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Last updated: July 8, 2026
Planning your trip? Book ferry tickets to Santorini. Rent a car to explore in any weather. Stay at Athina Luxury Suites for caldera views rain or shine.
Santorini has a classic Mediterranean climate: long hot summers, mild winters, and almost no rain from May to September. But the devil is in the details. The Meltemi wind can turn a calm beach day into a sandblasted ordeal, and the difference between May and August is not just temperature — it is crowds, prices, and the entire feel of the island.
Month-by-Month Weather
| Month | Avg High °C | Avg Low °C | Sea Temp °C | Rain Days | Meltemi | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 13 | 8 | 16 | 10 | Rare | ❌ Quiet, cool, many closures |
| February | 13 | 8 | 15 | 8 | Rare | ❌ Similar to January |
| March | 15 | 9 | 16 | 7 | Rare | ⚠️ Early spring, unpredictable |
| April | 19 | 12 | 17 | 4 | Rare | ✅ Wildflowers, Easter |
| May | 23 | 16 | 20 | 2 | Light | ✅✅ Best value month |
| June | 28 | 20 | 23 | 0 | Moderate | ✅✅ Warm, pre-peak |
| July | 31 | 23 | 25 | 0 | Strong | ✅ Hot, crowded, windy |
| August | 31 | 24 | 26 | 0 | Strong | ✅ Hottest, most crowded |
| September | 28 | 21 | 25 | 1 | Moderate | ✅✅ Warm sea, fewer crowds |
| October | 23 | 17 | 22 | 4 | Light | ✅ Mild, swim-able |
| November | 19 | 13 | 20 | 6 | Rare | ⚠️ Autumn rains begin |
| December | 15 | 10 | 17 | 9 | Rare | ❌ Winter setting in |
The Meltemi Wind: What You Need to Know
The Meltemi is the defining weather feature of an Aegean summer. It is a strong, dry north wind that blows from mid-June to September, peaking in July and August.
How it affects Santorini:
- Ferries: Strong Meltemi (force 7+) can delay or cancel ferries, especially high-speed services. Monitor ferry schedules and book flexible tickets in peak wind season
- Beaches: North-coast beaches get battered. Head to south-coast beaches (Perissa, Perivolos, Vlychada, Kamari) which are sheltered by the island's ridge. See our best beaches guide
- Boat tours: Catamaran cruises occasionally cancel on strong Meltemi days. Book tours that depart from Vlychada (sheltered south port). Our boat tours guide has details
- Temperature: The Meltemi actually cools the island, making 32°C feel more like 26°C in the breeze. But it can be unpleasant if you are not prepared
Driving in Meltemi: If riding an ATV or scooter (Santorini Quad from €25/day), strong wind can be dangerous on exposed roads. Consider renting a car instead: Santorini Rent Me from €23/day or Mercury Cars.
Best Months by Activity
| Activity | Best Months | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Beach swimming | June–September | Sea above 23°C |
| Fira to Oia hike | April–May, October | Cool enough for comfortable walking |
| Wine tasting | Year-round (best: Sept–Oct harvest) | Cooler tastings, harvest atmosphere |
| Catamaran cruise | May–October | Calm seas, warm evenings |
| Volcano tour | April–May, September–October | Less heat on exposed volcanic rock |
| Photography | May, September–October | Golden light, no haze |
| Budget travel | May, October | 30–40% cheaper than July/August |
For activity-specific planning, see our 25 things to do in Santorini.
What to Pack
Summer (June–September)
- Light cotton clothing (white and linen ideal)
- Strong SPF 50+ sunscreen (the volcanic reflection intensifies UV)
- Wide-brimmed hat and quality sunglasses
- Comfortable walking shoes for village cobblestones and hiking
- Light jacket or cardigan for Meltemi evenings and boat cruises
- Waterproof phone case for boat tours
- Dark swimwear (hot springs sulphur stains light colours)
Shoulder Season (April–May, October)
- Layers: T-shirt + light fleece or windbreaker
- Rain jacket (occasional showers)
- Walking shoes for the caldera hike
- Warmer evening wear for outdoor dining
Winter (November–March)
- Warm jacket, sweater layers
- Waterproof shoes
- Umbrella
- Note: many restaurants, hotels, and tours close November to April
Shoulder Season: The Smart Choice
Our Santorini shoulder season guide makes the full case, but the summary is:
- May: 25°C, wildflowers, uncrowded, 30–40% cheaper. Sea is 20°C (swim-able for most people)
- October: 23°C, warm sea (22°C), half the visitors of August, stunning light for photography
- You can still do everything: catamaran cruises, wine tastings, volcano tours, and all our partner activities run May through October
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best month to visit Santorini? May, June, and September are the sweet spots. May has the best value (lower prices, no crowds, 22–26°C). September has the warmest sea (25°C) and fewer visitors. July–August guarantees sun but brings peak crowds and prices.
How hot is Santorini in July? Average 28–32°C, with heatwaves reaching 35°C+. The Meltemi wind cools but can be gusty. Sea temperature is 24–25°C. Start activities early morning and avoid 12–4pm outdoors.
Does it rain in Santorini in October? October averages 3–4 rainy days but still has plenty of sunshine. Temperatures 20–24°C with 22°C sea. Early October is excellent; late October gets more autumnal.
What is the Meltemi wind? A strong north wind blowing June to September, strongest July–August. It cools the island but affects ferries and north-coast beaches. South-coast beaches (Perissa, Kamari) are sheltered.
→ Santorini island guide | Shoulder season guide | Best beaches → Things to do in Santorini | Rent a car | Ferry to Santorini
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