Most Greek islands are 'open for business' from Orthodox Easter until mid-October; southerly Crete and Rhodes stretch that to late October, though Skiáthos and Corfu in the north shut down weeks earlier.

For better room rates, improved taverna service and moderate weather, mid-May to late June, all of September, are the best times to go.

During July and August, everything is fully functioning and the sea thoroughly warmed up, but you'll have to contend with crowds and either intense heat or the meltémi, the infamous northerly wind which buffets beaches all afternoon. In the Ionian islands, its cousin, the maïstros, blows from the north-west.

The only real winter options is Réthymnon on Crete, and Hydra. They are big enough, or close enough to Athens to stay lively.