Best time to visit
When to go to Santorini: climate, seasons and the best time to visit
Between sunset crowds in summer and a more local pace in winter, here's the most favourable time to discover Santorini.
P
PlanTripNow Team
July 24, 2026 · 3 min read
Santorini enjoys a Mediterranean, Cycladic climate similar to that of Mykonos: hot dry summers, mild winters, and the presence of the Meltemi wind, generally somewhat milder here than in Mykonos but still real, particularly in summer.
An island overrun in summer for its sunsets
The island is world famous for its caldera views and sunsets, especially from the village of Oia. This fame translates into very heavy crowds between June and September, peaking in July and August: the iconic viewpoints and the narrow lanes of the clifftop villages fill up considerably, and accommodation prices rise accordingly.
To enjoy Santorini in better conditions, April to June and September-October are the most recommended period: pleasant temperatures, a swimmable sea, superb light, but noticeably thinner crowds and more affordable prices.
A clear slowdown in winter
As in Mykonos, winter marks a clear slowdown in tourism activity: from roughly November to March, many hotels and restaurants close, and the island returns to a much more local, quieter pace. This isn't the period to prioritise for experiencing Santorini's tourist atmosphere, even though the climate stays mild.
Santorini's seasonal highlights
| Period | Climate & crowds |
|---|---|
| June to September | Hot, dry summer, heavy crowds, peaking in July-August. |
| July to August | Viewpoints and clifftop villages very busy, high prices. |
| April to June, September to October | Best time to visit: pleasant weather, more moderate crowds. |
| November to March | Low season, many hotels and restaurants closed. |
| Summer | Meltemi wind present, somewhat milder than in Mykonos. |
| Oia | The most famous village for sunsets, very busy in summer. |
Key facts for Santorini
Best time to visit
April to June, September to October
Peak tourist season
June to September, peaking in July-August
Low season
Roughly November to March
Climate
Mediterranean Cycladic, hot dry summer
Meltemi wind
Present in summer, somewhat milder than in Mykonos
Destinations in this article
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to see the sunset in Oia?
The viewpoint offers great views year-round, but April-June and September-October allow you to enjoy it with more reasonable crowds than in the height of summer, when it's packed.
Is Santorini open year-round?
No: from roughly November to March, many hotels and restaurants close, and the island returns to a much more local, quieter pace.
Is the wind as strong as in Mykonos?
The Meltemi wind also blows in Santorini during summer, but it's generally somewhat milder than on neighbouring Mykonos.
P
PlanTripNow Team
A team of travellers who test, taste and map the best addresses around the world to help you plan itineraries that feel truly local.
From inspiration to itinerary
Turn this article's tips into a day-by-day itinerary with PlanTripNow.
