Weather in Ithaca in September
September is late summer in Ithaca: warm and fairly changeable. Daytime highs average around 27°C / 80°F, and nights drop to about 19°C / 66°F. Rain falls on around 4 days, adding up to about 54 mm over the month. The sea averages about 25°C / 77°F, properly warm for swimming. Ithaca is a small, green, mountainous island in the Ionian, right next to Kefalonia. Autumn arrives earlier here than in the Aegean, and thunderstorms become more common as the season goes on. Days bring around 12½ hours of daylight. Pack summer clothes, a light layer for the evenings and good sun protection. The light is softer than in summer, which makes it a lovely time for photos and walks. Mornings and evenings get noticeably cooler as the month goes on. The weather can change from one week to the next, so pack for both warm and cool days. It's pleasant to be outside from morning to evening, with sun protection at midday.
Swimming in Ithaca in September
Swimming is excellent in Ithaca in September, with the sea averaging around 25°C / 77°F. After the warmest water of August, the sea cools only slowly. Try Gidaki and Filiatro for clear water. Quieter coves around the coast are often just as beautiful as the famous beaches. Many coves are rocky or pebbly, so water shoes are useful. Beaches are lively but less crowded than in high summer.
Crowds & Prices in Ithaca in September
September is a shoulder month in Ithaca, busy enough to feel lively but well below the summer peak. Prices are noticeably lower than in high summer, and there's more choice of rooms. Staying slightly outside the main town usually means better value and more space. Early mornings and late afternoons are the quietest times at popular sights. Booking a few weeks ahead is usually enough.
What's Open in Ithaca in September
Ferries to Ithaca from Kefalonia run at full summer frequency in September, but they sell out, so book ahead. Everything is open, from hotels and tavernas to beach bars and boat trips. Archaeological sites and museums are on their longer summer hours. Shops in tourist areas often stay open into the evening. Boat trips and excursions run regularly, weather permitting.
Festivals & Holidays in Ithaca in September
September is harvest time, with grapes picked for wine in many areas and village feasts on 8 September for the Nativity of the Virgin. Late-summer village festivals continue into September, and the grape harvest gets underway. Locals in Ithaca mark these dates in the traditional way, and visitors are welcome to join in. As the season quietens, local life takes over again, with markets and harvest gatherings.
Is September a Good Time to Visit Ithaca?
September is one of the best months to visit Ithaca. Expect highs of around 27°C / 80°F and lows near 19°C / 66°F. The sea is warm, the weather is reliable and the summer crowds are thinner, so beaches and villages feel relaxed. It suits almost everyone, from couples to families outside school holidays. The only caveat is that a few seasonal businesses may be closed at the very start or end of the season.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does the sun set in Ithaca in September?
Sunset in Ithaca is at around 8:10 pm at the start of September, around 7:50 pm in mid-September and around 7:25 pm by the end of the month, in Greek local time. Evenings cool quickly after sunset, so bring a layer.
Is it still hot in Ithaca in September?
Yes, especially in the first half of the month. September stays warm and sunny, and the sea is still warm from the summer, but the heat is gentler and nights are more comfortable. Thunderstorms become more likely towards the end of the month, as autumn reaches the west earlier than the Aegean.
Is September a good time for walking on Ithaca?
Yes, especially later in the month. Early September can still be hot, so start early, but as the heat eases the paths become a pleasure again. Carry plenty of water. Paths lead to places linked with Homer's Odyssey.
Do I need a car on Ithaca in September?
It's the best way to explore. Ithaca is spread out, and buses mainly link Vathy with the busiest beaches and villages, so a hire car lets you reach quieter corners. In September, book early, as rental cars can sell out.
Is September or October better for visiting Ithaca?
September, if you want swimming and everything open. October is quieter and cheaper, and the sea often stays pleasant early in the month, but the weather becomes more changeable and many seasonal hotels, tavernas and boat trips wind down as the month goes on.
Ithaca Weather by Month
