Weather in Santorini in November
Expect mild, often wet weather in Santorini in November, late autumn. Expect highs of about 19°C / 67°F and overnight lows near 14°C / 58°F. Expect rain on around 7 days and about 61 mm over the month, often in heavy bursts with dry spells between them. Sea temperatures average around 20°C / 68°F, refreshing for some, but too cool for most. Santorini is a volcanic island with little shelter or shade, and the caldera rim is often windier than the beaches below. The first autumn storms can arrive, usually as short, sharp showers between long spells of sunshine. You get about 10 hours of daylight a day, so plan sightseeing for the middle of the day. Bring layers, a warm sweater and a light waterproof, as the weather can turn. The weather can change from one week to the next, so pack for both warm and cool days. Make the most of the middle of the day, when it's warmest and brightest.
Swimming in Santorini in November
At around 20°C / 68°F, the sea in Santorini is swimmable in November if you don't mind a chill. The best time for swimming is July, August and September, with August usually the warmest. Good spots include Perissa and Kamari. There are no lifeguards or beach services out of season, so swim with care. A short wetsuit helps if you feel the cold.
Crowds & Prices in Santorini in November
Tourism in Santorini slows right down in November. Prices are at their lowest of the year, although fewer hotels are open. Tavernas that stay open cater mainly to locals, which is often when the food is best. It's a good time to see everyday life, away from the summer bustle. With so few visitors, the atmosphere is genuinely local, and people have time to chat. You can usually book at short notice.
What's Open in Santorini in November
Ferries to Santorini from Piraeus and Rafina run all year, but less often in November, and rough seas can cancel sailings. Direct international flights run mainly from spring to autumn, while flights from Athens operate all year. The resort side of the island shuts down, with most hotels and beach tavernas closed until spring. 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 November
21 November, the Presentation of the Virgin Mary, is marked with church services, and it's also Armed Forces Day. November is olive harvest season, when families gather to pick olives and the first new oil of the year appears. In Santorini, as across Greece, these traditions are very much alive. Otherwise, life follows its normal rhythm, with Sunday lunches and busy cafés rather than big events.
Is November a Good Time to Visit Santorini?
It depends on what you want. In November, Santorini is peaceful and inexpensive, but the season is over, the sea is too cool for most swimmers and the weather can turn. Expect highs of around 19°C / 67°F, lows near 14°C / 58°F and rain on around 7 days. It's fine for a quiet break or watching the caldera sunset. For a proper beach holiday, go in June, September or October.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does the sun set in Santorini in November?
Sunset in Santorini is at around 5:25 pm at the start of November, around 5:10 pm in mid-November and around 5:05 pm by the end of the month, in Greek local time. Oia is the most famous place to watch it, but it gets very crowded, so Fira and Imerovigli along the caldera are good alternatives.
Is the weather bad in Santorini in November?
Not all the time, but it's more unsettled. November brings more rain, stronger winds and shorter days, and rough seas disrupt ferries more often. Between weather fronts there are still plenty of calm, sunny days that are pleasant for walking. Pack layers and a waterproof, and keep your ferry plans flexible.
Is November a good time to walk from Fira to Oia?
Yes, it's one of the best times. November brings softer light, cooler air and quieter paths, which make for excellent walking. Carry water and a light layer, as the weather can change. The path follows the caldera rim and takes around three to four hours.
Do I need a car on Santorini in November?
It helps. Buses run on a much thinner timetable in November, 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 November or December better for visiting Santorini?
It depends on your plans. November is usually a little milder, but most tourist businesses have closed. December is cooler and wetter, but brings a festive atmosphere, with Christmas lights and decorations. Neither is a beach month, so choose by your dates.
Santorini Weather by Month
