Evangelos Kasapakis

Why September Is the Best Time to Visit the Greek Islands!

  • Uncategorized, Top Stories, Travel, What’s on
  • Posted 3 weeks ago

Seven islands with unique hotel offers, by Greeklist.

As the summer frenzy winds down and the calendar turns to September, the Greek islands  enter a golden season—calmer, cooler, and arguably even more enchanting than the peak summer months. The blazing heat gives way to warm, gentle sunshine, the Greek seas remain crystal clear and comfortably swimmable, and the crowds that once packed ferries and beaches begin to thin out. It’s the perfect moment to experience Greece at its most authentic and relaxed pace. 

From the rugged cliffs of the Cyclades to the lush greenery of the Ionian Islands, each destination offers a unique atmosphere—serene, sun-kissed, and steeped in local charm. September isn’t just a quieter time to visit; it’s the ideal time to truly feel the islands.. Whether you’re island-hopping or staying put, the atmosphere in September is unhurried and immersive, offering a deeper connection with the local culture and landscape.

Why September Is The Best Time To Visit The Greek Islands! - Visit Greece During September - Greek List

Why Should You Visit the Greek Islands in September?

If you’re dreaming of turquoise waters, golden beaches, and whitewashed villages—but without the crowds and chaos—September is the perfect time to visit the Greek Islands. As the high season fades, the islands reveal a more relaxed and authentic charm that many travelers consider the best-kept secret of the Mediterranean.

The weather in September is ideal: warm enough for sunbathing and swimming, yet cooler and more comfortable than the scorching peak of July and August. Sea temperatures are still perfect for long swims, beach days are less crowded, and evenings invite open-air dining under the stars without the stifling heat. Whether you’re sailing through the Cyclades or lounging on the Ionian coast, you’ll enjoy sunshine, serenity, and the scent of the sea—without fighting for a sunbed or waiting in line at the taverna.

Culturally, September is also a rewarding time to visit. With fewer tourists around, you’ll have space to truly connect with local life—whether that means chatting with shopkeepers, joining a village festival, or exploring historic ruins without the crowds. The islands slow down just enough for you to take it all in at your own pace.

Even better, September comes with incredible value. Many of Greece’s top 4- and 5-star hotels offer special end-of-season discounts, meaning you can enjoy luxury amenities—beachfront views, infinity pools, spa treatments—for a fraction of the summer price. It’s the sweet spot between experience and economy.

So if you’re looking for the ideal mix of sun, sea, culture, and calm, skip the summer frenzy and head to the Greek Islands in September. It might just become your favorite month of the year.

Why September Is The Best Time To Visit The Greek Islands! - Visit Greece During Autumn - Greek List

Here are seven islands to visit in Greece during September, with unique hotel offers!

Monolithos, Santorini –  Scorpios Beach Hotel

Why September Is The Best Time To Visit The Greek Islands! - Monolithos Santorini - Greek List

Located on the eastern coast of Santorini, Monolithos offers a tranquil alternative to the island’s famous cliffside villages. Just a short drive from both the airport and Fira, it’s ideal for travelers looking to escape the bustle of the caldera while still enjoying the island’s unique charm. The beach at Monolithos features fine black volcanic sand and shallow, calm waters—making it one of the most family-friendly spots on the island. While part of the beach is organized with sunbeds and umbrellas, much of it retains a more natural feel, framed by sand dunes and shaded by tamarisk trees. You’ll find a few local tavernas, a children’s playground, and even a beach volleyball court nearby. In September, the area becomes particularly inviting: the weather remains warm, the sea is still perfect for swimming, and the pace of life slows to something more authentic. It’s an ideal place to relax and enjoy Santorini’s lesser-known side.

Scorpios Beach Hotel is a charming 4-star retreat located just steps from Monolithos Beach. With 23 stylish and spacious rooms and suites, it offers a peaceful stay with modern amenities, including a large outdoor pool, poolside bar, and sauna. The atmosphere is welcoming and laid-back, perfect for couples or families seeking simplicity, comfort, and easy beach access.

