Best Time to Visit Santorini: A Breakdown of Weather, Crowds, & Costs

If you are dreaming of whitewashed villages, stunning caldera views, and iconic blue domes, then you are probably already planning a trip to one of Greece’s most famous islands. But before you pack your bags, you might be wondering when is the best time to visit Santorini. The answer depends on what kind of trip you are looking for, whether it is soaking up the sun, enjoying fewer crowds, or exploring the island at a slower pace.

Santorini has something to offer in every season, from lively summer months filled with energy to quieter times that let you experience the island in a more authentic way. The weather, the crowds, and even the prices can change quite a bit depending on when you go, which makes timing an important part of planning your trip.

In this guide, we will break down everything you need to know about choosing the right time to visit Santorini. From weather patterns and seasonal activities to tips on when to find the best deals, you will discover the perfect time of year to make the most of your visit.

The Best Time to Visit Santorini: A Brief Intro

Choosing the best time to visit Santorini can be tricky, because it varies for every type of traveler! The things you'll want to compare when choosing which time to visit should consider weather, crowds, prices, and activities.

 What is the Weather Like in Santorini Year-Round?

Santorini enjoys a classic Mediterranean climate, which means mild winters and hot, dry summers. From April to October, you can expect plenty of sunshine, with July and August being the hottest months, often reaching above 30°C (86°F).

These peak summer days are perfect for swimming and enjoying the island’s famous beaches, though they can feel quite crowded. Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) offer warm temperatures without the extreme heat, making them great times for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Winter (November–March) is much cooler and quieter, with daytime temperatures around 12–16°C (54–61°F), and while some businesses close, it’s the most peaceful season to explore.

When is the Tourist Season in Santorini?

The tourist season in Santorini typically runs from Mid-April to October, with the busiest months being July and August. During this time, cruise ships dock daily, hotels are at full occupancy, and attractions can be crowded. 

The off-season (November–March) sees far fewer tourists, but there are also hotels and restaurants that will be closed, and certain activities won't run outside of the tourist season.

What are Some Seasonal Attractions in Santorini?

Each season in Santorini offers something unique. Spring brings colorful wildflowers and mild weather, and is also when Greek Easter is celebrated.

Summer is all about beach life, lively nightlife, and enjoying boat trips to the volcano and nearby islands. This is also when all activities, shows, and water-based excursions run frequently.

In autumn, the grape harvest kicks off, and visitors can join in wine festivals and tastings at local vineyards. Winter may not be beach season, but it’s the best time to explore traditional villages, archaeological sites, and local tavernas without the crowds.

For travelers who love culture, Santorini also hosts various religious festivals and events throughout the year, which give a glimpse into authentic Greek island life.

The Best Time to Visit Santorini: Seasonal & Monthly Breakdown

Now that you know a bit about what the weather and calendar looks like for the island, let's start to analyze the best time to visit Santorini by comparing each season and month.

Visiting Santorini in Spring (March to May)

Spring is one of the best times to visit Santorini for those who want to enjoy good weather without the overwhelming summer crowds. From late March, temperatures start to climb, averaging between 15°C (59°F) and 22°C (72°F). By May, the island is in full bloom, with wildflowers adding splashes of color to the volcanic landscapes.

Hotels and restaurants open their doors in April, and ferries increase their schedules, making it easy to explore. Prices are much lower than in summer, and popular spots like Oia and Fira are less crowded.

Swimming is possible in May, though the sea is still refreshing. Spring is also a great time for hiking, especially along the Fira to Oia trail, where the cooler weather makes the walk more enjoyable. We visited Santorini in mid-April and had a few days that were hot enough to soak up a bit of sun and take a quick dip.

± Pros & Cons to Visiting Santorini in April

Visiting Santorini in April had its pros and cons of course. The major pro was that we hardly had to fight crowds and had really pleasant temperatures, ideal for photographers or those that simply want a peaceful escape.

The downside was that there were some restaurants that were still closed, and some activities in Santorini that we weren't able to do like the Greek Wedding Show and swimming in the volcanic hot springs.

Another major reason we think that the best time to visit Santorini is spring is because of Greek Easter! The village of Pyrgos has really special celebrations where they cover the town in candles. It's definitely one of the experiences to add to your bucket list - just remember that dates vary each year!

 The Best Time to Experience Greek Hospitality

Spring is the beginning of the season, so business owners are well-rested and excited to revamp their operations! While Spring time and Fall have similar experiences in terms of weather and crowds, you'll notice the people are happier and friendlier at the beginning season vs towards the end of the season.

