Mykonos in September: Is It Worth It In Early Autumn

There is a reason Mykonos is called the jewel of the Aegean; for travelers across the globe it is something of a dream. The Greek island’s cosmopolitan allure, its fine beaches and lively after dark scene have made it a magnet for visitors in the summer.

Yet if one were to pick an ideal time to be on the island, September would be hard to beat. By then the rigours of the peak season are abating but the sun and warmth remain. You can take in the natural beauty of the place without having to contend with the throngs that make their way there in July or August.

We have put together this guide to cover all aspects of a September visit to Mykonos. Here you will find what you need to know on the weather, the culture and the nightlife, along with some advice for planning your trip.

1. Why Visit Mykonos in September?

There are a number of reasons why Mykonos is at its best in September.

For one, the weather is agreeable; the kind of sweltering summer heat gives way to a more comfortable warmth that suits a day on the beach or some sightseeing around the island. With the height of the summer rush behind it, you will find the place to be quieter and can take in the sights with a good measure of privacy. Then there is the matter of cost. Flights and a place to stay are generally less of an expense than what one would pay in July or August at the height of the season. And as for entertainment, the festivities do not let up. The island’s nightlife and music festivals remain in full swing, so the party atmosphere is well and truly intact.

Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or a mix of both, Mykonos in September offers the best of all worlds.

2. Weather in Mykonos in September

For the majority of visitors, a September in Mykonos is about as perfect as it gets. One can still put in some time for sunbathing and other pursuits in the open air; while the searing heat of July and August has given way to something milder, it is no less warm.

Then there are the numbers to consider. Daytime will see you in temperatures between 24°C and 28°C (75°F to 82°F), before it settles down to a more comfortable 18-22°C (64-72°F) in the evening. The Aegean is no less inviting, with the water at a steady 24°C (75°F) for any swimming or water sports one might have in mind. As for rain, it is not much of an issue in Mykonos this time of year; clear blue skies and an abundance of sunshine are what one should anticipate.

Read Also: Mykonos In October – Is It a Good Choice?

3. Best Beaches to Visit in September

You will find the beaches of Mykonos to be as lovely in September as any other time of year, though there is not the same level of crowding. The island is well known for them, and they come in all sorts to suit one’s preference, be it a lively party scene or a more secluded spot.

3.1. Paradise Beach

Then there is Paradise Beach, perhaps the most renowned of them all with its beach clubs and good natured energy. Even in September when the festivities are a touch more subdued, there is still plenty of vibrancy for those in the mood for it. With clear water and golden sand at your disposal, it makes an ideal place to put in some swimming or sunbathing, or to just unwind with a cocktail.

3.2. Super Paradise Beach

Then there is Super Paradise Beach, a party scene to rival that of Paradise. Yet come September, the summer throngs have thinned and one can put in some time to relax. The beach has its share of bars and clubs but also quiet nooks for swimming in the clear water or just sunbathing.

3.3. Elia Beach

If a more sedate affair is what is wanted, Elia Beach is hard to beat. As the island’s longest stretch of sand it is roomy and unpretentious. It is an inclusive place with a following among LGBTQ+ travelers. One will find the waters are very calm for a swim, and there are umbrellas and sunbeds to be had for a fee.

3.4. Agios Sostis Beach

For a beach that is both secluded and unspoilt, one should head to Agios Sostis. It is to be found in the north of Mykonos and has a certain charm by virtue of being less developed and without any kind of organized facilities. There is no need for amenities here; simply take your towel and make the most of the calm surroundings and the pristine water.

3.5. Psarou Beach

Then there is Psarou Beach, an upscale spot on the island where you are as likely to come across celebrities as anyone else in search of a bit of luxury. The waters are crystal-clear and there are plenty of high-end restaurants and chic bars to be had. Even in September, when the mood is not as intense as in the height of summer, yachts can still be seen at anchor in the bay.

4. Exploring Mykonos Town (Chora)

There is no better way to get to the heart and soul of Mykonos than in its town, or Chora as it is called. The month of September lends itself well to a leisurely exploration of the whitewashed buildings, the famous windmills and the narrow, twisting streets, all without having to contend with the throngs that come in high season.

4.1. The Windmills of Mykonos

Then there are the Windmills of Mykonos, perhaps the island’s most identifiable feature. Dating from the 16th century, these historic structures have been put to use for other purposes over the years; they were once for milling grain but today stand as an emblem of local heritage. They make for fine photo opportunities and afford a sweeping panorama of the Aegean and the town below, particularly at sunset when the views are at their finest.

4.2. Little Venice

You will find some of the finest scenery in Mykonos Town at Little Venice. With its array of colorful homes perched on the water, it is hard to miss; come sunset, they make for a remarkable view. It is an ideal spot to have a drink and see the sun go down over the sea, with no shortage of fashionable bars and restaurants to choose from.

4.3. Matogianni Street

Then there is Matogianni Street for those inclined to shop. The street is alive with activity and you will be surrounded by designer boutiques, artisanal stores with local wares and souvenir outlets. September is a good time for it, when the crowds have dispersed and one can put in some browsing without the rush.

