Fira To Oia is absolutely breathtaking and a must-do if you love to spend time in nature.

As you walk along the caldera, which is a crescent-shaped, water-filled crater, you get stunning views of the blue Mediterranean, the dramatic cliff sides and beautiful wildflowers.

This can take anywhere from two to five hours, depending on your speed, so you want to set out early to beat the heat. But be careful of any extremely windy days that could make the hike more treacherous.

Catamaran Tour Of The Caldera

Pair your hike across the cliffs with a view from the water.

Taking a catamaran tour gives you a whole new perspective of the island and its volcanic origins.

And there is truly nothing like a dip in the crisp Mediterranean on a bright, sunny day.

I would recommend the afternoon cruise because it ends with the most gorgeous view of the sunset over the water as you head back to shore.

...Speaking Of Sunsets

Yes, the sunsets alone deserve their own section.

I know Greece is known for its sunsets — but the ones we saw in both Athens and Santorini left me in complete awe.

While we were there, a plume of Saharan dust was transported across the country — a phenomenon that is common in the spring — which made the sunsets extra vibrant.

My one sunset-watching tip for you is to have a jacket handy. The winds got pretty gusty, especially in Santorini, as we watched the sun dip below the horizon.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your family members, friends or plan that solo trip and live out your "Mamma Mia" dreams!

Caitlin Kaiser graduated from the Georgia Institute of Technology with both an undergraduate and graduate degree in Earth and Atmospheric Sciences before starting her career as a digital meteorologist with weather.com.