Ultimate Guide: What Are the Best Greek Islands to Visit in October?

santorini photo shoot

greek islands October
The Greek island of Santorini. Credit: Dimitra Damian/Greek Reporter

If planning a trip to Greece in October you can visit some of the most popular Greek islands, and enjoy the last of the last golden days of the summer weather. Here are some tips on how to get the most out of your October holiday on some of the most popular Greek islands.

Why visit Greece in October?

October in Greece… When the weather is still warm and the crowds are few. Some of the most obvious reasons why you should plan a trip to Greece in October is that hotel and travel prices can drop by as much as 20% in the country, and you will find more mild temperatures as well as fewer crowds.

Here to island hop in Greece in October?

All of the above-stated factors make October one of the best times to visit some of the most popular Greek islands. Our top picks for the best islands to visit on your October holiday in Greece are Santorini, Mykonos, Corfu, and Kefalonia.

Some tips on making your reservations

Even though these top vacation destination Greek islands are booked throughout the summer months, do not take for granted that you can wait to the last minute to book a hotel or any other activities in which you might want to participate while on the islands.

When planning your October Greek island vacation, make sure that you make your reservation at least one to two months in advance. You are sure to find yourself a bargain since in October, hotel prices and travel costs tend to plummet.

What weather to expect in Greece in October

In Greece, we say that the warmth of the sea is influenced by the previous three months’ temperature. If you are wondering if the sea temperature is colder in October, just think, July’s temperatures reached into the high 90s (F) almost daily — so definitely pack your swimsuit!

Santorini

The island of Santorini has an average temperature of 21°C, or 69°F, in October, while the average sea temperature is 23°C, or 73°F — like bath water! Also, the narrow streets will not be so crowded, giving you the chance to enjoy the picturesque caldera and the iconic island.

Mykonos

greek islands October
Groups enjoying Mykonos. Credit: Greek Reporter

Mykonos is similar to Santorini, with an average temperature of 19°C, or 66°F in October. The average sea temperature is 22°C, or 72°F — the perfect temperature to enjoy the beaches. Also, you will be able to witness the rich history of this island; something that is frequently overlooked by the summertime party crowd.

Corfu

greek islands October
The Corfu landscape. Credit: A Guy Taking Pictures/CC BY 2.0

What better time to check out the fortress and historical center of the island of Corfu than October? With an average October temperature of 19°C, or 65°F, and an average sea temperature of 22°C, or 72°F, it is the perfect time to get to know this popular Greek island and its traditions.

Kefalonia

greek islands October
Kefalonia. Credit: James James F Clay/CC BY-NC 2.0

Kefalonia is known for its beautiful seas in various shades of blue. In October, the average temperature on the island is 18°C, or 64° F, and the average sea temperature is 23°C, or 73° F. Enjoy you October vacation on this island that is dotted with traditional villages and steeped in culture.