Sofia Ps.
Why you should visit Santorini in autumn
I’m sure you’re wondering why you should visit Santorini in autumn, when you might as well go in the summer and experience your perfect Greek summer holidays, go to the beach, and get that flawless picture with the smooth golden light. However, Santorini might not be as ideal as you think during the summer months.
You might not know this, but several Greeks avoid going to Santorini in the summer, especially in August. It’s more expensive, because it’s high season, and chances are it would be extremely crowded. Many of us prefer going to Santorini in early autumn, meaning September or even October, when it’s quieter but the weather is still warm and nice. I know that’s sound a bit risky, because sometimes it can be windy and rainy in autumn, but to be honest this risk is also there in June or July.
So, keep reading and find out three reasons why it’s better to visit Santorini in the fall.
1. Fewer crowds
Santorini, also known as Thera, is one of the most popular places in Greece. When you visit the island for the first time you understand why. Santorini is absolutely beautiful; the architecture combined with the unique geomorphology are truly breathtaking and the famous sunset at Oia is know for a good reason, the view from up there is stunning.
However, most popular also means most crowed. I feel so bad when I hear from people that they visited Santorini and they didn’t like it at all. The complain is always the same: it was extremely crowded and they couldn’t relax or truly enjoy their time on the island. That’s such a pity, but it kind of make sense. Santorini is charming, but when you can’t find a seat at a restaurant, or can’t even walk on the picturesque cobbled-roads without bumping to hundreds of people, the island soon loses that charm.
Most tourists choose to go in the summer, which means that if you go in September or October, you’ll have a much more calming and delightful experience.
2. Better prices
Santorini is a pricy island no matter when you visit. However, high season (summer) is so much more expensive. So, basically you spend way more money to get the exact same experience that you would if you went during late spring or early autumn.
3. Lovely weather
I get it. You want go to Santorini to experience your ideal, warm, and carefree Greek summer. And summer in Greece is June-July-August, right? Although that’s technically true, it doesn’t mean that you can’t get the “summer experience” during other months as well. Warm weather in Greece starts in April-May and lasts until September-October. In fact, quite often spring and autumn are so much better than summer. Summer in Greece can be hot -very hot. And sometimes the heat can actually ruin your vacations. You can’t hike, you sweat all the time, you get sunburn, you can’t sleep that well at night, and you feel exhausted by midday. If you’re not used of living in a place where it can easily get to 35-40 °C (95-104°F) or more, you won’t particularly enjoy summer in Santorini. In autumn it’s warm enough to go to the beach and cool enough to feel comfortable with a light jacket in the evening.
All in all, Santorini is of course a wonderful island, no matter when you visit. But if you can go in early autumn, you’ll probably have a much better experience!
Are you visiting Santorini for a long weekend? Check out this post to see things to do in Santorini in 3 days!