Best for: photography, budget travelers, couples seeking romance without crowds, and outdoor enthusiasts.

Visiting Santorini in Summer (June to August)

Summer is peak season in Santorini, when the island is buzzing with activity. Expect long sunny days with temperatures ranging from 25°C (77°F) to 35°C (95°F), perfect for beach lovers and sun-seekers. The sea is at its warmest, and beach clubs are in full swing in Perissa, Kamari, and Red Beach.

However, this popularity comes at a cost. Hotels and flights are most expensive, and crowds are at their highest, especially when cruise ships dock. Sunset spots in Oia can be shoulder-to-shoulder, and reservations at restaurants are often necessary. Still, the lively atmosphere can be exciting, with festivals, nightlife, and cultural events filling the calendar.

Best for: beach lovers, partiers, luxury travelers, and first-time visitors who want the full Santorini energy.

 Tips for Visiting Santorini in Summer

If you plan on visiting Santorini in summer but aren't big into partying or crowds, then we recommend sticking to lesser-known villages and beaches during the day, and to explore hotspots like Oia and Fira very early in the morning. If you don't want to spend a fortune, you make sure to book well in advance!

Visiting Santorini in Autumn (September to November)

Autumn is a really nice time to visit Santorini. September still feels like summer, with warm weather and pleasant sea temperatures, while October brings cooler but comfortable days averaging 20°C (68°F). The crowds thin out, making it easier to enjoy the famous viewpoints and beaches without waiting in line or competing for space.

This season is also ideal for wine lovers, as Santorini’s grape harvest and wine festivals take place in September. Many hotels remain open through October, and prices are more reasonable than in peak season. By November, tourism slows significantly, but the island remains charming and peaceful.

Best for: wine enthusiasts, travelers who want good weather without crowds, and couples seeking a balance of activity and tranquility.

Visiting Santorini in Winter (December to February)

Winter is the quietest time on the island. With average temperatures between 10°C (50°F) and 15°C (59°F), Santorini is too cool for swimming but perfect for sightseeing and cultural experiences. 

Most beach clubs and luxury hotels close, but you will find plenty of local tavernas and small guesthouses still open. This is the cheapest time to visit, and you will often have famous landmarks like Oia’s streets and the caldera viewpoints almost to yourself.

While ferry schedules are limited, Santorini still connects to Athens by flight, making it easy to reach. Winter is also a great time to experience authentic island life and connect with locals.

Best for: budget travelers, photographers who want empty streets, and cultural travelers interested in a more authentic side of Santorini.

 When is the Best Time to Visit Santorini? Comparing Month by Month

Now you have a good idea of what to expect in terms of weather, crowds, and activities offered in each season in Santorini! To make it easier to visualize which is the best time to visit Santorini for you, we've created this chart for you.

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FAQ About the Best Time to Visit Santorini

Still have questions? We gathered questions across the web about the best time to visit Santorini, and have the answers in our drop-down menu below!

The Best Time to Visit Santorini: Final Thoughts & What's Next

For travelers looking to take beautiful photos, experience great weather, and still experience some of the best activities in Santorini, we'd recommend visiting at the end of April. However, we'd definitely recommend as a second option visiting a bit earlier for Greek Easter.

There is no BAD time to visit Santorini, but each season does have its advantages and disadvantages. The main things to keep in mind are prices, crowds, weather, and activities offered.

Once you know what's important to you, you can go ahead and start booking your trip! No matter what time you choose to visit Santorini though, we highly recommend booking your accommodation in advance, as many properties are boutique hotels with limited rooms.

What's Next?

Now that you know the best time to visit Santorini, you'll probably want to know more about traveling around the island!

Here are some other articles we've written that you can check out:

• How to Get to Santorini
• The best things to do in Santorini
• Visiting the blue domes of Santorini
• The best photo spots in Santorini

...and more coming each week!

So now that you know the best time to visit Santorini, are you ready to enjoy this amazing Greek Island? We hope we've answered any questions you may have had so you can start planning an amazing trip.

Want to learn more about visiting Santorini and the other islands around Greece? We have many other Greece travel guides coming up, so make sure to subscribe to our newsletter- you'll receive all of our weekly guide updates, as well as exclusive discounts on our shop!

Ready to start planning an unforgettable trip to Santorini? Well, we're here to help! Scratch Your Mapa offers custom travel planning services, building you specially-curated itineraries for your trip. Want to learn more? Simply send us an email for your free consultation!

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