Weather in Santorini in February
Expect cool, fairly changeable weather in Santorini in February, late winter. Expect highs of about 15°C / 58°F and overnight lows near 10°C / 50°F. Sea temperatures average around 16°C / 61°F, too cold for most people to swim. Rain falls on around 6 days, adding up to about 45 mm over the month. Winter here is shaped by the wind: storms sweep through regularly, often followed by calm, bright days. Santorini is a volcanic island with little shelter or shade, and the caldera rim is often windier than the beaches below. Daylight lasts about 11 hours, so plan sightseeing for the middle of the day. Bring a warm coat, layers, an umbrella and shoes that can cope with rain. Weather can change quickly at this time of year, so check the forecast before a long day out. Make the most of the middle of the day, when it's warmest and brightest.
Swimming in Santorini in February
At around 16°C / 61°F, the sea in Santorini is too cold for most people to swim in February. Save swimming plans for July, August and September, when the water is much warmer. Beaches such as Perissa and Kamari are lovely for a walk, even when the water is too cold to swim. Beaches are empty and unstaffed in winter, so swim only in calm conditions. A wetsuit makes a big difference if you want to get in.
Crowds & Prices in Santorini in February
February is one of the quietest months in Santorini, with few visitors and a local, everyday feel. Rates for rooms and car hire drop to their yearly lows. It's a good time to see everyday life, away from the summer bustle. Tavernas that stay open cater mainly to locals, which is often when the food is best. Last-minute bookings are rarely a problem.
What's Open in Santorini in February
Ferry links from Piraeus and Rafina to Santorini continue through February, though with fewer sailings than in summer. Direct international flights run mainly from spring to autumn, while flights from Athens operate all year. Most hotels, restaurants and bars close for the winter, and only a few places stay open for locals. Museums and archaeological sites are open on winter hours. Fira and Oia keep a few hotels and restaurants open, but many close.
Festivals & Holidays in Santorini in February
Clean Monday, the first day of Lent, falls in February or March and is a public holiday, marked with kite flying, picnics and meatless feasts. February is usually carnival season, known as Apokries, with parties, costumes and parades in the weeks before Lent. Locals in Santorini mark these dates in the traditional way, and visitors are welcome to join in. Beyond that, it's a month of everyday life, with locals filling the cafés and tavernas in the evenings.
Is February a Good Time to Visit Santorini?
February is worth it for Santorini if you're interested in culture, food and walking rather than beaches. In numbers: highs of about 15°C / 58°F, lows of 10°C / 50°F and rain on around 6 days in a typical February. It's quiet, prices are low and the main town still has plenty going on, but the sea is cold and many resort businesses are closed. For beach weather, come in June, September or October instead.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does the sun set in Santorini in February?
Through February, sunset in Santorini moves from around 5:45 pm to around 6:10 pm in Greek local time, as the evenings get longer. In mid-February, expect it at around 6:00 pm. Oia is the most famous place to watch it, but it gets very crowded, so Fira and Imerovigli along the caldera are good alternatives.
Does it rain a lot in Santorini in February?
February is still part of the wet season, but rain usually comes in short bursts with passing weather fronts rather than for days on end. Expect a mix of grey, windy days and bright, clear ones. Pack a waterproof layer and keep ferry plans flexible in case a storm disrupts sailings.
Is February a good time to walk from Fira to Oia?
Yes, on dry days. Walking in February can be very rewarding, with clear air and empty paths, but days are short, trails can be muddy after rain and the wind can be strong on exposed ground. Start early, carry a warm layer and check the forecast. The path follows the caldera rim and takes around three to four hours.
Do I need a car on Santorini in February?
It helps. Buses run on a much thinner timetable in February, and some routes stop completely, so a hire car is the easiest way to explore. Rental rates are low off-season, but fewer agencies are open, so book ahead.
Is February or March better for visiting Santorini?
March is usually the better choice. Days are longer, the weather starts to turn springlike and the island goes green, while February is still firmly winter. Neither month is for the beach, and in both many tourist businesses are still closed.
Santorini Weather by Month
