If you're already planning a luxury Mediterranean holiday after the peak summer season has ended, you may be wondering which is the best Greek island to visit in September. Fortunately, this is one of the best times of year to visit the Greek Islands as the intense heat of July and August begins to ease, visitor numbers decrease but the sea retains its inviting summer warmth. This combination of factors create the ideal conditions for sightseeing, relaxing beach days and outdoor dining.
Whether you're searching for the best Greek island in September for romance, family adventures, cultural discovery or gourmet delights, Greece offers an incredible variety of destinations to choose from with each island having its own unique personality and appeal.
We challenged our Luxury Travel Specialists to put together a list of what they consider to be the top 5 best Greek islands to visit in September, utilising their first hand experiences to create a definitive list of destinations which have the most to offer during this period. Let's start off with one that's perfect for romance.
1. Santorini
For many travel industry experts, Santorini is undoubtedly the best Greek island for couples in September. Its iconic whitewashed villages perched high above the caldera, unforgettable sunsets and spectacular volcanic scenery have made it one of the world's most sought-after romantic holiday destinations.
September transforms the island into an even more enchanting place to visit. While restaurants, luxury hotels and attractions remain fully operational, the busiest summer crowds begin to fizzle out. This creates a more peaceful atmosphere, allowing the remaining tourists to fully appreciate Santorini's beauty at a less hurried pace.
The island's famous caldera views are particularly captivating during September's golden evenings, while dramatic cliffside restaurants provide the perfect setting for memorable candlelit dinners overlooking the Aegean Sea. Couples celebrating honeymoons, anniversaries, milestone birthdays or simply looking to reconnect will find September offers the perfect balance between warm sunshine and tranquillity.
Santorini accommodation options remain as luxurious and varied as ever during September with elegant suites featuring private plunge pools, infinity pools overlooking the caldera and world class spa facilities. The pleasant daytime temperatures also make wine tasting, catamaran cruises around the volcanic coastline and exploring charming villages more practical and enjoyable. So, if you're searching for the best Greek island to visit in September for romance, Santorini is pretty difficult to surpass.
2. Crete
As Greece's largest island, Crete offers an exceptional mix of beaches, history, culture and family-friendly attractions, making it one of the best Greek islands for September if you're travelling with children.
One of Crete's greatest advantages is its southerly location, allowing it to enjoy some of the warmest weather in Greece during the early autumn. September temperatures regularly reach around 27 degrees, while the sea remains invitingly warm enough for swimming throughout the month.
Flight times from the UK to Crete average around four hours, making the journey more manageable for families with younger children to entertain. Once you arrive, you'll discover that you won't have any difficulties entertaining any members of the family during the holiday with Crete being home to an eclectic selection of incredible visitor attractions, with something to appeal to all generations.
One of the most widely cited attractions which draw tourists to Crete every year are the beautiful beaches which range in nature from secluded coves to lively family resorts. Kolokithia Beach is particularly popular with families thanks to its sheltered waters, soft sand and safe swimming conditions, providing younger children with plenty of opportunity to paddle and play.
Away from the coastline, there is no shortage of visitor attractions to keep everyone entertained. Acqua Plus Waterpark remains a favourite for families, offering exciting slides, splash zones and pools suitable for visitors of all ages. Historic sites, mountain villages and colourful local markets also provide opportunities to experience the distinctive culture that has shaped Crete for thousands of years.
Evenings can be spent enjoying fresh seafood and traditional Greek cuisine in welcoming waterfront tavernas, where relaxed dining and authentic Greek family cooking create unique gastronomic opportunities.
For travellers seeking the best Greek island in September that combines reliable weather, outstanding beaches and endless activities, Crete is a first class choice.
3. Milos
For adults seeking something beyond traditional beach holidays, the vast array of activities and excursions available whilst holidaying on Milos make it hard to ignore. Known for its extraordinary volcanic geology, the island features some of Europe's most fascinating coastal landscapes. Moon-like white rock formations, colourful mineral cliffs, hidden sea caves and dramatic natural arches create scenery unlike anywhere else in the Mediterranean.
September's milder temperatures make it the ideal time to explore these remarkable environments. Visitors can enjoy boat excursions around the island, swim in secluded coves or photograph the unique volcanic coastline without the intense midsummer heat.
