Mykonos is one of the most popular and beautiful islands in Greece, attracting millions of visitors every year. The island is famous for its glamorous beaches, vibrant nightlife, and charming white-washed buildings. But, before you book your flight and pack your bags, you should know some important information about the climate of Mykonos and what to pack for your vacation. In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know about the weather, the seasons, and the essentials you need to bring to Mykonos.
Mykonos has a typical Mediterranean climate, with hot and dry summers and mild and wet winters. The island enjoys about 300 days of sunshine per year, making it a great destination for sun-seekers and beach-lovers. However, Mykonos is also known as the “Island of the Winds”, as it is often exposed to strong breezes that cool down the temperature and create waves on the sea. These winds, called Meltemi, are more frequent and intense from June to September, and they can affect your plans and activities. Here are some general characteristics of the climate of Mykonos by season:
Spring (March to May)
Spring is a lovely time to visit Mykonos, as the weather is warm and pleasant, the flowers are blooming, and the crowds are fewer. The average temperature ranges from 12°C (54°F) in March to 20°C (68°F) in May, and the average rainfall is low, around 30 mm (1.2 inches) per month. The sea is still cold, around 16°C (61°F) in March and 18°C (64°F) in May, but you can enjoy some sunbathing and swimming on the warmer days. The winds are moderate, around 15 km/h (9 mph) on average, but they can be stronger on some days.
Summer (June to September)
Summer is the peak season in Mykonos, as the weather is hot and sunny, the beaches are crowded, and the nightlife is vibrant. The average temperature ranges from 24°C (75°F) in June to 27°C (81°F) in August, and the average rainfall is very low, around 10 mm (0.4 inches) per month. The sea is warm, around 22°C (72°F) in June and 24°C (75°F) in August, and you can enjoy many water sports and activities. The winds are strong, around 25 km/h (16 mph) on average, and they can be a blessing or a curse, depending on your preference. They can provide a refreshing breeze and a relief from the heat, but they can also make the sea rough and the sand fly.
Autumn (October to November)
Autumn is another good time to visit Mykonos, as the weather is still warm and sunny, the prices are lower, and the crowds are thinner. The average temperature ranges from 21°C (70°F) in October to 16°C (61°F) in November, and the average rainfall is moderate, around 40 mm (1.6 inches) per month. The sea is still pleasant, around 23°C (73°F) in October and 20°C (68°F) in November, and you can still swim and sunbathe on the quieter beaches. The winds are mild, around 10 km/h (6 mph) on average, but they can be stronger on some days.
Winter (December to February)
Winter is the low season in Mykonos, as the weather is cool and wet, the beaches are empty, and the nightlife is subdued. The average temperature ranges from 12°C (54°F) in December to 10°C (50°F) in February, and the average rainfall is high, around 70 mm (2.8 inches) per month. The sea is cold, around 18°C (64°F) in December and 16°C (61°F) in February, and swimming is not recommended. The winds are variable, around 15 km/h (9 mph) on average, but they can be stronger on some days.
Mykonos packing guide: what to bring
Now that you know what to expect from the climate of Mykonos, you can start packing your bags for your vacation. Of course, what you need to pack depends on the season, the duration, and the purpose of your trip, but here are some general tips and suggestions on what to bring to Mykonos.
Clothing
Mykonos has a casual and relaxed dress code, so you don’t need to pack anything too formal or fancy. However, you should also respect the local culture and customs, and avoid wearing anything too revealing or inappropriate, especially when visiting churches or monasteries. Here are some clothing items you should pack for Mykonos, depending on the season:
Spring
Pack lightweight and breathable fabrics, such as cotton or linen, in light colors, such as white, beige, or pastel. Bring some long-sleeved shirts, pants, and jackets for the cooler evenings and the windy days. Don’t forget to pack a swimsuit, a cover-up, and a beach towel for the warmer days. You can also bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.
Summer
Pack light and airy fabrics, such as cotton or linen, in bright colors, such as blue, yellow, or pink. Bring some short-sleeved shirts, shorts, skirts, and dresses for the hot days and the nights out. Don’t forget to pack a swimsuit, a cover-up, and a beach towel for the beach parties and the water sports. You can also bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun and the wind.
