How to Do Santorini in September (Without the Crowds)

Written By Angie Johnson
Scenic view of Oia, Santorini, Greece with whitewashed houses, blue-domed churches, and a bell tower overlooking the Aegean Sea.

View from Oia, Santorini Greece

Santorini might be one of the most photographed islands in the world, but visiting in September reveals a side most travelers never see—calmer streets, cooler weather, and a more relaxed pace without sacrificing the island’s beauty. If you’ve dreamed of wandering through whitewashed lanes and capturing those iconic blue-domed views without the crowds, September is the secret season you’ve been waiting for.

🌅 Why September Is the Perfect Time

Colorful hillside village of Oia in Santorini, Greece at sunset, with whitewashed houses, windmills, and the Aegean Sea in the background.

Santorini Island in September

By September, the summer rush has tapered off. The cruise ships thin out, families are back to school, and the island belongs once again to those who prefer a quieter, more authentic experience. Days are still warm, with average highs in the 70s–80s°F (24–28°C), and evenings are breezy—perfect for sunset strolls in Oia or outdoor dining in Fira.

🏨 Hotel Booking Tips

Modern hotel room in Santorini with double bed, large window, and ocean view overlooking the Aegean Sea

Hotel Room on Santorini

  • Book Boutique Over Big: Smaller boutique hotels and luxury villas in Imerovigli or Pyrgos often offer more space and privacy than the well-known cliffside hotels in Oia.

  • Check for Shoulder-Season Rates: September brings price drops of up to 20–30% compared to peak summer. That means you can upgrade to a caldera-view suite or a private plunge pool without breaking your budget.

  • Look for Flexible Stays: Many properties in September are more flexible with minimum-night requirements. Perfect if you want to combine Santorini with another island like Milos or Paros.

🚶 Off-the-Path Experiences

Red volcanic cliffs of Red Beach in Santorini, Greece, with hikers exploring the rocky path at sunset.

Akrotiri Santorini Greece

  • Akrotiri Lighthouse Sunset: Skip the crowds in Oia and head to Akrotiri for a breathtaking, less crowded sunset experience.

  • Wine Country Vibes: September is harvest season—tour family-owned wineries in Megalochori or Exo Gonia for tastings of Assyrtiko and Vinsanto.

  • Beach Day Without the Rush: Head to quieter beaches like Vlychada (with its lunar-like cliffs) or Perivolos for sun and sand minus the summer chaos.

  • Ancient History: Explore the ruins of Akrotiri, the “Minoan Pompeii,” with fewer tour groups clogging the walkways.

📸 Best Photo Spots Without the Crowds

Close-up of a traveler holding a camera in Santorini, Greece, capturing photos of iconic island views

Best Photo Spots on Santorini

  • Imerovigli: Known as the “balcony of the Aegean,” this village offers iconic caldera shots with far fewer people than Oia.

  • Pyrgos Village: Wander through charming alleys and find hidden viewpoints where you can capture panoramic views of the entire island.

  • Early Morning Oia: If Oia is a must for your Instagram grid, go just after sunrise. The light is soft, and the streets are blissfully quiet.

  • Red Beach: While more popular in summer, in September you’ll find space to capture the dramatic cliffs and turquoise waters without elbow-to-elbow tourists.

✨ Final Thoughts

Santorini in September is the island at its best—authentic, peaceful, and stunningly beautiful. With smart hotel bookings, a few insider experiences, and perfectly timed photo ops, you can enjoy all the magic of Santorini without the shoulder-to-shoulder crowds.

📌 Planning a trip? Don’t forget to download the Ultimate Greece Luxury Travel Guide for expert tips on where to stay, what to book, and how to make your dream vacation effortless.

Angie Johnson
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