The Cyclades in October
October in the Cyclades is the light that changes everything. Lower, warmer, it wraps the white villages in an amber glow found at no other season. The terraces are still open, the sea retains its summer gentleness, and the islands rediscover that unhurried rhythm which is their deepest charm. Discover the Cyclades on a guided journey or in complete freedom, in the intimacy that only autumn can offer.
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Why the Cyclades in October
Temperatures remain pleasant, between 22 and 25 degrees, and the sea hovers around 22 degrees: warm enough for comfortable swims after a morning walk. The meltemi has ceased to blow, ferry crossings take place in an almost surreal calm, and the October light, already low by mid-afternoon, turns every panorama into a painting.
It is the season of the harvest. Capers dry on the terraces, the last grapes are pressed, and tavernas serve the first autumn dishes: vegetable soups, aged cheeses, grilled fish fresh from the morning catch. You dine outdoors, in that mild evening air that stretches every supper into the night.
Some ferry connections become less frequent, but that is precisely what makes October special: the islands that can still be reached offer a deeply local atmosphere, almost confidential.
Which islands to choose
Naxos is the surest bet in October. The largest of the Cyclades holds its warmth longer than its neighbours, thanks to its mountainous mass. The inland villages (Apiranthos, Halki, Filoti) live to the rhythm of the harvest, and the shepherd paths linking them are strikingly beautiful at this season. Explore Naxos.
Sifnos remains active and gourmet right through late October. The paved paths linking its villages are a walking pleasure, and the tavernas of Kastro and Vathy still serve their finest dishes. The gastronomic island of the Cyclades tastes even better when you have it almost to yourself.
Milos, with its volcanic relief and turquoise waters, keeps its splendour in October. The rock formations of Sarakiniko, the hidden coves of Kleftiko and the colourful boat garages of Firopotamos are discovered in precious solitude.
The smaller islands (Folegandros, Kimolos, Serifos) gradually close their accommodations, but for flexible travellers, those that remain open offer an experience of rare authenticity.
Exploring other seasons
- Cyclades: all our trips in the archipelago
- September: Greece at its peak
- Autumn: all our late-season destinations
- October in Greece: beyond the Cyclades