From the islands to the cities and mountain villages, Greece offers a wealth of options for holidays and short getaways in September.
September is the month that brings together all the best of summer, but with a quieter and more authentic atmosphere. For many, it's the best time for holidays and travels in Greece. August's heat gradually recedes, evenings are a little cooler, while the beaches remain enticing and the waters crystal clear. The first month of autumn is ideal for savoring the country's beauty at a more relaxed pace, away from the crowds of previous months. From islands that keep summer's aura alive to seaside cities and traditional villages, these are the eight destinations worth adding to your list for September.
Spetses
One of the most cosmopolitan destinations near Athens, Spetses is an ideal island for short escapes. In September the pace is more relaxed and the temperature lower. Agia Marina and Agios Mamas beaches are perfect for quick dips, while Zogeria, Xylokeriza, Agia Paraskevi, and Agioi Anargyroi boast more striking waters and tamarisk trees. In the afternoons, when the sun sets, the loveliest stroll is toward the old harbor with the fish tavernas right by the water.
September coincides with the Reenactment of the 1822 Naval Battle of Spetses, a major celebration held every year on the first weekend of September. Armata is the island's most important custom, drawing thousands of visitors annually. The cultural festival also has a religious character, as the island's residents attributed their victory over the Turks to the Virgin Mary.
Syros
On Syros you'll experience a different Cycladic vibe. Ermoupoli, the capital of the Cyclades, stands apart from the other islands and impresses with its neoclassical buildings and Miaouli Square with the Town Hall - an architectural gem. The island never empties completely, as there are plenty of permanent residents in the autumn and winter months too.
In September, strolls in the aristocratic district of Vaporia have a different charm, as does visiting the sights. See the Town Hall, the work of the famed architect Ernst Ziller, and the historic Apollo Theater, and climb the lanes of Ano Syros for the impressive views. The island's beaches are peaceful for those seeking relaxation. Swim at Kini, Agathopes, and Galissas and enjoy their pristine waters.
Corfu
Corfu is an island for all seasons. The Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, enchants with its atmosphere. In the kantounia alleys you'll come across mansions of rare beauty and architectural value, with Venetian, British, and French influences. Corfu town features impressive squares, while the sights are many and emblematic. In September, visitors enjoy the same beauties with fewer crowds.
Wander across the Spianada, the largest square in the Balkans, enjoy your coffee at the famous Liston, and explore the island's sights such as the Museum of Asian Art in the Palace of St. Michael and St. George, the Church of Saint Spyridon, the Old and the New Fortress, Mon Repos, as well as the Achilleion a few kilometers from town. The island's beaches are truly countless, so you can choose the one that suits you, whether you prefer organized or unorganized.
Chania
One of the busiest summer destinations in Crete, and in all of Greece, Chania blends Venetian beauty with Cretan hospitality. The Old Town with its narrow cobbled lanes, Venetian and Ottoman buildings, and the lighthouse in the Venetian Harbor sets the perfect scene for strolls. Walk through the Jewish Quarter and toward Splantzia Square. Visit the Church of Saint Nicholas, dating from the 14th century, the Archaeological Museum of Chania, and Firka Fortress, home to the Maritime Museum of Crete.
The beaches near Chania, such as exotic Balos, pink Elafonisi, and endless Falassarna, are ideal for tranquil swims with fewer people. For adventure lovers, the famed Samaria Gorge offers a unique hike through nature, with temperatures far more pleasant than in August.
Nafplio
Nafplio is one of the country's most charming cities. In September the atmosphere becomes even more romantic, with alleys adorned with bougainvillea and neoclassical mansions. Wander the narrow streets and enjoy your coffee or drink by the sea or on the famous Syntagma Square. Especially toward the end of September, when the weather is cooler, it's a great time to visit Bourtzi, walk around the Acronafplia castle, and climb up to Palamidi for panoramic views over the entire city.
The nearby beaches invite refreshing dips. Walk to Arvanitia or head a few kilometers away to Karathona beach or to Tolo. Within easy reach you'll also find monuments of archaeological interest such as Mycenae and the archaeological site of Epidaurus.
Mani
The wild landscape meets History in Laconian and Messenian Mani. It's one of the most impressive and distinctive regions of the Peloponnese, in the summer months as well as in autumn. The heat subsides and temperatures are ideal for village strolls and sightseeing. Walk around Areopoli with its cobbled lanes and cafés, savor seafood and swim in the turquoise waters in Limeni, and enjoy the serenity in Gerolimenas.
Ideal spots for late-afternoon swims at sunset are Kardamyli and Stoupa, while the most striking hiking route is toward Cape Tainaro with its imposing lighthouse. The season is also right for a visit to Diros Cave, as in summer you might not find a ticket due to the increased interest.
Pelion
Pelion uniquely combines mountain and sea. In September, the mountain villages begin to remind us that autumn has arrived, while the beaches still keep a summery buzz. Pelion's villages, whether on the mountain or by the sea, are picturesque and welcoming. For sea lovers, Mylopotamos, Agios Ioannis, and Fakistra offer magical scenery. You won't be short of nature walks either, as there are many trails for hiking and getting to know the place better on foot.
Discover villages with impressive views and stone-built houses, such as Tsagarada with its plane trees, Portaria with its beautiful squares, and Makrinitsa with its incredible views over the Pagasetic Gulf. If you'd like to try a unique outing, in Milies you'll find the starting point of «Moutzouris», the old small train with a route through nature toward Ano Lechonia.
Parga
A jewel of Epirus that feels like an island, Parga impresses visitors in the first days of autumn too. The picturesque alleys and the colorful houses clinging to the hillside create a scene that looks like a postcard. The Venetian Castle with its panoramic view is perfect for a walk, as is the atmospheric little harbor that lights up in the evenings.
Enjoy the nearby beaches that stand out for their waters, Valtos with its vast sandy shore, Lichnos with crystalline waters, and the quieter Sarakiniko that is perfect for laid-back swims. Parga is an excellent base for excursions. Try a boat trip to Paxos or Syvota and hike to the famous legendary springs of the Acheron.
