My wife and I were planning to take a trip to Greece and Istanbul for two weeks starting on November 1st to celebrate our 30th anniversary (October 24th) and our son's wedding (October 29th). While the weather looks fine to us, I have read that many of the hotels and resorts in Greece close up shop after October and many of the sightseeing attractions have reduced hours (particularly on the islands). Is this really an major issue for a couple that is primarily looking to take in the sights, culture and cuisine of Greece rather than its beaches and club scene. Is it different for the mainland versus the islands? We were considering Hydra and Santorini and possibly Crete and Rhodes.
Posted by
Camarillo, California
3123 posts
You'll always be able to find a hotel or restaurant open, but in general most shops, hotels, restaurants and galleries that are in business for the tourists do close for the season sometime during late October.
Posted by
TO
110 posts
The best way around this is to plan your visit to the Greek Islands to when the cruise ships come in. Some cruise lines operate as late as mid November, the shops/restaurants, etc will open on days when ships are in port. Otherwise, there won't be much open. The alternative is to consider a cruise however, you'll only be on each island for day.