can you visit greece in january

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Greece In January – Weather And Best Places To Visit

Few tourists visit Greece in January. Yet, the Mediterranean country is an interesting destination to visit during winter. Here is all you need to know if you decide to take a January holiday in Greece.

Visiting Greece in January

Few people planning a short break in January will consider going to Greece. Many visitors think that Greece is just a summer destination, and believe that everything shuts down during the off-season.

It’s true that many places in Greece, like the smaller islands, are seasonal destinations. Even the famous Mykonos and Santorini are very quiet in winter.

Anyone who chooses to visit in January will see a completely different side of the islands, without the summer crowds or the busy beach bars.

However, not all of Greece shuts down in January. The biggest cities, like Athens and Thessaloniki, are vibrant and lively.

Similarly, the mountain villages and ski resorts around the country are ideal for people who want to take a ski holiday, or just to enjoy the winter landscapes.

Let’s see what the weather is like in Greece in January. 

Greece weather in January

Let’s face it – January, along with February, is the coldest month of the year in Greece. Here is what the average temperatures look like at a few different areas of the country:

• Athens: 4-13C (39-55F)
• Thessaloniki: 2-9C (35-48F)
• Corfu, Ionian islands: 5-14C (41-57F)
• Rhodes, Dodecanese: 9-15C (48-59F)
• Coastal towns in Crete: 8-16C (46-61F)
• Kalamata, Peloponnese: 5-15C (41-59F)
• Epirus: 0-9C (32-48F)

This is a good deal colder than the 30-35C (86-95F) temperatures in the summer months!

Wherever you go, you are also likely to get several rainy days. Athens and the Cyclades are relatively drier than Epirus, the Ionian islands, west Peloponnese and Crete.

Snow is not uncommon, especially in the north of the country and at the mountainous regions. This is an ideal time to visit a ski resort in Greece, like Parnassos or Kalavryta.

With all that said, blue skies and sunny days are actually quite common. Photos in this article have been taken in January!

Swimming in January in Greece 

You typically won’t find beach weather in Greece in January. The sea temperature is around 14-16C (57-61F) on average, and maybe a couple of degrees warmer in Southern Greece.

On most years, January has a few sunny days when the weather is pleasantly warm, known as the Halcyon days. According to traditional stories, the weather gets better to allow a bird, called the halcyon, to lay its eggs with safety.

People who are used to lower sea temperatures should be able to swim on these days. In fact, several Greeks swim during the coldest months of the year. It’s supposed to be good for you 🙂

The Epiphany celebration – Theophania

On the 6th of January, during the annual event of the Epiphany celebration , hundreds of people around the country dive to retrieve a cross that a priest has thrown in the water.

This day is a public holiday in Greece, and if the weather is nice, it’s a real bonus for participants! You can read some more info in this article about Greek celebrations .

Let’s see the best places to visit in Greece in January, and what to expect.

Explore Athens Greece in January

All things considered, visiting Athens in January is a great experience. The city won’t be as packed as it is during the summer months. Instead, you will find plenty of Athenians, a buzzing atmosphere, and, incidentally,  the winter sales. 

Some of the famous ancient city’s top attractions are the Acropolis, the Ancient Agora and all ancient sites in Athens . As sunset is earlier in winter, opening hours are shorter, with the larger sites closing at 17.00.

On the positive side, tickets cost half-price, there are considerably fewer tourists compared to the peak season, and you won’t face any heatwaves. That said, avoid the occasional rainy days, as the ancient marbles can get slippery, and bring a scarf when it’s windy!

January is a great month to visit the world class museums, galleries and other indoor attractions in Athens. The Acropolis Museum, National Archaeological Museum or Benaki Museum are among the best museums in Athens .

People on a budget can check out this list of free museums and galleries in Athens – there are many!

You will find that most shops, restaurants and cafes are open in January. You might not be able to sit outdoors on the coldest days, but you will find plenty of indoor places to eat and drink – plus, Christmas parks will still be open in the first week.

Here are the 30 best to do in Athens , at all seasons – after all, it’s a year round destination. And by the way, January is the beginning of the winter sales season, so it’s a good opportunity to go shopping in Athens .

Finally, the Acropolis and other ancient sites are free to visit on the first Sunday in January. Here’s some more information .

Visit Thessaloniki in January

Thessaloniki is Greece’s second largest city. It’s an incredible destination for anyone who likes Roman and Byzantine history, due to its number of historic sites.

The city is full of Roman sites, like the Roman Forum, the Galerian Complex and the Rotunda. You will also bump into several Byzantine churches, some of which are included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Museum lovers will thoroughly enjoy the excellent museums dedicated to Thessaloniki’s 5,000-year history. Most visitors will start with the city’s symbol, the White Tower, the Archaeological and the Byzantine Museum.

For an insight into modern and contemporary culture, allow some time for the fantastic Folk Life & Ethnological Museum and the numerous art museums in the city.

Apart from its history and culture, Thessaloniki is a wonderful place to wander around and soak the ambiance. The Upper Town, the long sea promenade and the various colorful neighbourhoods are all worth a visit.

Not to mention the city’s iconic nightlife, which thrives year-round. Stroll around the iconic Ladadika, but also wander off to Valaoritou and Polytechneiou streets, and explore the various tavernas and bars.

Here is my detailed guide about why Thessaloniki is totally worth visiting ! And here’s how to get from Thessaloniki Airport to the city centre .

Tip: Thessaloniki typically gets much colder than Athens. Bring some cold weather clothing, and get ready to explore!

Getting to Thessaloniki

There are several international flights arriving at Thessaloniki airport year-round. If you are in the capital, you can take a domestic flight, bus, or train to Thessaloniki from Athens .

Day trips from Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki is an excellent base from where you can explore numerous nearby places. Here are some of the best day trips from Thessaloniki .

The Greek islands in January

Generally speaking, the Greek islands receive very few tourists in January. Compared to Northern Europe, winters on the islands are fairly mild. Yet, despite the winter sun, rainy days, gray skies and strong winds are common.

Most of the coastal resorts on the Greek isles shut down in winter. Hotel, restaurant and shop owners take some time off, and do all the necessary repairs.

However, the biggest cities and towns, like Heraklion and Chania in Crete, or Rhodes town, remain lively year-round. So while it won’t be a beach holiday, it will be a good opportunity to experience local life in the Greece off-season.

While the winter months are probably not the best time to visit the Greek islands, you can find some bargain prices for accommodation, especially on the most expensive islands.

This is your best bet if you want to spend some quiet time at some of the most iconic destinations in Greece. Here is why you should consider visiting Santorini in winter . Bonus: did you know that sunsets are actually more colorful?

Getting to the Greek islands in January

Ferries run to the Greek islands year round. Whether you want to board any of them in winter is another matter, as the Aegean Sea is likely to be rough, more than during the meltemi season .

You will find domestic flights to many of the islands from the Athens international airport. However, there are few – if any – direct flights from European airports to the Greek islands in January.

Visiting mainland Greece in January

Despite the seasonal rains, winter is a lovely time to explore mainland Greece. You will be able to visit the ancient sites with few other tourists, and take advantage of the much lower accommodation prices in popular destinations.

Here are a few travel ideas for places to visit in January in Greece.

Ancient Delphi and Arachova

The amazing site of ancient Delphi is a popular day trip from Athens. Once considered the navel of the world, Delphi is located in a region called Sterea Ellada, in central Greece.

Delphi town, close to the ancient site, is rather non-descript. While you can find a few restaurants and hotels, a much better choice is Arachova, a charming mountain town a short ride away.

While retaining its traditional character, Arachova is also popular with skiers who visit the nearby Parnassos ski resort. Booking your hotel early is recommended.

Even if you are not going skiing, the average low temperature in Arachova at night is below zero, so be prepared!

Getting to Ancient Delphi and Arachova

While public buses to Delphi and Arachova run year-round, and are fairly frequent. However, renting a car will give you more freedom to explore the area. You will also need to have snow chains with you, just in case.

If driving in Greece sounds daunting, you can also take a guided tour to ancient Delphi , including a stop at Arachova.

Nafplio, Mycenae and Epidaurus: The Peloponnese in January

Peloponnese is a large region of Greece south of Athens. It’s home to amazing archaeological sites like Ancient Epidaurus , Ancient Olympia and Ancient Mycenae .

The most popular town to visit in Peloponnese is Nafplio, a lovely coastal town with stunning neoclassical architecture and an impressive Venetian castle. Visitors should also consider a trip to Kalamata , a vibrant coastal city in the south.

If you are looking for ski resorts, check out Kalavryta, Zireia and Mainalo, attracting dozens of visitors every winter.

People visiting Peloponnese in January will be rewarded with beautiful winter landscapes, snowy peaks and some great prices for accommodation and attractions.

Getting to the Peloponnese

You can drive to Peloponnese in a hired vehicle. As an indication, driving to Nafplio from Athens will take you just under 2h. Moreover, there are numerous guided tours to the Peloponnese , combining several popular destinations.

Greece’s hidden secret: Epirus in January

Epirus is a large region in Northwestern Greece with spectacular nature, often described as Greece’s hidden secret.

Some of the highlights in Epirus include the incredible Pindos mountains, the wild Voidomatis river and Vikos gorge, said to be the deepest in the world.

Among the winding roads, you will come across dozens of traditional mountain villages which have kept their authentic character. Papingo, Aristi, Syrrako and Zitsa are just a few of them, along with Metsovo, which is popular with skiers.

The largest city in Epirus is the lakeside Ioannina. A city full of history and legends, with lovely architecture and thriving student life, Ioannina is a worthwhile destination in its own right.

Getting to Epirus

The area is best explored by private vehicle. Driving to Ioannina from Athens will take you around 4h 30. Again, you will need to have snow chains, as snow is common in the area.

What to pack for Greece in winter

Packing for Greece in winter can be confusing, especially if you only have hand luggage, but it’s perfectly doable.

The best advice is to bring clothes that you can wear in layers. Include a few thermal sweatshirts if you are planning to spend lots of time outdoors. Don’t forget to pack comfortable, anti-slippery shoes.

This article with what to pack for Greece for any season goes into more detail.

Frequently asked questions about Greece in the winter

Visitors coming to Greece in January and the winter months often ask questions like these:

Is January a good time to go to Greece?

If you are mostly interested in history and culture, and do not mind the occasional rain or cold nights and days, January is an interesting time to go to Greece.

How hot is it in Greece in January?

Depending on where in the country you go, average temperatures in Greece in January range between 0-16C (32-61F).

Which Greek island is hottest in January?

The warmest islands in Greece in January are the ones in the south, like Crete and Rhodes. Be aware that rain is common.

Can you visit the Greek Islands in January?

It is possible to visit the Greek islands in January. However, note that there will be few (if any) direct flights from airports in Europe, and that most of the beach resorts will be shut down. The average high temperature on the islands will rarely exceed 16C (61F).

Is Mykonos open in January?

The clubs and beach bars in Mykonos will not be open in January. Most people visit Mykonos between mid spring and mid autumn. January is a good time of the year if you want to see the island without the crowds.

More travel tips about Greece

If you liked this article, take a look at these other ones:

• Tipping in Greece
• How to book a train in Greece
• A guide to Greek souvenirs
• Greece tourist attractions
• Hottest Greek islands in October
• Useful words and phrases in Greek
• Athens in November

Hi, I’m Vanessa from Athens! I’m a summer person myself, but I also love sunny winter days, and snow-capped mountains! Follow my FB page for more travel advice and tips about Greece.

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Greece In January – All You Need To Know To Visit Greece in January

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W hat to expect when travelling to Greece in January? January 1 st is a time of celebration worldwide. New Year festivities and parties, fireworks, family time and resolutions.

One of the things that people often find surprising about a Greek New Years is that it is also when Santa Claus arrives!

Accounts differ on how Western and Greek traditions have through the years blended to give way to how we currently celebrate Christmas. However, everyone can agree that Christmas did not include the practice of present giving but instead was entirely dedicated to the celebration of the life of Christ.

Following Christmas, Greeks pay tribute to another influential figure, Agios Vasilis or otherwise known as Saint Basil of Caesarea, a father of the Orthodox faith and philanthropist. As children, we sang carols, praising the coming of Saint Basil of Caesarea, a tall man with black eyes and a dark coloured beard.

Beginning of the month and beginning of year My rosemary who is very tall and a beginning of a good new year and church with the holy throne . The start that brought Christ the holy and Spiritual on earth to walk and lift up our hearts. Saint Basil comes and he does not dignify us from Cesaria though you are a lady He holds a picture and paper a confection in knitted dough paper and fountain pen look and look at me and the new young man The fountain pain wrote about his fortune and the paper the paper spoke oh my saint oh my saint good Basil Stay to eat stay to drink stay to tell us your pain stay stay to sing and lift up our hearts.

Saint Basil died on the 1 st of January in 379 AD and this day, symbolizing the beginning of the New Year, also brings blessings and good luck. Another tradition that remains connected to the life of Saint Basil is the Greek New Years Pie or Vasilopita – Saint Basil’s pie.

This sweet-scented bread, which feels like a brioche and can include a variety of spices and nuts, is served either the night before New Year’s Day, the day after, or right after the clock strikes 12. The secret is on what is hidden inside. A coin wrapped in aluminium foil, positioned as much at random as possible by the person making it. Traditionally, the whole family gathers around the pie decorated with the name of the year to come and begins to cut pieces. The first pieces are dedicated to Christ, Mother Mary, Saint Basil and the house that the cutting takes place in. Then each member present gets their own piece. Whoever finds the coin inside their pie is said to have much luck for the New Year. Many a fight have broken out during the cutting, especially if one possesses inside knowledge on where the coin is located!

So how did this peculiar tradition begin?

The story says that Saint Basil once instructed the people of the village to gather all their valuables in preparation for an attack by debt collectors. After managing to prevent the attack , a bigger task remained. How to equally divide everything that had been gathered amongst the people. Saint Basil then, instructed everyone to bake small pies, in which he placed items. Miraculously everyone received exactly what they had put in, and that is why we bake a pie and place a coin inside nowadays.

To share in the joy of this tradition, head to one of the many bakeries and patisserie shops and ask for the coin bread. Better yet, tag along with some of the Greeks friends you are bound to make!

While in Athens for the month of January, head down to one of the many water spots (lake or sea) on the 6 th of January, Epiphany Day (Theophania). This joyous celebration, the revelation of God to Jesus during His baptism, is one of the most sacred Greek Orthodox traditions. The priest blesses the water and then throws a cross into the sea. Young men, waiting patiently, then jump into the freezing waters , racing to be the first to catch the cross. The one to catch it is said to receive many blessings for the year to come.

Today is the lights and the enlightment The happiness is big and the sanctification Down the Jordan River Sits our Lady the Blessed Virgin Mary Good day! Good evening! Good day to you master and matron She carries an organ, a candle she holds And pleads with St. John. St. John lord and Baptist Baptize me a child of god I shall ascend to the heavens To gather roses and incense Good day! Good evening! Good day to you master and matron!

Where to travel in Greece in January?

The capital is a great winter time destination with fewer crowds and the chance to discover museums and archaeological sites.

Prices are also reduced during the off season so you can take your time exploring the cultural side of Athens without feeling rushed or having to claim your space among other visitors.

Some of the best things to do on holiday in Athens like the museums , the coffee culture and the markets , are perfectably doable all year round and even more enjoyable during the winter. The only thing that might have to wait is heading to the coast for a swim since the water temperature barely exceeds 17 Celsius.

On a sunny day, you can simply walk around on a self-guided walking tour of the most important sites of the city.

There is also a historic coffee shop in the centre, called “Oraia Hellas” or “Beautiful Greece” that is an ideal spot for a warm beverage. The view towards the Acropolis from the upstairs coffee tables is perfect, especially on a sunny day.

Athens might be close to Piraeus port and have beautiful seaside suburbs but it is also only one step away from the mountains. The tallesest of them, Mount Parnitha is a very popular weekend getaway and gets plenty of snow during the winter.

View our FREE master guide for Athens here !

It includes an interactive map!

Often dubbed the “Winter Mykonos “, Arahova is a small but action packed town, nestled on the slopes of Mount Parnassus with views towards the Gulf of Corinth.

Arahova is a traditional settlement that has been called to balance two competing faces, its modern and cosmopolitan restaurants and famous nightlife, with its traditional and demure history, as a small village community.

It is widely known that in Arahova you eat well, whether you are after a modern restaurant establishment or a traditional taverna. During winter, the scene is completed with crackling fires, the smell of pine trees, and colourful Christmas decorations adorning the whole village.

Arahova is a popular weekend destination for skiers and snowboarders but also for anybody after some clean mountain air and good food. Expect it to be busy and book ahead if you are heading there during a public holiday or before the 7th of January when schools are still closed.

Other destinations for January in Greece

Other places you can visit in Greece during the month of January, are Meteora , the hanging monasteries and famed UNESCO World Heritage Site, the villages of Northern Greece , and spots in Central Greece like the coastal town of Galaxidi .

There is no reason to avoid the islands during the winter period, however, there are some things you need to be prepared for.

Firstly, transportation options for the smaller islands might be limited. Mykonos, Santorini and Rhodes will be the best connected options for flying and ferries.

Secondly, certain routes may be delayed or cancelled altogether due to high winds. This might be a problem if you are on a strict schedule. If you are visiting an island and have an international flight out of the country from Athens, plan to arrive at least a few days in advance in case your ferry or plane gets delayed due to weather changes.

Lastly, the islands of the Cyclades, like Mykonos and Santorini can get quite windy during the winter months. January is not suitable for beach outings or sunbathing. Warm and sunny days are not unheard of but they are the exception and not the rule.

Santorini island has been steadily increasing the number of restaurants and hotels that remain open during the winter months in the last couple of years. Mykonos, on the other hand, will feel empty and quiet, which depends on what you enjoy might be a very good thing!

Crete and Rhodes are the largest islands with a healthy permanent population and as such they offer more options in terms of entertainment, accommodation and dining.

Winter time in the Greek islands is a completely different experience that few get to see.

☞ Related: 20 Destinations for Greece That Are Not On Your Radar

What to expect in Athens in January?

One of the reasons why Athens is an ideal place to visit in January is because the weather is incredibly mild, the crowds are few and the days can be bright and sunny. So grab a camera, a thick jumper and you are free to explore museums and archaeological sights with less than half of the summer crowds.

In addition, there are Christmas lights to see, decorations to photograph, and bakeries and patisserieshops to visit.

Do not miss tasting, kourampiedes and melomakarona , that dominate every store front from December to January and are a favourite of locals to eat and gift.

Kourampiedes are almond biscuits coated in a thick layer of icing sugar that sticks to the roof of your mouth. The sweet coating and the crunchiness of the coarsely chopped nuts inside is phenomenal.

Melomakarona are egg shaped and are made out of a mix of semolina flour, honey and olive oil. Once baked, they are dipped into a syrupy mixture and topped with chopped walnuts or other nuts. Another variation is to coat them in dark chocolate. Either way, they carry wintery scents of clove, orange and cognac to every house they enter.

The city’s love for Christmas and the New Year festivities can be seen at “ Noel ” a Christmas themed bar and restaurant at the center of Athens (Kolokotroni 59B).

Think fairy lights in every corner, red and white candy cane shaped arches, velvet curtains and an aristocratic atmosphere of Parisian glamour with a Christmas theme. Cocktails are often redesigned and always excellent, cheese platters come with their own freshly baked bread and tables can be hard to come by.

Come early and prepare to enter a magic fairy-tale.

Events & Festivals in Greece in January

1st of January – Celebration all around the world marking the beginning of the New Year. In Greece, this is also often when Santa Claus arrives with gifts. Traditionally, the cake of Saint Basil (the equivalent of Santa Claus) is made and cut on this day.

6th of January – Religious celebration of Epiphany. Also known in the west as Baptism of Jesus or Three Kings Day. This day marks the manifestation.

