Thinking of visiting Santorini in September and wondering how busy it will be?
This little island in the Southern Aegean is beautiful at any time of the year and is one of the best places to holiday in Greece. But September might just be the best month to visit Santorini.
With its rugged volcanic stone terrain contrasting the beautiful white houses and azure waters, Santorini is one of the best family summer destinations and has the best beach in Europe for families.
Unfortunately, this little island is packed during summer, which may make for a less fun experience.
We visited Santorini around the middle to end of September, so we know a thing or two about what to expect.
We’ll delve into this Greek island’s weather in September, along with our experiences with flights, accommodation prices, and crowd sizes. You can also read more here about visiting Greece in September!
We also left a few suggestions for some of the best restaurants and activities to add to your September in Santorini itinerary.
So what is Santorini like in September? Let’s jump into everything you need to know about visiting Santorini in September!
Is Santorini Busy in September?
The peak travel season in Santorini is from June to September, so it is only fair enough to wonder what the crowds will be like in September.
The main tourists visiting Santorini come from France, Italy, Britain and Poland. So let’s look at their summer holiday. It usually runs from mid-June to mid-September.
The worst months to visit Santorini are August (the busiest month) and July. Where Santorini will get around 250K visitors – crazy for such a small island!
So is Santorini crowded in September? September still received a decent amount of tourists (around 200K), so whilst not as busy as July and August it can still get crowded, however, we have some tips for you if you wish to avoid the crowds!
- Try to plan your trip for mid-month to the end of the month. Plan to go once the European summer holiday has come to an end.
- We found the mornings to be quite peaceful, with the streets and attractions becoming busier around 11 a.m.
- After lunch, things would quiet down for a few hours, then pick up again around sunset.
We visited Santorini in mid-September this year. In my opinion, there are plenty of reasons to visit Santorini in September. And it is much easier to find a few hours to explore the towns in peace.
You might enjoy our video that shows more of what the crowds are like around mid-September in Santorini.
Santorini will still be pretty busy at the start of the month as the summer holidays in Europe only end towards the middle of the month.
So plan to head over around the middle of the month and if you’d like to avoid long queues, head to your planned sights and photo spots before about 10:30 am or after lunch.
A Note On Cruise Ships In September
During our end-of-September visit, we saw about 2-3 daily cruise ships bringing in tourists to the port of Skala. The numbers may be even higher on certain days.
This is still relatively less than the peak tourist season when you can expect around 3-5 ships docking near the island every day.
Weather in Santorini in September
- Santorini September Weather:
- Hot & sunny
- Little rain
- The water temperature is still nice and warm
- 290 sunshine hours
The months between April and October are all on the warmer side, with temperatures peaking around July and August. So it still feels like summer in Santorini in September.
The days are hot and dry, and you can expect very little rain. You also won’t have to worry too much about icy nights and can expect about 11–12 hours of daily sunlight.
Let’s take a deeper dive into the September weather in Santorini.
Average Temperature In Santorini In September
The temperatures in Santorini in September range between average lows of 66°F/ 19°C and highs of around 77°F/ 25°C.
Occasionally, temperatures may drop as low as 63°F/ 17°C and reach as high as 86°F/ 30°C.
Santorini Weather Early September
- Temperature: Highs of around 28°C and lows around 23°C
- Clouds: Expect clear skies
- Rain: Little or no rain
- Sunlight: Nearly 13 hours per day
Santorini Weather Mid September
- Temperature: Highs of around 26°C and lows around 22°C
- Clouds: Partly cloudy but mostly clear
- Rain: Little or no rain
- Sunlight: Around 12 hours and 30 minutes per day
Santorini Weather End September
- Temperature: Highs of around 25°C and lows around 21°C
- Clouds: You might get partly cloudy days
- Rain: Little or no rain
- Sunlight: Around 12 hours per day
Can You Swim In Santorini In September?
You can absolutely swim in Santorini in September.
Ocean temperatures peak around August, reaching around 75°F/ 24°C. In September, the water is still quite warm — warmer than in July, actually!
Average water temperatures in September sit around 74°F/ 23°C. So you’ll still be able to catch some sun rays on the beach, swim in crystal clear waters, and enjoy all sorts of water activities.
Is Santorini Windy in September?