History enthusiasts will also discover plenty to admire. The Ancient Theatre of Milos overlooks the sea and remains one of the island's finest archaeological treasures, while the nearby Catacombs of Milos provide an intriguing insight into early Christian history.
The island's capital, Plaka, is another highlight. Its maze of narrow whitewashed streets, traditional blue doors and colourful bougainvillea create the quintessential Greek island atmosphere. Climbing to the Venetian Castle ruins rewards visitors with sweeping panoramic views across the Aegean, particularly spectacular as the sun begins to set.
Excellent local restaurants, charming fishing villages and peaceful beaches complete the experience, making Milos one of the best Greek islands to visit in September for couples, groups and solo travellers seeking culture, scenery and adventure.
4. Zakynthos
Zakynthos continues to rank among Greece's most popular island holiday destinations, yet September offers visitors the chance to experience its beauty without the intensity of the peak season crowds.
One of the island's biggest seasonal attractions during this period is the annual loggerhead turtle (Caretta caretta) hatching season. Southern nesting beaches, including Gerakas Beach, become an important habitat for these remarkable marine creatures, providing tourists with the opportunity to witness one of nature's most fascinating wildlife spectacles. The island's tourism infrastructure remains fully operational throughout September meaning that restaurants, beach clubs, boat operators and cafes all continue to welcome guests, but with a noticeably more relaxed atmosphere.
Sea temperatures remain exceptionally inviting at this time of year, averaging between 25 and 26 degrees, often feeling warmer than they do during June. These conditions are perfect for swimming, snorkelling and spending long afternoons enjoying the island's spectacular coastline.
No visit to Zakynthos would be complete without seeing the world-famous Navagio Beach, often referred to as Shipwreck Beach, where towering limestone cliffs surround brilliant turquoise waters. Boat trips around the dramatic coastline also reveal hidden caves and secluded swimming spots.
However, if your reason for travelling in September is primarily to avoid the summer crowds, then you may prefer to stay at a hotel with its own private beach. Porto Zante Villas and Spa is one such example in the Elegant Resorts handpicked collection of luxury resorts, with private beach access being paired with comfortable accommodation, first class hospitality and incredible facilities.
For beach lovers and wildlife enthusiasts alike, Zakynthos deserves its reputation as one of the best Greek islands for September.
5. Mykonos
Those searching for sophisticated luxury will quickly discover why Mykonos has earned its reputation as one of Greece's most glamorous islands. Renowned for its cosmopolitan atmosphere, designer boutiques, elegant beach clubs and vibrant waterfront restaurant scene, Mykonos has long attracted high end travellers from around the world. September offers many of these same experiences while providing a more relaxed pace than the height of summer.
Beautiful beaches remain bathed in sunshine, award winning restaurants continue serving exceptional Mediterranean cuisine and tourists can stroll through Mykonos Town's winding streets without the crowds experienced during August.
The luxury accommodation available at Mykonos continues to maintain its exceptionally high standards with prestigious resorts such as Mykonos Grand Hotel & Resort offering refined beachfront setting, elegant suites, exceptional wellness facilities and outstanding hospitality.
Whether you're looking to unwind beside the sea, enjoy gourmet dining, explore the island's famous whitewashed architecture or experience its sophisticated nightlife, Mykonos provides an unforgettable Greek Island holiday experience. For travellers seeking indulgence, style and first class service, Mykonos unquestionably remains amongst the very best Greek islands to visit in September.
Create Your Perfect Greek Island Break
Choosing the best Greek island to visit in September ultimately depends on the type of holiday you're looking to experience. Santorini offers unforgettable romance, Crete delivers outstanding family adventures, Milos combines fascinating history with spectacular natural scenery, Zakynthos showcases incredible wildlife alongside beautiful beaches, while Mykonos provides luxurious sophistication and world-class hospitality.
The Luxury Travel Specialists at Elegant Resorts are on hand to help advise you on the best Greek Island to visit in September for you based on your own unique likes, preferences and travel aspirations. Using their first hand experiences, our team will provide advice and guidance as we set about creating a tailor made Greek holiday itinerary which is every bit as unique as you are. From romantic honeymoons and anniversary celebrations to unforgettable family holidays and indulgent solo breaks, Elegant Resorts can help you discover the perfect Greek island for your next September getaway.