17th January – Patras Parade – The largest and loudest of the parades in Greece takes place in the city of Patras on the 17th of January. It is the beginning of a whole month of celebrations, signaling the start of the carnival in Greece. There are street parades, parties and festivities every night for several weeks that lead up to Ash Monday and the start of the Lent period.

Cinedoc Festival – This is an annual documentary festival that takes place in Athens, Thessaloniki , Kalamata , Volos, Patras and Amaliada. More cities are added each year. It usually begins in mid autumn and lasts until mid spring. At least two new movies are released per month, both Greek and international. They also organize cultural and educational events to promote the art of film.

Levados Trail – This is a fitness and running event that takes place in Livadeia, a small town in Central Greece. There are two routes available, a 10 km and a 24 km. The starting point is the area of Krya, where the cold waters of the river Herkyna envelop the pine forest, olive groves and cypress trees in the area. The trail offers stunning views of the area around the city and the frozen mountain of Parnassus and mount Helicon.

Greece in January: Average Weather Temperatures

Greece in general is blessed with beautiful weather, with hot summers and mild winters. Depending on where you are, the temperatures will hover around 5 °C to 15 °C during the day. (42 – 55 °F) Especially if you are visiting from a northern country, most days will feel like a chilly spring day rather than full on winter. High altitude villages and mountains, espeically in the northern part of the country will get a fair bit of snow. There are also a lot of ski centers that operate throughout the winter months.

Most of the southern islands will get slightly higher temperatures. However, the chance of rain and wind is also higher which is why a rain and wind jacket are necessary.

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Greece Weather in January: Travel Tips for First-Timers

January is in the middle of Greece's winter, which is typically cool, except in the mountains where snowfall is common. There is moderate to low rainfall. The capital, islands, and a ski resort are recommended.

• Temperature range : 8–14°C (46–57°F)
• Rainfall : 9 cm (3 inches)
• Rainy days : 15
• Sunshine hours/day : 4 hours

Read on for our weather information and travel advice including average temperatures and rainfall, places to go, and travel tips…

Suggested reading: Best and Worst Times to Visit Greece >>>

Climate Comparison (Averages) for Greece's Top Tourism Areas

January's cool weather often feels mild and comfortable at low elevations because it is sunny almost half the daylight hours.

Northern Greece : Northern Greece is colder and windier than the south. The climate is more continental: cold air masses from Europe bring higher winds, storms, snow, or frost at times. Lowland Thessaloniki averages between 10°C (50°F) and 3°C (37°F). Higher elevations see more snow.

Southern Greece : The climate in the south is generally Mediterranean. The sea makes the temperatures milder. Sightseeing, touring, and hiking activities are not affected by the weather as much as in the north, and it often feels mild and comfortable, even in the evenings.

Best Places to Visit in Greece in January

January's weather is good for comfortably touring Greece's extensive archeological sites, sightseeing, touring urban attractions, hiking, and going to a ski resort during low season. When evening descends, as it does early in January, you can enjoy dining in warm Greek restaurants.

1. Acropolis Hill, Athens — Tour the Ancient Highlights

Athens' weather is usually pleasant in January. Snow is uncommon. Though it rains about 13 days, the rainfall is low. You can tour ancient and modern highlights with less crowding during low tourism season. Most days in January are good to explore major archeological sites on Acropolis Hill comfortably.

You can take the long walk up the main pedestrian road to the Acropolis past cafés and hotels, then walk around the extensive park area including Mar's Hill where Paul is thought to have spoken, the Parthenon, the Dionysus theater facade, and the Odeon amphitheater.

The Agora complex is at the base of the Acropolis and includes numerous buildings, sites, and monuments from many eras as well as the Museum of Ancient Agora. This museum is in a building that originally dates from 138 BC and closes at 5 pm. The Parthenon closes at 3 pm.

2. Downtown Athens — Tour the Modern Highlights, Enjoy the Food and Culture, and Visit the Treasure-Filled Museums

Many tourists will find modern Athens to be just as interesting in its own way as the ancient ruins. You can watch the locals celebrate major Greek holidays in January and join in if you want. See below for more on public holidays.

The Greeks have a unique culture, and the culture is especially highlighted in winter without the tourist crowds that come during the rest of the year. The downtown restaurants and shops in the area are excellent, and there is easy access to Athens' metro hub stations.

We recommend Monastiraki at the base of the Acropolis for your hotel accommodations, so you'll be right in the middle of Athens' highlights. You could get a hotel room where you could see a dreamy and otherworldly Acropolis shining at night on the hill.

3. Santorini — Resting, Dining, Hiking, and Seeing Archeological Sites

Santorini is the most popular Greek island for tourists for a lot of reasons such as 3,600-year-old Akrotiri that was partly buried in lava. Picturesque cliff-top towns, Fira and Oia, are places people hike between, and you can visit Ottoman and Byzantine constructions that are still in use.

Though January is in the low tourism season, most of Santorini's historical places stay open for visits. The weather is good for long hikes through nature and the popular towns. We suggest enjoy staying in the capital, Fira, as your base, and enjoying the substantially lower prices.

There is low rainfall and cool temperatures averaging 9–14°C (48–57°F). The water temperature is too cold for swimming, so most of the famous beach clubs, businesses, restaurants, hotels, and shops are closed. Ferry rides from Athens take between 5 and 7 hours, and flights take 50 minutes.

4. Crete — Hiking, Relaxed Resort Stays, and Sightseeing Ancient Ruins and Greek Buildings

Crete is popular because it is a big island (about 700,000 people live there) with good beaches and long hiking trails through amazing natural and historical places amid tall mountains. Samaria Gorge, unfortunately, is not open until April

The average daily temperature range is from mild highs of about 16°C (61°F) to chilly lows of 8°C (46°F). There are regular snows on the peaks, and skiing is possible. You can see the historical sites such as Knossos without crowds.

Crete is beautiful all year round, though it rains more often in Crete than the rest of Greece: about 16 days each January. Flights to Crete's two airports takes about an hour from Athens.

5. Parnassos — Ski

Parnassos is the best ski resort in Greece since it is the largest and best equipped. The highest route starts at 2,260 meters (7,415 feet). The ski resort has good slopes for beginners and intermediate skiers.

Parnassos is conveniently close to Athens (2½ hours' driving) for a day excursion for skiing and winter sports, so you could be back in Athens for dinner. Alternatively, good accommodations in Parnassos average about 100 USD per night.

Highlights nearby: The famous archeological site, Delphi, is about 75 minutes away by vehicle. For coastal scenery and fine Greek-style seafood, Galaxdi, a fishing village, is less than two hours away. Galaxdi's average high in January is about 15ºC (59ºF).

Tips for Visiting Greece in January

Greece seems so much more tranquil, peaceful, and dreamy in winter. So it is a good time to relax and enjoy the excellent Greek food and experience the unique culture. As you tour, you will have more time to contemplate about history and life in general. There are bargain prices for hotels and flights.

The weather is conducive for walking tours, and it is better without the rush of tourist crowds. You might find that you like the usually calm and comfortable days followed by relaxing in warm cheery restaurants.

Closures : Some popular Greek islands are virtually closed down during winter. Many hotels and restaurants close for their winter vacations.

Shorter hours : The archaeological sites have shorter hours in January than in the summer. Most major sites close at 3 p.m. because there is less daylight, and minor sites might not open. Many museums also close earlier too, even by 3:30 p.m.

Public holidays in January : There are two major national holidays in Greece in January and a local carnival.

• January 1, New Year's Day is the Feast of Saint Basil's — a major Orthodox holiday. Greeks give gifts, reunite with family and friends, party, and play games. You would see a lot of customs and ceremonies, and Athens and many other places have midnight fireworks.
• January 6, 2024, Epiphany — On this major Orthodox holiday (Theofania), local Orthodox priests lead processions, visiting each house to offer a blessing.
• The Patras Carnival: The city of Patras (2½ hours west of Athens) has parades and parties starting on January 17 that last for about a month.

What to Wear in January

You will need a coat for comfort, and if you are planning to go to the mountains or to the north of Greece, take freezing weather clothing. Since there are rainy days, have an umbrella or poncho handy.

Monthly Weather in Greece

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Home > Winter In Greece Guide – What To Do & Weather

Winter In Greece Guide – What To Do & Weather

Written by our local expert Guru

Written by a local specialist we know and trust to bring you the most up-to-date travel information.

Are you heading to Greece this winter? You’re in for a real treat! Winter in Greece is all about cool experiences without the crowds (unlike in the summer months). In winter, you’ll be wandering around ancient ruins and world-famous archaeological sites, and guess what? You’ve got them almost all to yourself.

The weather’s a mixed bag – sure, there might be some gray skies, but don’t be surprised to find plenty of sunny days, especially around the Aegean Sea. If you’re into skiing, the resorts are top-notch. And let’s talk about the villages – they’re straight out of a postcard with their traditional architecture, even more charming in the winter light.

So, whether you’re up for outdoor adventures or want to soak in some history and culture, a winter vacation in Greece is the perfect time to explore with fewer crowds.

When most people think of Greece, they immediately envisage crystal-clear turquoise waters reflecting off white-washed Greek buildings, gorgeous sandy beaches, and fabulous Greek cuisin e. It is no wonder that Greece is often considered a ‘summer-time’ holiday destination.

But the reality couldn’t be further from the truth. For a country so rich in history and culture, Greece should not be dismissed when considering a European winter getaway .

As such, I’ve put together this guide on what you can do in Greece in winter to inspire you to visit this beautiful country, even in the colder winter months!

• Our Favorite Winter Hotels In Greece

Skip Ahead To My Advice Here!

Is Greece Worth Visiting In Winter?

So, when is winter in Greece? The months of December through February make up the winter season in Greece.

Winter in Greece is certainly not the country’s popular season  – that award goes to July and August. 

Visiting Greece in winter, you will find that  the beaches are quiet, the islands are a little deserted, and the weather is undoubtedly chillier. But that doesn’t make it a wrong time to visit. In fact, in many ways, winter is the best time to experience this ancient nation’s culture, history, and versatility.

With many incredible attractions and destinations, Greece has much to offer the winter traveler . Fewer tourists mean shorter queues to get into major attractions, less crowded restaurants, and better pricing and travel deals to take advantage of.

Whatever kind of vacation you’re looking for, a Greece winter is a brilliant time to visit.

Greece Winter Weather

You may be wondering if it gets cold in Greece. Compared to most European countries , the weather in Greece has mild winters and is pleasant. So, a trip to southern Greece is the perfect option if you want to spend a week away from the biting cold.

If milder temperatures are what you’re after, southern Greece is not only mild but frequently quite warm in the winter. You’ll definitely want to pack a pair of shorts for the sunniest days. In January or February, Greece does not offer laze-on-the-beach weather. Still, it is a great time to explore the country’s many ancient sites without dripping with sweat and being surrounded by other over-enthusiastic tourists.

Winter is Greece’s rainy season, so pack a rain jacket and some sturdy waterproof shoes , particularly if you plan hiking. The northern and mountainous regions are a good deal colder than the southern lowlands. If you’re keen on snowy peaks, January and February are the coldest months. And if you head to the mountains, you’ll likely find snow there.

We’ve dedicated a whole post on what to pack for Greece travel for those seeking more inspiration.

Greece In December – What Is A Greek Christmas Like?

Wondering if you should spend your Christmas in Greece ? For anyone interested in cultural traditions and incredible cuisine , you can’t go wrong with this decision.

Listen to Greek Christmas carols . Admire the decorations, including lit-up boats celebrating a Greek Saint Basil and jolly older men representing another saint that’s undoubtedly not Santa. And enjoy the merry local traditions of whichever city or village you’re in.

How is the weather in Greece in December? As mentioned above, December weather in Greece can be surprisingly mild. Although the mountains may have snow and cold weather, southern Greece and the Greek islands boast pretty comfy weather. Visiting Athens in December, Crete in winter, or Paros in winter are all excellent choices for a warmer Christmas holiday .

Winter In Greece Temps

For a general idea of what temperatures to expect, the average temperatures in December range between a high of 14 degrees Celsius (57 Fahrenheit) and a low of 6 degrees Celsius (43 Fahrenheit). Again, however, the average weather in Greece in December varies drastically between the inland mountainous region and the coasts and islands .

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Best things to do in greece in winter.

There is so much to enjoy during a Greek winter. In winter, the colder (relatively speaking) Greek weather has some unique attractions and activities, making it an excellent time to explore.

These are our top picks for what to do in Greece in winter.

1. Go Museum-Hopping In Athens

There are some incredible things to do in Athens , but the famous ancient city’s top draws are the historic sites and the world-class museums. The best thing about visiting Greece in the winter is that the small crowds make museum-hopping so much easier and more enjoyable.

Two of the best museums in Athens are the Acropolis Museum and the National Archaeological Museum. Both showcase phenomenal historical artifacts from up to eight thousand years ago! If you’ve ever seen ancient Greek art in your history textbooks, chances are you’ll find it here.

The Byzantine and Christian Museum and Benaki Museum are two other fantastic options for those spending more than a weekend in Athens. You’ll learn so much about Greek history and culture and see some mind-boggling things, too. All with hardly anyone around you, which museum lovers will confirm, really elevates the experience.

• Christmas In Athens

2. Go Skiing In Arachova

Greece may not be well-known for its skiing , but the Hellenic country has some great options. The mountain town of Arachova is close to Mount Parnassos, which has some excellent ski slopes for all skill levels.

While we don’t recommend choosing Greece over the more famous destinations for a ski holiday, it is lovely to add to your Greek winter vacation. Not only can you ski here, but Arachova also offers world-class resorts and spas, fantastic nightlife , and some genuinely once-in-a-lifetime views.

3. See Meteora In Snow

If you’re visiting Greece in January or February, you have a chance of spotting Meteora surrounded by snow. This one-of-a-kind monastery is magical in all conditions. The snow adds another layer to the beauty.

Throughout winter, snow or none, Meteora is a brilliant destination. The monastery complex is built on six natural pillars and massive boulders, making for a unique destination. The surrounding landscape is lush and green in winter, benefitting from the seasonal rains and significantly reduced crowds .

The structures were initially built so the monks could live in isolation, far from civilization and nearly inaccessible to outsiders. Today, the monastery is one of the best places to visit in Greece in November, December, January, and throughout the entire year really.

4. Explore Mount Pelion From Volos

Base yourself in the magnificent city of Volos, only 27 kilometers from one of Greece’s most famous ski centers: Mount Pelion (1500 m). Probably among the most stunning landscapes in Greece, Mount Pelion Ski Center is a year-round destination that you can also visit, even if skiing is not one of your interests.

As a matter of fact, besides forests, you will find spectacular beaches , quaint mountain villages, and — of course — the renowned Mount Pelion.

The ski center features five ski slopes, four lifts, and a chalet with restaurants, cafes, and accommodations. There is also a ski and snowboard school.

In the nearby area, visitors can explore the magnificent city of Volos, which is only 27 kilometers from the ski resort.

5. Get Off The Beaten Path In Zagorochoria

An inspiring region about a 5-hour drive from Athens , the area is an outstanding winter destination featuring the most incredibly gorgeous mountain villages you could ever imagine.

Located in the region of Epirus, on the northwestern side of Greece, the local villages boast picture-perfect stone houses with grey-tiled roofs on charming narrow alleys.

Still somewhat virgin to international tourism, Zagorochoria can quickly become your favorite European winter destination if you are looking for an off-the-beaten-track place to discover.

6. Go To The Christmas Markets Of Thessaloniki

Located in northern Greece, about a five-hour drive from Athens, this important city is a great winter destination and the best place in the country to explore its Christmas markets and other events related to the merry season. 

As is the tradition in Christmas Markets , you will find an assortment of Christmas trinkets and souvenirs, tree decorations, lights, and delicious treats — do not forget that Thessaloniki has the reputation of being the city that produces the best sweets and desserts in the country!

• Thessaloniki Christmas Markets & Winter Exploration

7. Take A Hiking Trip Through The Wild Mountain Landscapes

The mainland of Greece is covered with mountainous hiking trails . Most are not for the faint of heart and can take days or even weeks to complete. They’ll be some of the most memorable days of your life, but you do need to have quite a high fitness level.

Hike along a scenic riverside path on the Samaria Gorge Trail, which takes you through Byzantine ruins and spectacular nature. Or find one of the many trails on beautiful Mount Athos.

For those keen on a multi-day hike, the seventy-five-kilometer Menalon trail will take you through the heart of the Peloponnese . Explore charming mountain villages, deep canyons, and striking mountains. It should take you around three days to complete, with time to stop and enjoy your surroundings.

8. Head To Nymfaio, The Capital Of Silversmithing

Regarding mountain villages, you should include Nymfaio in your itinerary. The village, famed for its silversmithing industry and local warriors, is a pretty town in Western Macedonia with a rich history. Founded by Vlach travelers in the 14th century, Nymfaio quickly became known for its skillful smiths.

The town of Nymfaio features many museums where visitors can see religious silverware, jewelry, and gold artifacts made by the town’s master artisans. Besides its cultural riches, Nymfaio has a wealth of architectural and natural beauty. Visitors can bask in the picturesque scenery from the village’s old houses or wander through the scenic streets.

There is also an environmental protection center run by the Greek ecological organization Environmental Centre ARCTUROS; at the center, visitors can see rescued bears and wolves that are too weak to survive by themselves.

9. Taste Greece’s Unique Winter Cuisine

Greece is particularly well-known for its summer foods. Greek salads, light meals, and rich yogurts with berries are all country staples. But the food goes through a substantial shift when the weather gets chilly.

Expect meatball and bean soups, hearty stews, stuffed cabbage leaves , and oven roasts. Greek winter food is healthy and delicious, guaranteed to warm you up and keep your energy high.

If you’re visiting Greece in December, try traditional Christmas treats like spinach, cheese pies, and roast pork. Of course, Greek coffee with a slice of baklava is the perfect way to end any summer or winter meal. But its rich flavor is best suited to winter .

10. Swim In Thermal Lake Vouliagmeni

Lake Vouliagmeni is just outside of Athens , making for a great day trip from the city. It’s a beautiful, brackish lake with pleasant temperatures at any time of year. The minerals in the large lake include potassium, ammonium, calcium, and iodine. Together, the water’s minerals relieve several health issues, including bone and muscle stresses, eczema, and arthritis.

The lake also has a happy doctor fish population, which provides natural (and ticklish) exfoliation. The spa facilities also include sunbeds, a restaurant, and nearby accommodation options.

11. Visit The Greek Islands

Modern Greece is most well-known for its gorgeous Greek islands . People come in droves to laze on the beaches, explore wild paradises, and enjoy the laid-back island vibe.

Winter on the Greek Isles is slightly different and may not be your obvious choice, but it should be considered nonetheless. The local population settles back into everyday daily life, and the tourism industry hunkers down till the subsequent summer season. You may find this to be your favorite time to visit the islands .

Get to know the locals, play backgammon, and embrace the late-night cafe culture. Explore the islands , hike, and cycle across the green landscapes. Winter is also when you’ll have some of the best cultural experiences, including live performances and art shows.

If you’re unsure about the weather on the Greek island in December or January, rest assured you’ll be able to enjoy many comfy and sunny days. Although obviously much less warm than summer, winter allows for outdoor activities like sunbathing, which would be drenched in sweat in summer.

Corfu is one of the best options for a Greek winter escape, with a “vibrant local tradition, a beautiful Old Town, and lots to keep you busy. Crete and Lesvos are also terrific options, with mountain villages you can hike between and frequently mild winter weather. Another option that becomes more budget-friendly in the winter is Santorini .

Tip: Do note that most ferry operators and flights connecting the mainland to the Greek Isles operate on a much more reduced schedule during these off-peak winter months. Be sure to plan and book in advance to avoid running into any schedule issues.

• Island Hopping In Greece

12. Wander The Snowy Streets Of Ioannina

This charming city is the perfect combination – with cobblestone streets, snow-capped mountain peaks, and a serene lake, making for a picturesque winter escape. 