Autumn
Pack lightweight and breathable fabrics, such as cotton or linen, in warm colors, such as orange, red, or brown. Bring some long-sleeved shirts, pants, and jackets for the cooler evenings and the windy days. Don’t forget to pack a swimsuit, a cover-up, and a beach towel for the sunny days. You can also bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.
Winter
Pack warm and cozy fabrics, such as wool or fleece, in dark colors, such as black, gray, or navy. Bring some sweaters, jeans, and coats for the cold days and the rainy days. Don’t forget to pack an umbrella, a scarf, and gloves for the wet and windy days. You can also bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.
Shoes
Mykonos has narrow and cobbled streets, so you need to pack comfortable and sturdy shoes for walking and exploring. Here are some shoes you should pack for Mykonos, depending on the season and the activity:
Spring
Pack sandals or flip-flops for the beach and the warmer days, sneakers or loafers for the walks and the tours, and boots or heels for the evenings and the nights out.
Summer
Pack sandals or flip-flops for the beach and the hot days, sneakers or loafers for the walks and the activities, and wedges or heels for the evenings and the parties.
Autumn
Pack sandals or flip-flops for the beach and the sunny days, sneakers or loafers for the walks and the tours, and boots or heels for the evenings and the nights out.
Winter
Pack sneakers or loafers for the walks and the tours, boots or heels for the evenings and the nights out, and rain boots or waterproof shoes for the rainy and windy days.
Accessories
Mykonos has a lot of charm and style, so you can also pack some accessories to spice up your outfits and your photos. Here are some accessories you should pack for Mykonos, depending on the season and the occasion:
Spring
Pack a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun, a scarf or a shawl to keep you warm on the cooler evenings and the windy days, and some jewelry or a watch to add some sparkle to your look.
Summer
Pack a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun and the wind, a beach bag or a backpack to carry your essentials, and some jewelry or a watch to add some glamour to your look.
Autumn
Pack a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun, a scarf or a shawl to keep you warm on the cooler evenings and the windy days, and some jewelry or a watch to add some color to your look.
Winter
Pack a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun, an umbrella, a scarf, and gloves to keep you dry and warm on the wet and windy days, and some jewelry or a watch to add some shine to your look.
Weather-perfect pursuits: tailoring your activities to Mykonos’ diverse climates
Sun-drenched summers: June to August
- Beach bliss: Mykonos’ scorching summer days call for endless beach activities. From vibrant Paradise Beach parties to tranquil Agios Sostis sunbathing, the options are limitless.
- Water adventures: Dive into the crystal-clear waters for snorkeling, paddleboarding, or jet-skiing. Discover the underwater wonders of the Aegean Sea.
- Island exploration: The dry climate makes it ideal for exploring archaeological sites like Delos or taking a scenic ATV tour through the rugged landscapes.
Mild and magical autumns: September to November
- Countryside charm: As temperatures cool down, explore the rural side of Mykonos. Hike through the hills, visit local vineyards, and experience the grape harvest season.
- Cultural excursions: With fewer crowds, delve into the island’s history. Wander through the charming streets of Mykonos Town, discovering hidden gems without the summer hustle.
- Sunset soirees: Enjoy cooler evenings with a sunset cruise or a romantic dinner overlooking the twinkling lights of Mykonos Town.
Refreshing winters: December to February
- Cultural immersion: Winter brings a quieter Mykonos, perfect for exploring its cultural treasures. Visit museums, attend traditional festivals, and experience authentic island life.
- Cozy retreats: Embrace the cooler temperatures by enjoying a cozy retreat in a hillside villa. Savor local comfort food in tavernas with crackling fireplaces.
- Hiking adventures: Explore the island’s natural beauty with invigorating hikes. The cooler weather makes it an ideal time to traverse the scenic trails.
Blossoming springs: March to May
- Floral delights: Witness Mykonos burst into bloom. Spring brings vibrant wildflowers, making it an excellent time for nature walks and hikes.
- Cultural exploration: Visit the island’s monasteries, such as Panagia Tourliani, surrounded by blooming landscapes. Attend local Easter celebrations for a taste of authentic traditions.
- Beachfront rejuvenation: With rising temperatures, unwind on the beaches. The spring sun offers a perfect balance for both relaxation and exploration.