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Home Blog What’s the best time to visit Santorini? Expert advice to plan the perfect trip

What’s the best time to visit Santorini? Expert advice to plan the perfect trip

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The Best Time to Visit Santorini - Weather, Prices & Crowds

Volcanic landscapes, picturesque domes, stunning sunsets: Santorini overdelivers, as long as you know when to visit it!

So… when is the best time to visit Santorini, really?

Keep reading to explore the different seasons in Santorini, learn the pros and cons of visiting during each month, and get expert advice that will help you plan the perfect trip!

 

What is the best month to visit Santorini?

Tricky question!

The best time to visit Santorini depends on what you’re looking for.

Here’s a general rule of thumb: If you’re looking for warm weather, bustling crowds, and vibrant nightlife, then the summer months of June, July, and August are the best time to go to Santorini.

On the other hand, if you’re looking for more comfortable temperatures, fewer crowds, and lower prices, then the shoulder seasons of April-May and September-October are definitely better.

Before going into specifics, here’s how to decide what’s the best time of year to visit Santorini depending on your preferences.

chart that shows the crowds in Santorini for each month

How to choose when to visit Santorini

  • Crowds. Some people don’t mind the hustle and bustle, others would rather die than push their way through a swarm of tourists.
  • Budget. Visiting during peak summer season will massively impact the price of your trip so keep that in mind if you’re on a budget.
  • Activities. Swimming and sunbathing, or hiking and winetasting? Set your priorities straight and the rest will follow!
  • Group size. The island is perfect in any season but the bigger the group, the more challenging the peak season will be for reservations and Santorini full-day tours.
  • Flexibility. Are you after the picture-perfect vacation in Santorini or willing to go with the flow? Something to think about in general.

Now that you have an idea on what to expect, let’s see what’s the best month to visit Santorini and how to make the most out of your trip!

is April or May a good time to visit Santorini

 

April – May: Best time to visit Santorini if you’re on a budget

Spring is a beautiful time to visit Santorini, with mild temperatures and blooming flowers.

The average temperature on the island during spring is around 18°C (64°F), making it the perfect weather for exploring the island’s many outdoor attractions (while avoiding the scorching August sun!). However, keep in mind that the water might still be a bit chilly, and some of the island’s restaurants and attractions might not be fully open yet.

Additionally, the spring season is less crowded than the peak summer months, which means you’ll have more elbow room to enjoy the island’s stunning scenery.

One of the biggest advantages of visiting Santorini in the spring, though, is the lower prices. Since it’s not peak season yet, you’ll find that flights and accommodation are more affordable, making this the best time to go to Santorini without breaking the bank!

How to enjoy Santorini in spring: Check out what to do in Santorini and try as many activities as possible, without worrying about waiting lines, packed spaces or high prices!

 

June – July – August: Best time to go to Santorini if you want “the full experience”

Summer is peak tourist season, which may seem off-putting to many, but it is what the majority of people visiting the island really want.

The weather is much warmer and sunny, with temperatures normally over 30°C (86°F). This is the perfect time to relax on the island’s beautiful beaches, take a boat tour, or enjoy a night out in a bar or club.

However, keep in mind that Santorini can get very crowded during the summer months, especially August.

This means that you’ll need to book your accommodation well in advance, and expect to pay higher prices for everything – from flights to meals.

How to enjoy Santorini in summer: Prebook everything to secure early-bird discounts and travel with ease. Flights, accommodation, Santorini private transfers, and even restaurant reservations can now be booked well in advance!

 

 

best time to go to Santorini

 

September – October: Best time to visit Santorini for honeymoon

Fall is another great time to visit Santorini, with cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, ideal for honeymooners who crave for a romantic getaway!

The average temperature in Santorini during the fall is around 22°C (72°F), which makes it the perfect weather for outdoor activities like hiking and sightseeing.

Moreover, the water is still warm enough to swim in, so you can enjoy the island’s many beautiful beaches without the summer crowds – plus, restaurants and attractions are still open, so you’ll have plenty of options for things to do and see.

How to enjoy Santorini in fall: A Santorini wine tour is all you need, but the list is endless, really! September is the best time to visit Santorini for honeymoon (or to propose, wink-wink), so plan accordingly.

 

November – March: Best time to go to Greece Santorini for digital nomads

Winter is the low season in Santorini, with fewer tourists and cooler temperatures – so pack accordingly.

Even though the weather may be cooler, the island remains a beautiful destination in the winter months, with unbeatable views! This is, after all, the best time of year to visit Santorini for a more authentic side of Greek life.

What’s more, the winter months are perfect for experiencing Santorini’s unique cultural offerings, such as the Carnival celebrations in February and the traditional Christmas and New Year’s Eve festivities.

How to enjoy Santorini in winter: Time to explore the most touristy places, without the tourists! Did you know that you can savor the caldera sunset every day from your own home? Check out where to stay in Santorini to make this happen!

best time of the year to visit Santorini Greece

Now that you know when to visit Santorini, plan your trip!

Check out The JoyVan’s advice and plan the perfect Santorini trip:

  • Book your accommodation, airport transfers and activities in advance, especially if you’re visiting during peak season.
  • Be prepared for the weather. Santorini can be hot and sunny in the summer, but cool and breezy in the winter. Pack accordingly.
  • Don’t forget to try the local cuisine, which includes fresh seafood, fava beans, and the island’s famous cherry tomatoes.
  • Finally, take the time to relax and enjoy the stunning scenery that Santorini has to offer. Whether you’re watching the sunset over the caldera or lounging on the black sand beach, Santorini is a destination that is meant to be savored.

And remember: If you want to go to the beaches, the off-season will not work. But if you’re focused on simply enjoying one of the best islands in the world, then the best time to visit Santorini is any time.

 

 

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