If you are planning trips in Greece for 2026, it is important to look at the calendar early. Compared to other years, long weekends in Greece 2026 are limited. Many public holidays fall on weekends, which means fewer extended breaks for travel. Still, with smart planning, you can enjoy meaningful getaways without taking too much time off work.
Greece continues to offer public holidays almost every month, but only a few of them create true long weekends. Knowing where these breaks fall can help you plan better trips, avoid rush travel, and make the most of your days off.
Overview of Long Weekends in Greece 2026
In 2026, Greece has only three standard three-day weekends and one longer break around Orthodox Easter. Several well-known holidays, including August 15 and December 26, fall on Saturdays, offering no extra weekday leave for most workers.
This makes early planning more important than ever, especially for popular destinations like islands, coastal towns, and mountain villages.
The Three Official Long Weekends
These are the only holidays that form clear three-day breaks in 2026:
- February 21–23: Clean Monday marks the start of Lent. Many people celebrate with outdoor picnics, kite flying, and simple fasting foods. It is a good time for countryside trips.
- May 1–3: Labor Day falls on a Friday. This break is ideal for spring travel, short island visits, and nature-focused trips.
- May 30–June 1: Holy Spirit Monday offers an early summer escape. Beaches and seaside towns become popular during this period.
The Longest Break: Orthodox Easter
The best chance for a longer holiday comes in April:
- April 10–13: Good Friday through Easter Monday creates a four-day break.
Orthodox Easter is the most important holiday in Greece. It is filled with church traditions, family gatherings, and festive meals. This period is perfect for longer travel, but it is also the busiest, so booking early is key.
Public Holidays That Do Not Extend Breaks
| Holiday | Date | Impact on Leave |
|---|---|---|
| Dormition of the Virgin Mary | August 15 (Saturday) | No long weekend |
| Second Day of Christmas | December 26 (Saturday) | No extra day off |
| Independence Day | March 25 (Wednesday) | Midweek only |
These dates are still culturally important but do not help create extended travel time.
How to Travel Better With Fewer Long Weekends
When long weekends are limited, planning becomes smarter rather than longer. Short trips close to home, such as nearby islands or mainland towns, work well. Booking transport and stays early helps avoid high prices, especially during Easter.
Another option is to add one or two personal leave days around holidays like March 25 or October 28. This simple strategy can turn a single day off into a relaxed mini-break.
If you enjoy planning seasonal trips, you may also want to explore other travel planning guides and holiday calendars already available in our travel planning section.
Make 2026 Work for You
Even with fewer long weekends, travel in Greece in 2026 can still be rewarding. By focusing on the key holiday breaks, avoiding last-minute planning, and choosing destinations wisely, you can enjoy rest and travel without stress. A thoughtful approach will help you see more, relax better, and make every break count.