September is a beautiful time of year in Greece for many reasons; not only is the weather still pleasantly warm, making it ideal for outdoor activities, but a particularly peaceful ambience settles over the country as the bustling summer months come to an end. 

With the peak travel season over, September offers the perfect opportunity to explore the beautiful Greek islands with fewer crowds. Historical sites are much easier to access and accommodation costs are significantly reduced, making it an appealing and affordable option!

The Greek Islands are divided into several distinct groups, each with its own unique character. From the Cyclades to the Dodecanese, and the Sporades, every region comes to life in September with autumnal festivals and celebrations, offering a charming seasonal experience.

In this article, we will explore the very best Greek island to visit in September, covering a range of popular destinations and lesser-known gems. Whether you’re seeking ancient ruins, peaceful beaches, vibrant nightlife, or a place to soak in the last of the summer heat, September in Greece offers something for every traveller. 

The weather in Greece in September is typically very pleasant, offering a mix of summer warmth and cooler evenings. The heat of July and August can sometimes be overwhelming, reaching highs of 40°C in some regions. But the September climes are far more comfortable, typically ranging from 24°C to 30°C.

The temperature in Greece in September is still warm enough for swimming, sunbathing and outdoor activities, making it suitable for all types of travellers, including families with young children.

Rain is rare in September, with most of the islands staying dry until later in the month. If it did rain, however, showers are typically short and shouldn’t interfere with outdoor plans. So whilst it may not be guaranteed sun in September, it’s very unlikely that you’ll need a raincoat!

If you’re craving a sun-kissed getaway without the summer crowds (or price tag), many Greek islands are still very hot in September. Typically, the hottest Greek islands in September are located in the southern Aegean Sea, specifically in the Dodecanese and the Cyclades. Santorini and Mykonos can reach around 30°C and Rhodes and Kos around 32°C. At these temperatures, you can enjoy all the benefits of a summer getaway without jostling for a spot on the sand!

If you’re wondering where to go in Greece in September, there are many beautiful islands to choose from. Whilst there are over 200 inhabited Greek islands, we’ve handpicked 7 of the very best that promise a relaxing sun-kissed getaway. Whether you’re embarking on a romantic escape, a family holiday or a group adventure, there’s something for everyone in Greece in September.

Crete is the largest Greek island in the southern Aegean Sea south of the mainland. Reaching temperatures between 24°C to 28°C, it is considered one of the hottest places in Greece in September. Offering a range of diverse landscapes, from the rugged White Mountains to the pink sand beaches of Elafonissi, Crete in September is great for outdoor exploration. 

Hiking is especially popular in Crete in September, with Samaria Gorge being one of the most spectacular natural landmarks on the island. Found in the Sfakia region, the Gorge is approximately 16 kilometres long and can take around 4-7 hours to complete. In September, the pathways will be clear and accessible, including routes through cypress forests, wildflower fields and crystal-clear streams.

Crete is steeped in ancient history, and the ruins of Knossos Palace are one of the best things to see in Crete in September. Falling outside of the peak tourist season, the site won’t be crowded with visitors, so you can explore at a leisurely pace. Wander through the remains of an ancient Minoan civilisation, with courtyards and throne rooms showcasing the regal significance of this 3,000-year-old palace.

The Harvest Festival is held in Crete in September which sees communities coming together to celebrate the grape harvest in a series of vibrant parades. Tours of vineyards and wine tastings are especially popular at this time of year, allowing visitors to sample the delicious seasonal flavours of Vidiano and Kotsifali wines.

Corfu is an island located in the Ionian Sea just off the coast of Albania. The temperatures vary between 22°C and 26°C, offering pleasant conditions for outdoor activities. Whilst many visitors flock here in the summer, September in Corfu is just as enticing, with quieter beaches offering a serene coastal escape.

Corfu’s Paleotraskia Beach is one of the best places to visit in Greece in September. Whilst July and August see its shorelines packed with tourists, September adopts a calmer atmosphere, and visitors can stretch out on warm white sands without having to jostle for a spot.

The UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town is another popular attraction in Corfu in September. Without the bustling summer crowds, you can fully appreciate the beauty of this historic city. Wander through a Spianada Square lined with Venetian and Byzantine architecture, and explore the Jewish Quarter with its maze of cobblestone streets and charming shops.

The Feast of the Virgin Mary is an annual festival celebrated on the 8th of September in various churches across the island. The main celebration occurs in the village of Paleokastritsa, where the Monastery of the Virgin Mary is located. Enjoy processions, music and local feasts here for an authentic experience in Corfu in September.