From taverns and museums to the city’s famed castle and stunning views, this lovely city has so much to offer.

Don’t forget to take a boat ride across Lake Pamvotis to take in the scenery.

13. Explore Kastoria’s Historical Buildings

Another Greek winter gem, Kastoria, is a crucial mountain settlement close to the Albanian border in West Macedonia. Perched on Lake Orestiada, Kastoria boasts a unique historical collection of ancient Byzantine and Ottoman mansions and buildings with characteristic wooden balconies and over fifty awe-inspiring ancient Byzantine churches, everything surrounded by the impressive mountainous landscapes of the Macedonia region. With a dusting of snow, these buildings become enchanting.

Kastoria is also known for the old stone bridges characteristic of the local architecture; the best known is the arched Bridge of Zouzouli, dating back to 1880. The bridge is about 7 meters high and was built over the waters of a stream carrying the same name.

14. Enjoy Winter Sports In Karpenisi

The city of Karpenisi is located in the valley of the river Karpenisiotis in the southern part of the Pindus Mountains.

This enchanting small town is surrounded by the mountains of Kaliakouda, Helidona, and Timfristos, and it has often been dubbed the small Switzerland of Greece.

The place is a popular tourist destination during the winter months  and is a favorite of locals at Christmas. Yet, its incredible pine tree forests and rugged landscape make it a fantastic destination all year round for those fond of the outdoors.

15. Take In The Alpine Atmosphere Of Metsovo

Surrounded by the imposing Pindus mountain range and at about 1200 meters above sea level, Metsovo is not only a beautiful Greek city but also one of the most popular winter destinations in the country. Popular for its gorgeous buildings made of stone, including mansions, monasteries , bridges, cobbled streets, and squares.

The town has managed to preserve its traditional character, remaining home to old traditions. The city offers many cultural events and sports opportunities, as well as cozy tavernas and streets filled with the smells of roasting chestnuts all winter.

Greece In Winter FAQs

What are the best places to visit in greece during winter.

Greece offers a great winter experience with mild weather and fewer tourists. Some of the best places to visit include larger islands like Crete, Rhodes, Corfu, and Santorini, as well as historical sites in the mainland such as Athens and Thessaloniki.

Are there any ski resorts in Greece?

Absolutely! Greece has excellent ski resorts, such as Mount Parnassus near Athens, Arachova, and Mount Olympus. These resorts provide a perfect place for skiing enthusiasts and offer breathtaking views.

Is winter a good time to visit the Ionian Islands?

While the Ionian Islands may experience occasional rain during winter, they still offer a great place to visit. You can explore beautiful beaches, coastal areas, and picturesque villages with fewer tourists.

What is the weather like in Greece during winter?

In winter, Greece experiences mild and sunny weather, especially in the southern regions. While the coldest month of the year varies, the average temperature in mainland Greece during winter is around 13°C.

Are there any small villages worth visiting in Greece?

Absolutely! Greece is known for its quaint villages with narrow streets and traditional charm. Places like Arachova in central Greece and Oia in Santorini are just a few examples of picturesque villages worth exploring.

What are some travel tips for visiting Greece in winter?

When traveling to Greece in winter, it’s a good idea to check the weather forecast and plan your activities accordingly. Hotel rates are generally lower during this time, making it an ideal place for budget travelers. Be sure to try the local Greek cuisine and immerse yourself in the rich culture and traditions of the country.

Can you recommend any other larger islands to explore in winter?

Apart from Crete, Rhodes, Corfu, and Santorini, you can also consider visiting the larger islands of Kos, Mykonos, and Zakynthos. These islands offer a variety of attractions, beautiful landscapes, and cultural experiences.

What is the weather like in northern regions of Greece during winter?

The northern regions of Greece can be colder and experience more frequent rainfall during winter. However, if you don’t mind the occasional rain, you can still enjoy the beauty of the area, as it offers unique cultural attractions and stunning natural landscapes.

Are there beautiful beaches to explore during winter in Greece?

Absolutely! Greece boasts a multitude of beautiful beaches along its coastline. While swimming might not be suitable due to cooler temperatures, you can still enjoy long walks, beachcombing, and the sheer beauty of these coastal areas.

How are the hotel rates during winter in Greece?

Hotel prices are generally lower during winter in Greece compared to the peak tourist season. You can find excellent deals and enjoy comfortable accommodations at more affordable rates.

What are some smaller islands worth considering for a winter trip?

If you’re looking to explore smaller islands during winter, consider destinations like Hydra, Naxos, Paros, or Skiathos. These islands offer a more relaxed atmosphere and a chance to experience local life.

Are historical sites and archaeological sites open during winter in Greece?

Yes, most historical and archaeological sites in Greece remain open during winter, with less crowded conditions. You can enjoy exploring iconic landmarks like the Acropolis in Athens or the Palace of Knossos in Crete with more opportunities to interact with guides and curators.

Is Greece a good winter destination for those from Northern Europe?

Yes, Greece is a popular choice for people from Northern Europe seeking a winter getaway. The warm weather, sunny days, and the vibrant local culture make it an ideal place to escape the colder temperatures of the northern regions.

Can I find live music and entertainment in Greece during winter?

Absolutely! In larger cities like Athens and Thessaloniki, you can find plenty of live music venues and cultural events happening throughout the year. Additionally, during the Christmas season, there are various concerts and festivities to enjoy.

Is it possible to go on road trips and explore Greece during winter?

Yes, winter is a great time to embark on road trips and explore the diverse landscapes and quaint villages of Greece. Just ensure to check the weather conditions and plan accordingly for occasional rainfall.

Are there any winter festivals or events in Greece?

Absolutely! Greece offers various winter festivals and events. Some notable ones include the Thessaloniki International Film Festival, Christmas celebrations throughout the country, New Year’s Eve festivities, and the Patras Carnival, known as one of the biggest carnivals in Greece.

What are some traditional Greek dishes to try during winter?

During winter, you can indulge in a variety of delicious Greek dishes. Some popular choices include traditional bean soup (fasolada), hearty stews like stifado, and the traditional delicacy of Clean Monday, a day where people enjoy vegetarian dishes and kite flying to mark the beginning of Lent.

Is it a good idea to visit Athens city center during winter?

Visiting Athens city center during winter is definitely a good idea. With fewer tourists around and pleasant weather, you can explore iconic sites like the Acropolis, Syntagma Square, and enjoy the charm of the city’s historical and cultural attractions.

Is Greece a good destination for a winter getaway?

Absolutely! Greece is a perfect place for a winter getaway. It offers mild weather, fewer tourists compared to the peak tourist season, and a chance to explore the country’s rich history, beautiful landscapes, and picturesque villages.

What are the best ways to experience the local culture in Greece during winter?

To experience the local culture in Greece during winter, try visiting traditional tavernas where you can enjoy authentic Greek cuisine and local music. Engage with the locals, participate in traditional festivals, and explore the narrow streets and quaint villages to truly immerse yourself in the Greek way of life.

Can I expect good weather in Greece during winter?

Greece generally enjoys good weather during winter, especially in the southern regions. While occasional rain is possible, you can still experience sunny and pleasant days throughout your visit.

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Winter In Greece Wrap-Up

Whether you prefer spending your Greek winter holidays sightseeing in the city of Athens, decide to explore the Greek islands in December, January, or February, want to indulge in a thermal baths experience, or prefer to go hiking instead, you will no doubt be pleasantly surprised by all that this fantastic country has to offer, even during the much quieter Greece winter months.

So, why not try Greece in the off-season and book your next winter getaway to this magical country instead?

• 5 Lesser-Known Greek Islands
• How To Rent A Car In Greece + Driving Tips
• What Currency Is Used In Greece?
• How To Tip In Greece
• Where To Stay In Crete
• Where To Stay In Mykonos
• Top Hotels In Santorini

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Greece in January: A Pocket Guide to Visiting Beautiful Greece

Have you ever wondered what visiting Greece in winter is like? Here are some travel tips and advice for visiting Greece in winter.

Before moving further there are a few things to take under consideration while visiting Greece in January has its pros and cons. On the positive side, you’ll have bargain prices for hotels, there’ll be very few tourists, and you could try out a ski resort in the mountains. Some of the ancient sites are less busy. On the negative side, there will be occasional rainy days, some Greek islands will be closed during winters, and you will probably be staying Idle on the beach.

Is Greece in January worth visiting?

Yes, it is definitely a good time to visit especially if you’re looking for a budgetary trip. January brings down the temperatures but the weather is still pleasant and sunny. There are several locales in Greece that has the best experiences during winters.

• Weather and Temperature in January
• Where to go in Greece ?
• January events

Weather and Temperature in Greece in January

Winter in Greece is a bit rainy so try to carry a raincoat with you and some sturdy water-resistant shoes – particularly if you are planning for hiking. The northern and Hilly, mountainous regions are a good deal colder than the southern bottomlands. If you’re keen on snowy peaks, January and February are the coldest months. And if you head to the mountains, you’re likely to find snow there.

If milder temperatures are what you’re looking after, southern Greece is not only mild but frequently hot. Don’t forget to pack a pair of shorts to deal with the sunniest days. It’s not Idle on the beach weather, but great to explore the country’s many ancient sites without dripping with perspiration and being surrounded by other over-enthusiastic travellers.

Places to Visit in Greece in January

Athens, Greece

When people think of Athens they usually envision a hot summer day spent basking near the warm, sparkling waters of the city’s pristine beaches. Surprisingly though, Athens is also quite charming during the winter. As the capital of Greece, Athens is filled with plenty of things to do and sites to see.

Must Read : Best Walking Tours in Athens

Go to Museum-Hopping in Athens

There are some amazing things to do in Athens, but the famous ancient city’s top draws are the historic sites and the world-class museums. The best thing about visiting Greece in winter is that the small crowds make museum-hopping so much easier and more enjoyable. Two of the best museum in Athens are the Acropolis Museum and the National Archaeological Museum. Both flaunt Extraordinary historical artefacts from up to eight thousand years earlier.

Go Skiing in Arachova

Greece may not be the best destination for skiing, but there are some more great options in the Grecian country. The mountain town of Arachova is quite near Mount Parnassos, which has got some amazing ski trails for all skill levels. While we don’t recommend choosing Greece over the more famous destinations for a ski holiday, it is a lovely thing to add to your Greece vacation. Not only can you ski here, but Arachova also offers you world-class resorts and spas, fantastic nightlife, and some genuinely once-in-a-lifetime views.

Get a chance to see Meteora in Snow – Kalambaka

It doesn’t matter when you’re visiting Meteora in summer or winter. It’s a brilliant destination to explore to get once in a lifetime experience. The monastery complex is built on six natural pillars and massive boulders, making for a unique destination. Meteora is a concatenation of rock formations that are settled in the heart of Kalambaka town. In winter, the surrounding landscape is lush and green, benefits from the seasonal rains and reduced crowds. However Meteora is alongside Mount Athos in terms of importance, The Meteora is also one of the most significant UNESCO World Heritage Sites which is listed under the five list and is undoubtedly a must-visit place that you shouldn’t miss…

Santorini In January

Located in the southernmost part of the Cyclades Islands. Santorini is usually known for its deeply traditional roots, breathtaking views around every corner, it offers many romantic settings and filled with natural landscapes to capture a mesmerizing view. Oia known for its best sunset views, Fira(The Capital), Akrotiri mainly Known for the excavation of ancient objects, Archaeological buildings and Megalochori are the foremost popular villages to go on to Santorini Island. There are many other villages on the island and every village has their own unique qualities.

The Unique Flavors of Romance is Everywhere

It is difficult to not find a romantic setting, especially in the evening within the enchanting evening down into the Aegean Sea. Oia is that the best place to get on the island during sunset. Its bright white buildings reflect the oranges and reds of the setting sun and combat the emergence of embers during a fire. There is nothing more romantic than you and your loved one being surrounded by warm light, enjoying a night surrounded with sights and sounds of slow-paced, relaxing life.

Also read : 7 best places to visit in Santorini

Mykonos in January

Visiting Mykonos during the winter is absolutely an honest idea if you are trying to find relaxing holidays, spending time with yourself. only a few travellers are found, the beaches are empty and therefore most places are closed. Well, travelling in winter has its own advantages you’ll get amazing travel deals! surrounded by windy and wet weather, it’s difficult for tourists to travel outside, so it’s better to settle on your accommodation carefully, attempt to search for a warm, comfortable place with a decent sea view.

Events in Greece in January

• New Year’s Day and Feast of Saint Basil Celebration – These two Major festivals celebrated in Greece. Athens and many other places have midnight fireworks.
• Cinedoc Festival   – An annual documentary festival that takes place in Athens, Kalamata, Volos, Patras and Amaliada. It usually begins in mid-autumn and lasts until mid-spring. A minimum of two new movies is released per month, both in Greek also international. They also organize cultural and academic events to market the art of film.

Planning your Greece trip in January? Check out Greece tour packages and Greece honeymoon packages at Pickyourtrail and book away your Greece trip!

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Have a Look at Other Articles Related to Greece

Greece in February | Greece in March | Greece in April | Greece in May | Greece in June | Greece in July | Greece in August | Greece in September | Greece in October | Greece in November | Greece in December

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Greece In January: Weather & Travel Tips

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Wondering what to expect of the weather in Greece in January? Here we share details on average temperatures, rainfall, and what to expect in terms of costs and crowds. In addition, we’ve also suggested some itineraries that’ll help you make the most of your trip, along with ideas for what to see and do in Greece in January.

Greece in January at a glance

Is january a good time to visit greece, air and sea temperatures in greece in january, can it rain in greece in january, what about the crowd and cost, what to wear in greece in january, unforgettable, fully customizable greece itineraries.

• What to do in Greece in January

Planning your January trip to Greece

Visit greece in other months.

• Average temperatures range from 50°F to 59°F (10°C to 15°C) .
• January in Greece marks the rainy season , particularly in the northern regions and islands, with an average of around 10 to 12 rainy days throughout the month.
• You can expect fewer crowds during January and for that reason, lower costs on accommodation.

The weather in Greece in January is especially warm in Corfu © Shutterstock

Though Greece is typically seen as a summer destination (hello,  beautiful Greek beaches !), for some traveler types, January can be a good time to visit the country. 

First up, if you’re traveling on a budget and are keen to discover Greece’s unique ancient sites, January presents crowd-free opportunities to view said sites. 

Being out of season, visiting Greece in January also means you’ll also have your pick of places to stay, at bargain prices.

Overall, visiting in January means you’ll experience a different, lesser-seen aspect of Greece. That is to say, you’ll see it shrouded in a wintry atmosphere, without the crowds that can distract from authentic experiences during the busy peak summer season.

What’s more, visiting Greece in January also offers the opportunities to enjoy winter sports, though you could head south to enjoy a pleasingly mild winter break. 

Considering taking a trip to Greece?  Embark on your dream trip hassle-free with the help of our Greek travel experts .

January is a good time to visit Greece's cultural sites, among them The Palace of the Grand Master, Rhodes © Shutterstock

There’s no getting away from the fact that Greece is in the throes of winter in January. Average temperatures are, at best, cool. By which we mean, average highs of 57°F (14°C) in Athens, dropping to 41°F (5°C) at night.

It’s colder still in the north, but warmer the further south you head. 

As for the sea, expect average temperatures between 54°F (12°C) and 57°F (14°C). Brr!

Top tip: for the warmest January temperatures in Greece, try Crete , Rhodes or Kos . These islands boast average daytime temperatures of 54°F-59°F (12°C-15°C).

Want more details? Read up on the best time to go to Greece .

A fine fresco in Knossos Palace, Crete, Greece © Shutterstock

We not going to lie — January is one of the rainiest months in Greece. In general, the weather can be a bit erratic — a mix of clouds and rain showers broken by the sun. 

But it’s not all doom and gloom! You can expect clear skies in two of every three days, especially in the south.

Conversely, note that the mountainous north sees snowfall in the winter months  — more on that later. 

Still deciding where to go this winter? Choose from the best destinations to travel to in January .

Wrap up warm for a stroll around the delightful island of Rhodes in January © Shutterstock

In good news for seclusion seekers, visiting Greece in January means fewer crowds. 

Traveling on a budget? You’ll be happy to hear that January being low season means there are big bargains to be had when it comes to accommodation and flights.

Just be mindful of the fact that some accommodation closes for the winter months, especially beach resorts. Many clubs shut up shop through winter, too. 

You should also expect a reduction in flights and ferry services, so be sure to check your travel options before setting your heart on a particular Greek destination. Rest assured, though — plenty of beautiful places will be open, and available at giveaway prices.

Inspired to go? Discover the best  places to visit in Greece in winter .

Athens, Greece, is an awe-inspiring sight at any time of year © Shutterstock

Wondering what to wear in Greece in January? Shorts, t-shirts, flip-flops, and sundresses are out. It’s all about warm layers, scarves, hats, and gloves, plus comfy shoes to enjoy scenic strolls and sightseeing excursions.

Given the likelihood of rain (or snow, depending on your exact destination!), you’ll also want waterproof clothing and an umbrella. 

If you’re heading to the warmer south, you could bring some lighter-weight outfits for the sunnier days. Just bear in mind that the temperature is unlikely to get higher than the mid-teens.

Ready to explore Greece? Get started with our expert travel planning tips .

Sunset on Santorini © Shutterstock

Interested in a crowd-free January break that offers a stack of unique experiences? Take inspiration from our  Greek itineraries .

What’s more, these suggestions can be customized to your exact needs, with a  local Greek travel expert on hand to offer insider tips and take the hassle out of planning and booking.

• Athens — City of the Gods (4 days): if you’re short on time and big on culture, this 3-night trip offers immersive insights into Athens’ ancient wonders and modern verve. From taking in the Classical charm of the Acropolis and the Parthenon, to indulging in the city’s thriving food scene in local taverns, it’s a feast for the senses.
• Epirus and Athens — the Ancient Sites (8 days): shrouded in myths and legends of Greek gods and Roman and Byzantine warriors, sites in the Epirus region of Greece have fascinating tales to tell. Add to that exploring Athens and the magic of mountainous Zagori, and this amounts to a diversely exhilarating experience.
• Milos — an exclusive island retreat (9 days): get to know the Aegean’s most exotic island while staying in a private luxury villa by the sea.

Sarakiniko beach, Milos, Greece © leoks/Shutterstock

What to do in Greece in January 

As we said at the outset, visiting Greece in January can be rewarding for travelers on a budget who are into cultural experiences. Alternatively, you could opt to enjoy some winter sports. With all that in mind, read on for ideas for what to do in Greece in January.

Attend local festivals

In January, the Greeks celebrate the New Year and Epiphany. It is a perfect time to learn about local traditions and participate in festive events, including the blessing of the waters and the famous "retrieving the cross" ritual.

Experience Thessaloniki

The second-largest city in Greece offers a vibrant cultural scene. Visit the White Tower, explore the Archaeological Museum, and stroll along the waterfront promenade, known as the "Lefkos Pyrgos."

Ski in mainland Greece

While Greece isn’t known for being a skiing destination some regions of the country have mountains that see snow through the winter months. For example, Mt Parnassós attracts skiers from Athens , while the Peloponnese offers downhill action at Kalavryta on Mt Helmós. Add to that stunning mountain scenery, and visiting Greece in January can amount to an unlikely alpine-esque experience.

Catch some sun on the islands

While it’s true that Greece’s smaller islands are pretty up close for winter, larger islands like Crete ,  Corfu , and Rhodes , are pretty lively throughout the year.  When it comes to the islands, the further south you go, the warmer the temperature. So, while you won’t be stretched on out sun-warmed sand, or floating in impossibly warm waters, the likes of Crete offer ample opportunities to enjoy ancient culture and buzzy nightlife through the winter months. 

In fact, ouzo’s warming capacity could be said to come into its own in winter!

