The busy tourist period on Mykonos is generally from Greek Easter (April) to the end of October, with peak season from mid-July to late August. During this time, the island attracts visitors of all ages.
The best time to plan a trip to Mykonos depends on personal preferences. August is ideal for those looking for a lively and crowded atmosphere, both in Mykonos Town and at the beaches. However, this is also when accommodation prices are highest.
Many people consider September and October to be the best time to visit Mykonos, as the August crowds have dispersed and the sea is still warm for swimming. The island also has a more relaxed and peaceful atmosphere as the tourist season is winding down.
Others prefer to visit in the spring months, such as May or early June, when the tourist season is just starting. During this time, the island is less crowded and prices for hotels are more reasonable. The downside to visiting in spring is that the sea may still be too cold for swimming, but the weather is generally sunny and warm, making it a great time to enjoy the island’s beaches.
Here is a brief explanation of how Mykonos island is like during different tourist seasons:
Best Time to Party: The peak season for clubs and beach parties with DJs is from late June to mid-September, with the busiest time being late July and August. In Mykonos Town, there is good nightlife from May to early October.
Best Time for Good Weather: The warmest and sunniest weather in Mykonos (and all of Greece) is between June and September, perfect for swimming in the sea. The water temperature gradually rises throughout the summer, reaching its peak in August and early September. May and October are quieter months with still pleasant weather, but not ideal for beach activities.
Best Time for Island Hopping: Nearby islands such as Santorini, Naxos, Paros, and Ios are easily accessible by ferry from Mykonos. The best time to visit these islands is from mid-May to early October, with Santorini having a longer tourist season than the others.
Best Time to Visit Mykonos and Santorini: While there are ferries from Athens to Mykonos year-round, there are only direct ferries between Mykonos and Santorini during the tourist season from early April to late October. In the off-season, you will need to go through Athens to reach these islands.
Best Time for Budget Travel: Accommodation prices are cheaper in the shoulder season (April, May, and October) but there is also less going on. Transportation, food, and drink prices tend to remain consistent throughout the year. Late May, early June, late September, and early October are good times to visit for good weather and affordable accommodation. October can sometimes surprise visitors with great weather.
High Season (July to early September): The weather is hot and sunny, and there are lots of people, but not to the point of overcrowding. Prices are at their highest, and the sea is warmest for swimming. Ferries and flights operate with the most frequency. If you are looking for a vibrant nightlife, this is the best time to visit.
Shoulder Season (May and June, September and early October): The weather is still warm and sunny, but not as hot as in the summer. There are tourists, but not as many as during the high season. In June and September, everything is open, but in May and October, some places may be closed. The sea may not be warm enough for swimming in May and October.
Low Season (late October to April): This is considered winter in Mykonos, with gray skies, cool weather, and rain. Some hotels and restaurants may be closed, but there are still enough options available. Ferries and flights have limited schedules during this time, with only one daily ferry to Athens and Syros, and no direct ferries to other islands such as Santorini, Naxos, or Paros.
Mykonos Low Season:
The low season for visiting Mykonos island is from April to May and October. During this time, you can expect smaller crowds and less party activity, allowing for more personal space on the beaches. The weather during these months is pleasant and a bonus is the availability of cheap accommodations. However, there is also a decrease in events and activities, so visitors should consider weighing the pros and cons. While there is a possibility of gray skies, cooler temperatures, and light rain, the last week of April, all of May, and the first three weeks of October can surprise guests with good weather conditions. The nightlife is still quiet, but a few bars in Mykonos Town will be open and may have some events. It is worth noting that prices for transportation, food, and drinks tend to remain consistent throughout the year.
Moderate season: June-September
During moderate season, travelers can expect pleasant weather with plenty of sunshine and warmth, without the intense heat of July and August. Most shops are open and daylight extends until about 8pm. The beaches are not too crowded and there is a lively nightlife scene. Beach parties with DJs start around mid-June and the last major club events usually happen towards the end of September. Hotel prices may be a bit higher than during low season, but they are still reasonable. September is also a great month to visit for those looking for a gay-friendly atmosphere. While Mykonos has been known for its inclusivity for over 40 years, many gay couples prefer to visit during this time. However, the island welcomes everyone from the LGBTQ+ community during all months of the year.
High season: July-August
July and August mark the peak season in Mykonos. The island buzzes with nonstop activity, with July being slightly less hectic than August. The weather is hot, the beaches host large parties, and the bars in Mykonos Town are lively and full of fun. Accommodation rates are still relatively reasonable until mid-July, but as the month comes to an end, prices start to rise along with the temperatures.
August is the busiest and most fun month on the island, with the wildest club parties and vibrant nightlife both in town and on the beach. However, the high volume of tourists and locals, as well as the warm weather (sometimes accompanied by strong winds), can make for a crowded and hectic experience. Tourists from Greece and Italy also flock to Mykonos for their vacations during the first three weeks of August, adding to the congested atmosphere. The sea is at its warmest during this time, making it perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
On the downside, August also brings heavy traffic and longer commute times due to congested roads. Accommodation prices are at their peak during this time and it is advisable to book well in advance, even as early as the start of spring, to secure more reasonably priced options. It’s not recommended to drop in unannounced during August and expect to find a decent place at a fair price.
Off Season: November till March
In November and March, Mykonos experiences a similar climate to winter, but there are still some activities happening in Mykonos Town and you can take advantage of lower prices. Although the temperature will be cool, there is a chance for a late-season warm spell, allowing for possible swimming in early November, even though the beaches will be empty. From December to February, the island is mostly peaceful and the weather is fairly mild compared to northern Europe. While warm and sunny days are not uncommon, be prepared for rain, overcast skies, and cool winds. Many establishments are closed during this time, but there are always some open to meet basic needs.
