Best Time to Visit Santorini
Santorini, one of the most iconic and picturesque islands in the world, is a stunning destination located in the southern Aegean Sea, part of the Cyclades archipelago in Greece. The island attracts more than 1.5 million visitors every year, famous for its breathtaking caldera, legendary white-washed houses with blue domes, and charming villages such as Fira, Oia, and Imerovigli. This is your ultimate guide to discover the best time to visit Santorini!
Knowing the best time to visit Santorini largely depends on your travel preferences. The island appeals to many different types of travellers according to the time of year. Whether you're looking for a relaxing getaway, bustling nightlife, or endless sunshine, Santorini is the place to be! Here, we'll go through some of the pros and cons of each season and help you decide the best time to visit this coveted island.
Spring (April - June)
The springtime in Santorini is a magical place and arguably the best time to visit the Greek island. As the season transitions from winter to spring, a burst of colour appears on Santorini's landscape. The island's hills and valleys are covered in lush greenery and vibrant wildflowers, and the fields around the island are dotted with red poppies, daisies, and lavender. The temperatures are pleasantly mild, fluctuating between 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), with plenty of sunshine and long daylight hours. There are also fewer crowds at this time of year, before the peak season begins. It is a great time to explore popular spots such as Oia, Fira, and the caldera in peace. Travelling to Santorini at this time is also cheaper than the summer season, for both accommodation and flights.
The main downside of Santorini during the spring is that it may still be too early for some amenities. Especially in April and May, the lively bars and clubs may not be open yet, as well as some restaurants and activities. The temperatures are also not as hot as summer, so if you're looking for a beach trip with swimming, it may not be the best time of year for you.
Things to do
As the temperatures are milder but still enjoyable, hiking is one of the best activities to do in the springtime in Santorini! Take advantage of the cooler days and the blossoming landscapes by embarking on a scenic trail, such as the famous Fira-to-Oia hike along the caldera’s edge. This path offers breathtaking views of the island, the caldera, and the surrounding Aegean Sea. Santorini also boasts a rich history, home to many archaeological sites and ancient ruins. On this hike to the Skaros Fortress from Imerovigli, a local guide will lead you to the ruins of one of the greatest castles of the Byzantine Empire.
A boat tour in Santorini is a great way to experience its magnificent azure waters while they are perhaps still too cold for swimming. This catamaran caldera day cruise from Oia runs from March - November every year, the perfect off-season excursion! On a 5-hour cruise along the caldera, you'll be treated to a traditional Greek meal with an open bar and discover some of Santorini's most famous sites, such as the Venetian Lighthouse and Indian Rock.
Another fun activity to try in Santorini during May and June is quad biking! This is a thrilling experience that allows you to explore the island on off-road paths. On this quad discovery and lunch safari from Perivolos, you'll visit a mix of some of Santorini's most popular spots and its hidden gems. You'll also try local Greek products at a traditional family cavern. Santorini’s vineyards start to come to life in spring, and this is an excellent time to visit local wineries.
If you're looking for a cultural experience, you should visit the island during Orthodox Easter, the most significant religious holiday in Greece. During this time, the villages come alive with candlelit processions, church services, and festive meals. It is an excellent occasion to participate in authentic celebrations and gain an insight into local Greek traditions.
Tips
If you're looking for a summer experience in Greece without the crazy crowds, we recommend visiting in June. Everything will be open and available, but it is right before the island's main peak season. Keep your schedule flexible to make the most of Santorini's varying weather - head to the beach on warmer days, and reserve sightseeing for the cooler ones.
Summer (July - August) High Season
The summer is Santorini's high season, with most people choosing to visit the island during July and August. Every establishment is open and ready to welcome the swarms of visitors. It is the hottest time of year in Santorini, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F), making it ideal for beachgoers and sun worshippers. The island is bustling all day and night, with vibrant authentic markets lining the winding streets, buzzing nightlife in the villages, and a host of activities to suit every preference. This is a great time to visit if you like to experience a vibrant atmosphere with dynamic crowds filling up the bars, restaurants, clubs and tourist attractions. There will be lots of fun events and festivals during this time of year, such as the famous Ifestia Festival in August, which celebrates the island’s volcanic heritage with a spectacular fireworks display that simulates a volcanic eruption. July and August are great times of year to visit if you want to do some island-hopping from Santorini. The ferry crossings are very frequent during the peak season, servicing nearby destinations such as Mykonos, Paros, Ios, Naxos, Milos and Amorgos. These beautiful islands are just as worth visiting as Santorini!
