The Best Greek Islands To Visit In September
Maybe you have the feeling that our dearest summer has ended suddenly but that does not mean that we cannot enjoy the post-summer weather in Greece. After all, this time of the year is lovely! Many fellow travellers are now looking for a holiday in September. September is a beautiful month to spend it in Greece. Wanna know why? Because the heat still keeps strong in Greece, while the most famous tourist destinations are not suffocating from people and the hotels offer much better prices than they do during the days of August. It is easy to see, therefore, that in the midst of an economic crisis, many are rightly turning to such a choice for holiday and relaxation. If you are on a budget or have a savvy plan on your mind then September is the best month to go for it! If you think it is too late, don’t panic. You can always plan next year’s vacation. Plenty of tourists plan one year or one year and a half ahead. So, going on vacation off-season is your chance to relax and spend less.
The top destination for September, as highlighted by the preferences of foreign (mainly) tourists through the years, is obviously Santorini. Second in the row we have Chania, while Athens takes the third place. Mykonos is also preferred as a destination but only after the Greek capital, while Halkidiki surely makes it to the top five. The list is completed with Corfu, Thassos, Rhodes and Kos, while the favorite destination of Epirus, Parga, could not be missing from our suggestions! In the favorite destinations of September, for both Greeks and foreign tourists, you will also find Sivota, Nafplio, Lefkada, Zakynthos and a favorite island of the Cyclades, Tinos.
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Nothing compares to the last “taste” of holiday, which can make the summer last a little bit longer. Are you up for it? For those who do not have schoolchildren, September is ideal to make your last getaway and finish your summer vacation in Greece. The sea and the sky are still as blue as it can be, the water warmer than ever, and when others are all back to school and to their jobs, everything is much quieter and better. Conde Nast Traveler published recently the list of 10 best destinations for September, including two Greek islands! Those were Corfu and Santorini. We’ll take the initiative and add Mykonos to this list. Hostelbay’s travel agents guarantee you’ll love most of those destinations off-season for good reasons…
Corfu:Intermediate periods like April-May and September-October tend to be the most enjoyable time to visit Greece and the Greek Islands. But the Ionian Sea is still cold in the spring so it is suggested to choose Corfu in September.
Santorini: Ask an islander to tell you which is his favourite month in Santorini and he will probably answer you: “September”. The sea is warmer than ever and the evenings are cooler. The sunsets paint the city of Oia in golden shades, and the deep blue of the Caldera seems to be highlighted during these last days of summer.
Mykonos: Did you know that you can find a double room in the “island of the winds” for less than 100 €? No reason to bet on it, since it is highly possible in September. You can find hotel rooms and hostels very close to the centre of Mykonos Town at affordable prices. The hostels are pretty luxurious and can be booked at low prices that range from 30 € to 60 €.

= = = Alternative Greek Island Destinations For September = = =
September allows you to make dreams and plans when others return to everyday life. All your holiday dreams can come true in a much more economical context. If therefore, you want to have your holidays without the bust, then we would suggest you choose one of the places presented below.
Patmos
Patmos, the holy island of Greece, a place of religious pilgrims but… not only that! Tradition wants this island to be the exile place of Evangelist John where he wrote the text of the Apocalypse in the cave of Agia Triada. All these happened on the island of Patmos. Patmos is a favourite travel destination as it has evolved into a distinguished cosmopolitan hangout, preserving the unique, and almost mystical atmosphere that characterizes it. A low-key charm that translates into peaceful wanderings along the paths of its bright white Chora, Kastro and Skala port, the ideal retreat for the most relaxing holidays of your life. And the sea? Small picturesque bays with crystal blue waters and fine pebbles and green hillside backgrounds, beyond the ordinary.
