When to Visit Zakynthos (Zante)
Climate guide & best times to travel
Best Time to Visit
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Year-Round Essentials
Spring (Mar-May)
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Autumn (Sep-Nov)
Winter (Dec-Feb)
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Month-by-Month Guide
January
January is the coolest and wettest month on Zakynthos, though temperatures remain mild by northern European standards. You'll find the island quite quiet with many tourist facilities closed, but it's actually a peaceful time to experience local life. Expect occasional rainy days and the need for a jacket in the evenings.
February
February continues the winter pattern with cool temperatures and regular rainfall, though you'll start to notice days getting slightly longer. The island is still in its quiet season with limited tourism infrastructure operating. On clearer days, the light can be beautiful for photography, and hotel rates are at their lowest.
March
March marks the beginning of spring with temperatures slowly climbing and wildflowers starting to bloom across the island. Rain is still fairly common, but you'll get more sunny intervals between showers. Tourist facilities begin reopening toward the end of the month in preparation for the season ahead.
April
April is lovely on Zakynthos—the island is lush and green, temperatures are comfortable for exploring, and the tourist season is just beginning. You might still catch some rain, particularly early in the month, but sunny days become increasingly common. It's a great time for hiking and sightseeing without the summer heat.
May
May hits that sweet spot where temperatures are warm enough for beach days but not scorching, and rainfall drops significantly. The sea is warming up (though still a bit brisk for some), and most tourist facilities are fully operational. Crowds are manageable, and the island's landscape is still beautifully green from spring rains.
June
June marks the start of proper summer with hot, dry weather and the sea reaching comfortable swimming temperatures. Tourist numbers pick up significantly, especially toward the end of the month, but it's not yet peak season chaos. Long sunny days make it ideal for beach-hopping and boat trips around the island.
July
July is peak summer on Zakynthos—hot, dry, and busy. Temperatures can feel intense during midday, though sea breezes and the 70% humidity make it bearable. The island is in full tourist mode with all facilities open and beaches packed, particularly in Laganas and around Navagio Beach.
August
August is typically the hottest month and the absolute peak of tourist season—expect crowds, higher prices, and fully booked accommodations if you haven't planned ahead. The heat can be intense, but the warm sea (around 25°C) is perfect for swimming. Rain is virtually non-existent.
September
September is arguably the best month to visit—temperatures remain warm but slightly more comfortable than high summer, the sea is at its warmest, and crowds thin out once schools restart. Early September still feels like peak season, while late September offers more breathing room and better prices.
October
October sees autumn settling in with temperatures cooling to comfortable levels for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Rain becomes more frequent, particularly late in the month, but you'll still get plenty of sunny days. Many hotels and restaurants begin closing toward the end of October, and the sea remains warm enough for swimming early in the month.
November
November marks the transition to the quiet season with cooler temperatures and increasing rainfall. Most tourist facilities close for winter, and the island returns to a slower, more local rhythm. It's not beach weather, but mild days can still be pleasant for exploring, and accommodation is cheap if you can find places open.
December
December is firmly in the off-season with cool, wet weather and limited tourist infrastructure operating. The island takes on a different character—quieter, more authentic, and decidedly un-touristy. While it's not ideal for a beach holiday, it offers rock-bottom prices and a glimpse of local life if you don't mind the weather.