Winter in Santorini feels so different from the busy summer months. The island slows down, the streets get quieter, and the weather follows a mild Mediterranean pattern.
Daytime temperatures usually hover around 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F), with January and February being the coolest and wettest. Nights can feel pretty chilly, especially when those strong winds sweep across the caldera.
You won’t find scorching heat or packed beaches, but you will get a calmer pace and a chance to soak up the island’s beauty without the summer rush. Rain comes more often in winter, though clear days still bring enough sunshine for wandering through villages or staring out at the Aegean.
The sea’s too cold for most people to swim, but the crisp air and softer light really make the landscape pop in a whole new way.
Traveling this time of year gives you a different take on Santorini. You see local life up close, enjoy lower prices, and wander the famous sites without the long lines.
Knowing what to expect from the weather helps you plan with a bit more confidence.
Overview of Santorini in Winter
Santorini in winter brings mild weather, fewer visitors, and a slower pace compared to the packed summer months. Expect cool but comfortable temperatures, more elbow room to explore, and a chance to check out the island’s natural and cultural sites without heavy crowds.
Location and Geography of Santorini
Santorini belongs to the Cyclades group in the southern Aegean Sea. It sits about 200 kilometers southeast of mainland Greece.
A massive volcanic eruption thousands of years ago shaped its unique crescent form and caldera.
Steep cliffs, black and red volcanic beaches, and whitewashed villages perch above the sea. In winter, the air feels clearer, making the views sharper and the colors more vivid.
Santorini covers around 76 square kilometers—small enough to explore in just a few days. Villages like Fira, Oia, and Imerovigli connect by winding roads and hiking trails that stay open all year.
Santorini’s Mediterranean Climate
Santorini gets a Mediterranean climate—hot, dry summers and mild, wetter winters. From late October through April, average daytime temperatures usually land between 10°C and 15°C (50°F–59°F).
At night, it can drop closer to 5°C (41°F), especially in January and February.
Rain falls more often in winter, but usually in short bursts rather than long storms. Strong winds, especially from the north, often make the air feel cooler.
Even with the rain, you’ll still catch a fair amount of sunny days. Santorini averages about 4–5 hours of sunshine daily in winter, compared to 12–13 hours in summer.
The sea stays too cold for swimming, with water temperatures near 16°C (61°F).
Tourism Trends During Winter
Winter marks the low season on Santorini Island. The summer crowds disappear, and many hotels, beach clubs, and tourist shops shut until spring.
Still, essential services, local tavernas, and some cultural sites remain open.
You’ll find fewer flights and ferries, but you can still reach the island from Athens. Accommodation rates drop, so you get more affordable choices in towns like Oia and Fira.
This quieter time lets you explore landmarks like Akrotiri, Skaros Rock, and Pyrgos village with no lines. With fewer tourists, you can actually talk to locals and enjoy a more relaxed pace.
Typical Winter Weather Conditions
Winter on Santorini brings mild but damp weather compared to the hot, dry summer. Expect cooler temperatures, more rain, stronger winds, and shorter days with less sunshine.
These changes make the island quieter, with fewer crowds and a slower rhythm.
Average Temperatures by Month
From December through February, daytime highs usually sit between 14°C and 16°C (57°F–61°F). Nighttime lows drop to 9°C–11°C (48°F–52°F), with the coldest nights sometimes near 5°C (41°F).
January stands out as the chilliest month, while December and February are only a touch warmer. The sea stays cool, averaging 15°C–17°C (59°F–63°F), which keeps most people out of the water but helps the coastal air feel milder.
You probably won’t see freezing temperatures, but brisk evenings are common. A light jacket works for daytime, but you’ll want heavier layers at night, especially if you’re out walking in the wind.
Rainfall and Precipitation Patterns
Rain picks up a lot in winter compared to summer. December and January are the wettest months, with around 100–114 mm (4–4.5 in) of rain.
February drops to about 80 mm (3 in).
Rain falls on 8–12 days per month, often as short, heavy showers. Long storms aren’t common, but puddles and slick streets show up fast, especially in the narrow lanes of Oia and Fira.
Snow almost never falls on Santorini, though you might spot it on the higher peaks of other Cycladic islands. Most rain comes with clouds and cool winds, so waterproof shoes and a compact umbrella come in handy.
Wind and Cloud Cover
Winter winds on Santorini blow stronger than in summer. Northerly and northwesterly winds often hit 30–40 km/h (18–25 mph).