Zakynthos, or Zante, is one of the most iconic islands in the Ionian cluster close to Corfu. Temperatures in Zante in September hover between 23°C to 27°C, with warmer days and cooler evenings, making it a pleasant time to visit. In the Summer, Zante becomes packed with tourists, eager to see the notorious Navagio or ‘Shipwreck’ Beach. But in the autumn, the crowds clear and the beach transforms into a serene sandy haven. 

The Blue Water Caves are a magical natural phenomenon in Zante. Found on the northwest coast near the village of Skinari, the Blue Water Caves are nestled at the base of giant limestone cliffs that are only accessible by boat. Visitors can sail into the striking blue waters, taking on an especially ethereal ambience without large groups of tourists. 

Zante is considered one of the best Greek islands in September for nightlife. Whilst the island is more relaxed compared to the summer months, bars and nightclubs still offer a buzzing party scene, especially in the Laganas area. If you enjoy a laid-back vibe, Tsilivi and Argassi offer a good mix of traditional tavernas and quiet cocktail bars where you can unwind and watch the sunset.

Rhodes is situated in the eastern Aegean Sea and is the largest of the Dodecanese islands. As it lies close to the Turkish coast, Rhodes is one of the warmest Greek islands in September, with temperatures of 24°C to 28°C. With clear skies and very little chance of rain, Rhodes is the closest you’ll get to guaranteed sun in September. 

There are plenty of things to do in Rhodes in September, including a guided tour of the Medieval Old Town. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is located in the heart of Rhodes city and is a maze of cobbled streets and ancient city walls. Admire the intricate mosaics embedded in the 14th-century Palace of the Grand Masters and stroll through Simi Square, a peaceful spot to sit and enjoy the surroundings. 

The picturesque Village of Lindos is one of the best places to visit in Greece in September. Located on the east coast of Rhodes, around 50 kilometres from Rhodes Town, Lindos is renowned for its classic Dedocanese charm, with whitewashed buildings, narrow winding streets and authentic tavernas. The Acropolis of Lindos is a hilltop site that reflects the island’s Byzantine history. September is the ideal time to explore the site, as fewer tourists enable better access to viewpoints. 

While not as famous as Santorini and Mykonos, Naxos is the largest island in the Cyclades and a hidden gem when it comes to Greek getaways. With cooler temperatures of around 22°C and 26°C in September, it provides comfortable conditions for exploring beaches, historical sites and fun autumnal festivals! 

Naxos is considered one of the best Greek islands for families in September, with plenty of child-friendly activities. For a culturally immersive experience, visitors of all ages love exploring the Temple of Apollo. This grand structure stands on a small islet just off the coast of Naxos Town, and without the sweltering summer heat, September is the perfect time to roam the ruins. 

The Beaches of Naxos offer golden sands, crystal clear waters and secluded coves, perfect for those seeking peace and privacy in Greece in September. Plaka Beach is a vast stretch of sand with shallow turquoise waters, ideal for families with children. 

If you’re seeking fun autumnal festivities, Naxos is one of the best Greek islands to visit in September for seasonal celebrations. The annual Naxos festival is held from late July through September, showcasing a vibrant mix of music, theatre, dance and art. The festival is primarily located in the Bazeos Tower, a historic Venetian monument near the village of Kinidaros. Visitors can watch fantastic performances or get involved in workshops for an immersive experience.

Despite being one of the smaller islands in the Greek Cyclades, Santorini is also one of the most famous. Known for its stunning sea views, whitewashed buildings and classic blue-domed churches, the island exudes a traditional feel that appeals to visitors all year round. In September, however, Santorini adopts a more authentic ambience with fewer tourists, making it one of the best times to visit.

Venture to Oia, a hilltop village in Santorini offering vibrant sunsets. Here you can find a maze of winding alleys lined with cafes and restaurants, as well as artisan boutiques selling handmade jewellery and ceramics. Venture to Oia Castle, a historical site that dates back to the 15th century, to catch the very best panoramic views of the island.

Boasting many luxurious hotels nestled in the hillside, Santorini is one of the best Greek islands for couples in September. Enjoy a peaceful retreat with your loved one in a private suite, complete with plush interiors, infinity pools and balconies overlooking the Aegean Sea. Outside of the peak travel months, accommodation in Santorini becomes more affordable, so you can enjoy all the luxury without the summer price tag.

Santorini is one of the best Greek islands in September for wine-tasting experiences. During the harvest season, the volcanic soils produce the most flavoursome grape varieties, including Assyrtiko and Aidani. Visitors can enjoy wine tours sampling Santorini’s famous products and learning about the significance of wine harvest in local culture.