The best time to visit Mykonos, a popular island in the Cyclades chain, is the shoulder months of May and June, as well as September and October.
Mykonos has a typically Mediterranean climate, which means hot, dry summers and mild winters with some rain. The whole Cyclades chain is prone to strong winds; the famous windmills on Mykonos are a testament to this. The constant wind means summers can be a little cooler than on some of the islands.
Mykonos is encircled by golden sandy beaches and is famed for its white, sugar-cube architecture that’s typical of the Cyclades, making it one of the most popular spots in Greece. Mykonos is also known for its sophisticated nightlife and liberal party scene, which means the peak summer months of July and August are very busy.
Visiting Mykonos by Season
Summer
Kalafatis Beach
Late June, July, and August in Mykonos are peak season. The days are long and sunny. By July, the sea is a perfect 74°F (23.5°C) for swimming. The average high in August is 78.5°F (25.8°C), with negligible rainfall and 11.5 daily hours of sunshine.
This is the time to come to Mykonos for beach parties, hip restaurants, and a lively buzz in Chora, or Mykonos Town, the capital.
Fall
The weather begins to cool down in fall, although September still enjoys a balmy daily average of 73.8°F (23.2°C), making this arguably the best time to go to Mykonos. The summer crowds are thinning out and the beach clubs and restaurants are still busy. Rainfall is minimal; just 0.4 inches (10mm) in September, although this increases to 2.6 inches (65mm) by November.
By early October, the beach clubs begin to close for winter and the sea may be a little cool for swimming. This is still a wonderful time for walking, though, and exploring Mykonos Town and the neighboring island of Delos.
Winter
Winters in Mykonos are mild, although snow is not unheard of. December, January, and February are the wettest months; December, for example, receives 3.9 inches (100mm) of rain on average, which is welcomed in this arid place. Temperatures are still relatively warm though; in January, the coolest month, expect average highs of 51.6°F (10.9°C).
The island will be busy over Christmas, which extends until Epiphany on January 6, but is otherwise quiet during the winter months. Shops and bars close as owners take off for a much-deserved vacation, and there are few visitors.
Spring
Little Venice
Mykonos is still cool in March, but by May, average daily temperatures are up to 67.1°F (19.5°C). It’s warm enough for outdoor dining and cocktails in Little Venice, overlooking the water.
This is a lovely time for hiking, as the hills are still green and strewn with wildflowers. If you’re planning an excursion to neighboring Delos, the site of spectacular antiquities dating back more than 2,000 years, you’ll find it blissfully peaceful in May. The soft spring light and wildflowers add to the island’s beauty.
When Is Rainy Season?
November to February are the wettest months on Mykonos when the island receives much-needed rain. In December and January, it rains on an average of 10 days per month. The island is quiet during this time, with many businesses closed for winter.
When Is High Season?
Mykonos Town
High season in Mykonos is the peak summer months of July and August, which bring locals from the mainland as well as tourists from all over the world, drawn by the clubs, the beaches, and the island’s chic reputation. You will find the island busy during these months—but the beaches in Mykonos are extensive, and there’s room for everybody and every taste.
July and August are also the windiest months of the year, with the Meltemi wind in full force, which cools the island and makes windsurfers and kite-surfers happy. Don’t be lulled into a false sense of security by the cooling breeze; the sun is strong here, and it’s advisable to stay in the shade during the middle of the day.
When Is Shoulder Season?
Shoulder season in Mykonos is May, early June, late September, and October. The season has extended in recent years as more visitors seek a quieter experience on the island.
All of these are excellent months to travel, with low rainfall and long, sunny days. Just be aware that if you’re set on swimming in the sea, the water in May will still be cool; a bracing 65°F (18.5°C).
When Is Low Season?
Winter is the low season in Mykonos, with many businesses closed. Tourism drops during this period, and the island hunkers down against winter showers. There will still be visitors, and the ferries from the mainland keep coming, but this is not beach season.
Read: Best Things to Do in Mykonos
Windmills of Mykonos
Get to know one of the most fashionable islands in Greece on one of Celebrity’s cruises to Mykonos.