4.4. Panagia Paraportiani

No trip to Mykonos would be complete without a visit to the Panagia Paraportiani. As one of the island’s most celebrated churches, it is a sight not to be missed. You will find this whitewashed architectural marvel in the Kastro part of Mykonos Town; in truth, what appears as a single structure is an assemblage of five separate churches put together over the course of centuries. With its striking design and setting, it is hardly surprising that photographers are drawn to it.

5. Nightlife in Mykonos in September

Then there is the matter of nightlife, for which Mykonos has a global reputation. Even in September, when things are a little quieter than in the peak of summer, the party atmosphere is by no means dead. The island’s well-known nightclubs, bars and beach clubs are still putting on events with the best of them.

5.1. Scorpios

There are few venues on the island as iconic as Scorpios on Paraga Beach. The beach club has a certain bohemian-chic way about it, with its sunset rituals and an atmosphere that is part relaxation, part dining and music. You will find the crowd in September to be more of a laid-back sort, yet the place is no less electric for it.

5.2. Cavo Paradiso

Then there is Cavo Paradiso, which any visitor to Mykonos should put on the list if they are after a legendary party. An open-air affair set on a cliff with the sea below, this nightclub is renowned for its all-nighters headlined by international DJs. Come September, one can appreciate the venue in a more intimate setting, well clear of the summer’s larger crowds.

5.3. Paradise Beach Club

You will find no shortage of popular party venues on the island, not least of which is Paradise Beach Club. Situated right on Paradise Beach, it has a reputation for putting on some of the island’s more sizeable beach parties. Even when September brings a lull in the action, the club is still the place to be for good music and dancing that carries on late into the night.

5.4. Mykonos Bar Hopping

Over in Mykonos Town, an evening is often spent bar hopping. One can go from the likes of Jackie O’, an icon of the local nightlife, to something more laid back at a cocktail bar such as Alley Bar or Astra; there are plenty of options to have a drink and take in the atmosphere.

6. Things to Do in Mykonos in September

Mykonos has more to put on the agenda in September than just its beaches and nightlife. For the culture vulture, the foodie or one in search of an adventure, there is no shortage of things to do.

6.1. Explore Delos Island

Take a short boat trip from Mykonos to Delos, for instance. The small island is home to what is arguably Greece’s most significant archaeological site. A UNESCO World Heritage Site today, it was in antiquity a hub of both politics and religion. With the milder temperatures of September, you will find it well suited to making your way around the old theater, the Temple of Isis and the likes of the renowned Terrace of the Lions.

6.2. Watersports and Sailing

With the waters still warm in September, conditions are ideal for windsurfing, jet skiing and paddleboarding. For those looking to partake in such sports, there is no shortage of beaches like Kalafatis where one can find lessons or put in an order for rental gear.

A sailing excursion around the island is another option for a more relaxed day out. From the vantage point of the sea the Mykonos coastline is quite a sight; it is also a good way to come by some of the hidden coves and secluded areas for a bit of snorkeling.

6.3. Culinary Experiences

There is no denying the global reputation of Greek food, and in Mykonos one will find some of the finest tables in the Cyclades. The island’s tavernas are well worth a visit in September to put in an order for local fare like moussaka, grilled octopus or fresh seafood. You can have a fine meal in a lovely setting at such establishments as Nammos, Kastro’s or M-eating.

Those looking for something a bit more hands on might do well to sign up for a cooking class; it is an excellent way to get to know the traditional dishes and the fresh ingredients they are made from.

6.4. Sunset Viewing

There is no better way to experience the stunning sunsets for which Mykonos is famous than in September, when one can do so away from the throngs of summer visitors. Make your way to Little Venice or the Windmills of Mykonos to see the sun go down over the Aegean, or put in a reservation for a cruise and take in the scenery from the water.

6.5. Local Festivals and Events

The island’s cultural calendar is still full in September with its share of festivals and events. The highlight is usually the Mykonos Biennale, a contemporary arts festival held biennially in this month. It is an occasion for local and international artists alike to be celebrated through film screenings, performances and exhibitions.

7. Practical Tips for Visiting Mykonos in September

A few practical pointers will go a long way in ensuring a good September trip to Mykonos.

For one, do not leave your bookings to the last minute. The island is still in high demand in September despite being less of a bustle than in July or August, so put in for your accommodation and activities ahead of time.

When it comes to packing, you may find the evenings turn cooler once the sea breeze picks up, even if the day has been warm. A light sweater or jacket is advisable for after dark.

Getting around is straightforward with the bus network that serves Mykonos Town and most of the well known beaches. But should you wish to see the island on your own terms, there is no better option than to put down a rental on a car or ATV.

8. Conclusion

There is no better way to take in the iconic island of Mykonos than with a September visit, when one can have it all: relaxation, a bit of adventure and some cultural discovery. The weather is still warm and the beaches are at their finest. Add to that an abundance of history and a nightlife scene that is as vibrant as it is unpretentious, and you have the ideal conditions for seeing what the island has to put on its table.

Whether you’re sunbathing on a quiet beach, exploring ancient ruins, or enjoying a sunset cocktail in Little Venice, Mykonos in September is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories.

About The Author