Santorini weather by month: when to go
A monthly table of air and sea temperatures and rainy days in Santorini, with tips for each season and what to pack.
- Summer brings about 29°C by day, almost no rain, and a strong cooling wind.
- September is excellent: the sea is about 24°C and rain is rare.
- November to March is cooler and wetter, and most tourist businesses close.
For a warm sea and fewer crowds, aim for late May–June or September. Whatever the season, bring a warm layer for sunset, as the wind cools things quickly.
What is Santorini's weather like through the year?
Santorini sits in the southern Cyclades, with a dry, sunny climate and a strong summer north wind (the meltemi). The table uses Greeka's averages for the tourist season, April to October.
| Month | Temperature (min–max) | Sea temperature | Rainy days |
|---|---|---|---|
| April | 13–18°C | 16°C | 4 |
| May | 17–23°C | 18.5°C | 3 |
| June | 21–27°C | 22°C | almost none |
| July | 23–29°C | 23.5°C | almost none |
| August | 23–29°C | 24.5°C | almost none |
| September | 21–26°C | 24°C | 3 |
| October | 18–23°C | 21.5°C | 5 |
The source has no table for November–March. Those are the cooler, wetter months, when most tourist businesses close.
Santorini weather in March, April and May
March and April have pleasant days, but evenings are cool and the sea is cold (about 16°C in April). It's a good time for walks, such as the Fira–Oia trail, and for photos without big crowds. By May it's warm, about 23°C by day, and most hotels and restaurants are open.
Santorini weather in July and August
Peak season: about 29°C by day, almost no rain, and a sea of 23.5–24.5°C. Humidity is low and the wind cools things down, but it can cancel boat trips and make ferries rough. Crowds are heavy, especially at sunset in Oia.
Santorini weather in September and October
September is one of the best months: the sea is still warm (about 24°C), days average about 26°C and there is little rain. In October you can still swim (about 21.5°C), but there are about five rainy days on average, and some hotels close towards the end of the month. Many Israelis come over Sukkot, so book early.
Santorini in November and winter
From November to March the island is quiet. Days are cool, and evenings feel colder because of the wind. Direct flights from Israel are greatly reduced (check with the airlines), and many businesses in Fira and Oia close. On the other hand, prices are low and the view is the same. Details in our Santorini off-season guide.
What to pack for Santorini
- Summer: a hat that won't blow away, sunscreen, walking shoes for steps and trails.
- Spring and autumn: a jumper or light jacket for sunset, as the wind cools things fast.
- Winter: a coat, umbrella and layers.
More on the island: Santorini guide, where to stay in Santorini, Santorini beaches and flights to Santorini from Israel. Greece's weather by month is on our weather page.
FAQ
When is the sea warmest in Santorini? In August and September, at about 24–24.5°C on average.
What is Santorini's weather like in September? Very pleasant: about 21–26°C, around three rainy days and a sea warm enough for swimming.
Does it rain in Santorini in November? Yes, November is part of the cooler, rainy season, and most tourist businesses are closed.
Is Santorini too hot in August? Usually not: the average high is about 29°C and the wind helps. The sun is still very strong, so avoid walking at midday.