This yearly Meltemi winds are active between June and September. They can blow for a single day or up to a week. It can make days feel a bit cooler but also make the ocean really wild.
If these winds are especially powerful, smaller ferries and boat trips can be canceled.
The winds can last for as long as a few hours or up to a few days. If you’d still like to enjoy swimming and water activities, try to head to the southern end of the island, at beaches that provide cover from the wind.
Some good options include Perissa, Perívolos, and Vlychada beach.
Does It Rain In Santorini In September?
There are occasional showers in Santorini as the winter months approach. But this island barely experiences enough rain in September to ruin your plans for the day.
In September, Santorini receives about 0.3–0.6 inches of rain, if any.
Are Santorini September Accommodation Prices Any Cheaper?
The great thing about visiting Santorini as the peak season dies down is that the accommodation prices also start to drop.
This is especially true near the end of September, after the Santorini International Music Festival, which usually takes place in the first weeks of the month.
Compared to August prices, September average hotel costs can drop between $50–$700 depending on whether you’re staying at a luxury resort or more affordable accommodation.
You’re more likely to find lower prices near the end of the month. And, with hotel rooms opening up as tourists leave, you’ll have a greater chance of finding a room with an ocean view or porch.
In terms of Airbnb, we were able to negotiate our rental price – we did stay for 5 nights and simply asked if we could get a discount for staying longer in a quieter part of the month. This definitely would not be possible during the months of June to August.
Quick Guide: Best Hotels in Santorini
After a quick list of the top places to stay in Santorini? Here are the best hotels in Santorini to book for your trip.
TIP: Check out our blog post on the best hotels in Santorini with private pools. There are options for families, and romantic adults-only ones too.
Milos Villas Hotel
- Popular 4-Star Hotel
- Location: Fira
- Located in a quiet area in Fira, features a lovely pool area and some rooms have a terrace with gorgeous views over the island.
Santorini Kastelli Resort
- Luxurious 5-Star Hotel
- Location: secluded location, just 2 minutes’ walk from the beach of Kamari.
- Offers 2 swimming pools, a spa, and a poolside bar restaurant.
Caldera Premium Villas
- Luxurious 4-Star Villas
- Location: center of Oia, on the cliff
- Overlooks the volcano and features a swimming pool and accommodation with Cycladic décor. Room balconies offer caldera and Aegean Sea views.
How Busy Are the Restaurants In Santorini In September
Santorini is still buzzing and busy in September, and all restaurants, hotels, and shops are open.
Because the island is less busy during this month, you won’t have to make reservations for most restaurants and bars.
Although for restaurants with views or if you wish to sit on the terrace, I do still recommend you make a reservation. You might also like to make a reservation if you want to have dinner after the crazy sunset hours (when it gets really crowded) in Oia.
We visited Santorini in the middle of September and could just walk into a restaurant and find a table pretty much instantly for lunch and dinners.
Best Restaurants in Santorini
Wondering where to eat? Below are some of the best restaurants to visit in Santorini, from Oia to Vlychada.
1. Pitogyros – Oia
This restaurant in Oia offers possibly some of the best gyros and souvlaki on the island.
The no-frills Greek food spot has a few tables and chairs. But the best way to enjoy their food is by ordering it for takeout and finding a spot to munch your meal and enjoy the sunset.
The portions are excellent, the prices fair, and the food is so good you’ll want to return for more.
Tip: Try to avoid the restaurant right after sunset, as the queue can get quite long.
2. Selene – Fira
If you’re looking for a fine-dining restaurant with impeccable views and romantic energy, the elegant Selene in Fira is your answer.
This serene restaurant is set in an 18th-century Catholic Monastery. Here, equal effort is put into the service and food to create an unforgettable dining experience.
With a Michelin-starred chef overseeing the menu, and a Master of Wine curating the wines, this spot does run a bit pricey. But you definitely won’t regret booking a table here (well in advance, to be safe).
3. To Psaraki – Vlychada
This little restaurant near the Vlychada marina is all about using seasonal local produce and creating authentic, “honest food.”
Psaraki is one of the best places for fresh seafood dishes and comforting Greek food. Be sure to try the grilled swordfish and tuna carpaccio on your visit.
Tip: If you want an ocean-view spot on the terrace, book your table ahead of time. While September may be a bit quieter, the terrace spots (naturally) fill up first.
