Santorini in October: Things To Do, Reasons To Go, Places to Stay

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The iconic Greek island of Santorini is a lovely destination any time of year.Many tourists choose to visit it during a cruise and book the best shore excursion to use their time to the full.

Others visit it during July-August, as that’s the only time of year they can get their vacations.

But visiting in October offers some unique advantages that make it an ideal time to experience the island to the full.

I simply loved my time in Santorini in October. If I were to visit again, I’d try to make room for this trip in October, even though April is a good month to visit Santorini, as well.

When I started Offbeat Greece, I never though to include Santorini or Mykonos. These two islands are so crowded and so “mainstream” that I couldn’t imagine I’d find anything off-the-beaten-path about them.

Life proved me wrong; Santorini off-season is a place where you can discover real gems. Besides, it is worth visiting even if only for those amazing sunsets and the unbelievable views of the Caldera.

I loved it so much, that I felt the urge to start this website, in order to have yet another reason to return to Santorini more than once.

Why October?

Here are 9 compelling reasons to visit Santorini in October along with top activities and attractions to enjoy during the fall.

Pleasant Weather

October brings comfortable temperatures in the 70s along with minimal rain and lower humidity. Days are sunny and pleasant for exploring without the intense summer heat.

It comes without saying that you’ll be able to do the Fira to Oia hike without having to sweat as much as in July or August.

I did this on October 3rd or 4th and I truly enjoyed a warm autumn sun that didn’t burn my skin.

Wear sunscreen, though, if you go. Always stay on the safe side.

Lesser Crowds

If you’re like most people, you hate the crowds. To avoid them, you may want to travel in the shoulder season, at least when it comes to extremely touristy places such as Santorini & Mykonos.

Santorini’s peak tourist season runs from May through September.

Visiting in October means fewer tourists, easier access to attractions, availability at hotels and restaurants, and a more relaxed vibe overall.

Don’t underestimate, though, the number of people willing to experience the Oia sunset. The Oia Castle and the opposite streets are chocked full of people even in October.

Spectacular Sunsets

Santorini is legendary for its breathtaking sunsets, and October brings ideal conditions.

With its position on the western edge of the Cyclades, Oia offers perhaps the best sunset views on the island.

I also loved Firostefani sunsets with views over the caldera, the still cruise ships, and the smaller boats roaming around.

Wine Tasting

The grape harvesting season in Santorini is somewhere by the end of August.

Check out this Santorini small group wine tasting adventure, here. You’ll get the following:

• a tour of three wineries to discover their wines and wine-making techniques
• the sampling of 12 different wines alongside local delicacies
• possibility to upgrade to a sunset tour for spectacular sunset views from Santo Wines
• personalized attention on a small-group tour limited to 10 people

October is perfect for sampling freshly made wine and learn more about the wine making process and the different varieties available on the island.

Cycling Adventures

Crisp fall weather makes October ideal for cycling through Santorini’s villages and along coastal paths.

Rent a bike and explore at your own pace.

I’m not a very good cyclist, so I’d join an ATV-Quad tour like this one, here.

Off-Season Prices

With summer crowds gone, October brings lower rates on flights, hotels, vehicle rentals, and tourist activities – often up to 30% cheaper than peak season!

Accommodation is also cheaper than in July-August. I’ll write another article to share some tricks on saving money when booking Santorini hotel rooms.

Thermal Springs

Take a dip in Santorini’s naturally heated thermal springs. The waters contain minerals with healing properties.

Some springs offer stunning seaside locations with impressive cliff views.

Of course you can visit the thermal springs all year round. However, October is one of the best months to do this.

The summer crowds have mostly dispersed, leaving the springs blissfully uncrowded so you can soak in peace. Yet pleasantly warm temperatures in the low 70s Fahrenheit mean the waters are still enjoyable and swimming remains a possibility.

Hiking Trails

Lace up your boots and explore Santorini’s scenic footpaths and hiking trails. Walk between villages, trek along the caldera, or climb to the summit of the Profitis Ilias mountain.

You can hike without any guide or get an organized activity like this private Santorini panorama tour.

Local Festivals

In October, Santorini celebrates several Greek religious holidays and cultural events. Attend the Panagia Episkopi festival, savor freshly pressed olive oil at Olive Harvest Fest, and more.

So if you’re considering a trip to this Greek paradise, October is an ideal time. You’ll get pleasant weather, smaller crowds, special seasonal attractions, and lower off-season rates (not in all places, though).

Experience the magic of Santorini without the summer crowds or extremely high accommodation costs.