These winds can feel sharp, especially along the caldera cliffs and exposed paths.
Clouds show up more often in winter, with skies overcast or mostly cloudy about one-third of the time. Clear days still happen, but expect more gray skies than in the dry season.
The wind can also mess with ferry schedules and sea conditions. If you’re planning to hop between islands, keep your plans flexible in case of delays.
On calmer days, the air feels fresh and visibility across the Aegean is excellent.
Daylight Hours and Sunshine
Winter days in Santorini are shorter, with daylight running from about 9.5 hours in December to 11 hours in February. That means less time for sightseeing than in summer.
Sunshine averages 4–6 hours per day, which is a lot less than the 12–13 hours you get in July. Cloud cover often blocks direct sunlight, but when the skies clear, that low winter sun casts a softer light across the caldera.
UV levels drop compared to summer, but you might still want sunglasses and a bit of sunscreen on clear days. Sunsets come earlier, and you can enjoy them without fighting crowds.
Sea Temperatures and Swimming
Winter in Santorini brings much cooler sea conditions than the summer months. The Aegean Sea stays accessible, but the water is definitely colder, so swimming depends on how much you can handle chilly temps.
Average Sea Water Temperatures
From December through February, the sea around Santorini keeps cooling. In December, water averages about 18°C (64°F).
By January, it drops to around 17°C (63°F), and in February, it hits its lowest at roughly 16–17°C (61–62°F).
That’s cooler than the Mediterranean average in summer, but still warmer than many northern European seas in winter. The difference between air and sea isn’t huge, so the water feels brisk but not icy.
If you compare it to the warmest months, when the sea reaches 25–27°C (77–81°F), the contrast is pretty dramatic. Winter sea temperatures run about 8–10 degrees lower, which really changes how long you’ll want to swim.
Suitability for Swimming and Water Activities
Swimming in Santorini during winter is possible, but it’s not ideal for most people. At 16–18°C, the sea feels cold, and most folks won’t stay in long without a wetsuit.
Short dips can be refreshing, but longer swims are tough.
For water activities, conditions vary. Snorkeling, diving, or kayaking can still be fun if you wear thermal gear.
Local dive shops usually provide wetsuits, so you can explore underwater even in the cooler months.
If you prefer warmer water, winter swimming probably won’t appeal much. Still, Santorini’s coastline has hot springs near Palea Kameni, where volcanic activity keeps the water naturally warm.
Visiting these springs offers a unique alternative to open-sea swimming in the cooler season.
Comparing Winter to Other Seasons
Winter on Santorini Island brings mild temperatures and more rainfall, creating a quieter vibe than the busy summer months.
Spring and autumn offer moderate weather, balanced daylight, and fewer crowds, which might make them a sweet spot depending on what you want from your trip.
Differences From Summer Weather
Santorini’s summer is hot, dry, and sunny, with highs around 27–30 °C (80–86 °F) in July and August. Rain almost never falls, and the island enjoys long daylight hours—about 14–15 hours.
The Meltemi winds sometimes cool things down, but they can also make the sea rough.
Winter, on the other hand, averages 10–15 °C (50–59 °F) during the day, with cooler nights. Rain picks up, especially in December and January, when monthly totals can go over 100 mm.
Sunshine drops to 4–5 hours per day, compared to 11–12 hours in midsummer.
The sea’s another big difference. In August, water temperatures reach about 24–25 °C (75–77 °F), but by February they fall to 15–16 °C (59–61 °F), which is too cold for most swimmers.
You’ll also find fewer ferry routes and less nightlife in winter, while summer brings full schedules and packed beaches.
Shoulder Seasons: Autumn and Spring
Spring and autumn in Santorini bridge the gap between summer’s heat and winter’s chill. In April and May, highs range from 16–23 °C (61–73 °F), with longer days and about 8–9 hours of sunshine.
Rain stays limited, and the sea warms up slowly, though it’s still cool for swimming until late May.
Autumn, especially September and October, stays warm with highs between 20–27 °C (68–81 °F). The sea is still swimmable into October, averaging 22–24 °C (72–75 °F).
Rain returns gradually, especially by November, but you’ll still get plenty of sunny days.
Both seasons offer steadier weather than winter, without the intense heat and crowds of summer. You get moderate rainfall, comfortable temps, and easier access to outdoor activities like hiking along the caldera or exploring villages at your own pace.