Pigadia, Karpathos – CHC Sound of the Sea

Why September Is The Best Time To Visit The Greek Islands! - Pigadia Karpathos - Greek List

Nestled just a short walk from Pigadia, the charming main town of Karpathos, this area blends traditional Greek island life with coastal relaxation. Pigadia’s waterfront is full of fishing boats, waterfront cafés, and tavernas serving local cuisine, while fragrant pine-covered hills rise just behind the harbor. In September, the island’s warm energy remains, but with far fewer visitors—making it an ideal time to explore beaches like Afoti or Kastelia, or dive into Karpathos’s rich folk traditions. Thanks to the island’s preserved customs, regional dresses and dances, and the dramatic coastline, travelers get an immersive cultural experience in a setting that still feels untouched by mass tourism. The sea stays inviting, the weather softens, and the village streets invite unhurried wandering amid sea breezes and sunlit terraces.

CHC Sound of the Sea is a 4-star eco-certified aparthotel set in a garden just a few minutes from Pigadia’s port. It offers sea-view studios, suites, and maisonettes—all modest in design yet comfortably equipped with air-conditioning, kitchenettes or premium bedding, and balconies overlooking the garden or sea. Onsite amenities include a seasonal outdoor pool (plus a children’s pool), a fitness center, snack bar or café, and free self-parking and Wi‑Fi. Guests frequently praise the friendly service, breathtaking sea views, and outstanding location near shops and local eateries—making it a relaxing, well-connected home base for exploring Karpathos in September

Moraitika‑Messonghi, Corfu – Mitsis Messonghi Beach Hotel

Why September Is The Best Time To Visit The Greek Islands! - Moraitika Corfu - Greek List

This stretch of Corfu’s southeastern shoreline combines the charm of two friendly coastal villages with stunning Ionian scenery. Moraitika and Messonghi offer long pebble-and-sand beaches framed by pine groves and olive trees, local tavernas serving Corfiot specialties, and a welcoming atmosphere. In September, the resort’s energy stays gentle yet vibrant—sea temperatures remain inviting while crowds thin, meaning quieter beaches and more space to explore. With easy connections to Corfu Town, opportunities for boat excursions, and local water sports still available, it’s an ideal time for visitors who wish to blend beach time with light cultural outings and leisurely promenades.

Mitsis Messonghi Beach Hotel,  This large 4-star all-inclusive resort sits directly on the beachfront, surrounded by lush greenery and Meander-style gardens. Guests have access to multiple pools—including a mini water-park area—along with tennis courts, a spa offering massages and thalassotherapy treatments, and a variety of daily activities for all ages. Accommodations are spread across several buildings and offer balconies or terraces, satellite TV, air conditioning, and free Wi‑Fi. With its excellent beach access, lively entertainment program, and friendly yet efficient service, it’s a practical and enjoyable choice for families and couples looking to relax in comfort in Corfu.

Exotica Hotel & Spa – Kalamaki, Zakynthos

Why September Is The Best Time To Visit The Greek Islands! - Kalamaki Zakynthos - Greek List

Kalamaki is a quiet and scenic village on the southern coast of Zakynthos, known for its golden sandy beach, shallow turquoise waters, and protected natural environment. The beach is part of the National Marine Park of Zakynthos, a designated nesting site for the endangered Caretta-Caretta sea turtles. This gives the area a peaceful and eco-conscious vibe, with restricted beach access at night to protect the turtles. In September, the pace slows even further—ideal for those seeking relaxation, nature, and sunshine without the summer bustle. Days are still long and warm, and the nearby tavernas, cafes, and nature trails offer a taste of authentic island life.

Exotica Hotel & Spa is a modern 4-star resort just a short walk from Kalamaki Beach. The hotel features spacious, well-kept rooms—some with private pools—alongside a large outdoor pool, spa treatments, and all-inclusive dining. Guests appreciate the calm setting, friendly staff, and easy access to both the beach and local shops, making it a convenient and relaxing base for a September getaway.

Agios Prokopios, Naxos – Kavuras Village Hotel & Suites

Why September Is The Best Time To Visit The Greek Islands! - Agios Prokopios - Greek List

Agios Prokopios, located on the sun-drenched southwest coast of Naxos, is one of the island’s most beloved beach destinations. The area is best known for its long stretch of fine golden sand and calm, turquoise waters that make it ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Unlike some of the more crowded islands, Naxos in September still feels alive but never overwhelming—perfect for unwinding in a quiet beach café, renting a bike to explore nearby trails, or watching the sunset from a seaside taverna. The beach is backed by low dunes and salt flats, giving the landscape a serene, open feel. Thanks to its proximity to Naxos Town, Agios Prokopios also offers easy access to local shops, bakeries, and casual nightlife, making it a well-rounded base for travelers who want a little of everything without the high-season noise.