Of course, staying in Santorini during the high season comes with one very significant downside - the crowds. You'll need to prepare for throngs of people on every street and at all the main tourist spots. The bars and restaurants will be extremely busy and you'll need to book your accommodation very far in advance, especially if you want to stay in the main spots such as Oia. For some people, this time of year can be too hot, with temperatures peaking well above 30°C (86°F). If you struggle with hot temperatures, you will be better off visiting in spring or autumn. And of course, it goes without saying that the summer is the most expensive time of year to visit Santorini. Expect to pay high prices for accommodation, flights, restaurants, and activities.
Things to do
As the peak season in Santorini, there are many attractions available during July and August. Water activities are one of the best ways to spend your day in Santorini. The waters are warm but will keep you cool during the peak temperatures. The Greek islands are also famous for their vibrant blue and crystal-clear waters. Sea kayaking in Santorini is a really fun excursion that allows you to explore the island from a unique perspective. Paddle along the steep cliffs of the caldera and pass by some of Santorini's most famous beaches, Red Beach, Kambia Beach, and White Beach. On this stand up paddling and snorkelling tour, you can try balancing on a board, a fun activity for the whole family to enjoy! You'll also get to explore the turquoise waters of the Aegean Sea by snorkelling beneath the surface. Another adventurous activity you can try in Santorini is scuba diving! This discovery scuba diving session is perfect for beginners and allows you to experience the fascinating underwater world around the caldera.
Santorini is renowned around the world for its stunning sunsets. During summer, the sunset is the most vibrant, casting brilliant hues of orange, pink, and purple across the sky and sea. Perched on the cliffs of Santorini, the town of Oia is one of the most popular spots to watch the sunset on the island. Other great sunset spots include the caldera views from Fira, Imerovigli, and the Akrotiri Lighthouse. If you want to experience the sunset in a unique way without the crowds, this sunset catamaran cruise with dinner is perfect. Enjoy a romantic cruise around the volcano, with a delicious BBQ meal and a swimming stop in the delightful hot springs. The trip ends with a magnificent view of the sun setting from Oia. Another great way to witness the sunset is on a parasailing flight. Soaring above Perivolos Beach, you'll have the best view of Santorini from above. Choose the evening flight to enjoy the famous sunset!
Summer is the best time to visit Santorini's renowned beaches. The island’s volcanic origin has given rise to an array of beautiful and unusual beaches, each with its distinct character. Red Beach, White Beach and Black Beach are all named after the unique colour of the sand on the beach. Santorini’s beaches are well-equipped with sunbeds, umbrellas, and beach bars, making them perfect for a day of relaxing, swimming in the sea and enjoying a cocktail. If you want to add some exploration into your day at the beach, take part in this jet ski safari to the Santorini Lighthouse from Perivolos Beach. An experienced guide will take you to some of the best spots nearby while you drive your own jet ski!
Tips
If you're not deterred by the crowds and you want to visit Santorini during the summer months, the biggest tip is to book early. If you reserve your accommodation and flights months ahead you can avoid paying the highest prices. We also recommend booking your activities and dinner reservations in advance to avoid disappointment. To experience popular spots like Oia or Fira without the crowds, consider exploring them early in the morning or later in the evening. This will allow you to enjoy the beauty of Santorini in a more peaceful setting.
Autumn (September - November)
Autumn is another great off-peak time to visit Santorini, avoiding the crazy crowds while still benefitting from the sunshine. As summer fades, the temperatures become milder, ranging from 20°C to 28°C (68°F to 82°F) in September, and gradually cooling to 15°C to 22°C (59°F to 72°F) by November. The days are more comfortable and still long, with cooler evenings. There is a more relaxed atmosphere in Santorini during this time, when the majority of crowds disperse. You'll be able to visit the popular tourist spots without a mass of people in the way. It will be easier to find quieter sightseeing spots and restaurants. Autumn is harvest season in Santorini, making it a wonderful time for wine enthusiasts to visit. The island is renowned for its unique wines, particularly Assyrtiko, a crisp white wine that benefits from the island’s volcanic soil. It will also be more affordable to visit Santorini during this season. You’ll find more availability in hotels, including some of the island’s most luxurious options, at a fraction of the summer rates. The waters of the Aegean Sea have had the whole summer to warm up, making this a great time for swimming.
