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Rhodes, the largest of Greece’s Dodecanese islands, has a classic Mediterranean climate with long, hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The island receives approximately 3,000 hours of sunshine per year, making it one of the sunniest destinations in Europe. Sea breezes (the Meltemi wind) moderate summer temperatures along the coast, while the interior and western side of the island tend to be slightly warmer and less windy. The sea is swimmable from May through October, peaking at a comfortable 26°C (79°F) in August. For more on neighborhoods guide, see our neighborhoods guide.
Rhodes Weather by Month: Temperature and Rainfall
Rhodes Town sits at the northern tip of the island and records the following monthly averages. The eastern coast (Faliraki, Lindos) is typically 1-2°C warmer in summer. The western coast (Ixia, Ialysos) gets stronger afternoon winds, popular with windsurfers. Rainfall is concentrated between November and February, while June through August are nearly bone-dry with just 1-4mm of rain per month. For more on travel tips, see our travel tips.
| Month | Avg High (°C/°F) | Avg Low (°C/°F) | Rainfall (mm) | Sunshine (hrs) | Sea Temp (°C) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 15 / 59 | 9 / 48 | 141 | 5 | 18 |
| February | 15 / 59 | 9 / 48 | 102 | 6 | 17 |
| March | 17 / 63 | 11 / 52 | 72 | 7 | 17 |
| April | 20 / 68 | 13 / 55 | 38 | 9 | 18 |
| May | 24 / 75 | 17 / 63 | 16 | 11 | 20 |
| June | 29 / 84 | 21 / 70 | 4 | 13 | 23 |
| July | 31 / 88 | 23 / 73 | 1 | 13 | 25 |
| August | 31 / 88 | 23 / 73 | 2 | 12 | 26 |
| September | 28 / 82 | 21 / 70 | 12 | 10 | 25 |
| October | 24 / 75 | 17 / 63 | 56 | 8 | 23 |
| November | 20 / 68 | 13 / 55 | 100 | 6 | 21 |
| December | 16 / 61 | 10 / 50 | 148 | 5 | 19 |
Rhodes Weather by Month: Winter (December to February)
Winter on Rhodes is mild compared to northern Europe but can feel cool and damp. December is the wettest month with 148mm of rain across roughly 14 rainy days. January and February average highs of 15°C (59°F) with overnight lows around 9°C (48°F). You will need a jacket and layers, especially for evenings. Many beachfront tavernas and hotels close for the season from November through March. Snow is extremely rare at sea level but can dust the peaks of Mount Attavyros (1,215m). The Old Town is quiet and atmospheric in winter, with few tourists and lower prices. For weather expectations in other seasons, see our best time to visit guide.
Rhodes Weather by Month: Spring (March to May)
Spring transforms Rhodes with wildflowers carpeting the hillsides and temperatures climbing steadily. March starts at 17°C (63°F) with about 8 rainy days. By April, rainfall drops to 38mm and highs reach 20°C (68°F). May is essentially summer preview: 24°C (75°F) highs, 11 hours of daily sunshine, and sea temperatures warming to 20°C (68°F). This is one of the best windows for hiking and sightseeing before the summer crowds arrive. The things to do article covers outdoor attractions that shine in spring.
Rhodes Weather by Month: Summer (June to August)
Summer is hot, dry, and relentlessly sunny. July and August both average 31°C (88°F) highs with overnight lows of 23°C (73°F), meaning even at midnight it rarely drops below 20°C (68°F). Rainfall is negligible: 1mm in July and 2mm in August, typically a single brief thunderstorm. The Meltemi wind blows from the northwest at 20-30 km/h on many afternoons, which keeps the east coast beaches comfortable but can make the west coast choppy. Sea temperatures peak at 26°C (79°F) in August. Sunscreen, hats, and hydration are non-negotiable. Air conditioning is standard in hotels but not all budget apartments have it. For accommodation options by area, check the where to stay guide.
Rhodes Weather by Month: Autumn (September to November)
September is essentially a summer month with 28°C (82°F) highs and sea temperatures still holding at 25°C (77°F). Rain increases slightly to 12mm. October is a transition month: 24°C (75°F) highs and 56mm of rain over about 6 days, but still 8 hours of daily sunshine. The sea remains swimmable at 23°C (73°F). November marks the real shift to autumn with 100mm of rain, highs of 20°C (68°F), and many seasonal businesses closing around October 31. September and early October offer the sweet spot of warm water, fewer crowds, and lower prices compared to August. For seasonal events during these months, see the events and festivals calendar.