Idyllic Agios Stefanos, Corfu © Shutterstock

Interested in visiting Greece in April, or any other time of the year, for that matter? Get yourself a copy of  The Rough Guide to Greece  to start planning your dream trip. 

Alternatively, if you’re not keen on the whole shizzle of planning, browse our customizable  Greece itineraries , and talk to our local  Greece travel experts .

Love the sound of exploring Greece away from the mainland? Read up on the  best Greek Islands , and get yourself  The Rough Guide to Greek Islands . 

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Joanne is a Pembrokeshire-born writer with a passion for the nature, cultures and histories of the Caribbean region, especially Dominica. Also passionate about inspiring a love of adventure in young people, she’s the author of several books for children and young adults, hosts international writing workshops, and has written articles on the Caribbean and inspirational community initiatives for Rough Guides. Follow her @JoanneOwen on Twitter and @joanneowenwrites on Instagram.

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Greek Island

The Best Greek Islands to Visit in January: The Hottest Winter Getaways

posted by Nikos Tsakiris on July 4, 2023 // last updated on July 13, 2023

Looking for a warm escape from the chilly winter weather? Look no further than the Greek Islands! While many may think of Greece as a summer destination, there are several islands that offer pleasant temperatures and sunny skies even in January.

Crete is one of the best Greek Islands to visit in January. As Greece’s largest and southernmost island, Crete enjoys mild temperatures in the winter months. Chania, in particular, is a charming town with a picturesque harbour and plenty of cafes and restaurants to enjoy. Visitors can also explore the island’s ancient ruins and stunning natural landscapes, including the Samaria Gorge.

Another great option is Corfu, which boasts a mild Mediterranean climate even in the winter months. Visitors can explore the island’s historic old town, relax on the beaches, or take a stroll through the lush countryside. And of course, no trip to Corfu would be complete without sampling some of the island’s delicious cuisine, including fresh seafood and traditional Greek dishes.

Best Greek Islands to Visit in January

If you are planning a trip to Greece in January, it’s important to choose the right island to visit. While some islands may be too cold or rainy during this month, others offer mild temperatures and plenty of activities to enjoy. Here are some of the best Greek islands to visit in January:

Santorini is one of the most popular Greek islands, known for its stunning views, picturesque villages, and beautiful beaches. While January is not the peak tourist season, the island still offers plenty to see and do.

One of the main attractions in January is the Santorini Arts Factory, which hosts a variety of cultural events and performances. You can also explore the island’s many museums and galleries, or take a hike along the scenic trails. The temperatures in Santorini in January range from 10-16°C (50-61°F), so make sure to pack warm clothes.

Crete is Greece’s largest island and offers a range of activities for visitors in January. The island’s main cities, Heraklion and Chania, are home to many museums, historical sites, and art galleries. You can also take a scenic drive through the island’s countryside or hike along the Samaria Gorge.

The temperatures in Crete in January are often quite mild, ranging from 10-16°C (50-61°F). While the ocean waters may be too cold to swim, you can still enjoy the island’s beautiful beaches and stunning scenery.

Rhodes is another popular Greek island that offers plenty of activities in January. The island is home to many historical sites, including the medieval Old Town of Rhodes, the Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes, and the ancient city of Lindos.

You can also explore the island’s many museums and art galleries, or take a scenic drive through the countryside. The temperatures in Rhodes in January range from 9-15°C (48-59°F), so make sure to pack warm clothes.

Overall, these three islands offer a range of activities and mild temperatures in January, making them some of the best Greek islands to visit during this month.

Activities to Do in the Greek Islands in January

Visiting the Greek Islands in January might not be the most popular time of the year, but it can offer a unique and peaceful experience. The winter season in Greece is mild, and the temperatures in the islands are generally warmer than in the mainland. Here are some activities to do during your visit to the Greek Islands in January:

Explore the Island’s Culture and History

January is an excellent time to explore the cultural and historical sites of the Greek Islands. You can visit the ancient ruins and museums without the crowds of tourists that usually flock to these places during the peak season. The Acropolis in Athens is one of the most famous sites to visit, and it is free of charge during the winter months. Other notable sites include the Palace of Knossos in Crete and the Archaeological Museum of Rhodes.

Enjoy the Natural Beauty of the Islands

The Greek Islands are known for their stunning natural beauty, and January is an excellent time to appreciate it. The landscapes are lush and green, and the sea is crystal clear. You can go hiking in the mountains, take a stroll through the olive groves, or explore the secluded beaches. Some of the best islands for outdoor activities are Crete, Corfu, and Zakynthos.

Indulge in the Local Cuisine

Greek cuisine is famous worldwide for its delicious and healthy dishes. January is an excellent time to indulge in the local cuisine, as many restaurants offer discounted prices during the off-season. You can try traditional dishes like moussaka, souvlaki, and Greek salad. Don’t forget to taste the local wine and olive oil, which are some of the best in the world.

Attend Local Festivals and Events

The Greek Islands have a rich cultural heritage, and there are many festivals and events held throughout the year. January is no exception, and you can attend some unique celebrations during your visit. For example, the Feast of Agios Titos is celebrated in Crete on January 25th, and it is a significant religious festival. Another popular event is the Carnival of Patras, which takes place in February but has events in January as well.

In conclusion, visiting the Greek Islands in January might not be the most popular time of the year, but it can offer a unique and peaceful experience. There are plenty of activities to do, from exploring the cultural and historical sites to enjoying the natural beauty of the islands, indulging in the local cuisine, and attending local festivals and events.

Weather in the Greek Islands in January

January is one of the coldest months in Greece, and the Greek Islands are no exception. The weather can be quite unpredictable, with occasional rains and strong winds. The average temperature during the day ranges from 10°C to 15°C, and it can drop to 5°C at night.

If you’re planning to visit the Greek Islands in January, it’s essential to pack warm clothing, including a windproof and waterproof jacket. You should also bring comfortable shoes for walking on slippery or wet surfaces.

The weather in the Greek Islands in January varies depending on the location. The Cyclades and Dodecanese islands are relatively drier than the Ionian islands, west Peloponnese, and Crete. The table below shows the average temperature and rainfall for some of the popular Greek Islands in January.

Despite the cold weather and occasional rainfall, visiting the Greek Islands in January has its advantages. The crowds are much thinner, and you can enjoy the beauty of the islands without the hustle and bustle of tourists. Also, the prices are much lower than during the peak season, making it an affordable time to visit.

In conclusion, the weather in the Greek Islands in January is cold and unpredictable, but with proper planning and packing, you can still enjoy your visit. The thinner crowds and lower prices make it an excellent time to explore the islands’ beauty without the peak season’s hustle and bustle.

Getting to the Greek Islands in January

If you’re planning to visit the Greek Islands in January, it’s important to note that the tourist season is over, and travel options may be more limited than during the peak season. However, there are still a few ways to get to the islands.

Most of the Greek Islands have their own airports, but only a few of them have direct flights in January. Athens International Airport is the main hub for international flights to Greece, and from there, you can take a domestic flight to one of the islands. Some popular islands with direct flights from Athens in January include Crete, Santorini, and Mykonos.

Ferries are a popular way to travel between the Greek Islands, but in January, schedules are often reduced, and some routes may be cancelled due to bad weather conditions. However, some ferry companies still operate during the winter months, and you can check their schedules and book tickets online.

If you’re planning to explore more than one island, renting a car might be a good option. However, keep in mind that driving conditions in January can be challenging due to rain, snow, and icy roads. You should also check if the car rental company allows you to take the car on ferries between islands.

If you’re on a budget, taking a bus might be a good option. Most of the Greek Islands have regular bus services, but again, schedules might be reduced in January. You can check the timetables and buy tickets at the local bus stations.

Overall, getting to the Greek Islands in January might require a bit more planning and flexibility than during the peak season, but it’s still possible to explore some of the most beautiful islands in Greece.

Accommodation Options in the Greek Islands in January

If you’re planning a trip to the Greek Islands in January, it’s important to note that many hotels, resorts, and tavernas close down for the season. However, there are still plenty of accommodation options available for those who want to experience the beauty and culture of the islands during the winter months.

One option is to stay in a traditional Greek guesthouse or bed and breakfast. These small, family-run establishments offer a more authentic experience and are often located in charming villages away from the tourist crowds. Some popular options include the Pension Irene in Naxos, the Pension Eleni in Crete, and the Pension Marianna in Mykonos.

Another option is to rent a private villa or apartment. This can be a great choice for families or groups of friends who want more space and privacy. Many rental properties come equipped with kitchens, so you can save money by cooking your own meals. Some popular rental sites include Airbnb, HomeAway, and VRBO.

If you’re looking for a more luxurious experience, there are still a few high-end hotels open during the winter months. Some of the best options include the Grace Mykonos, the Mystique Santorini, and the Elounda Beach Hotel & Villas in Crete.

It’s important to note that prices for accommodation are generally lower during the winter months, so you can often find great deals on hotels, guesthouses, and rental properties. However, it’s always a good idea to book in advance to ensure that you have a place to stay.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which Greek island is warmest in January?

In January, the warmest Greek islands are Crete, Rhodes, and Corfu. These islands are located in the southern part of Greece and have a milder climate compared to the rest of the country. The average temperature on these islands ranges between 15-20°C, making them a great destination for winter sun seekers.

Which Greek island is best to visit in January?

Crete is considered the best Greek island to visit in January. It has a rich history, picturesque villages, and stunning beaches. The island is also home to several attractions such as the Palace of Knossos, the Samaria Gorge, and the Arkadi Monastery.

What is the hottest Greek island in the winter?

Rhodes is the hottest Greek island in the winter. It has an average temperature of 16°C in January, making it a popular destination for winter sun seekers. The island is also home to several attractions such as the Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes, the Acropolis of Lindos, and the Valley of the Butterflies.

Is January a good time to visit the Greek islands?

January is a good time to visit the Greek islands if you are looking for a winter sun holiday. The islands are less crowded during this time, and the prices are lower compared to the peak season. However, the weather can be unpredictable, and some attractions may be closed.

Can you visit the Greek Islands in January?

Yes, you can visit the Greek islands in January. However, some islands may have limited ferry services, and some attractions may be closed. It is also important to note that the weather can be unpredictable during this time.

Are the Greek islands warm in January?

The Greek islands are not as warm in January as they are during the summer months, but they still have a milder climate compared to the rest of the country. The average temperature on the islands ranges between 15-20°C, making them a great destination for winter sun seekers.

Hailing from the historic city of Thessaloniki, Nikos Tsakiris is a passionate explorer, seasoned writer, and co-founder of Greek Island, the definitive travel blog for the Greek Islands.

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Greece in January: Weather, Tips & More

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Greece conjures the image of sunny coasts, azure waters, and sailboats gliding under a radiant sun. However, few are aware that the country is a lovely place to visit almost throughout the year, including in the winter when its mountains are decked in white and peaks glisten in the morning sun.

The weather in Greece in January can get a little unpredictable, with parts of the country receiving snow. Plus, this is the coldest month in the country, and traveling to Greece at this time of the year can limit your travel options if you plan to visit its islands, since finding transport could be difficult (though not impossible). That being said, this is the time to take full advantage of low-season rates and pack some splendid destinations in your itinerary — from the atmospheric Old Town of Rhodes to Athens with its ancient architecture and Byzantine churches.

• Jacqueline S.

Greece weather in January

Compared to northern European destinations, the weather in Greece in January is relatively pleasant, despite this being one of the coldest months of the year. The average January temperature in Athens, for example, fluctuates between 7°C and 12°C. In recent years, the highest recorded temperature in Greece in January has been 20°C. Also, expect many cloudy days and occasional rains during this time of year. Having said all this, January is also a great time to visit Thessaloniki , Greece’s second-largest city, and enjoy its festivals, archeological sites, waterfront scenery, and nightlife. The city, however, is on the colder side, with an average high temperature of 8.4°C and an average low temperature of 2.2°C in January.

Make sure to check out our travel guide on the best times to visit Greece for an in-depth seasonal overview.

Weather in Greece in January - Rainfall and Temperatures

Why visit greece in january.

Though January is not a peak season in Greece, the country does make for an excellent winter destination. Below are the reasons why:

• Great prices: Since January in Greece is a low season, you can get some really good discounts on travel and accommodation. Airfares and hotel tariffs are at their lowest during this time.
• Fewer tourists: Greece is a summer getaway, not many people visit the country during winter. Fewer tourists during January means that you have historic sites and top-rated destinations all for yourself.
• Museum-hopping: One of the best things about visiting Greece in January is that museum-hopping is much easier and more enjoyable as there are fewer crowds. Be it the Acropolis Museum or the National Archeological Museum of Athens , this country has one of the best collections of ancient artifacts anywhere in the world.
• Skiing in Arachova: Greece may not be Europe’s best-known destination for skiing, but the country does have its fair share of snowy slopes. The mountain town of Arachova has some cool slopes for all skill levels.
• Snow in Méteora: A layer of snow over the magical cliff-top monasteries of Meteora adds another meaning to its beguiling beauty. Do not forget to include this destination in your itinerary if you are heading for Greece in winter .
• Hiking: Go on a hike through the lovely Samaria Gorge Trail, taking in the sights of Byzantine ruins along the way. The other option is to explore Mount Athos. If you feel adventurous enough, then head for the mountain paradise of Zagori, a densely forested landscape up in the mountains punctuated by deep ravines, labyrinthine caves, and nearly 50 villages.
• Comfort food: From meatballs and fasolada (bean soups) to spetsofai (spicy sausages in sauce) and lahanodolmades (stuffed cabbage leaves), Greece’s winter cuisine is wholesome and delicious.

Where to go and what to do

Tick dozens off your bucket list while on a tour to Athens . From the Temple of Zeus to the Hellenic Parliament and the Olympic Stadium, this city has countless monuments worth visiting. Ascend the steep hill of the Acropolis, which was the religious center of ancient Athens, and get wowed by the Parthenon, the pinnacle of classical Greek architecture.

Admire the beautiful beaches and learn more about the centuries-old history while on a trip to the island of Rhodes . Travel to the remote corners of Laptokarya, home to some of Greece’s best canyons punctuated by tall cliffs and turquoise pools, and embark on a thrilling adventure that includes exploring caves, swimming, and trekking.

Visit the monasteries of Metéora, perched on rock pinnacles amid a dramatic setting of cliffs and remnants of an ancient river. See the ancient Olympia, the site where the Olympic Games took place in 776 BC in honor of Zeus, the Greek god of the sky, lightning, and thunder. Explore Delphi and its world-famous sanctuaries of Apollo and Athena, including their monuments, temples, theater, and treasury. Soak up the charms of Thessaloniki, regarded by many as the cultural capital of Greece. Admire its Ottoman sites, Roman ruins, and beautiful frescoes of its Byzantine churches.

We highly recommend a 7-day stay in Greece . If you need tips on how many days you may need to cover all these activities, check out our guide on how many days you should spend in Greece .

Ancient Greece was the cradle of Western civilization, and January is a great time to explore the country’s stunning historic sites and excellent museums. Reach out to our travel experts who can help you plan an adventurous tailor-made tour in Greece as per your requirements. Alternatively, our list of trips to Greece in January should also pique your interest.

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When is the Best Time to Visit Greece: A Month-by-Month Guide

Planning a trip to Greece? Wondering when is the best time to visit this beautiful country? Look no further! In this month-by-month guide, we will provide you with a comprehensive overview of the ideal time to go to Greece, so you can make the most of your visit.

If you’re a beach lover and want to fully enjoy the warm Greek summer, then the best time to visit is during the months of June, July, and August. The temperatures are perfect for swimming and the beaches are lively with visitors from all over the world. You can spend your days soaking up the sun and exploring the crystal-clear waters of the Greek islands.

If you prefer to avoid the heat and the crowds of summer, then the months of September and October are excellent choices. The weather is still warm, but not as hot as in summer, making it ideal for outdoor activities like hiking and exploring the Greek countryside. Plus, the prices are lower, and you won’t have to deal with the full-on tourist season.

For those who want to experience the rich history and culture of Greece, the best time to visit is during the spring months of April and May. The weather is pleasant, and the landscape is in full bloom. You can explore the ancient ruins in Athens, visit the museums, and immerse yourself in the vibrant Greek culture.

If you’re a nature enthusiast and want to witness the beautiful Greek landscape, then the winter months of January and February are perfect. The temperatures might be lower, but the countryside is lush and green, and you can go hiking in the mountains or visit some of the natural wonders Greece has to offer.

Whatever time of the year you choose to visit Greece, you will find something that suits your preferences. Use this month-by-month guide to plan your trip, and you won’t be disappointed with what Greece has to offer.

Table of Contents

January in Greece: Off-Season Tranquility

If you prefer a quiet and peaceful time to visit Greece, January is an excellent month to go. It is the off-season, meaning there are fewer tourists and the popular destinations are less crowded. The temperatures may be on the cooler side, but it is still a beautiful time to explore the Greek countryside and immerse yourself in the rich history and culture.

While swimming may not be ideal during this time, there are still plenty of activities and sights to enjoy. Athens, the lively capital of Greece, is full of historical sites and museums that you can explore without the summer heat and crowds. You can also plan a visit to the Greek islands, where the natural landscapes and beautiful beaches will still leave you in awe.

If you are a fan of winter sports, Greece has many mountainous areas where you can enjoy skiing and snowboarding. The resorts are less crowded, making it a great time to hit the slopes. Additionally, the winter months are known for their festive celebrations, so you can experience the Greek culture at its best during this time.

In my opinion, January is perfect for those who want to delve deeper into the history and culture of Greece. You won’t have to compete with other visitors for attention, and you can take the time to truly appreciate everything this beautiful country has to offer. Whether you’re a nature lover, history enthusiast, or simply seeking tranquility, January is a great month to visit Greece.

February in Greece: Mild Weather and Cultural Events

In my opinion, February is an ideal time to visit Greece. The weather is mild, with temperatures ranging from 10-15 degrees Celsius, making it a beautiful time to explore the country without the heat and crowds that come in the summer months.

One of the highlights of February is the Carnival season, which is celebrated all over Greece. This cultural event brings together locals and visitors alike to participate in parades, parties, and masquerade balls. It’s a lively and festive time to experience Greek culture.

If you’re a history buff, visiting Athens in February is a must. The city is full of historical landmarks, such as the Acropolis and the Ancient Agora, which can be visited without the crowds that come in the peak tourist season. You can take your time exploring the rich history and architecture of the city.

Some reviews from contributors:

• “I visited Greece in February and had a wonderful time. The weather was perfect for sightseeing, and I enjoyed the cultural events during the Carnival season.”
• “I highly recommend visiting the Greek islands in February. The beaches may not be ideal for swimming, but the natural landscape is stunning. I had an excellent time exploring the countryside and immersing myself in Greek culture.”

If you’re a nature lover, February is also a great time to explore the Greek countryside. The landscape is lush and green, and you can enjoy hiking and walking trails without the scorching heat of the summer months.

In conclusion, if you want to visit Greece when the temperatures are mild and the tourist crowds are smaller, February is the perfect time. Whether you’re interested in exploring the rich history of Athens, experiencing Greek culture during the Carnival season, or immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the countryside, this month-by-month guide will help you plan a trip that suits your preferences.

March in Greece: Spring Blooms and Pleasant Temperatures

March is an ideal month to visit Greece if you want to experience the beauty of spring in the Greek countryside. The weather is pleasant, with temperatures starting to warm up but not yet reaching the heat of the summer months. It’s a perfect time to explore the natural landscape and go hiking in the mountains or countryside.

If you’re planning a visit to Athens, March offers excellent conditions for sightseeing and exploring the city’s rich history and lively culture. The crowds are smaller compared to the peak summer months, so you’ll have more room to enjoy the famous landmarks like the Acropolis, without feeling overwhelmed by tourist crowds.