During these months, some businesses may close, particularly at the end of October. Bars and clubs may shut or have reduced hours, making it harder to experience the vibrant nightlife that Santorini is popular for. The crossing ferries are also less frequent, making it more difficult to visit other islands. The weather can be more unpredictable during October and November, with chances of rainfall.
Things to do
With the cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, autumn is one of the best occasions for sightseeing in Santorini. You can visit all of the most popular spots, such as Oia, Fira, the caldera, the ancient ruins of Akrotiri, and the traditional village of Pyrgos, without long lines and packed spaces. The beaches also have a more relaxed and private atmosphere. Take advantage of the milder days by exploring the island on a fun guided e-bike tour. On this tour, you'll visit the southern side of Santorini, travelling on quiet paths to lesser-known villages.
Boat tours in Santorini are also available during this time of year. Venturing into the incredible blue waters of the Aegean Sea is one of the most magical ways to experience the island. The island’s iconic caldera and dramatic cliffs are best admired from the water, where you can enjoy unparalleled panoramic views of Santorini’s breathtaking landscape. Many of Santorini's most stunning beaches and hidden coves can only be reached by boat, offering you the chance to uncover secret spots along the coastline. Here you'll find our picks for the 10 best boat excursions in Santorini, with most of them running until November.
Tips
Like springtime, if you choose to visit Santorini during autumn, it's a great chance to hike around the island and experience its beautiful nature without the temperatures being too hot. We also recommend visiting in September, as the crowds have thinned out but everything will still be open with the same bustling atmosphere. Even when staying in autumn, it is still better to book your accommodation, flights and activities in advance.
Winter (December - March) Low Season
Winter in Santorini was traditionally never a time for travellers to visit the island, however in recent years it has become more popular and offers a different charm. December to March is the low season in Santorini, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 18°C (50°F to 64°F). The crowds are completely gone during these months, creating a peaceful ambience and a more local feel. It is the cheapest time to visit the island, with the lowest prices on accommodation and flights. You'll feel virtually alone on the island and be able to visit popular spots and capture photos with nobody else around.
During the winter in Santorini, many establishments, including hotels, restaurants, and attractions, are closed. There are significantly fewer ferry crossings and flights, making it more difficult to visit Santorini and the surrounding islands (check out our how to get to Santorini guide for more information). Ferries may also be delayed or cancelled last minute due to weather-related problems. While the Mediterranean winters are mild, you can still expect some rainfall and clouds.
Things to do
All of the outdoor activities will be closed during the winter months. You can explore the island at your own pace, visiting sites such as Akrotiri which usually have long lines. The sombre atmosphere during cloudy days adds to the island's volcanic landscape. Winter is an interesting time for photographers to visit Santorini. The softer winter light, occasional dramatic clouds, and absence of crowds provide a fresh perspective on Santorini’s iconic landmarks.
The best things to do in Santorini during the winter months are indoor activities. Famous museums in Fira such as the Museum of Prehistoric Thera and the Archaeological Museum of Thera will be less crowded, allowing you to learn about Santorini's esteemed monuments. You can also enjoy a relaxing spa day or visit traditional local wineries. Swimming in the sea won't be possible, but you can still hike around the island, enjoying the crisp air, the solitude, and the breathtaking scenery.
Tips
If you decide to visit Santorini during winter, you should stay centrally in Fira, where most of the year-round activity centres are based. Small rural villages are not recommended as everything will be closed. Many establishments are seasonal, so be prepared for a lack of restaurants, nightclubs and tourist facilities. You should research what you would like to do in advance and have some alternatives planned in case it rains.
The best time to visit Santorini largely depends on your own personal factors. If you're looking for tranquillity and affordability while still experiencing Santorini's beauty and lively atmosphere, the shoulder seasons (April - May and September - November) are the best times to visit. If you prefer high temperatures and an island bustling with honeymooners, adventure seekers and party enthusiasts, come in the summer season (July - August), but book early to save costs! For those seeking solitude and a peaceful atmosphere, the winter season (November - March) is a good time for you.
No matter when you visit, Santorini’s incredible landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and warm hospitality will make your trip unforgettable. Happy travels!