Where is it hottest in Greece in September?

If you’re looking for some hot spots (to paraphrase the eternal words of Donna Summer) to enjoy September in Greece, you are in the right place! But first, let’s be honest: if you are planning a Greek getaway in September, it means you have done your homework on when is the best time to visit Greece, and you are already ahead of the game!

On Ferryhopper, we love an early fall escape as September in Greece is the definition of shoulder-season magic, as fewer crowds and warm, sunny days that feel worlds apart from the heat of July and August are what you can typically expect.

With temperatures typically ranging from 20°C to 28°C (68°F to 82°F), the weather will be ideal for sightseeing and other outdoor activities. If you want a taste of the summer island living experience, September will meet and possibly exceed your expectations, especially if you choose a destination where summer lingers a while longer.

So, without further ado, here’s our list of the hottest Greek islands in September, where post-high-season calm meets ideal beach weather!

The endless, sandy coast of Plaka beach in Naxos

1. Crete

Crete, Greece’s biggest island, is a delight in every season, but a September visit holds a special place in our hearts as the weather is perfect for exploration, which is what this magnificent place is all about. Of course, due to its size, you will surely be wondering where the best and hottest place to spend September in Crete is.

Let us introduce you, then, to Ierapetra, southern Crete’s best-kept secret and often Greece’s warmest city year-round! September in Iearpetra means temperatures around 29°C, hardly any rain, and seawater to di(v)e for. It’s also less touristy than the north, which means fewer crowds and more time to stretch out on those long, sandy beaches.

If you are looking for an alternative, look no further than Chania on Crete's northwest coast. While not as hot as Ierapetra, Chania still enjoys 28 °C days in early fall, with the occasional breeze rolling in off the sea. It’s a great mix of beach life and old-world charm, especially if you’re into Venetian harbors, mountain villages, and stunning hikes like the Samaria Gorge.

The amazing waters of Agia Fotia beach, near Ierapetra

2. Samos

Samos is lush, mountainous, and surprisingly warm for its location in the Northern Aegean region. September days average around 29 °C, and there’s a real balance here composed of vineyards, waterfalls, pebble beaches, and cute harbor towns. If you like your heat with a side of greenery, this island is a winner.

3. Rhodes

It is no wonder that Rhodes is the most popular island in the Dodecanese, as it has its own unique way of clinging to summer and squeezing every delicious drop from it. The island averages about 28 °C in September, and the sea stays warm enough to swim well into October. Whether you’re wandering the cobbled lanes of the medieval Old Town or sunbathing in Lindos, the weather will serve as your concierge, accommodating your every desire.

4. Karpathos

Often overlooked, Karpathos is a rugged Dodecanese beauty with serious heat credentials in early fall. Expect 28 °C days, warm seas, strong local character, plus some of the bluest water you’ve ever seen.

The beautiful landscape of Diafani village in Karpathos

5. Kos

Kos is often considered a “smaller sibling” to Rhodes, and their similarities are apparent in the early fall, as Kos remains warm and welcoming in September. Daytime highs hit about 28 °C, and the sea is perfect for a dip. There’s a relaxed feel in the air this time of year, and the island’s beaches and ancient ruins are much more enjoyable without the high-season heat and crowds.

6. Symi

A picture-perfect dream of an island just off the coast of Rhodes, Symi charms with its neoclassical harbor and relaxed atmosphere. September keeps temperatures around 28°C, so you can swim, stroll, and take in the exquisite sight of the sunset enveloping the houses’ brightly painted facades and red-tiled roofs.

7. Amorgos

Moving from the Dodecanese to the Cycladic Islands, Amorgos stands out as a peaceful, dramatic, and stunning destination in September. While slightly cooler than others on this list (27 °C), it’s still beach-perfect, and the meltemi (seasonal northerly winds) finally ease up in September, making hiking and boating a breeze.

Breathtaking sunset at Agia Anna in Amorgos

8. Naxos

One of the best all-around Greek islands, Naxos delivers sunny skies and warm seas through September. Highs reach around 28 °C, making it a great time to enjoy its endless beaches and historic villages without sweating or having to criss-cross your way through the crowds. Additionally, local produce, a hallmark of Naxos, is at its peak, so be sure to savor figs, grapes, and an abundance of traditional cheeses.

How to choose the hottest Greek island in September

Now that you know which Greek islands are considered the warmest in September, it is time to choose one. Luckily, we know that this can often prove to be a difficult task, as each of them has its own kind of beauty and all have plenty of memorable things to offer.

To make things easier, here is a cheat sheet that can help you pick your sunny September escape:

• Best beaches: Naxos, Rhodes, Crete, and Karpathos
• Best sightseeing: Naxos, Rhodes, Kos, and Crete
• Best for families: Naxos, Rhodes, and Crete
• Best for nature: Samos and Crete
• Best for couples: Symi and Amorgos

And, since September is blessed with the ideal weather for being out and about, minus the hordes of vacationers, why choose one when you can plan your early-fall island-hopping adventure in the Greek islands? Just check our Map of ferries, book your ferry tickets online without hidden fees, and embark on a shoulder season experience like no other, courtesy of Ferryhopper!