For those who are beach lovers, March might not be the best time for swimming, but there are still some beautiful beaches worth visiting. The temperatures are getting warmer, and in some places, you might even be able to take a dip. The beaches are less crowded, and you can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere while basking in the sun.

If you’re a nature enthusiast, March is a great time to witness the blooming of spring flowers and plants. The Greek landscape comes alive with vibrant colors, making it a photographer’s paradise. You can take leisurely walks through flower-filled meadows or explore the stunning national parks.

In my opinion, March is an excellent month to visit Greece for those who prefer milder temperatures, fewer tourists, and the chance to experience the country at its most authentic. It’s a time when the weather is just right for outdoor activities and exploring the cultural heritage of this ancient land.

April in Greece: Easter Celebrations and Beautiful Landscapes

In April, Greece comes alive with the celebration of Easter, making it one of the best times to visit this beautiful country. The rich history and culture of Greece, together with its stunning landscapes, provide the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable vacation. If you plan to visit in April, you will have the opportunity to witness the vibrant Easter traditions that take place throughout the country.

The Easter celebrations in Greece are a unique experience that every visitor should witness. From iconic processions in Athens, to lively festivities in the countryside, you will get a glimpse into the deep-rooted traditions and customs of the Greek people. The atmosphere during this time is filled with excitement and joy, as families come together to commemorate the resurrection of Christ.

Aside from the cultural festivities, April is a great time to explore the natural beauty of Greece. The temperatures are ideal for outdoor activities, and the countryside is lush and vibrant. Whether you want to go hiking in the mountains, visit ancient ruins, or simply relax on the beautiful beaches, April offers something for every visitor.

One of the highlights of visiting Greece in April is the opportunity to witness the stunning landscape in full bloom. The rolling hills and picturesque villages are adorned with colorful flowers, creating a truly magical sight. Whether you’re exploring the islands or mainland Greece, the beauty of the scenery will leave you in awe.

If you prefer a quieter and less crowded experience, visiting Greece in April is an excellent choice. It is considered the shoulder season between winter and summer, so you won’t have to worry about the crowds that usually flock to popular destinations during the peak summer months. You can enjoy the beautiful beaches and swimming in the crystal-clear waters without the heat and hustle.

In my opinion, April is one of the best times to visit Greece. The combination of the Easter celebrations and the beautiful landscapes makes it a truly special month. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a culture lover, or a nature enthusiast, you will find something to enjoy during your time in Greece in April.

May in Greece: Warmth, Sunshine, and Beaches

May is a perfect time to visit Greece if you want warm temperatures, plenty of sunshine, and beautiful beaches. The countryside is in full bloom, making the landscape even more picturesque. Visitors will enjoy the lively atmosphere that May brings, with many cultural events and festivals taking place.

If you go to Greece in May, you will have some excellent swimming options. The water temperatures are comfortable and the beaches are not yet overcrowded. The Greek islands are also a popular destination during this time, offering a variety of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy.

In Athens, the capital city of Greece, May is a great time to explore the fascinating history and culture. The weather is ideal for outdoor activities, such as visiting ancient ruins and historical sites. The city is less crowded compared to the peak tourist season in June, making it a better time to explore at your own pace.

If you plan to visit Greece in May, make sure to check the local events and festivals happening during this month. There are many festivities that showcase the Greek traditions and customs, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the local culture.

In summary, May is an excellent month to visit Greece if you want warmth, sunshine, and beautiful beaches. The natural landscape is at its best, and there are plenty of cultural events and festivals to enjoy. Whether you want to relax on the beach or explore the historical sites, May is a great time to experience Greece’s rich history and vibrant culture.

June in Greece: Peak Season Begins

In the month of June, Greece experiences the beginning of its peak tourist season. As the weather warms up, visitors from all over the world flock to this beautiful country to enjoy its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. If you’re planning a trip to Greece, June is an ideal time to go as it offers a perfect balance of warm temperatures, lively atmosphere, and excellent swimming conditions.

Greece, with its numerous islands and mainland cities like Athens, has something to offer for every type of traveler. Whether you’re a history buff interested in exploring ancient ruins or a beach lover seeking picturesque beaches, June won’t disappoint.

If you want to avoid the intense heat of the summer months, June is the best time to visit. The temperatures are pleasant, making it the perfect time for outdoor activities like hiking or exploring the countryside. Additionally, the sea temperatures are just right for swimming, allowing you to fully enjoy the beautiful Greek beaches.

One of the highlights of visiting Greece in June is the abundance of cultural events and festivals. From traditional music and dance performances to religious processions and art exhibitions, there is always something happening. Don’t miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and celebrate with the friendly Greek locals.

Overall, June is an ideal month to visit Greece. The weather is mild, the beaches are beautiful, and the atmosphere is lively. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply looking for a relaxing beach getaway, Greece in June has something for everyone. Start planning your trip now and get ready for an unforgettable experience.

July in Greece: Hot Summer Days and Crowded Beaches

July is one of the best months to visit Greece if you want to experience the full summer heat and enjoy the beautiful beaches that the country has to offer. With temperatures reaching their peak, this is the perfect time to plan a beach holiday and indulge in swimming and sunbathing.

The Greek islands are especially popular in July, attracting visitors from all around the world. The beaches are crowded, but the atmosphere is lively and together with the excellent weather, it creates an ideal setting for a memorable vacation.

Athens, the capital city of Greece, is also a great place to visit in July. The city is bustling with cultural events, including music festivals and outdoor concerts. You won’t be short of things to do and see, as the city is full of historical and cultural attractions to explore.

If you prefer a quieter and more relaxed atmosphere, the countryside of Greece in July is a great option. The natural landscape is at its best during this time of the year, with lush green fields and blooming flowers. You can also explore the Greek countryside and discover the hidden gems of the country’s rural areas.

Overall, July in Greece offers the perfect balance of warm temperatures, beautiful beaches, rich history, and vibrant culture. Whether you want to soak up the sun on the islands or explore the countryside, this month is an excellent choice for your trip to Greece.

August in Greece: High Season and Vibrant Nightlife

Greece is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and warm temperatures, making it an ideal destination for a summer vacation. August is when the country is full of visitors from all over the world, looking to enjoy the best that Greece has to offer.

If you’re a fan of lively cities and bustling streets, Athens is the place to be. The capital city is full of culture, history, and a vibrant nightlife. You can explore ancient sites such as the Acropolis and indulge in the bustling Athenian lifestyle. The temperatures in Athens are at their peak in August, so make sure to pack your sunscreen and stay hydrated.

If you prefer a more relaxed experience, the Greek countryside offers stunning landscapes and a slower pace of life. The natural beauty of the countryside is at its best during the summer months, and August will provide you with excellent swimming conditions in the crystal-clear waters of the Greek islands.

In my opinion, August is the best time to visit Greece if you want to experience the country at its most lively and vibrant. Whether you’re looking for a beach holiday, a cultural experience, or a mix of both, Greece has something for everyone. Just be prepared for the heat and the crowds, as August is the high season and attracts a large number of visitors.

If you want to plan your trip to Greece in August, it’s a good idea to book your accommodations and flights in advance. Many popular destinations will be fully booked, and prices may be higher than usual. However, if you’re looking to experience the best of what Greece has to offer, it’s worth the extra effort.

In conclusion, if you’re looking for a vibrant and lively time in Greece, August is the best month to visit. The combination of warm temperatures, beautiful beaches, and the lively atmosphere makes it a perfect time to explore all that Greece has to offer. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or simply looking to relax with a cocktail on the beach, August provides the perfect backdrop for your Greek adventure.

September in Greece: Mild Weather and Fewer Tourists

If you’re planning a trip to Greece, September is an ideal time to visit. The weather is still warm and mild, but the intense heat of the summer months has subsided. The temperatures are perfect for exploring the lively Greek countryside and visiting beautiful beaches without the crowds of tourists that you would usually find in July or August.

In my opinion, September is one of the best months to experience Greek culture and history. The cities, such as Athens, are not as crowded as during the peak tourist season, so you can really take your time and immerse yourself in the rich history and ancient ruins. The landscape is also at its best during this time, with the natural beauty of the Greek islands and countryside on full display.

For those who want to swim and enjoy the beaches, September is still a great time to go. The sea temperatures are still warm from the summer months, making it perfect for swimming. The beaches, however, are not as crowded as they would be in July or August, so you can enjoy a more relaxed and peaceful beach experience.

In September, you will also have the chance to witness some Greek traditions and festivals. The autumn season brings harvest festivals and cultural events, giving you the opportunity to experience the local culture and traditions firsthand. It’s a time when the Greek countryside comes alive with celebrations, music, and delicious food.

In conclusion, if you’re planning a visit to Greece and want to avoid the summer crowds but still enjoy excellent weather and beautiful scenery, September is the best time to go. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or simply relaxing on the beach, this month offers something for every type of visitor. Don’t miss the chance to experience Greece in all its glory during this amazing time of the year!

October in Greece: Autumn Colors and Lower Prices

October is a great time to visit Greece if you want to experience the beautiful autumn colors and take advantage of lower prices. Unlike the peak summer months of June, July, and August, October offers a more pleasant and comfortable climate with cooler temperatures.

The Greek islands are still a popular choice in October, especially for visitors who want to avoid the summer crowds. You can still enjoy swimming in the crystal-clear waters and exploring the stunning beaches, but without the overwhelming heat and crowded beaches. Many visitors find October to be the perfect time to discover the natural beauty and history of the islands at a more relaxed pace.

In Greece, October is also an excellent time to explore the countryside and engage with the local culture. The landscape is vibrant with autumn colors, making it a perfect time for outdoor activities such as hiking and exploring the picturesque villages. The countryside is less crowded, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the peaceful and authentic Greek experience.

If you are interested in Greek history and culture, October is a month full of opportunities. You can visit ancient sites like Athens and explore the historical monuments and museums without the overwhelming crowds. The weather is still excellent for sightseeing and walking tours, allowing you to fully appreciate the rich cultural heritage of Greece.

In terms of prices, October offers better deals and lower prices compared to the peak summer season. Many hotels and tourist attractions offer discounts, allowing you to save money while enjoying everything Greece has to offer. It’s a great time to plan your trip and explore the country without breaking the bank.

In my opinion, October is really the best time to visit Greece for both nature lovers and history enthusiasts. You will get to experience the beauty of autumn colors, enjoy excellent weather, and immerse yourself in Greek culture without the hustle and bustle of the summer months. Whether you prefer exploring the islands or indulging in the historical wonders of Athens, October is the perfect month to visit Greece.

November in Greece: Quiet and Budget-Friendly

If you’re looking for a quieter and more budget-friendly time to visit Greece, November is the perfect month.

While the temperatures are cooling down and it’s not the ideal time for swimming, there are still plenty of reasons to visit during this time.

In terms of weather, November is a transitional month between autumn and winter. The temperatures in mainland Greece and Athens range from around 10-20°C (50-68°F), making it a good time for exploring the countryside and enjoying outdoor activities without the heat of summer.

One of the best things about visiting Greece in November is that the crowds are significantly smaller compared to the summer months. This means you’ll have a more intimate experience at popular tourist sites and won’t have to wait in long lines. It’s also a great opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and get to know the Greek way of life.

If you’re a history buff, November is a great time to visit as well. The museums and archaeological sites are less crowded, allowing you to fully appreciate the rich history of Greece. From the ancient ruins of Athens to the breathtaking landscapes of the Greek islands, there is so much to explore and discover.

In terms of cost, November is also a great time to visit Greece on a budget. Many accommodations and flights offer discounted rates during this off-peak season, allowing you to save money while still enjoying all that Greece has to offer.

Whether you want to relax and enjoy the beautiful Greek countryside or dive into the vibrant city life of Athens, November offers a more quiet and budget-friendly alternative to the peak summer months. With the excellent weather, rich history, and natural beauty, November can be a truly special time to visit Greece.

December in Greece: Festive Spirit and Traditional Holidays

December is a month filled with festive spirit and traditional holidays in Greece. It’s a time when the country comes alive with celebrations, and visitors can get a taste of Greek culture and traditions. Whether you’re interested in the lively events in Athens or the peaceful countryside, December has something for everyone.

One of the highlights of December in Greece is the Christmas season. The cities and towns are full of lights and decorations, creating a magical atmosphere. In Athens, you can visit the famous Christmas market in Syntagma Square, where you’ll find beautiful handmade crafts and delicious food. The streets are bustling with shoppers, and the air is filled with the scent of roasted chestnuts and traditional pastries.

If you want to escape the city and experience a more traditional Christmas, the countryside is the place to be. In the mountainous regions of Greece, you can find charming villages that celebrate the holiday season with music, dancing, and feasting. The locals participate in traditional rituals and customs, giving visitors a glimpse into the country’s history and culture.

Another reason why December is a good time to visit Greece is the mild weather. While the temperatures may be cooler compared to the summer months, it’s still quite pleasant for outdoor activities. You can explore the beautiful countryside, go hiking in the mountains, or even visit the Greek islands. The beaches may not be suitable for swimming, but the natural landscape and stunning views will more than make up for it.

If you’re a history buff, December is a great time to visit Greece as well. The archaeological sites and museums are less crowded, allowing you to fully appreciate the ancient ruins and artifacts. You can explore the Acropolis in Athens, visit the ruins of Delphi, or discover the ancient city of Knossos on Crete. There are also numerous historical sites to explore on the Greek islands, such as Rhodes and Santorini.

In conclusion, December is a month of festive spirit, traditional holidays, and mild weather in Greece. It’s the perfect time to immerse yourself in Greek culture, explore the beautiful countryside, and discover the country’s rich history. Whether you’re a food lover, nature enthusiast, or history buff, there’s something for everyone in Greece during December.

Best time to go to Greece: Factors to Consider

When deciding on the best time to visit Greece, there are several factors to consider that will greatly influence your experience. The country offers a diverse landscape, with stunning beaches, beautiful countryside, and historical sites to explore. The time of year you choose to visit can impact the availability of certain activities and attractions.

If you’re a beach lover, the summer months of June to August are ideal for swimming and enjoying the warm weather. The Greek islands, known for their crystal-clear waters and picturesque coastlines, are at their best during this time. Visitors can bask in the sun and have a refreshing dip in the sea, making it a popular time for tourists.

However, if you prefer to explore Greece’s historical sites and cultural treasures without the crowds, it’s better to plan your trip for the spring or autumn months. The temperatures are milder during these shoulder seasons, making it more comfortable to visit Athens and other cities. You can fully immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Greece without the summer heat and large crowds.

In February, the winter season is still in full swing, and some of the islands may not be as lively. However, this can be an excellent time to visit if you want to experience a different side of Greece. The landscapes are lush and green, and the ancient sites are less crowded. You can enjoy the natural beauty of the countryside and explore the historical sites at your own pace.

Each month of the year in Greece has its own unique offerings and attractions. Whether you’re interested in hiking in the mountains, exploring ancient ruins, or simply relaxing on the beach, there is a time that is perfect for you. By considering the factors that are important to you and the kind of experience you want, you can choose the best time to visit Greece and make the most out of your trip.

Planning Your Trip to Greece: Weather and Festivals

Weather in Greece

If you’re wondering when is the best time to visit Greece, the weather will play a big role in your decision. Greece has a Mediterranean climate, so you can expect hot and dry summers, mild winters, and pleasant temperatures during spring and autumn. The summer months from June to August are the most popular for visitors, with temperatures reaching their peak and perfect for swimming in the beautiful Greek beaches. However, if you want to avoid the intense heat and the crowds, it’s better to plan your trip during May or September when the temperatures are still warm but not as hot.

Festivals in Greece

Greece is known for its rich history and vibrant culture, and the festivals throughout the year showcase the best of Greek traditions. If you’re a culture enthusiast, you won’t be disappointed with the various festivals held in different parts of the country. From the lively Carnival celebrations in February to the lively music and dance festivals in the summer, there’s always something happening in Greece.

During February, the Carnival season takes place with colorful parades, masquerade parties, and concerts. It’s a great time to visit if you want to experience the festive spirit and immerse yourself in Greek tradition. In the summer months, you can enjoy the Athens and Epidaurus Festival, which is filled with music, theater, and dance performances. The city comes alive with artists and performers from all over the world, making it a truly memorable experience.

If you’re a nature lover, Greece’s landscapes and countryside offer excellent opportunities to explore. In the autumn months of October and November, the countryside is at its most beautiful with vibrant colors and comfortable temperatures for hiking and outdoor activities. The natural beauty of Greece during this time of year is truly breathtaking, and you won’t want to miss it.

Overall, when planning your trip to Greece, consider your preferences and what you want to experience. Whether you’re interested in the lively summer season with its lively festivals and beautiful beaches, or the quieter autumn months with their picturesque countryside, Greece has something to offer for everyone.

Off-Season Travel in Greece: Pros and Cons

If you are considering a trip to Greece, you may be wondering when the best time to go is. While the summer months of June, July, and August are the most popular times to visit, there are many advantages to traveling during the off-season. In this guide, we will explore the pros and cons of off-season travel in Greece month by month.

Pros of Off-Season Travel

1. Avoiding the Crowds: One of the biggest benefits of traveling to Greece off-season, especially in winter or September, is that you will experience fewer crowds. This means you can enjoy the beautiful landscapes, historic sites, and stunning beaches without the hustle and bustle of peak season visitors.

2. Better Prices: Off-season travel often means lower prices on accommodations, flights, and attractions. You can take advantage of discounts and special offers, allowing you to experience more of Greece on a budget.

3. Ideal Temperatures: While the summer months can be quite hot, traveling off-season in spring or autumn means you will experience more comfortable temperatures. This is the perfect time for activities like hiking, exploring the countryside, or even swimming in the sea without the intense heat of summer.

Cons of Off-Season Travel

1. Limited Opening Hours: Some attractions, restaurants, and shops may have reduced opening hours during the off-season. It’s important to plan your itinerary accordingly and check in advance to avoid disappointment.

2. Unpredictable Weather: Although the temperatures are generally milder during the off-season, there is still a chance of rain or cooler days. It’s a good idea to pack layers and be prepared for changes in weather during your trip.

3. Liveliness may be Reduced: While some visitors appreciate the quieter atmosphere, others may miss the lively atmosphere and vibrant culture that Greece is known for during the summer months. It’s important to set your expectations accordingly and decide what kind of experience you want to have.

In conclusion, off-season travel in Greece has its pros and cons. It offers the advantages of avoiding crowds, better prices, and more pleasant temperatures. However, it may also come with limited opening hours, unpredictable weather, and a less lively atmosphere. Ultimately, the best time to visit Greece depends on your personal preferences and what you want to experience during your trip.

Greece: A Year-Round Destination for Every Traveler

When it comes to visiting Greece, there is really no bad time to go. The country offers something for every traveler, no matter the season. Whether you want to explore ancient ruins, relax on beautiful beaches, or immerse yourself in the vibrant Greek culture, Greece has it all.

Summer is the peak time to visit Greece, especially if you want to enjoy the warm temperatures and excellent swimming conditions. The Greek islands are a popular destination during this season, with their beautiful beaches and lively atmosphere. In my opinion, June, July, and August are the best months to visit if you want to experience the full summer vibe in Greece.

If you prefer milder temperatures and fewer crowds, autumn can be an ideal time to visit Greece. September and October offer pleasant weather, making it a great time to explore the historical sites in Athens and the countryside. The landscape is still green after the summer, and you won’t have to worry about the intense heat that can be experienced during the summer months.

Greece might not be the first destination that comes to mind for winter travel, but it is still worth considering. The winter months, especially December to February, offer a different side of Greece. The temperatures are cooler, but this means you can explore the historical sites without the crowds. Plus, if you are a fan of winter sports, the mountains in Greece offer excellent skiing and snowboarding opportunities.

What is the best time to visit Greece?

The best time to visit Greece depends on your preferences and what you want to do during your trip. Generally, the months of April to June and September to October offer the best weather with fewer crowds. The summer months of July and August are the peak tourist season, with hot temperatures and crowded beaches.