Best Things To Do In Santorini In September
Now that you know what to expect from Santorini’s weather, crowds, and prices, let’s have a look at some of the top things to add to your September itinerary.
Santorini, Greece is one of the most beautiful places in the country. With its stunning sunsets, gorgeous beaches, and picturesque villages – it’s no wonder why Santorini is a top destination for travelers from all over the world.
Wondering what to do in Santorini in September? Here are some of the best things to do in Santorini in September:
- Visit Oia – known for its amazing views and beautiful sunsets. This village offers plenty of activities like exploring cobblestone streets, enjoying local cuisine, or simply taking in the incredible views from its cliffside locations.
- Walk Through Red Beach – Take a walk along Red Beach and get up close and personal with one of Santorini’s most popular attractions. The bright red lava cliffs are sure to take your breath away!
- Explore Akrotiri Archaeological Site – discover history through ancient ruins at this archaeological site located near Akrotiri village on the southern tip of the island.
- Experience a Cruise – enjoy a relaxing cruise around the caldera and get an up close and personal view of the Aegean Sea.
- Taste The Local Cuisine – indulge in some of Santorini’s most famous dishes such as tomatokeftedes (tomato fritters), katsouni (a type of cucumber), and fava (a split-pea puree). You can also sample the island’s unique wines, made from local grapes grown on the volcanic soil.
- Take A Hike – explore Santorini’s mountainside trails for breathtaking views or trek along remote beaches to discover secluded spots that will make your trip unforgettable!
- Visit Ancient Thira – take a step back in time and explore the ruins of Ancient Thira, located near Kamari village on the eastern coast of Santorini. Here you’ll find ancient temples and other relics from bygone eras.
- Enjoy The Nightlife – indulge in some late-night fun by exploring the nightlife scene in Fira and Oia. With plenty of bars, pubs, and clubs to choose from, it’s easy to find the perfect spot for a night out!
- Go Shopping – no trip to Santorini is complete without a shopping spree! Check out Fira and Oia for some of the best stores on the island, offering everything from handmade pottery and traditional jewelry to locally-crafted leather goods and vintage clothing.
- Enjoy a beach day at Kamari – the beach at Kamari is perfect for those who just want to soak up the sun. It is a black sand beach and you can find some sunloungers under umbrellas to rent for the day. Plenty of great places to eat for lunch in the town of Kamari as well.
Are the Tours in Santorini Still Operating in September?
All tours in Santorini are still running in September, with the exception of the occasional cancellation of water activities if the wind is too strong.
So go ahead and book some fabulous tours to add to your Santorini itinerary for September. Here are our top recommended tours that you should book!
1. Volcanic Islands Cruise with Hot Springs Visit
With sunny weather and warm temperatures, September is the perfect time to go on a cruise to the small volcanic islands around the caldera.
This is a particularly popular tour. Take a boat trip along Santorini’s coast, stopping to hike up an active volcano, swim in hot springs, and explore some of the island’s prettiest villages.
>>> Book your cruise to the volcanic islands here
2. Santorini Luxury Caldera Cruise with Full Greek Meal and Drinks
The weather in Santorini, Greece, in September is perfect for lounging about on a catamaran and drinking up the sun and some good Grecian wine.
Be sure to bring your bathing suit along for swimming, snorkeling, and beach breaks. Some cruises even offer wine and beer, with a complimentary meal prepared on board.
We recommend taking a sunset cruise for breathtaking views of the island villages soaking up the last rays of the day.
>>> Book your luxury caldera cruise with a meal here
3. Guided Wine Tasting Tour with Pickup
The yearly Vedema, or vine harvest, kicks off around the beginning of August in Santorini, stretching into September.
With the vineyards and wineries abuzz, September is the perfect time to go wine tasting on the island.
Consider taking a wine-tasting tour to visit some of the top wineries and learn more about Santorini’s wine and its varieties.
>>> Book your guided wine-tasting tour with pickup here
How Easy Is It To Get Car Rentals in Santorini In September?
If you’re traveling to Santorini in September, you won’t have to worry too much about pre-booking your rental car.
We had a last minute idea to do a round trip of the island. So we made some calls in the hope to find a car rental. And had absolutely no problem finding rental cars available the next day.
This may be more likely during the latter half of September, as the island can still be quite busy during the beginning of the month.