Kavuras Village Hotel & Suites is a relaxed 4-star hotel perched slightly above Agios Prokopios, offering sweeping sea views and a peaceful setting surrounded by greenery. The hotel features spacious rooms and suites, many with private balconies, as well as a large outdoor pool, kids’ play area, and sports facilities like mini-golf and volleyball. Guests often praise the friendly hospitality, clean spaces, and generous buffet meals, making it a solid and stress-free choice for couples and families alike.

Agia Efimia, Kefalonia – Kefalonia Bay Palace

Why September Is The Best Time To Visit The Greek Islands! - Agia Efimia Kefalonia - Greek List

Agia Efimia is a serene seaside village on the eastern coast of Kefalonia, known for its postcard-perfect harbor, traditional architecture, and welcoming local vibe. Surrounded by dramatic hills and turquoise waters, it’s a haven for sailing enthusiasts and travelers seeking a quieter, more authentic Greek experience. The waterfront is lined with charming tavernas, cafés, and small shops, while nearby hidden beaches and coves offer peaceful spots for swimming, snorkelling, or just soaking in the Ionian sun. September is a beautiful time to visit, as the weather remains warm and stable, but the summer rush has faded. This creates the perfect setting for leisurely boat trips, scenic drives along the coast, or quiet afternoons sipping coffee by the marina.

Kefalonia Bay Palace is a 4-star hillside hotel that overlooks the bay with uninterrupted views of the sea. It features a mix of well-appointed rooms and private villas, many with their own terraces or even plunge pools. The hotel offers two outdoor swimming pools, a sun deck, and a bar where guests can relax while taking in the panoramic scenery. With its peaceful atmosphere, attentive service, and prime location just minutes from the village and beach, it’s an excellent choice for a relaxing September escape.

Prinos, Thasos – Ilio Mare Hotel

Why September Is The Best Time To Visit The Greek Islands! - Prinos Thassos - Greek List

Nestled on the northwestern coast of Thasos, Prinos and its coastal port Skala Prinos form a picturesque gateway to the island. Skala Prinos serves as a regional ferry hub, offering connections to mainland Greece, yet it retains a tranquil, traditional charm – think pine-shaded lanes, local markets, and rustic tavernas by the sea. The surrounding coastline features soft sandy stretches and clear emerald waters, perfect for a September beach visit when the summer heat softens and the swimming conditions stay ideal. With a slower pace and authentic rhythms, the area invites quiet exploration—whether through forested hiking trails, fishing excursions, or leisurely walks along the marina under warm golden light.

Ilio Mare Hotel is a 5-star beachfront resort sitting directly on Skala Prinos’s blue‑flag beach. Its colonial-inspired architecture blends with lush landscaped gardens and palm trees that frame waterfall-fed pools. The resort offers 137 spacious rooms and suites, many with balconies overlooking the sea or gardens. Guests enjoy two on-site restaurants, pool bars, a spa, fitness facilities, children’s club, tennis court, and private parking. With attentive service, beachfront access, and good dining options, it provides an upscale yet relaxed setting for a September stay on Thasos

Get more hotel offers for September, in the Greek islands, as well as the Greek mainland, here!

Summer does not end on August 31 in Greece!

As the summer crowds retreat and the islands breathe a little easier, September unveils a different kind of magic across Greece—one that’s slower, softer, and more soulfully authentic. From the volcanic beaches of Santorini to the green hills of Thasos, each destination offers its own rhythm, flavors, and beauty under the golden light of late summer. Whether you’re after cultural discovery, peaceful seafronts, or luxury by the water, there’s no better time to explore the islands. And with our exclusive offers on handpicked 4- and 5-star hotels, you can experience the best of Greece in style—without the high-season prices. Your perfect escape is just a ferry (or flight) away. September is calling!

Why September Is The Best Time To Visit The Greek Islands! - Greek Islands Autumn 2025 - Greek List

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