What is the weather like in Greece in April?

In April, the weather in Greece starts to warm up, with average temperatures ranging from 15 to 20 degrees Celsius. It is a great time to visit if you want to avoid the crowds and enjoy pleasant weather. However, keep in mind that some tourist sites and services might still have limited operating hours.

When is the best time to visit the Greek islands?

The best time to visit the Greek islands is during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October). During these months, the islands are less crowded, the weather is pleasant, and the sea temperatures are suitable for swimming. However, if you are looking for vibrant nightlife and beach parties, the summer months of July and August are the most popular.

What is the weather like in Greece in December?

In December, Greece experiences winter with average temperatures ranging from 5 to 15 degrees Celsius. The weather can be variable, with some regions experiencing rain and occasional snowfall. December is not a popular time for sunbathing or swimming, but it can be a great time to visit if you want to explore historical sites and enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere.

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I visited Greece in July last year and it was amazing! The beaches were gorgeous and the water was so clear. I highly recommend going during the summer months.

When is the best time to visit Greece if you want to explore the rich history and culture?

If you want to explore the rich history and culture of Greece, the best time to visit is during the spring months of April and May. The weather is pleasant, and the landscape is in full bloom. You can immerse yourself in the ancient ruins, visit museums, and participate in cultural events. It’s truly a magical experience!

I visited Greece in August last year and it was absolutely amazing! The beaches were crowded but it didn’t bother me at all. The weather was perfect for swimming and the water was crystal clear. I highly recommend visiting Greece during the summer months!

What about winter months? Is it a good time to visit Greece?

Winter is not the most popular time to visit Greece, but it can still be a great experience. The weather is mild, with average temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C. You can explore historic sites like the Acropolis in Athens without the large crowds, and enjoy lower prices on accommodations and attractions. Plus, you might even get a chance to see snow in the mountains. Just make sure to pack some warm clothes and be prepared for occasional rain showers.

Wow, this month-by-month guide is so helpful! Planning my trip to Greece in September and October now. Can’t wait to explore the Greek countryside without the summer heat and crowds. Thank you!

When are the best months to visit Greece for beach lovers?

Hi SandyBeachLover! If you’re a beach lover, the best months to visit Greece are June, July, and August. During these months, the temperatures are perfect for swimming and the beaches are lively with visitors from all over the world. You can fully enjoy the warm Greek summer, soaking up the sun and exploring the crystal-clear waters of the Greek islands. Have a great trip!

I visited Greece last summer and it was absolutely incredible! The beaches were stunning and the water was so clear. I would highly recommend going in June, July, or August if you want to have the best beach experience. You won’t regret it! 🌞🏖️

Is it possible to visit Greece in winter? What are the attractions and activities available during that time?

Yes, visiting Greece in winter is definitely possible! Although the weather may be cooler, there are still plenty of attractions and activities to enjoy. You can explore the fascinating historical sites and museums in Athens, such as the Acropolis and the National Archaeological Museum. Additionally, winter is a great time to visit the Greek islands, as they are less crowded and you can experience the local culture in a more intimate way. Don’t forget to try the delicious Greek cuisine and warm up with a cup of traditional Greek coffee. So, don’t hesitate to plan your winter trip to Greece and immerse yourself in its unique charm!

Is it true that Greece has beautiful autumn colors? I’ve always associated it with summer beaches.

Yes, it’s true! Greece offers stunning autumn colors, especially in October. The changing leaves create a picturesque backdrop to your travels, whether you’re exploring historic sites or wandering through charming villages. Don’t miss the chance to experience the beauty of Greek autumn!

What are the best outdoor activities to do in Greece during April and May?

If you’re looking for the best outdoor activities to enjoy in Greece during April and May, hiking through the lush landscapes and exploring the ancient ruins are perfect options. The pleasant weather during these months provides an ideal setting for experiencing the rich history and culture of this beautiful country. Don’t miss out on exploring the blooming scenery and historical sites while immersing yourself in the Greek adventure!

As a travel enthusiast, I highly recommend visiting Greece in the spring months of April and May to fully immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant culture of the country. The pleasant weather and blooming landscape create a perfect setting for exploring ancient ruins and experiencing local traditions.

As a frequent traveler to Greece, I find that the best time to visit this stunning country is during the months of September and October. The weather is still pleasant, the crowds have thinned out, and it’s perfect for exploring the picturesque Greek countryside without the intense summer heat.

When is the best time to visit Greece if I’m interested in exploring the rich history and culture of the country?

If you’re interested in exploring the rich history and culture of Greece, the best time to visit is during the spring months of April and May. The weather is pleasant, and the landscape is in full bloom, offering the perfect setting for discovering the historical sites and immersing yourself in the country’s culture. Enjoy your trip!

As a travel enthusiast, I completely agree with the advice provided in this article. Planning a trip to Greece can be truly magical if timed right. Exploring the Greek islands in the summer months sounds like a dream! Can’t wait to soak up the sun and delve into the crystal-clear waters. Thanks for the helpful insights!

As a frequent traveler to Greece, I completely agree with this guide. Each month offers a unique experience in Greece, catering to different preferences. Whether you’re a beach enthusiast or a history buff, there’s a perfect time to visit Greece for everyone!

When is the best time for sightseeing and exploring ancient ruins in Greece according to your guide? Are there any specific events or festivals during the spring months of April and May that shouldn’t be missed?

Spring months of April and May are the perfect time for sightseeing and exploring ancient ruins in Greece, according to our guide. The weather is pleasant, and the crowds are smaller compared to summer. As for events and festivals, you should definitely not miss the Athens Epidaurus Festival in late April and the Athens Festival in May, which showcase Greek music, theater, and dance performances.

When’s the best time to visit for cultural experiences like festivals and historical sites? Does the article cover these aspects in detail?

Yes, the article provides a detailed overview of the best time to visit Greece for cultural experiences like festivals and historical sites. For those interested in immersing themselves in the rich history and vibrant festivals of Greece, the spring months of April and May are recommended. During this time, the weather is pleasant, and the landscape is blooming, creating the perfect backdrop for exploring the historical sites and participating in local festivities. You’ll have the opportunity to delve into the fascinating history and culture of Greece during these months. Enjoy your trip!

If you’re a beach lover and want to fully enjoy the warm Greek summer, then the best time to visit is during the months of June, July, and August. The temperatures are perfect for swimming and the beaches are lively with visitors from all over the world.

As a travel enthusiast, I totally agree with the insights shared in this article. Planning a trip to Greece can be a delightful adventure if you choose the right time to visit. Personally, I believe that exploring the Greek islands during the warm summer months of June, July, and August offers a magical experience. The beaches are vibrant, the waters crystal clear, and the atmosphere so lively. It’s truly a paradise for beach lovers like me!

As a passionate traveler, I believe that exploring Greece in the spring months of April and May offers the perfect blend of pleasant weather and vibrant landscapes. It’s a great time to immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of this beautiful country.

Which month is recommended for exploring the historical and cultural sites in Greece?

For exploring historical and cultural sites in Greece, the recommended months are April and May. The weather is pleasant, and the landscape is in full bloom, providing the perfect backdrop for your adventures.

As a seasoned traveler, I highly recommend visiting Greece in April or May to witness the country’s vibrant culture and historical sites in full bloom. Spring is the perfect time to explore the rich history and immerse yourself in the beauty of Greece without the summer crowds. Happy travels!

When is the ideal time to explore the historical sites in Greece?

If you want to explore the historical sites in Greece, the ideal time to visit would be during the spring months of April and May. The weather is pleasant, and the landscape is in full bloom, providing a perfect backdrop for your cultural explorations. You’ll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant culture of this beautiful country. Enjoy your trip!

Is there any specific region in Greece that you would recommend visiting during the winter months?

Yes, if you’re looking to enjoy a winter trip in Greece, I highly recommend visiting the mountainous regions like Pelion, Zagori, or Metsovo. These areas offer stunning snow-capped landscapes, cozy traditional villages, and the opportunity for winter sports like skiing and snowboarding. You can also experience the authentic Greek mountain lifestyle and warm up by the fireplace with some delicious local dishes. Make sure to pack some warm clothes and embrace the winter wonderland of Greece!

What about visiting Greece in the winter months? Are there any special events or activities during that time?

Visiting Greece in the winter months can be a unique experience. While it may not be the typical beach destination during this time, there are still special events and activities to enjoy. In December, you can immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere of Christmas markets in Athens and Thessaloniki. January is perfect for exploring the historical sites without the crowds, and you might even catch the Epiphany celebrations in coastal towns. Additionally, February offers a chance to witness the colorful Carnival festivities across the country. So, if you’re up for a different side of Greece, winter can surprise you with its charm and cultural richness.

When is the ideal time to visit Greece? Does the month-by-month guide also cover cultural events and historical sites?

Hi AlexandraSmith87! The month-by-month guide does indeed cover cultural events and historical sites in Greece. If you’re interested in experiencing the rich history and culture of Greece, the spring months of April and May are ideal for your visit. The pleasant weather and blooming landscape provide the perfect backdrop for exploring historical sites and immersing yourself in the vibrant culture of this beautiful country. Enjoy your trip!

When is the best time to visit Greece if I want to explore both the historical sites and enjoy the beautiful beaches?

As a frequent traveler to Greece, I completely agree with this article’s month-by-month guide. Each season in Greece offers a unique experience, from the vibrant summer beaches to the cultural exploration in spring. It’s important to plan your visit based on your preferences to make the most of this beautiful country. Can’t wait to go back!

If you are a history and culture enthusiast like me, the best time to visit Greece is during the spring months of April and May. The weather is pleasant, and the landscape is in full bloom, offering the perfect backdrop for exploring the rich history and culture of this beautiful country.

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Weather in Greece in January | Top Tips for a Perfect Getaway

Key Takeaways:

• January is the middle of winter in Greece , and temperatures are generally cool to cold , especially in the northern parts of the country.
• The average high temperature in Athens is around 14°C (57°F) during the day, while nighttime temperatures can drop to around 5°C (41°F).
• Some of the Greek islands, such as Crete, Rhodes, and Kos,   tend to have milder temperatures than the mainland, with average high temperatures ranging from 12°C (54°F) to 15°C (59°F) during the day.
• Many of the tourist sites and attractions in Greece may have reduced hours or be closed during the winter months, and some of the beach resorts and clubs may not be open. However, there are still plenty of things to see and do in Greece during January, including winter sports, cultural activities, and exploring historic towns and villages .

Greece is a land of myths, beauty, sun-soaked islands, and breathtaking scenery. While you might imagine a perfect summer getaway on a sandy white beach with clear turquoise water, the winter months are just as spectacular.

In January, the country unveils a new side that’s often hidden behind the summer tourist crowds and bright sunshine. With the chance to explore a lesser-known side of Greece, winter is the perfect time to discover the country in all its rugged and authentic glory.

So, why wait? Take a winter journey to the birthplace of democracy, where the food is as delicious as the scenery is breathtaking. This guide will give you tips and ideas for planning your ideal, tailor-made Greek getaway .

Average Temperatures in Greece in January

Of course, that shouldn't stop you from packing cold-weather clothing when visiting Greece in February or January. On the contrary, Greece's weather can be unpredictable during the winter months, so pack warm clothes in order rot be prepared for the coldest month of the year.

January is typically the rainiest month in Greece , so rain boots, an umbrella, and a raincoat are essential for the occasional rainy days. Be sure to pack a scarf, some cozy layers for the chillier evenings, a scarf, and a coat. Keep in mind that the weather can be moody, so remember to check the weather forecast if you are planning outdoor activities.

Why Visit Greece in January?

Visiting Greece in winter is a hidden treasure waiting for very few tourists to discover. In January, the country takes on a more peaceful and authentic atmosphere, inviting you to slow down and savor all that it has to offer.

There are many reasons why winter is a great time to visit Greece . Here are a few that might just convince you:

• Avoid the crowds - January is typically a slower tourism month in Greece, allowing you to enjoy all the historic sites and charming villages without the crowds of peak season.
• Take advantage of lower prices - You may find some fantastic deals on airfare and accommodation , helping you to stretch your travel budget further. There are some great Greece vacation packages that are worth exploring.
• Cozy up in a taverna - On colder, rainy days, you can escape the wet weather in a charming Greek taverna . Here, you can warm up with some ouzo, a traditional anise-flavored Greek spirit .

There are many stunning destinations to consider, including the historical city of Athens , the beautiful island of Mykonos , and the mountainous Corfu. Whether you are seeking relaxation, adventure, or cultural enrichment, you will find it all in Greece in January.

Visit Athens in January

From its rich history and bustling markets to the vibrant culture and delicious food, there is a lot to love when visiting Athens. In January, the cooler weather and gray skies add to its beautiful scenery in an alluring way.

At the same time, the average snowfall level is usually zero, so you'll rarely come upon the capital city in winter white. If you want to enjoy the coldest months in a white setting, you can reach for the snow peeks and choose to visit a Greek ski resort.

The average daytime temperature in January ranges between 50℉ and 60℉, with nights cooling down to about 45℉ . You can expect the average rainfall and average wind speed levels to be pretty high throughout the month, but generally, the weather is comfortable and mild.

If you are looking for a cultural getaway, January is a fantastic time for visiting Athens. The cooler weather is ideal for exploring the city’s renowned museums, restaurants, galleries, and historic sites. 

From taking an Acropolis Museum tour and exploring the fascinating National Archaeological Museum (yes, there are more than the Acropolis Museum in Athens) to enjoying authentic Greek wine tasting, there are many indoor activities to keep you entertained on rainy days or when the Greece weather doesn't boast the average temperature you prefer.

Athens is definitely an incredible city to experience in January. With all it has to offer, there is sure to be something for everyone to enjoy.

Visit Mykonos in January

While it might not be warm enough for swimming in the sea, like all Greek islands , Mykonos is still a stunning destination for a peaceful island getaway. You can stroll along the gorgeous coastline and lounge on the quiet beaches on sunny days. 

The town is also a charming place to wander around in, with its narrow streets, colorful houses, and picturesque harbor.

Gentle rainfall can be expected during January, but the pleasant climate more than makes up for a few rainy days. Average daytime temperatures reach highs of between 55℉ and 60℉ . At night, the temperature drops slightly to around 50℉, which is perfect for warming up with some delicious Greek food at a cozy restaurant.

If you are looking for a thrill, you can explore the beautiful area in style by going on a private Mykonos jeep safari . This adventurous ride will allow you to discover hidden gems and experience the island like a local.

There are many delightful things to do in Mykonos in January. Its charming architecture, winding streets, and spectacular views make it a great choice for a relaxing Mediterranean getaway.

Visit Corfu in January

Corfu is a stunning winter destination with its quaint villages, world-famous olive groves, and towering cypress trees. Additionally, the island has a lovely Mediterranean climate in January , making it possible to explore its beautiful beaches and scenery.

The average daytime temperature ranges between 50℉ and 59℉, with evenings typically cooling down to around 43℉ . There might be a few rainy days scattered throughout the month, but you can generally expect sunny days to explore all the town has to offer. 

For a cultural experience, the Old Town in northern Corfu is a UNESCO World Heritage site worth visiting. Wandering through its winding streets is like stepping into a fairytale with its cobblestone paths, pastel-colored houses, and charming terraces. 

Corfu is also renowned for its high-quality, delicious olives and boasts approximately two million olive trees. If you are a foodie looking to taste the best olive oil that Greece has to offer, a  Corfu olive oil-tasting tour is an unmissable experience. 

You will have the opportunity to indulge in locally-produced extra virgin olive oil while exploring the beauty of the surrounding landscapes.

This beautiful destination will take your breath away and keep you entertained regardless of the weather. There are many fascinating things to do in Corfu , and January is a great time to immerse yourself in the local island lifestyle without the crowds of peak season.

Final Thoughts on the Weather in Greece in January

Don't let the cooler weather keep you from enjoying all the country has to offer; January is a lovely and rewarding time to travel to Greece . 

You'll get to experience the country's rich culture and stunning natural beauty without the crowds of peak season . From ancient ruins to picturesque villages and delicious cuisine, there is plenty to discover and enjoy in Greece in January.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it a good time to visit greece in january.

January is the middle of winter in Greece, and it can be quite cold and rainy, especially in the northern part of the country.

Most of the tourist sites and attractions are open all year round in Greece, but some of them may have reduced hours or be closed during the winter months. Additionally, many of the islands may not be as lively during this time of year, as they are more popular in the summer months.

However, there are still plenty of things to see and do in Greece in January. The ski resorts in the mountains of northern Greece, such as Parnassos and Vermio , offer excellent winter sports opportunities. Athens and other major cities also have a lively cultural scene with museums, theaters, and galleries that are worth exploring.

In conclusion, while January can be a good time to visit Greece for winter sports enthusiasts and culture lovers, it may not be the best time for beachgoers or those looking for a lively island hopping experience.

How warm is Greece in January?

Greece can be quite cold in January, especially in the northern part of the country, where temperatures can drop below freezing point. The average temperature in Athens, which is located in southern Greece, ranges from 7°C to 14°C (45°F to 57°F) during the day, while nighttime temperatures can drop to around 5°C (41°F) .

So, while Greece may not be as warm as it is in the summer months, it can still be a great destination to visit in January for those who enjoy winter sports or cultural activities. It's important to pack warm clothing and layers to stay comfortable during the colder temperatures.

Which Greek island is warmest in January?

While Greece can be quite cold in January, some of the islands have milder temperatures compared to the mainland. The warmest Greek island in January is Crete , which has an average temperature of around 15°C (59°F) during the day and 10°C (50°F) at night.

Other islands that tend to have milder temperatures in January include Rhodes and Kos, with average temperatures ranging from 12°C (54°F) to 15°C (59°F) during the day and 8°C (46°F) to 11°C (52°F) at night.

It's important to note that while these islands may have milder temperatures compared to the mainland, they can still experience cold and rainy weather during January. Additionally, some tourist sites and attractions may have reduced hours or be closed during the winter months, and many of the beach resorts and clubs may not be open.

However, there are still plenty of things to see and do on these islands during the winter, such as exploring their historic towns and villages, visiting museums and art galleries, and enjoying local food and drink.

How hot is Santorini in January?

Santorini, like the rest of Greece, experiences cool and often rainy weather during the month of January. While it is one of the warmer Greek islands during this time of year, it can still be quite cool by most people's standards.

The average high temperature in Santorini in January is around 14°C (57°F), while the average low temperature is around 10°C (50°F). However, temperatures can drop lower than this, especially at night, and it is not uncommon for the island to experience chilly and windy conditions.

It's also important to note that many of the tourist sites and attractions in Santorini may be closed or have reduced hours during the winter months, and the island may not be as lively or bustling as it is in the summer. However, there are still plenty of things to see and do in Santorini during January, including exploring the island's unique landscape, visiting its historic sites and museums, and enjoying local food and wine.

The Essential Guide to Visiting Athens in Winter

Last Updated on July 16, 2024

by Olivia Ellis

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It’s likely a rarity that you’ll think about Greece in the winter and Athens in particular, but there are enormous upsides to visiting the Greek capital in the winter months.

The Greeks love to spend time with loved ones, eat warm comforting food, and take advantage of visiting ancient sites in the cooler months and less visited months.

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Athens Weather in Winter

The weather in Athens tends to be quite mild throughout the winter, but definitely not the Mediterranean summer temperatures that a lot of people expect.

When many travelers first experience Athens and Greece in general in the wintertime, they’re quite surprised by how cold it can be. The winter is short in Athens, but it is typically quite windy, wet, and sometimes even has a few days of snowfall.

The weather begins to cool down in November, with temperatures dropping in December, January, and February before beginning to warm back up in March.

Temperatures in December usually average around 12°C (53°F) but feel a lot cooler in comparison to 12°C in more of a northern/central European country. Wind and rain begin to become more frequent but you’ll rarely see snow in December in Athens.