How To Get To Santorini In September (Are Flights and Ferries Busy?)
There are two main ways to reach Santorini; by plane and ferry. Below we discuss what you can expect from each mode of transport.
1. Flights To Santorini
As September directly follows the high season months, it’s still buzzing with travelers. We found the flights pretty full, so we wouldn’t recommend waiting until the last minute to book a seat.
Flying to Santorini from Athens may be pricier than taking a ferry, but it’s a faster option that will save you valuable time.
Tip: As you are most likely coming to Santorini via Athens, you might be interested in checking out some of our recommendations for the best Athens hotels with rooftop pools, which have a view of the Acropolis.
2. Ferry To Santorini
Our ferry ride to Santorini had plenty of empty seats. So we’d say you’ll still have a good chance of getting a seat if you have to purchase your ticket closer to your date of travel.
Ferry rides from Athens usually last around 4-5 hours. It’s an affordable and scenic alternative to flying, but it might not be the best choice if you struggle with motion sickness.
What to Pack for September in Santorini
Since Santorini September weather is still warm, you’ll want to pack light summer clothing like t-shirts, shorts or light pants, dresses, and sandals.
You’ll also want to pack a warm sweatshirt or jacket, as early mornings and evenings can get chilly — especially near the end of September. You might also want a light jumper for watching sunset in Santorini.
One note on shoes, make sure your shoes have a bit of grip, my sandals had a smooth sole and I kept slipping on the smooth rocks – and I saw a few girls slipping with their high heels and sandals on too!
Santorini September FAQs
Here are some answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about traveling to Santorini in September.
Tempareatures in September may drop as low as 63°F (17°C). Personally we only found evenings cool when it was windy and grab a light cardigan for those nights, but as a general rule nights were warm.
September is the perfect time to head to Santorini if you want to swim. The water is still warm from being heated up over the hottest months of the year.
The pleasant water temperatures will be around 76°F to 77°F (24.4°C to 24.6°C).
The average humidity in Santorini in September is 58.6%.
Considering the least humid month in September is July at 56.7%, September is a great time to visit Santorini if you wish to avoid the humidity.
Sunset is typically around 7:30-7:45pm in Santorini in September. If you wish to watch the sunset in Oia I recommend you get there around an hour before sunset to secure a good viewing spot.
we recommend you stay for 3-5 days.
So, Is September A Good Time To Visit Santorini?
As you’ve probably concluded by now, September is a great time to visit Santorini.
When it comes to Santorini’s Weather, September offers all the sunny warmth you’d get in peak tourist months like July and August.
But, while the weather maintains its summer energy, tourist crowds start to dwindle, and the island starts returning to a calmer pace.
September also features an abundance of festivals, and all restaurants, accommodations, and attractions are still open.
So you won’t miss out on any of the fun. In fact, you may just enjoy your time more, as spaces will be less crowded.
So now that we have confirmed that September is a great time to visit Santorini, it is time to decide on where you will stay. Here are all of our top recommendations of where to stay in Santorini.
Milos Villas Hotel
- Popular 4-Star Hotel
- Location: Fira
- Located in a quiet area in Fira, features a lovely pool area and some rooms have a terrace with gorgeous views over the island.
Santorini Kastelli Resort
- Luxurious 5-Star Hotel
- Location: secluded location, just 2 minutes’ walk from the beach of Kamari.
- Offers 2 swimming pools, a spa, and a poolside bar restaurant.
Caldera Premium Villas
- Luxurious 4-Star Villas
- Location: center of Oia, on the cliff
- Overlooks the volcano and features a swimming pool and accommodation with Cycladic décor. Room balconies offer caldera and Aegean Sea views.
Looking for less popular but equally beautiful spots in Greece? Have a look at our guide to some of the best-hidden gems Greece has to offer.
Additional Information for Greece Vacation
Check out what else we have about Greece here:
- All you need to know about Mykonos in September
- What to do in Zakynthos in 3 Days
- Best of things to do and see in Corfu
- Need to know the best things to do in Kefalonia
- Get yourself to the monasteries of Meteora
- Best Top 10 things of what to do and see in Lefkada
- Parga and what you need to know before you go
- All you need to know for your family Vacation in Crete, Greece
- Beautiful places to visit in Greece for first-timers
- Here is a great post about how to find the best Santorini Catamaran cruise.