Andros
Andros is the second largest island of the Cyclades and stands out for plenty of reasons! Just two hours from the port of Rafina, wild mountain peaks meet fertile valleys, gorges, lovely streams and ancient stone mills. A green island, not very representative of the Cyclades, Andros is famous for its trekking paths — everything you need for your naturalistic pursuits! The Chora of Andros looks like a jewel shining brightly in the Aegean. Blooming and majestic this island invites you in, you’ll find beaches that are inaccessible, but they will reward those who choose to honour them, clean and idyllic, reminding something from the Ionian Sea. A unique experience, full of colours, aromas and rich traditional flavours. A journey of senses! You will appreciate every corner…
Syros
Syros is a true Cycladic beauty, an island full of monuments and attractions. The capital of the Cyclades, the island of Markos Vamvakaris, whose famous song “Frangosyriani” has set up all its beauties, is a unique escape proposal. Agatopes, Galissas, Achladi, Megas Gialos are some of the best and countless choices of the island for those who love swimming. This place combines destinations for every taste. As for the sights, visit the Art Gallery, the Archaeological Museum and Miaoulis Square, where you can find the Town Hall of Ermoupolis — it is one of the largest buildings in Modern Greece. In the square, you will also find the Municipal Library, which hosts over 35,000 titles of old and rare books. Wherever you choose to sit for dining, try the traditional desserts made on the island and its dairy products.
Lefkada
Lefkada is an island, but you can go there without a ferry! Lefkada is one of the most beautiful islands of the Ionian Sea- if one can sort them in a row — and it is widely accepted that the largest collection of beaches that are on the world lists of best beaches! Porto Katsiki, Kathisma and Egremni are just a few of them, small and large paradises with a Caribbean scent that will make your alternative Greek vacation unforgettable. The eternal “issue” reported by the visitors of Lefkada is nothing but the crowds. So you are lucky to be relieved of this trouble since September is the best month to avoid the tourist hordes! Enjoy the exotic landscape in all its grandeur as if this heavenly place was created only for you — and let others crawl in the office!
Alonnisos
If you like green nature then the best option for you is Alonissos since it is full of it! The most neglected island of the Sporades emerges from a green jungle of pine trees, vineyards, olive groves and citrus trees, surrounded by aromatic oregano and thyme, smells that will accompany you throughout your holiday. Alonissos is at the heart of the Northern Sporades National Marine Park. The park was established in 2003 to protect the Monachus Monachus monk seal and its biotopes. It is the largest marine park in Europe and the first of Greece.
Alonissos is not for those who are looking for the extreme life. Sophisticated, calm and restrained it has all the cosmopolitan qualities that will fit your relaxed vibes like a glove. A destination with sophisticated beauty and rich nature, ideal for quality vacations perfectly fit for those who have intense ecological concerns. Alonnisos in September is just magical!
Koufonisi
Perhaps it is one of the islands that you should go to because of its cosmopolitan air — which did not apply before the 80’s — but if you go to this destination in September then you will get a taste of it. It is the place that will impress you with the natural beauty, which fortunately has not been altered, and we hope it will remain as such for the years to come. The holidays in Koufonisia are among the top choices that promise you relaxation, exotic beauty and fun for all tastes. Koufonisia can be easily combined with Naxos while you go island hopping in Greece.
Milos
With over 70 beaches (how perfect can that be?) you will find yourself amongst beautiful places to explore, stunning seaside to enjoy the wonderful waters, and sandy beaches to relax and calm down. The most famous places you can stay are the port of Adamas and the small village of Pollonia, from which you can visit the neighbouring islands.
Serifos
Another ideal destination is the island of Serifos. It is not one of the known islands that are usually heard when discussing holidays, such as Mykonos and Santorini, but now it is one of the magical islands that you must visit in September. Do not miss your coffee in the square of the island, enjoy the natural beauties, talk to the locals, feel the real hospitality, and unwind. Forget all about your urban life and stay away from the rhythm of the city. Serifos has the most impressive beaches with green waters, such as Psili Ammos, Koutalas beach, Kalo Ambeli and Sykamia.
Folegandros
This impressive island of the Cyclades should be your next destination for holidays in September. The scenery is magical, and you will take countless strolls admiring the sights, the picturesque alleys, the tranquillity of the island and the few but wonderful and clean beaches that will make you want to stay there forever. Don’t forget to walk to Ano Meria and enjoy the traditional meals in the small taverns.
Karpathos
If you want to take a vacation on a remote island, then Karpathos is the ideal destination for you. The beaches of Agios Nikolaos will take you by surprise! Prepare to go there and stay for hours, relax, have fun and walk to the small traditional squares. It is one of those islands of the Aegean that has kept its natural beauty, it is authentic and “wild”. A place where you will experience the most beautiful beach life experiences in September!