January is generally the coldest month of the year with an average temperature of 10°C (50°F). You’ll still experience a good amount of sunshine in January, but this is the month that you’ll see snow if it’s to happen in the given year.

In the past few years, there has been a lot more snow than in previous years and the Acropolis under a blanket of snow is a special sight to see.

In February, the city of Athens has an average temperature of 12°C (53°F) but is also typically the part of the winter where the sun starts to shine stronger and there are fewer rainy/windy days. 

No matter the month you travel to Athens, you’ll want to bring layers on your trip and make sure to have a warmer jacket.

Although the day can see a good amount of sun where maybe a sweater and hat will suffice, the night can be cold. So if you plan on exploring the city at night or going by the sea, warmer outerwear is almost a certain necessity. 

Which Month to Visit Athens?

When beginning to plan a winter trip, you’ll probably wonder which month to visit. I suppose the best place to begin is that there are various benefits and drawbacks to visiting in each winter month.

Just like most capital cities in Europe, Athens is an exciting time to visit in December and especially in the lead-up to Christmas. Contrary to other Orthodox nations (such as Serbia or Georgia ), the Greek Orthodox church uses the Gregorian calendar so Christmas lands on the 25th of December, in line with the majority of Europe and elsewhere.

Of course, there are also lively New Year’s Eve celebrations that you can enjoy on the 31st of December, as well, if you prefer to ring in the new year the Greek way!

This is likely one of the major benefits of visiting Athens in December, in addition to the slightly cooler winter weather in Comparison to January or February.

The Greeks love anything “themed” and you’ll find lovely and festive decorations throughout the city as well as special Christmas and winter-themed cafes, which are a lot of fun (and tasty) to visit.

It’s also always a joy to stroll through Plaka and the tiny Anafiotika neighborhood in central Athens to enjoy the holiday atmosphere.

On the other hand, I’d say the only downside to visiting in December is how busy it can get. While there aren’t as many tourists, the locals love to get out, shop for the holidays, and socialize with friends and family.

After the hustle and bustle leading up to and during the holiday period, the first month of the year really slows down. This is definitely one of the biggest benefits of visiting Athens in January.

If you’d like to visit any of the major sites like the Acropolis, the Parthenon, Syntagma Square or even Lycabettus Hill with small crowds, this is without a doubt the month to do it.

Locals have gone back to work and their daily routine, and tourists are still very minimal. If you’re looking to spend the New Year in the Greek capital, there are many bars and clubs hosting various events which can be a lot of fun, as well as a good way to experience life as a local.

On the downside, January is the coldest month of the year in Athens and it can be quite rainy and sometimes even snowy. If this isn’t a bother to you, January is a wonderful time to visit. 

Athens in February is another month of the year that has low tourists but also unpredictable weather. When considering the positives and drawbacks of visiting in February, not much is different from the month of January.

The only thing is that there will be more hours of sunshine towards the end of the month and possibly a few more tourists starting to trickle in as early spring approaches.

Things to do in Athens in Winter

Athens in the summer may be the perfect time of year to visit if you’re focused on sunshine and time spent by the sea. But on the contrary, if you’re especially interested in visiting to explore Greek and Athenian culture, winter is the prime time.

Explore the Ancient Sites & Museums

Athens is a city rich in deep history which leads to a wide array of sites for visitors to see when in Europe’s oldest capital. While this makes for a busy itinerary, it also makes for an extremely congested city when traveling in the warmer months.

If wandering around Athens and the Acropolis while feeling like you’ve fallen into Ancient Greece without crowds surrounding you while taking photos, then visiting in winter is a must. 

Another benefit to visiting Athens in the winter is the ticket costs for major sites. Monuments, museums and ancient archaeological sites in the city are split between seasons; summer and winter.

In the summer season, hours are longer and ticket costs are high. In the winter season, hours are reduced due to the fewer crowds visiting, and the best part, tickets for most sites are reduced in half.

This is a great way to explore everywhere in the city that you’ve longed to visit with fewer people around, and saving a good amount of money on attraction and sightseeing costs.

Some of the sites and museums in Athens that I recommend are:

• The Acropolis Museum
• Byzantine Museum
• National Archaeological Museum
• The Acropolis
• The National Art Gallery and National Glyptotheque Museum 
• Benaki Museum
• The Museum of Cycladic Art
• Ancient Agora, Roman Agora, Hadrian’s Library

Savor Hearty Greek Tavern Cuisine & Drink 

One of the top things that Greece is known for worldwide is its inviting and flavorful food.  During the cooler months in Athens, one of the locals’ favorite pastimes is to go out to eat and enjoy long, tasty meals while passing time with those close to them.

Planning a trip to Athens in the summer is a great joy in its own right, but sometimes the heat is so intense that your only motivation will be to get into the air conditioning.

In the winter months, you’ll find that hot, classic Greek dishes are even more enjoyable when you’re in good company and looking to escape the cool Athenian air.

Greeks also relish in a good drink and another way to enjoy the winter months in Athens is to check out one of the many bars and cafes. From wine bars, classic Greek liquor bars, cocktail bars, and more; there’s something for everyone. 

My personal favorite is “Rakomelo”. It’s a digestive spirit originating in Crete , consisting of “Raki”, a spirit, mixed with honey and spices such as cinnamon. It’s mainly consumed in the cooler months at a warm temperature, and is the perfect way to warm up on a winter day. 

For some of the best souvlaki and rakomelo in the city, head to the Kerameikos neighborhood to the Kerameio bar.

Sip some tasty rakomelo and order some souvlaki next door from Kalamakia O Elvis , and enjoy the cosy, neighborhood environment. I’m pretty sure that the combination of these three is a match made in heaven.

If you want to sample local cuisine with the help of a knowledgeable guide, check out this gourmet food tour or this street food tour to whet your appetite!

Walk in Thissio 

Another benefit to the more mild winters is the ability to walk around the city center of Athens without feeling the urge to rush inside before you become uncomfortably cold. There are many walks in the city that offer interesting surroundings and beautiful views of the Greek capital. 

If you’re looking for an atmospheric walk, I suggest heading to the Thissio neighborhood. Located west of the Monastiraki neighborhood and the Acropolis, Thissio is a lovely historic neighborhood in the city with the Acropolis on full show.

The neighborhood is full of neo-classic buildings, outdoor cafes with heaters, musicians, artisan stands, street art, cozy restaurants and cafes, and the perfect place to take a stroll with ancient views surrounding you.

Locals love coming to Thissio to walk their dogs, take in the city, breathe life, and catch up with good company.

Themed Cafes

So far you’re probably learning that there’s a theme here, Greeks love to eat good food, enjoy different types of drinks, and socialize. This leads to one of the next best things to do in winter; enjoy coffee and dessert in the countless cosy, themed cafes. 

Coffee and Greek culture go hand in hand and also have a relationship tracing its roots back to the Ottoman Empire. So with such a deep history, Greece has been given a lot of time to really get creative.

You’ll find numerous spots throughout the city with extravagant desserts, all sorts of specialty coffees, and themed menus with whimsical decorations to the nines.

If you’re visiting during the Christmas or holiday winter period and would love to experience these cafes, you’re in for a treat. My recommendations are:

Little Kook – Likely the most well-known themed cafe in Athens, Little Kook is located centrally in the Psiri neighborhood and likely has the most extravagant decor of any cafe/sweet shop in the city. There’s a neighboring gift shop as well where you can find unique little Christmas gifts and decorations if you fancy having a browse.

Cap Cap –  Cap Cap is another popular fairytale-themed cafe located in the Aigaleo neighborhood of Athens. It’s located a bit outside of the center, but is easily reached by metro and is a good neighborhood to explore to get a better idea of what life is like outside of the center.

The theme of Cap Cap changes about once a month depending on the season or holiday, and the specialty here is their extravagant desserts that are close to works of art.

Each dessert is thoughtfully designed to the theme, and you’ll also find fun drinks here such as butterbeer if you visit during the Harry Potter theme!

Bouzoukia 

If you’re feeling brave and searching for the quintessential Greek winter activity, therein lies the Bouzoukia.

Bouzoukia goes far back into Greek history due to the “Bouzouki”, the classic Greek instrument that the clubs are named after. 

These clubs are the heart and soul of Greek nightlife, and when the warmth heads in for the year and winter appears, Greeks put long beach days away for long nights at bouzoukia and nightclubs. This is something that you need to experience first-hand to fully understand.

Famous Greek musicians sing their classics to devoted fans, flowers are thrown on the stage, bottles of wine are drunk, and everyone is having a great time. Even if you’re not familiar with the musicians performing, the fun energy is enough to feel a part of the collective experience.

Keep in mind that these performances typically start around 11:00 PM and can last until 3-4 AM, so if you’re someone who can’t stay up late, Bouzoukia probably aren’t for you.

Day Trip to Meteora or Ancient Delphi

When searching for things to do during winter in Athens, it’s important to keep in mind that there are many wonderful day trips. Athens may be a condensed and concrete city, but go outside of the city to one of the many surrounding areas and you’ll be in an entirely different world when in Greece’s rugged nature. 

These are the day trips that I recommend when on a winter visit to Athens:

Meteora is an impressive, otherworldly rock formation in central Greece with 6 different Orthodox monasteries built upon its different peaks. A UNESCO Heritage Site since 1989, Meteora is easily one of the most incredible places to visit in Greece and in the world.

Just staring at these rocks evokes inspiration, magic, and even spiritual feelings to those that visit and should be on your Athens winter itinerary. 

If you’re interested in taking a day trip to Meteora from Athens you’ll have a few options for transport. Either rent a car (you can browse Rentalcars.com for deals) and head there independently (it’s about three and a half hours away, and you’ll want to make your way to the town of Kalambaka).

Or you can take part in a guided tour leaving from Athens such as this full-day tour , taking you to and around Meteora and then back to Athens later at night. If you prefer to explore sites independently and would like flexibility for your day, driving yourself would be best.

But, if you’re someone who likes guides for site exploration and would like to skip the driving, a tour such is best. As it’s not the closest destination, I’d recommend even staying a night in the area to get the most out of your stay.

Ancient Delphi

Ancient Delphi is one of the most popular places to visit in Greece, the most popular day trip option from Athens, and with good reason. Located on Mount Parnassus, Delphi is home to the 4th-century BCE Temple of Apollo, which once housed the famous oracle.

The site itself has remains of the sanctuaries of both Apollo and Athena Pronaia, as well as an in-depth museum offering plenty more information and artefacts. The location itself is stunning, surrounded by the rustic Greek countryside and nature.

Delphi is an incredibly popular spot to visit throughout the summer but due to its lack of cover from the sun, it can become incredibly warm. This makes winter the perfect time to visit the famous Greek UNESCO site.

To reach Delphi from Athens , you can either rent a car (it takes about 2 ½ hours from Athens), take a guided tour such as this full-day tour , or get a ride on a public bus. If you decide to take public transport, it will take longer, but you’ll save money in comparison to taking part in a tour.

The bus will take around 2 hours and tickets can be booked here (the bus books up quickly so I recommend reserving in advance).

Where to Stay in Athens

Athens Ivy Suites – This mid-range hotel is an excellent choice while staying in Athens . Centrally located to all the Greek capital has to offer. They have a number of comfortable rooms available and there is also an on-site bar and a wonderful terrace boasting views over Athens.

The Modernist Athens – For those looking for a luxury escape in Athens, this 4-star hotel is an excellent choice. It has a fantastic location for exploring the city, a number of plush rooms available and a range of amenities to ensure your stay is a great one.

101 Adrianou Apartments – This aparthotel is an excellent choice if you’d like to have your own, self-catering space in Athens while still enjoying the benefits of staying in a hotel. There are a number of comfortable and fully-furnished different flats available that range in size, so you can find the right on to suit your needs.

City Circus Athens – If you’re visiting Athens in winter solo or on a tight budget in Greece , this hostel is a great choice for you. They have both private rooms and dorm beds available along with great shared spaces perfect for meeting other travelers.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Athens hotels!

Mainly known as a summer destination around the world, Athens is a good competitor to other popular winter destinations in Europe. From warm comfort foods, beautiful views in many directions, and rich cultural exploration, you’ll quickly be glad that you took the plunge and booked a winter trip to the Ancient Greek city. 

Are you planning a winter trip to Athens? Have any questions? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

The Perfect 2 to 3 Days in Mykonos Itinerary

The Perfect 2, 3 or 4 Days in Santorini Itinerary

The Ultimate 2, 3 or 4 Days in Athens Itinerary

About Olivia Ellis

Olivia is a writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from Michigan, USA, she is currently living in Athens, Greece exploring Europe and filmmaking. When she’s not travelling or writing, Olivia can be found cooking delicious new recipes from around the world, reading, and spending time outdoors.

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Greece in January

Whether you want to escape the relentless summer crowds or simply enjoy a more personal and laid-back experience, Greece in January has a multitude of activities to discover. 

With bargain prices on flights and hotels, ancient monuments with no waiting lines, and generally pleasant sunny weather, Greece in January can feel like you have the whole country in the palm of your hand. The possibilities are endless, from sampling seasonal winter recipes such as stuffed lahanodolmades (a delicacy of generously stuffed cabbage rolls) or floating in invigorating thermal springs (such as the Pozar thermal baths). 

Designing a trip to Greece in January offers the perfect opportunity to visit the various ancient monuments, mainland, and mountainous scenic villages. Whether you are riding the legendary steam train of Pelion or focusing on the thousands of museums and cultural visits, January is the perfect time to experience Greecehassle-free.

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Where to Go in Greece in January 

Thessaloniki, souvenir expo , gynaikokratia festival, weather / seasons .

•  Things to Know Before You Go

Greece has no two locations that are the same, which is what makes it such a fascinating tourist destination. Travelling to the islands might help you escape rain and snow, depending on your preferences for the weather. On the mainland, however, the weather is often moderate, and the winter provides an excellent chance to see the numerous monuments and museums. Cities like Athens, where the Acropolis and other major sights are free of summer tourist hordes, are perfect destinations to immerse yourself in Greece’s rich, ancient history, which is all available on our 15-day highlights of Greece Tour .

Along with Athens, Thessaloniki is another example of a significant Greek city that offers a year-round experience with opportunities to experience authentic Greek culture and cuisine. The scenery in Greece can be mesmerising in the winter. The views are breathtaking at any time of year, but if you have an opportunity to view Meteora (one of the largest rock formations in the world, standing upon a cluster of cliffs and blanketed with snow), you will be gifted a memory that will last a lifetime.

What to Do / Best Places to Visit / Unique Experiences

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Athens, the capital of Greece, is a sprawling metropolis of high-rise blocks and buildings. Overlooking the city is the breath-standing Parthenon, a former temple carved in roman detail and formed by numerous pillars and towers. Not only is it one of the oldest cities in the entire world, being over 3,400 years old, but Athens is often considered to be the birthplace of western philosophy and classical art and architecture, and in the present day has a variety of trendy bars, cafes, and luxurious hotels. When visiting Athens, there are two stand-out museums, the Acropolis (which focuses on the findings of the Acropolis) and the National Archaeological Museum, both exhibitions that house up to eight thousand historical artefacts a year. You can experience the historical wonders of Athens as part of our 8-Day Athens, Pyros and Mykonos Tour . 

At any time of the year, Thessaloniki is a fascinating experience. The city is a vibrant representation of Greece, with many major archaeological sites and historical monuments to visit, every period of the city’s life is documented within its own museum, and it even has its own national park filled with wildlife, such as wild horses and water buffalo. If you are not visiting one of the city’s museums, you can climb the iconic White Tower and see a full view of the landscape and the rivers that flow through the city. Winter in Thessaloniki is a dream. Centuries-old ruins and relics from the eras gone by are all tied together by the city’s symbolic White Tower, which sits at the waterfront. Visit the iconic city of Thessaloniki in our 7-Day Athens, Thessaloniki and Crete Tour .

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Pelion is a place that seemingly sits still in time. A natural paradise with charming stone-built villages dotted across mountain tops, it is the ideal destination for nature lovers. As it is less frequently visited by tourists, there are many opportunities to hike from village to village, with hiking trails crossing all over, that wind and lead to old monasteries, waterfalls, and hidden coves. You can choose to explore the mountainous villages and the vast nature that surrounds them, with Makrinitsa and Miles being standouts, or the museums of folk art, or you can also choose to ride the legendary steam train of Pelion, a train that dates back to the 19 th century that helped form Pavilion, and has recently been restored for tourists to ride on.

Festivals / Special Events

For those who are interested in arts and crafts, Souvenir Expo is Greece’s largest yearly souvenir tradeshow, providing market intelligence, retail store ideas, and artistic insight. Gifts and arts are the focus of this celebration, with many on display for visitors to admire. The exhibition showcases folklore from all across the globe and provides souvenirs for visitors. Informative talks and exhibitions about native cultures are given throughout the event. Souvenir Expo enables exhibitors from throughout the world to promote their products while also teaching about local folk art and crafts. Visitors may educate the public about communities and their practices. At the exhibitions, visitors may also purchase products that they learn about, it is an opportunity to be immersed in the arts and educated about the cultures that surround them.

The Gynaikokratia Festival, a celebration of women’s rights, takes place in the Thrace area of North Greece, with women dancing, singing and rejoicing all over the streets. Women celebrate a day of freedom and celebration in pubs, town squares, and coffee shops on January 8th, while men choose to remain home. The celebration is hosted in communities around the Thrace area, including Charopo, Petra, and Monoklisia. It is a wonderful moment to witness the ladies of Thrace being recognised, whether you choose to participate in the ritual or just watch the festivities unfold. 

January in Greece can be one of the coldest months of the year; despite this, temperatures can be mildly warm depending on where you visit (for example, the highest recorded temperature in Athens once recorded was 21°C) and are significantly higher than in many other European countries.  In January, temperatures in Greece average 10°C, with highs of 13°C and lows of 7°C, so it is advisable to pack a variety of clothing and be prepared for shorts and jacket weather. The highest recorded temperature in Athens. Each day during the New Year has around three hours of sunlight, with an average rainfall of 40mm across nine rainy days. 

  Things to Know Before You Go

• Greece operated on its own time; restaurants may open later, and taxis may show up later than usual.
• Most businesses are closed on Sundays, it is advised that you make your plans on other days during the week.
• Greece still largely uses cash for transactions, so always have some on you. 
• Locals in Greece are grateful when travellers can speak some of their languages. If you learn some key phrases, it will put you more at not only ease but also the locals around you too.
• The currency in Greece is the Euro. USD$1 currently equals €0.95.
• At around 1-4 pm, many businesses close for what is known as a siesta, an afternoon nap.
• You can drink tap water on the mainland, but on the islands, it is advised that you drink bottled water.

Whether you want to explore the ancient ruins of Greece’s oldest cities or lose yourself in the serenity of the mountain-top villages, Greece in January is the ideal holiday destination because there is an impressive array of monuments to see and places to travel at budget prices whilst avoiding the crowds of the high season. Making the most of the winter season means that you can see some of the world’s oldest and most iconic monuments whilst dining on signature winter cuisine. Whilst it may not be the sunniest time of year to travel, it is one that will give you the full experience. If you would like to customise your trip to Greece, you can visit our complete selection of tours and experiences and connect with our expert local designers , who will ensure your trip runs as smoothly as possible.

Kevin Thomas

Hi! My name is Kevin, and I am a writer living in London, England. It's a dream come true for me to be able to combine my love of travel with my passion for writing. If I am not writing, painting, or playing the guitar you will find me at music festivals all around the world. For me, nothing beats listening to live music while the sun sets and joyful conversations fill the air! As an advocate of living mindfully and adventurously, I hope that I can share with you a sense of excitement and assist you in selecting a trip that will leave you with lasting memories.

