Rent a Car and Explore Greece in Spring: Where to Go & What to See

When people think of Greece, they often imagine hot summer days, crowded beaches, and busy island towns. But if you're looking for the real magic of Greece, there’s no better time to visit than spring. From March to early June, the country transforms into a peaceful, flower-filled paradise full of festivals, scenic drives, and pleasant weather.

With rental offices in Crete, Zakynthos, Corfu, Kefalonia, Paros, Lesbos, and Thessaloniki, we’ve seen firsthand just how special spring can be in every corner of Greece. Whether renting a car, scooter, or ATV, spring invites you to explore like a local—without the crowds.

Why Spring in Greece is Special

  • Fewer tourists, more authenticity
    Enjoy top attractions without the queues, and get to know the locals.

  • Perfect weather for road trips
    Sunny, breezy days and mild nights make driving around a joy.

  • Blooming nature everywhere
    Wildflowers, green hills, and fields in full bloom create postcard-perfect views.

  • Cultural festivals and Easter traditions
    Experience Greece’s most important holiday season like a true insider.

Spring Highlights by Destination

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Walking around the colourful streets of Chania in spring is refreshing!

Crete

Spring in Crete means lush gorges, waterfalls, and wildflowers carpeting the mountains.

  • What to do: Hike the Imbros or Richtis Gorge, visit blooming botanical parks, and explore ancient ruins like Knossos without the heat.

  • Don’t miss: Orthodox Easter in mountain villages like Anogeia—bonfires, traditional music, and lamb feasts in the square.

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Nothing more contemplative than watching Navagio beach from above!

Zakynthos (Zante)

The island of Zakynthos is alive with colour in spring—lemon trees, wild herbs, and blue skies greet you everywhere.

  • What to do: Rent a car, scooter or ATV and drive inland to visit mountain villages before beach season starts, go turtle-spotting in Laganas Bay, or hike the cliffs above Navagio Beach.

  • Local tip: Visit during late April or May for low prices and perfect weather.

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Blooming nature and the Pontikonisi landmark in Corfu.

Corfu

Corfu is perhaps Greece’s greenest island, and spring makes it glow.

  • What to do: Wander the cobbled alleys of Corfu Town, drive to Paleokastritsa’s viewpoints, and tour the Achilleion Palace gardens.

  • Unique experience: Easter in Corfu is spectacular, with pot-breaking ceremonies, philharmonic parades, and candlelit processions.

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Assos is maybe the most picturesque village in Kefalonia.

Kefalonia

Kefalonia in spring feels like a secret. The flowers bloom, the lakes sparkle, and the roads are peacefully quiet.

  • What to do: Drive to Melissani Cave, explore the pastel harbor town of Assos, or picnic in Mount Ainos National Park.

  • Bonus: You’ll often have entire beaches to yourself!

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Like in most of the Cyclades, windmills are a trademark in Paros island

Paros

Paros is still serene in spring, with whitewashed villages and open countryside perfect for slow travel.

  • What to do: Rent a car and visit Lefkes village, walk quiet trails through the hills, and take a calm boat trip to Antiparos.

  • When to go: May is ideal, with warm weather and plenty of sunshine but no summer crowds.

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Areal photo of Molyvos with its iconic castle in Lesbos.

Lesbos (Lesvos)

Spring in Lesbos is a dream for nature lovers and cultural explorers.

  • What to do: Visit Molyvos Castle, birdwatch in the Kalloni wetlands, or explore traditional ouzo distilleries in Plomari.

  • Cultural gem: Join a local Easter celebration, complete with live music, lamb on the spit, and fireworks at midnight.

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Beautiful Thessaloniki is even more enjoyable during spring!

Thessaloniki

Greece’s second city shines in spring, when the sea breeze returns and café culture is in full swing.

  • What to do: Walk the Nea Paralia promenade, visit ancient sites like Rotunda and White Tower, or take a road trip to Mount Olympus or Edessa waterfalls.

  • Event alert: Spring is festival season—look for street food events, wine tastings, and art shows throughout the city.

Why Renting a Vehicle in Spring Makes All the Difference

Public transport runs on limited schedules outside the summer, but spring is all about freedom. By renting a car, you can:

  • Visit hidden beaches, mountaintop villages, and inland vineyards.

  • Follow your own pace and discover places untouched by mass tourism.

  • Make spontaneous stops for photo ops, local bakeries, or roadside picnics.

Final Thoughts

Spring is when Greece is at its most authentic. Locals are refreshed after the winter, the landscape is blooming with life, and the roads are yours to explore. Whether you're after cultural immersion, natural beauty, or peaceful road trips, this is your season.

So rent your ride, roll down the windows, and see Greece before the summer rush. We’ll be waiting with the keys.

 Rent a car with Simplybook and support the local communities of your favourite destination!