Travel time: Year-round
Andros, the northernmost and second-largest island of the Cyclades, possesses a climate that distinguishes it from its more arid neighbors like Mykonos or Santorini. While it shares the typical Mediterranean rhythm of hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters, its unique topography and abundant water sources create a distinct environmental character.
The weather on Andros is defined by high sunshine levels and a prevailing northerly wind system. Unlike many Cycladic islands, Andros is exceptionally green, a result of its higher-than-average rainfall and mountainous interior. In the winter, the island receives significant precipitation, which feeds its famous springs and waterfalls. In the summer, the heat is typically moderated by the sea and the seasonal winds, keeping temperatures significantly more comfortable than the Greek mainland.
On a standard day, the temperature rises steadily from sunrise, peaking in the early afternoon. On the western coast (Gavrio and Batsi), the mornings are often calm, making it the best time for sea activities. As the day progresses, the wind typically picks up, providing a welcome cooling effect during the hottest hours. In the evening, the air temperature drops comfortably, though the humidity can rise slightly as the sun sets over the Aegean.
The most significant weather phenomenon in Andros is the Meltemi (or Etesians). These are strong, dry northerly winds that blow across the Aegean from June to September, peaking in August.
Andros is an island of contrasts. The eastern side, where the capital Chora is located, is more exposed to the elements and feels cooler and fresher due to the direct impact of the northerly winds. The western side is more sheltered and can feel several degrees warmer. The mountainous interior creates its own microclimate; the valleys around Menites and Apikia are noticeably cooler and more humid than the coastal regions, often shrouded in morning mist even in the summer.
Locals have adapted to the island's wind and water for centuries. Traditional architecture features thick stone walls and small windows to keep interiors cool in summer and warm in winter. The island's extensive network of stone-paved paths (kalderimia) often follows valleys or the leeward sides of hills to protect travelers from the wind. In Chora, the narrow, winding alleys serve as a natural windbreak, creating a calm microclimate for residents even during the strongest Meltemi spurts.
In the summer, Andros rarely feels "sticky" or oppressive because the dry Meltemi wind acts as a natural air conditioner. However, the wind translates to a higher "wind chill" factor in the evenings; even in July, the air can feel surprisingly crisp once the sun goes down. In the winter, the dampness from the island's many springs can make the 12°C air feel betydligt colder than the number suggests, requiring local homes to rely heavily on wood-fired heating.