Weather in Santorini in September
September is late summer in Santorini: warm and almost completely dry. Expect highs of about 26°C / 79°F and overnight lows near 21°C / 70°F. Rain is rare, with only 1 wet day in an average September. The sea averages about 24°C / 75°F, warm enough for long swims. Santorini is a volcanic island with little shelter or shade, and the caldera rim is often windier than the beaches below. The summer winds ease, and the light turns soft and golden. Days bring around 12½ hours of daylight. Pack summer clothes, a light layer for the evenings and good sun protection. When the wind picks up, a light windproof layer is handy for evenings by the water. 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. It's comfortable to be out all day, though the midday sun is still strong.
Swimming in Santorini in September
Expect the sea around Santorini to be about 24°C / 75°F in September, comfortable for long swims. After the warmest water of August, the sea cools only slowly. Perissa and Kamari are local favorites. When the meltemi blows, north-facing beaches get rough, so head for sheltered bays on the south side. Beaches are lively but less crowded than in high summer.
Crowds & Prices in Santorini in September
Expect Santorini at its busiest in September, with the island's most famous spots packed from morning to night. Accommodation is at its most expensive, and the best rooms go early. On cruise-ship days, the main sights are busiest between late morning and mid-afternoon. The busiest spot is Oia at sunset; for more space, visit Pyrgos and Megalochori or walk the caldera path early in the morning. Book early, as the best-value rooms go first.
What's Open in Santorini in September
In September, ferries from Piraeus and Rafina to Santorini run often, with extra fast boats in the peak season. The airport has direct flights from across Europe in the season, as well as flights from Athens. 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.
Festivals & Holidays in Santorini in September
Late-summer village festivals continue into September, and the grape harvest gets underway. September is harvest time, with grapes picked for wine in many areas and village feasts on 8 September for the Nativity of the Virgin. Locals in Santorini 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 Santorini?
Yes, September is worth it for sun, swimming and a lively summer buzz in Santorini. In numbers: highs of about 26°C / 79°F, lows of 21°C / 70°F and rain on around 1 day in a typical September. The trade-off is crowds and peak prices, so book early and plan around the busiest spots. If you'd rather have the same warm sea with more space, June or October would be a better choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does the sun set in Santorini in September?
In early September, the sun sets in Santorini at around 7:50 pm. By mid-month it's around 7:30 pm, and by the end of September around 7:05 pm. All times are 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 it still hot in Santorini in September?
Yes, especially in the first half of the month. September usually stays warm and sunny, and the sea is still warm from the summer. The meltemi tends to ease, nights become more comfortable, and the first autumn showers sometimes arrive late in the month, although rain is still uncommon.
Is September a good time to walk from Fira to Oia?
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. The path follows the caldera rim and takes around three to four hours.
Do I need a car on Santorini in September?
Not necessarily. Buses link Fira with the main beaches and villages in September, and taxis are available, though they're busy. A car, scooter or ATV gives you more freedom to explore quieter corners, so book one early.
Is September or October better for visiting Santorini?
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.
Santorini Weather by Month
