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The Greek Isles are known for their white washed buildings, cliff side towns, and beautiful scenery. It’s an iconic destination on everyone’s travel list.
If you plan on island-hopping packing light is essential. You don’t want to lug your huge suitcase every time you change ferries. Make your life easier and keep your clothes and luggage minimal. If you find yourself lucky enough to visit, keep reading to learn what to wear in Greece in summer for the islands and cruising!
What to Wear in Greece in Summer
Sun Protection
The islands can be pretty casual, but you still want your outfits to be well thought out and stylish. When planning what to wear in Greece consider packing simple outfits, breezy dresses, light tunics, and easy to wear pieces for maximum versatility and to keep your bags light.
It can get quite hot in the summer, and you need to protect yourself from the sun’s rays. Hats and sunglasses are a great way to incorporate style into your travel wardrobe. Look for a packable hat or wear yours on the plane to help it keep shape. This white Panama hat will compliment most outfits, keep you protected, and looking fashionable.
Use slim packing cubes to save space in your suitcase and travel carry-on only.
Clothing Style
When planning what to wear in Greece, opt for light colored pieces made of linen and cotton to keep you cool. Anything that can be worn walking around town, as a beach cover-up, and dressed up for nighttime is perfect for traveling around the islands. Maxi and day dresses, rompers, tunics, and linen pants will be your daily uniform.
Also, bring along a button-up collared shirt to layer over your outfits. It will protect your arms during the day and on boat rides, and can keep you warm if you get chilly from the sea breeze at night. I prefer a white shirt that is long enough to use as a swimsuit cover if necessary.
Many of your daytime clothing choices would also work for night. Add a little makeup, nice sandals, and lovely jewelry and you will be set for the evening.
Use a capsule wardrobe to pack light but create many outfits.
Swimwear and Shoes
Since the majority of your time will be spent along the coast, swimwear is essential when planning what to wear in Greece in summer. Bring along two mix and match bathing suits. If you feel like two is not enough, I like to throw in another top or bottom that will coordinate with all pieces. This way you will have more than enough combos to satisfy your beach needs.
In the spirit of packing light, keep your shoes to a minimum. They are one of the heavier items, and you can get away with just a couple pairs of shoes. I prefer a neutral pair of leather Grecian sandals that fit with the vibe of the islands. A tan leather sandal can coordinate with just about any outfit.
Flat shoes are a must for all day walking on uneven and steep streets. If you want something with a little height, opt for a low-heeled sandal. In addition, bring along a pair of flip-flops or something you can easily wear to the beach. They are super light and can be easily slipped into your luggage.
Check out our favorite women’s flip flops for travel!
On any trip it’s important that your clothes are practical but stylish, and the Greek Isles are no exception. Hopefully these tips will assist in selecting which items to pack for your summer trip.
Do you have any tips on what to wear in Greece in Summer? Comment and share!
For more fashion and packing tips, please read:
Suggested travel resources:
- Lonely Planet Europe on a shoestring
- Lonely Planet Greece (Country Guide)
- Travel Shoes for Europe
- The Best Carry-on Suitcases for Europe
I have a cruise of the Greek islands scheduled for early next summer and cannot wait! It’s a dream trip!
Loved the suggestions. I’m leaving in 3 weeks. Very helpful
Hi, well, it’s travel time again. This time its Greece. 4 days in Athens, 4 days cruising islands, back to Athens then short flight to Thessoniki (sp?)My problem is too many shoes!!! Slip-ons for airport, Sketchers for walking in the morning and sandals(thick soles for comfort) for evening. Then flat sandals for cobblestones and finally flip flops for the pool and beach. Help!
Hi Barbara, thank you for reaching out!
We recommend that you pack three pairs opting for shoes that match all your clothing. Pack one pair for sightseeing (walking), one pair of any special activities you have planned, and then a third pair to either dress up your outfits or one that’s appropriate for a change in weather.
For more tips to help check out this guide: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/10-steps-to-packing-the-best-travel-shoes-for-any-trip/
Hope this helps. Have a fantastic time on your trip! ?
Okay ladies – packing dilemma. Leaving for a few days in Athens and 15 days on the island on September 19. Should I be planning for summer (shorts, tanks, dresses) or fall (jeans, sweaters, lots of layers)? Need some help since I’ll only have a carry on. 🙂 TIA!
Hi Christina! Have you checked the weather on BBC Weather or Weather.com? They have an extended forecast so this should be a great resource to help you pack well. You might find these posts helpful:
https://travelfashiongirl.com/what-to-wear-in-athens-in-summer/
https://travelfashiongirl.com/what-to-wear-in-greece-packing-list-for-athens-and-style-ideas/
I’ll also post your question on the Facebook page to get you more feedback so keep an eye out! Have a great trip!