Travel Tips for Visiting Santorini in Winter
Winter in Santorini means mild but changeable weather, quieter streets, and lower travel costs. You’ll need to plan for cooler temps, fewer seasonal services, and different travel schedules than in summer.
What to Pack for Winter Weather
Daytime temperatures in Santorini usually range from 9°C to 16°C (48°F–61°F). Rain and wind are common, especially in January and February.
Packing layers makes the most sense.
Bring light shirts, a couple of sweaters, and a warm jacket. A waterproof coat and sturdy shoes are smart for sudden showers and slippery paths.
Locals wear winter gear like wool sweaters and jackets, so you’ll fit in by dressing similarly.
A small umbrella can help, but since the wind is often strong, a hooded jacket might be better. If you plan to hike, pack comfortable walking shoes with good grip.
Gloves and a scarf come in handy on windy days, especially along the caldera cliffs.
Even though the sea’s cold, you might spot some winter swimmers. If you’re tempted, bring swimwear, but don’t expect beach facilities to be open.
Getting to Santorini During Winter
You’ll find fewer flights to Santorini in winter, but Athens still connects regularly. Prices drop compared to summer, so it’s a pretty affordable time to go.
Ferries keep running all year, though they run less often, and the weather might throw a wrench in your plans.
If you’re thinking about the ferry, just know the seas can get rough when it’s windy. Book ahead if you want, but you probably won’t see the packed boats that summer brings.
Public buses stick around through winter, but don’t expect them every hour. Renting a car gives you way more freedom, especially if you’re itching to check out villages beyond Fira and Oia.
Roads are usually fine, though rain sometimes makes them slick.
Accommodation and Services Availability
A lot of hotels, beach bars, and tourist shops shut down from late autumn until spring. Still, you’ll have no trouble finding a place to stay, and prices are way better than in the high season.
Fira is probably your best bet for a base, since it keeps buzzing all year.
The restaurants that stay open in winter mostly serve locals. That’s actually a plus, since you get to try Greek food without the crowds or fussing over reservations.
Nightlife is quieter, but you can always find a cozy taverna or a small wine bar if you look.
Shops for locals—like bakeries and groceries—stay open. Big touristy stores might close, but you’ll find the basics without any hassle.
If you want a spa day or something fancy, check ahead, since lots of resorts pause those services in the off-season.
Activities and Experiences in the Off-Season
Santorini in winter feels totally different without the summer crowds. The mild weather makes it so much easier to wander around ruins, try local food, or just stroll the island’s trails at your own pace.
Sightseeing and Cultural Attractions
Winter is honestly a great time to visit Santorini’s archaeological and cultural sites, since they’re less crowded. The Akrotiri Archaeological Site—some people call it the “Pompeii of the Aegean”—stays open, and you can check out the ruins without waiting in long lines.
Museums in Fira, like the Museum of Prehistoric Thera, help you get a feel for the island’s history and volcanic roots.
You can wander through traditional villages like Pyrgos or Megalochori, where daily life just keeps rolling, even in winter.
Churches and monasteries open their doors more easily this time of year, so you can actually take in the architecture and the calm.
Some guided tours keep running, too, and they’ll give you a deeper look at Santorini’s story.
Dining and Local Cuisine
Most beach bars and seasonal restaurants lock up for the winter, but you’ll always spot a few tavernas open in Fira and Oia. They serve classics like fava me koukia (yellow split pea puree) and fresh seafood.
You’ll also notice lower prices in winter, so eating out at nicer places won’t break the bank. Local wines, especially Assyrtiko from Santorini’s volcanic soil, pair perfectly with traditional meals and you can find them all year.
With fewer tourists around, you might chat more with restaurant owners or staff. It makes the whole dining experience feel more personal and relaxed—honestly, it’s a nice change from the summer rush.
Outdoor Activities and Hiking
Cooler temperatures make hiking way more comfortable than sweating through the summer months. The Fira-to-Oia trail, probably the most popular route, gives you those incredible caldera views without the intense heat. You’ll want to toss a light jacket in your bag, though—the winter winds can get pretty strong up on those cliffs.
You can check out other outdoor spots too, like Skaros Rock or the black sand beaches at Perissa and Kamari. Swimming isn’t really on the table, since the sea’s pretty chilly, but wandering along the beaches still feels great.
If you’re into guided experiences, some local companies actually run small hiking or wine tours even in winter. These tours let you soak in the island’s scenery and pick up a bit about its geology or agriculture along the way.