Santorini off season: what's open, the weather and getting there in winter (2026)
In winter Santorini is quiet, cheaper and free of sunset crowds. On the other hand, many hotels, restaurants and shops close, and getting there takes more effort.
- In December–February temperatures are about 9–16°C with 10–11 hours of sun a day, but also rain and wind.
- Many hotels, restaurants and bars close. Fira, Messaria and Pyrgos have year-round residents.
- Most international flights stop in winter: fly from Athens (about 45 min) or take a slow ferry (about 8 hours).
Santorini in winter suits couples and anyone after views and quiet, not a beach holiday. Stay in Fira, fly from Athens, and check in advance that the restaurants and sites you want are open.
What is the weather like in Santorini in winter?
- December–February: about 9 to 16°C, with 10–11 hours of sun a day.
- December is slightly warmer and drier than January and February.
- Rain and wind are possible, and it has occasionally snowed.
- The sea is too cold for most swimmers.
Pack layers, a warm jacket for evenings and a rain jacket.
What is open in Santorini in winter?
- Hotels: many close for refurbishment, but enough rooms stay open, often at lower prices.
- Restaurants: most are seasonal. Those open mainly serve locals, and you rarely need to book.
- Beach bars, nightlife and shops: mostly closed.
- Sites and museums: winter hours differ from summer. Check Akrotiri, Ancient Thera and the Fira museums before you go.
- Santorini has more than 20,000 permanent residents, so basic needs are covered all year.
Getting to Santorini in winter
| Route | In winter |
|---|---|
| Direct flight from Israel | Summer only |
| Domestic flight from Athens | About 45 min, the easiest option |
| Ferry from Piraeus | Slow ferries only, about 8 hours |
Ferry timetables for coming months are not always published early, so check before booking. More: ferry from Athens to Santorini · Greek islands with direct flights from Israel.
Where to stay in Santorini in winter
Fira, Messaria and Pyrgos are the best winter bases, with year-round residents and more places open. Oia is beautiful in winter too, but very quiet and largely closed.
What to do in Santorini off season
- The Fira–Oia hike: about 10 km, 3–4 hours along the caldera rim. Good shoes, water and a warm layer. Return from Oia to Fira by KTEL bus.
- Sunset in Oia without tens of thousands of visitors.
- Akrotiri: the ancient town buried in ash, independently or with a licensed guide.
- Photography, driving and talking to locals: in winter roads are empty and people have more time.
Is it worth going to Santorini in winter?
Yes, if you want views, quiet, photography and lower prices. No, if you want the sea, pools, nightlife or a wide choice of restaurants. A winter alternative: Greece in winter: where to go.
FAQ
What is the weather in Santorini in winter? In December–February about 9 to 16°C with plenty of sun, but also some rainy and windy days.
What is open in Santorini in November and winter? Some hotels and restaurants, mainly in Fira, Messaria and Pyrgos. Most beach bars, shops and nightlife close.
Is there a direct flight to Santorini in winter? No. In winter fly to Athens and continue by a domestic flight of about 45 minutes or a ferry of about 8 hours.
Can you swim in Santorini in winter? The sea is too cold for most people in winter. Swimming season is mainly mid-May to October.
