Santorini in September

Greece › Santorini › September 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

The main square in Oia, Santorini on a September afternoon.

September is one of my favorite months to visit Santorini, perhaps even my single favorite. It offers a “best of both worlds” scenario: the weather is still beautiful and summery, but the peak crowds and intense heat of July and August have subsided. Swimming and beach life are idyllic.

Overview:
• The weather in September is nearly perfect. You get the warmth of summer without the oppressive heat.
• Temperature: The intense heat of mid-summer gives way to more comfortable temperatures. Daytime averages range from the mid to high 20s Celsius (77-84°F), while evenings are pleasant and mild, typically in the low 20s (around 70°F).
• Sunshine: You can still expect long, sunny days with very little chance of rain, especially in the first half of the month. The light takes on (or seems to, anyways) a slightly softer, more golden quality, which is fantastic for photography.
• Swimming Conditions: The sea is at its absolute warmest in September. Having been heated by the sun all summer, the Aegean Sea averages a delightful 24°C (75°F), making it ideal for long, comfortable swims and all water sports.
• Activities: All seasonal tours, restaurants, and attractions are still fully operational, but the atmosphere is noticeably more relaxed.

September is perfect for a Santorini boat tour of the caldera. Highly recommended!

• Boat Tours: This is a great month for a catamaran cruise. The weather is fantastic, the sea is warm, and the boats are slightly less crowded than in July and August. Watching the sunset from the water on a warm September evening is a truly magical experience.
• Winery Tours & Harvest: September is harvest season (vedema) in Santorini. This adds a special, authentic layer to any winery visit. You can see the grape-harvesting process in action, and the island buzzes with a unique, celebratory energy. It’s an excellent time for wine enthusiasts to visit.
• Nightlife: The atmosphere begins to shift to a more relaxed but still very lively vibe. In early September, the nightlife feels much like summer, but as the month progresses, the scene becomes more sophisticated and adult-oriented. The focus moves from the large dance clubs to the bustling cocktail bars and wineries.
• Beaches: September offers some of the best swimming of the year, as the sea retains all the heat from the summer. The weather is still hot (especially early September), but the intense crowds of August have thinned out, leaving more space on the sand. This is the perfect month to enjoy long, relaxing days by the sea.
• Fira-Oia Hike: Another perfect month for the hike as the brutal summer heat has subsided and the crowds on the trail begin to thin out. An early start is still recommended, but you have much more flexibility than in the peak summer months.

Pyrgos village in September – the perfect month for sightseeing and exploring.

• Crowds: While still busy, especially in the first two weeks, the crowds are significantly smaller than in July and August. You’ll find more space to wander the streets of Oia and Fira, getting a reservation at a top restaurant becomes easier, and the sunset spots are more manageable. The last two weeks of September are noticeably quieter.
• Prices: Prices for flights and accommodation begin to drop from their August peak. While it’s still not cheap, you can find better value and more availability, particularly in the latter half of the month. Booking in advance is still highly recommended, but you have more flexibility than in the peak months.
• For Couples: September is idyllic for couples. The romantic atmosphere of the island truly shines without the overwhelming crowds. The weather is perfect for leisurely dinners, exploring villages hand-in-hand, and relaxing by the pool. It strikes the perfect balance between having a lively buzz and feeling intimate and relaxed.
• For Families: September is a great choice for families, especially those with pre-school-age children who aren’t tied to the school holiday calendar. The weather and sea temperatures are perfect for kids, and the sun is less intense than in mid-summer, reducing worries about overheating. The smaller crowds make navigating the island’s narrow streets with children much easier. The slightly lower prices can make a family trip more manageable financially.