Kos
The island where Hippocrates has left his seal is no other than Kos. Kos is the third largest island after Rhodes and Karpathos. Kos is an island with endless beaches with sand or pebbles, offering a variety for swimmers since you can find green, turquoise or even deep blue waters. Typical characteristics of the island are the tall palm trees as well as the vast archaeological and historical background of its architectural elements and medieval monuments, the thermal springs, the long biking trails and the incredible hotel complexes, Kos, is one of the best getaways that one can choose to combine relaxation in the sea, sightseeing, meet new people and enjoy the nightlife. Lovers of history will be fascinated by the many sights of the island.

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Are you feeling the melancholy setting in for the end of August and thus of summer? Stop these thoughts! Your goal should be keeping the warmth of the summer in you and adding even more carefree moments to your everyday life. Small getaways of two to three days in coastal areas or even better around the best Greek islands during autumn can take all the sadness away…
Here is a list of the reasons why September is the ideal month for your summer holidays in Greece.
- Summer means Awesome Weather
Let’s start with the positive: apart from some cloudy days and some raindrops, the sun is still up there and it warms our bodies, while the cool breeze of September gently caresses our faces. The weather makes us happy being good with us and helping with our plans. There is no better way to lengthen your summer days by heading to the Greek beaches in September. - Balanced Tourist Mobility
People in the most popular tourist places are in the right numbers. Not thousands to make you feel suffocated but as much as you need to make you feel the true vibes of the place you are visiting, without altering the characteristics and natural beauty of your holiday escape. You will feel more like a local than a tourist following the masses… - Luxury and Hotel Offers
The overall fall in average prices in all hotels in Greece is a fact. Prices even in luxury accommodation are very affordable. So you can either make a very cheap holiday or enjoy a luxurious stay in a very economic context. Do your own personal research in Greece and find offers all over Greece.
- Better Customer Service
With tourism at normal levels — without the crowds — the service is automatically upgraded. The food comes to your table before you starve, the waiter is at your disposal, whenever you need him, the employees at the shops have the time to help you, the hoteliers to get you something more, and the locals will be more than happy to advise you.
- Authenticity
If you had the opportunity to visit the same place twice, one in August and one in September, you would understand the difference. Permanent residents in tourist places have more time and less stress when the high-season is over.,Therefore greater ease and willingness to show their personality and hospitality. This is the main reason why you will have the chance to discover the authentic side of the place you visit. - Colours And Senses
The colour palette of mother nature is enriched. The shades of green, yellow, red and brown make up a harmonious backdrop to colour the memories of your journey. Fallen leaves create a unique natural rug, offering a completely different feel to your bare feet. Whether you are nature lover or not, you will agree that autumn has its own magic and charm. - Festival Moments
Cultural events are organised in Greece all year long. Not all of them take place in August. You will be glad to discover that Greece in September is as lively as it was in August. Festivals, concerts and art events are so often you will not know what to choose and where to go! Combined with the budget accommodation that you will secure, due to the off-season period, your escape is going to be a unique experience.
= = = September Festivals in Greece = = =
If you want to combine your Greek vacation with some festivals then we suggest you take a look at the following list! The Athens or Hellenic Festival, has in the past continued through mid-September so all you have to do is check the dates if there is something you fancy during this exceptional time of the year.
September is also the beginning of the Repositioning Cruise Season. At this time of the year, plenty of cruise lines offer great discounts. So, it might be possible to have a great vacation on a budget. If you fancy Greek island hopping in Greece you might want to check the Greek ferry schedules since it is not that difficult to arrange a mini cruise on your own!
On Santorini, there is the International Music Festival and a number of other cultural events which keep the island busy straight through the month.
Other festivals in Greece in September include:
- International Music Festival in Santorini (Thira)
- Athens — Athens International Film Festival
- The Wine Festival in Kos
- Corinth — Grape festival (in case you are near Athens)
- The Wine Festival in Karpathos — Amopi/Lasto
- Around the end of September the Myrtiodiotissa Monastery festival is set in Kythira island
- Last Weekend of September — free museum and site admissions in order to honor the European Heritage Days
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