Santorini
Greece · Europe
The best time to visit Santorini is June, July, August, and September. In summer, temperatures rise to 30°C; in winter they can drop to 10°C. During the best travel months, the sun shines up to 12 hours per day — ideal for beach and outdoor activities.
Santorini – What you should know
Santorini is regarded as one of the most beautiful islands in the world — and the climate plays its part. The Cycladic island benefits from one of the most stable summer climates in Europe: from June to September it barely rains, the sun shines 11–13 hours a day, and the famous white buildings gleam against a deep-blue sky.
Santorini's trademark is the Meltemi: this powerful northerly wind sweeps across the island regularly in summer, providing welcome relief on hot days — but it can also complicate or cancel boat excursions. It is particularly strong in July and August, when it builds in strength throughout the day.
For calmer conditions and fewer tourists, May or September is recommended: the weather is almost as beautiful as in high summer, prices are lower, and the sunsets over Oia can be enjoyed without the crowds. October is still warm enough for excursions, though swimming becomes a little cooler.
Climate Overview
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
MAXMAX | 15° | 16° | 17° | 20° | 24° | 28° | 31° | 31° | 28° | 24° | 20° | 17° |
MINMIN | 11° | 11° | 12° | 14° | 17° | 22° | 24° | 25° | 22° | 18° | 15° | 12° |
☀️Sunshine | 5h | 6h | 8h | 9h | 10h | 12h | 12h | 11h | 10h | 8h | 6h | 5h |
🌊Water Temp | 17° | 17° | 17° | 18° | 20° | 23° | 25° | 26° | 25° | 23° | 21° | 19° |
🌧Rain Days | 5d45mm | 4d33mm | 2d17mm | 1d7mm | 0d3mm | 0d1mm | 0d0mm | 0d0mm | 0d2mm | 1d8mm | 2d20mm | 4d39mm |
Best travel timeMonthly averages 2005–2025 · Source: ERA5 + station data
Travel Tips
May offers great weather in Santorini with fewer tourists and lower prices — ideal for those who want to avoid the peak season crowds.
The travel year in Santorini
December – March
Santorini fast menschenleer: Oia ist ein Filmset ohne Crew, die weißen Kirchen leuchten unter blauem Himmel ohne Selfie-Stange im Vordergrund. Viele Hotels schließen im Winter — wer eins findet, hat das echte Erlebnis.
April – June
Frühling und früher Sommer: Der Sonnenuntergang von Oia zieht 20 Zuschauer statt 2.000, die vulkanischen Kieselstrände von Kamari und Perissa wärmen sich auf. Beste Zeit für den Wanderweg zwischen Fira und Oia.
July – August
Hochsaison absolut: Der Oia-Sonnenuntergang versammelt Hunderte, Kreuzfahrtschiffe ankern vor der Caldera, jede Gasse in Fira ist belebt. Wer die Energie anzieht, genießt das Spektakel — wer Fotos ohne Massen will, steht um 6 Uhr auf.
September – November
Die goldene Nachsaison: Das Meerwasser hat jetzt seine Jahreshöchsttemperatur, die Kreuzfahrtsaison läuft aus, die Atmosphäre in den Caldera-Bars wird intimer. Oktober ist für viele Santorini-Kenner schlicht der beste Monat.
Frequently Asked Questions
- When is the best time to visit Santorini?
- The best time to visit Santorini is June, July, August, and September. These months offer the most favourable combination of sunshine, temperatures, and low rainfall.
- How warm does it get in Santorini?
- In summer, temperatures in Santorini can reach up to 30°C. In winter, they may drop to 10°C.
- How much rain does Santorini get?
- Santorini has a relatively even rainfall pattern with an average of 2 rain days per month. The driest months are June, July, August, and September.
- How warm is the water in Santorini?
- Water temperature in Santorini ranges from 16°C (February) to 26°C (August). During the best travel months (June, July, August, and September), the water is most pleasant for swimming.
Best Travel Time by Vacation Type
🏖️
Beach Holiday
Warm, sunny, little rain
JunJulAug
🏙️
City Trip
Pleasantly mild, not too hot
MayOctNov
