Santorini in July

Greece › Santorini › July Weather
Updated: July 10, 2025
By Santorini Dave

See Also
• Where to Stay in Santorini
• Best Hotels in Santorini
• Best Restaurants in Santorini
• Best Activities in Santorini
• Best Wine Tours in Santorini
• Best Boat Tours in Santorini
• Best Beaches in Santorini

A July sunset from the village of Pygros, Santorini.

July is the absolute peak of the Santorini summer. Along with August, it’s the hottest, sunniest, and busiest month of the year. If you thrive on a high-energy atmosphere and want guaranteed beach weather, July is a fantastic, albeit intense, time to visit. I love visiting in July, but it is very busy. (The ferry port, in particular, can be crazy and chaotic in July, which is an overwhelming introduction for some.)

Overview:
• Weather: Expect true Mediterranean summer heat. July is the hottest month in Santorini, demanding a sun-focused itinerary.
• Temperature: Temperatures consistently reach into the low to mid-30s Celsius (86-95°F) during the day. Nights remain very warm, typically in the low to mid-20s (72-77°F). The Meltemi, a strong, dry northern wind, can sometimes provide a welcome breeze, but you should be prepared for intense sun.
• Sunshine: Rain is practically nonexistent. You are guaranteed long, cloudless, sunny days. Sunscreen, hats, and seeking shade during the midday peak are essential.
• Swimming Conditions: The Aegean Sea is at its most inviting. The water is warm and delightful for swimming, with average sea temperatures around 24-25°C (75-77°F). All beaches are in full operation, and the sea is the best place to be to cool off from the afternoon heat.

My two boys doing the Fira-Oia hike in July. Start early!

A group of family and friends at the end of our caldera boat tour on a July visit. In July, a boat tour is the single best thing to do.

• Boat Tours: A catamaran cruise is one of my favorite ways to escape the heat and see the island’s magnificent caldera. Sailing, swimming in the sea, and feeling the breeze on the water is a highlight of any July trip. Both daytime and sunset cruises are extremely popular and must be booked far in advance.
• Winery Tours: All wineries are open and welcoming guests. While beautiful, be aware that tastings on outdoor terraces can be very hot in the middle of the day. Consider booking a tour for the late afternoon leading into the evening for a more comfortable experience.
• Nightlife: This is the absolute peak of the party season in Santorini. The bars in Fira are packed with a high-energy, international crowd until sunrise. The sophisticated cocktail bars in Oia and Imerovigli are also buzzing every night with people enjoying the warm evenings and caldera views.
• Beaches: Organized beaches are buzzing with energy. The sea is warm, and the black sand beaches of Kamari, Perivolos, and Perissa are lined with rows of sunbeds and umbrellas that fill up quickly. The beach clubs are in full party mode, and the atmosphere is electric.
• Fira-Oia Hike: Hiking the trail in July can be taxing. I recommend starting by 8 AM. The heat becomes intense by mid-morning, and there is no shade on the path. Carry more water than you think you will need and be prepared for a hot but still stunningly beautiful trek.

Taking the water taxi between Kamari and Perissa on a July afternoon.

The Santorini ferry port in July.

• Crowds: Santorini is extremely crowded in July. The main towns of Oia and Fira will be packed, especially in the hours leading up to sunset. Popular beaches will be bustling, and you will share the island’s iconic sights with many other travelers. Patience is key.
• Prices: This is the most expensive month to visit Santorini. Flights and accommodations reach their highest rates, and booking many months, ideally 6 to 9 months in advance, is non-negotiable for the best choice and any hope of a reasonable price. Last-minute deals are virtually nonexistent.
• For Couples: July is ideal for couples who love a vibrant, energetic atmosphere and want to enjoy the island’s nightlife and beach club scene. For a more romantic and less crowded experience, it is crucial to book a hotel with a private terrace or plunge pool. This provides a sanctuary where you can enjoy the stunning views and sunsets away from the main throngs of people.
• For Families: Families can certainly enjoy Santorini in July, but it requires strategic planning. Plan activities like hiking or exploring villages for the early morning. Spend the hot midday hours at the beach, in the sea, or by the hotel pool. Stay in the slightly more relaxed beach towns of Kamari or Perissa, which are very family-friendly and offer more space than the caldera villages. You can visit Oia and Fira, but do so early in the day to avoid the worst of the crowds.