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Visiting Athens in January? This is your definitive guide

Things to do in Athens Athens Travel Guide Best Time to Visit Athens Athens In January

Sprawling across the Attica Basin, Athens is renowned as the city that housed Plato's Academy and Aristotle's Lyceum. Notably the birthplace of democracy, it is the capital of Greece as well as its largest city. Teeming with countless monuments of archaeological significance and museums galore to tickle your historical bone, Athens is also a hub for artists owing to its rich heritage. As you immerse yourself in the prolific culture of this historic city, don’t forget to partake of the local delicacies. If you’ve got a penchant for street art, the incredible displays of graffiti are sure to blow your mind. Here’s our take on visiting Athens in the winter, and if you're looking to visiting Athens in January, look no further!

What makes Athens in January Special?

Although the city is chiefly a summer destination, if you were to visit Athens in January, you’ll truly be able to appreciate the city’s charm and the local delights. Since January is typically the coldest time of the year in Greece, it’s a great opportunity to dodge the usual large tour groups and crowds of cruise passengers. Although it snows for merely a few days annually, the snow-covered Acropolis is a rare sight and a wonder to behold. Athens in the winter is an intimate affair, stripped as it is of the sunny spirit that you often see in travel guides or on social media. Moreover, don’t underestimate the range of scrumptious winter delicacies and sweets you can bite into. It’s safe to say that visiting Athens under the mantle of winter winds and chilly charm is the perfect way to glimpse this historic place with a fresh perspective.

Athens Weather in January

You can anticipate average high temperatures around 13°C to 14°C, while the average low temperatures fall to about 6°C to 7°C. Expect rainfall, but don’t be daunted by the prospect of snow. Instead, embrace the experience that most explorers forego - and witness the Athenian winter like a true local.

Visiting Athens in January : Things To Do

The acropolis.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Acropolis is Athens’ most famous landmark and is renowned for housing the Parthenon. To avoid the crowd that begins forming around 11 AM, we suggest visiting the site on a weekday, early in the morning.

January Timings Open daily from 8 AM – 8 PM

Athens, 105 58 Greece Getting There ›

Museum of Cycladic Art

The Museum of Cycladic Art is home to one of Greece’s most distinctive collections of Cycladic Art. We suggest visiting the display depicting everyday life scenes in Classical Athens. The museum remains closed on Tuesdays.

January Timings Monday, and Wednesday to Saturday: 10 AM to 5 PM Sunday: 11 AM to 5 PM Closed on Tuesday

Neofitou Douka 4, Athina 106 74 Greece Getting There ›

National Archaeological Museum

Carve out at least 3-4 hours to explore the mother of all Athenian museums. Apart from housing artefacts from all periods of Ancient Greece, the National Archaeological Museum also displays a section on Ancient Egypt. We suggest making this visit early morning and rounding it off with a delicious lunch at the museum cafeteria.

January Timings Tuesday: 1 PM to 8 PM Wednesday-Monday: 8 AM to 3 PM

28is Oktovriou 44, Athina 106 82, Greece Getting There ›

Temple of Olympian Zeus

Situated at a 15 minute walk from the Acropolis, Temple of Olympian Zeus the Temple of Zeus is as impressive as the lore of the Greek God it pays homage to. Although it was pillaged and reduced to ruins just about a century after its completion, a sizeable part of the architecture still remains standing.. January / Winter Timings Daily 8 AM to 5 PM

Athens 105 57 Greece Getting There ›

Ancient Agora of Athens

The Ancient Agora of Athens was the famed political, social, and commercial centre of ancient Athens. Dotted with ruins, the Agora includes the magnificent temple of Ifestos as well as the church of Agii Apostoli. Now a museum, this was once the equivalent of a modern day shopping mall.

January Timings Daily 8 AM to 8 PM

Adrianou 24, Athina 105 55 Greece, Getting There ›

Athens Street Food Tour

Taste the history of Athens through the vibrant street food tour. You’ll feel like a true Athenian as you partake of the local winter delicacies, with the best quality ingredients and a hands-on culinary workshop. The tour comprises 60 minutes in the Monastiraki area and 90 min in Psirri.

Pl. Monastirakiou 6, Athina 105 55, Greece Getting There ›

Hydra, Poros & Aegina: Full-Day Cruise with Lunch

Embark on a journey to three of the most beautiful Grecian islands - Hydra, Poros, and Aegina - on a full day cruise with a well-rounded lunch aboard the high seas! Perfect for a sunny winter day to soak in the sun and warm yourself on deck with your loved ones, this cruise also permits bringing personal alcohol onboard.

January Timings Depends on the cruise tour

28is Oktovriou 42-44, Athina 106 82 Greece Getting There ›

Take A Day Trip to Mycenae

Traverse the remarkable ruins of Mycenae , the legendary Agamemnon’s kingdom. This tour includes a viewing of the theatre of Epidaurus which was built in the 4th century BC, but is still in use today. The latter is a quaint city, believed to be the dwelling of Asklepios, the healer - Apollo’s son.

Athanasiou Diakou, Athina 117 43 Greece Getting There ›

Athens in January: Events to Look Out For

International Zeimpekiko Festival in Athens

19 January - 21 January 2024 Get ready to dance your heart out at the International Zeimpekiko Festival in Athens this January! Whether you're a seasoned dancer or just love soaking in the vibrant Greek culture, this festival is a must-attend. Join locals and visitors alike as they celebrate this traditional dance form that beautifully captures the essence of Greek emotions.

Souvenir Expo Greece 2024

10 January - 14 January 2024 The Souvenir Expo Greece 2024 is your chance to discover one-of-a-kind treasures and mementos. Happening in Athens this January, this expo brings together a diverse array of souvenirs, from traditional crafts to modern, eclectic pieces.

Athens January Essentials

Language Greek

Time zone GMT+2

Country Code +30

Socket Type C & F

Currency Euro (€)

The mercury won’t rise above 13°C-14°C, while the average low is 6°C-7°C. It snows for a few days every year; so depending on the window of your visit, pack outerwear accordingly. The Athenian winter is a spectacle that not many witness!

Athens Accommodation In January

There will not be many tourists in this season, so you can rest assured that finding accommodation at this time will not be an issue. Here are some key places to stay in Athens, depending on your budget:

• 5-star hotels - Hotel Grande Bretagne , The Grand Hyatt .
• 4-star hotels - Elia Ermou Athens Hotel , Athens Utopia Ermou , The Athens Gate Hotel .
• 3-Star and Budget Hotels - NLH Fix , InnAthens , Cosmopolit Athens Hotel , Hotel @ Syngrou Fix .

Athens Packing List for January

Given the frigidity, you’d do well to bring along some warm outerwear and cozy woolens. For rainy days, we recommend slipping on some sturdy wellington boots and your favourite raincoat. Packing extra socks never hurts; you’ll thank us when the downpour comes and you’ve got dry socks for days. If you’re someone who’s used to a warmer climate, be sure to incorporate layers in your clothing to trap your body’s heat.

Getting Around Athens in January

Athens offers a range of public transport options including the metro , the suburban railway , buses and trolleybuses and the tram network .

The tickets you can use are categorized as paper tickets, anonymous cards that can be topped up, and personalized cards. These tickets can be used on all forms of public transport. The Athenian Transport department offers a Day Pass ticket, or even a 5-day variant. But only the 3-day Tourist Ticket offers a roundtrip to/from Athens International Airport. While the Metro, and most buses and trolleybuses run from 5 AM to midnight everyday, the operational hours for the suburban railway are 4:30 AM and 11 PM.

Athens in January: Seasonal Delicacies

The iconic paidakia is the Greek version of lamb ribs. Usually, the Greek lamb chops are marinated in olive oil, mustard, fresh thyme, garlic, lemon zest and peppercorn. Typically, potatoes are added into the pan with the meat to best absorb the flavours. Where to eat: To Steki tou Ilia

Usually served as appetizers, Greece's smoke octopus is cooked in red wine vinegar and dry white wine. It is one of the most popular Greek foods there is and is found in practically every restaurant in Greece. Where to eat: Varoulko .

The perfect beverage for the nipping cold of January, rakomelo is a combination of raki or tsipouro - two kinds of grape pomace brandy - with honey and flavourful spices such as cardamom, cinnamon, and some other regional herbs. This warm, spiced drink is a chief winter staple. Where to drink: Anafiotika Cafe

This vegetarian soup makes for the perfect Greek comfort food if you’re visiting Athens in January. It is made of white beans and a selection of healthy, rich vegetables like tomatoes, potatoes, carrots, onions, and celery. Nobody does it like Kitsoulas Tavern! Walk in for the perfect traditional, no-frills dining experience. Where to eat: Kitsoulas Tavern

Kourabiedes are baked crescents that are like a weightless shortbread - buttery and crumbly, but not too sweet. This dessert is typically made using almonds and is topped with a lot of powdered sugar. Take one bite and everyone will know you’ve been indulgent! Where to eat: La Maison

Tips for Visiting Athens in January

• An efficient way to make good use of rainy days while staying dry, is by booking visits to indoor sites - such as museums, art galleries, or theaters.
• Make sure you confirm the opening and closing times of different sites since they differ in the winter months, with most being operational between 8 AM to 3 PM or 8 AM to 5 PM.
• The first Sunday of each of the winter months is designated as an Open Day wherein free access is provided to visitors of all archaeological sites, monuments and museums in Greece. We suggest taking advantage of this with an early-morning visit to beat the crowds.
• While the ancient marbles at most sites are already quite slippery, the occasional winter rain makes it important for you to have sturdy walking shoes. We suggest avoiding going up the Acropolis hill if it happens to be raining.

Is January a good time to visit Athens?

Ideally, the best time to visit Athens is between March and May and from September to November. January is the coldest month in Athens, but don't let that stop you because winters are really mild due to Greece's location in the Mediterranean region. In fact, you might just get lucky because of the lack of crowds in the city and might be able to make the best of your visit.

Does it snow in Athens in January?

Not a lot (0.35 inches of snow), but just enough for you to be able to enjoy the Acropolis dusted in snow!

Which Greek island is warmest in January?

That would be Crete. You can enjoy your time on the beaches here without worrying about the freezing cold because the average temperature is about 62°F in Crete in January.

What should I pack for Greece in winter?

Yes, January is the coldest month of the year in January, but it's not really unbearably cold. Temperatures won't drop to freezing degrees, so if you want to pack some thermals, jeans, a thick scarf, a warm hat, gloves and a sweater or two, you should be good to go!

Is the Acropolis open in Winter?

Yes, it is! Though the timings vary a little from the summers. It also remains closed every Monday from November to March.

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Amulya Chintaluri

Amulya's love for travelling was a natural consequence of her moving around so much as a child. Throw in her love for writing into the mix, and there's no better way to spend her time. A person who collects hobbies like Infinity Stones, she loves reading, sketching, drawing, painting, dry pressing flowers, music, cooking, eating cake, watching TV and sleeping.

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How to see the best of Greece in 10 days

Sep 12, 2022 • 6 min read

Here's how to make the most of your trip to Greece in 10 days © borchee / Getty Images

You can see a lot of Greece in under two weeks and get a real feel for its history, ruins, beaches, food, late-night revelry and a few of its many iconic islands. Ferries link many of the best places to visit , and lazing away the hours on deck gazing at the passing turquoise water is an irresistible interlude to more storied sights. 

We’ve put together a detailed ten-day itinerary to show you the best Greece has to offer. Don’t have that much time available? Never fear – you can also curate your ideal locations from our picks to plan a blissful long weekend.

Day 1: start in Athens, the nation’s cradle

Don’t delay; climb the hill in the center of Athens to the magnificent Acropolis . Descending back into the land of mortals, wander the ancient Agora neighborhood before joining the merry mobs hopping from one taverna to another in the  Plaka  district . For extra credit, pause at some point at the extraordinary Acropolis Museum .

Go from Athens to Mykonos: Catch one of the many ferries that make the run from Piraeus , the main port of Athens, to Mykonos. The fast times are on speedy hydrofoils, while the slower runs are on traditional boats, with their broad and sunny decks.

How to get around Greece

Day 2: sail the Aegean to Mykonos

Burn off your pre-trip stress on the island of Mykonos . One of Europe’s fabled party destinations (St Tropez and Ibiza are rivals), this small island has just enough to keep you occupied by day. Explore the maze of covered lanes, boutiques and flower-bedecked cafes in the old town of Hora . Head to nearby beaches for your first dip in the ever-blue Aegean. But save some energy for well after dark when the notorious clubs like to party until dawn – or later.

Go from Mykonos to Delos: Boats to Delos make the run in a quick 30 minutes starting in the morning. 

Day 3: walk with the ancient Greeks in Delos

Fight off any after-effects of the night before and catch a morning boat to Delos , the mythological birthplace of Apollo and Artemis. The entire island is a sacred shrine – ruins stretch across the sunbaked landscape. Let your imagination run wild as you reconstruct this once magnificent center in your mind. Make the quick return to Mykonos by boat and cool off at a beach. Then get lost in Hora until you stumble upon the perfect seafood dinner.

Go from Mykonos to Paros: Several ferries a day make the run in about one hour.

Day 4: relax on Paros

Something of a ferry hub for the Cyclades, Paros – the group of islands that in many ways defines Greece – literally has something for everyone. Flower-draped tavernas in the port town of Parikia make great post-ferry lunch spots.

Get a rental car and drive the circumference of the island. This can be an all-day adventure and includes plenty of beach access along the east coast. The island is also noted for its produce – especially the tomatoes – so enjoy something delicious in the oh-so-cute mountain village of Lefkes or the locally popular beachside town of Aliki.

Go from Paros to Antiparos: Car ferries link the adjoining islands in under 15 minutes.

Day 5: slow down on Antiparos

Almost touching its much larger neighbor, the diminutive island of Antiparos really is the anti-Paros. Parts of the island qualify as sleepy, and there’s an unhurried vibe across its narrow, windy roads. Take the quick boat ride to Despotiko, a restored ancient sanctuary, then enjoy a seafood feast in Agios Georgios at a waterfront taverna. If you’re feeling sporty, join the windsurfers taking advantage of some of the most reliable winds in Greece.

Go from Paros to Santorini: Ferries take 2–3 hours.

Day 6: join the throngs on Santorini

With its polychromatic cliffs soaring above its drowned caldera, Santorini  is the definition of a ‘Greek island’ for many. Steep and narrow lanes are lined with brilliantly whitewashed houses topped with cerulean domes. Beaches dot the curving coast, and gentle hiking paths follow the island’s spine, offering sweeping views. Sunsets are mesmerizing. Take in the spectacle from tiny hillside Oia , which offers a choice of tavernas serving deeply traditional Greek fare (expect grilled meats, creamy tzatziki and more).

Go from Santorini to Crete: There’s usually one speedy ferry daily, making the two-hour run to Iraklio in Crete.

Day 7: get lost in Greece’s best palace at Knossos

The island of Crete is so big that it almost feels like its own country. The main city of Iraklio is best enjoyed for a quick lunch in a café and as a place to secure a rental car. Then charge south for barely 20 minutes to one of the top ancient sites in a nation of ancient sites. The Palace of Knossos was built by the Minoans and is a vast and somewhat restored ruin that can easily absorb half a day or more. If you have time to take a tour, there are more than a dozen wineries nearby that make the excellent local wines you’ll enjoy with every meal.

Go from Iraklio to Hania: Rental car prices on Crete are competitive, and distances are manageable. The run between the island’s two main cities takes only two hours, although endless stops and diversions to admire incredible views can greatly extend that .

Day 8: revel in the stunning beauty of Crete

Crete’s second city of Hania is really the island’s first city in the hearts of those in the know. The old town and harbor combine the legacies of the Minoans, the ancient Greeks, the Venetians and countless other influences from occupiers and others who just happened to sail by. The food here is extraordinary, and the chefs put Crete’s fabled produce to remarkable use. Two excellent detours are the absorbing ancient port town of Rethymno and the grand and glittery Orthodox churches in the hills, such as Moni Arkadiou .

Go from Hania to Elafonisi: Driving direct will take about two hours, but, as always, detours and myriad excuses to pause and enjoy the scenery will extend that greatly.

Day 9: hit the beaches of Crete

The Samaria Gorge is the most famous of southern Crete’s many gorge walks, which start high in the craggy hills and follow often-lush, stream-fed canyons down to little villages and beaches. If the crowds at Samaria are daunting, consider the Agia Irini Gorge instead. Finish your day at sublime Elafonisi Beach , where the sand has a pinkish hue in a certain light, and the swimming is superb.

Go from Hania to Athens: Frequent flights to Athens take under an hour from Crete’s second-largest airport.

Day 10: stroll around Athens

The Acropolis is never far from view as you stroll the compact and endlessly fascinating center of Athens. Catch the changing of the guard at the center of government (and Athens) in Syntagma Square . Choose from sights such as the antiquity-stuffed Benaki Museum , the lush National Gardens , the ornate Hadrian’s Arch and the grandiose Temple of Olympian Zeus .

Finish your time in Greece with a languid session in the upscale neighborhood of Kolonaki and cafe-lined Plateia Kolonakiou.

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Is Greece Safe for Tourists in 2024? (Solo & Family Travel Guide)

In today’s global climate, travelers are increasingly concerned about safety when choosing their destinations. So when someone asks, “Is it safe to travel to Greece?”, it’s a relief to say, “Absolutely!”

But before you jet off, let’s discuss a few safety considerations that you should keep in mind to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable experience.

Is Greece Safe?

Greece is, for the most part, a safe place to visit. The worst you might face is a rare pickpocketing incident or someone snatching your stuff on a busy beach, but these occurrences are relatively rare.

The extreme heat waves and wildfires, on the other hand, are top concerns to keep an eye on.

Greece already experienced its earliest heatwave on record in mid-June this year. Wildfires have affected areas like Kos, Chios, and Crete. Even the Acropolis had to close during the hottest parts of the day.

If you decide to visit Greece, remember to stay hydrated, chill in air-conditioned or shaded spots, avoid walking during peak heat, and stay away from wildfire-prone areas.

• Travel advisory for Greece: Level 1, take normal safety precautions
• Crime rating: Moderate, at 46.47
• Most common crime that affects tourists: Petty crimes
• Public transportation safety: Generally safe and efficient, but always keep an eye on your belongings
• Beach safety: The coast is mostly safe, but keep an eye out for unpredictable waves or currents
• Safety walking alone during the day: Safe
• Safety walking alone during the night: Moderately safe
• Common natural disasters: Earthquakes, wildfires, rain storms, dust storms, tsunamis, landslides, and volcanic eruptions
• Carbon monoxide poisoning: Possible, carbon monoxide detector is advised
• Police presence: ~525 officers for every 100,000 people
• Medical care quality: Up to standards in bigger cities, but limited on islands and remote areas
• Tap water: Usually safe on the mainland but stick to bottled water on the islands
• Best time to visit: April and September

Travel Advisory for Greece

Greece gets a Level 1 safety rating from the US, UK, NZ, Australian, and Canadian travel advisories, which means it’s as safe as it gets— just take normal precautions .

Here’s what you need to know:

• Petty crime may happen in tourist spots, restaurants, bars, hotel lobbies, on public transport, and beaches.
• Terrorist attacks are possible near government buildings, schools, places of worship, airports, tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, shopping centers, hotels, and other popular sites.
• Demonstrations are common. In Athens, they usually happen around Syntagma Square, Omonia Square, the National Technical University on Patision Avenue, and Exarchia. In Thessaloniki, demonstrations occur around Aristotelous Square, Egnatia Street, the Arch of Galerius, and the Aristotle University campus.
• Forest fires may spark during summer from June to September.
• Heatwaves are increasingly frequent in summer.
• Measles is common in Greece, so ensure your vaccinations are up to date.
• Be aware of dust storms in spring.
• Lifeguards are present on Greece’s beaches from June to September. Watch out for riptides.
• The top aquatic life to watch out for is coral, urchins, and jellyfish.
• Hiking trails are not always marked.
• Motorbike accidents are common, especially on islands, so ride safely.
• Weather conditions and strong winds can cause ferry cancellations or delays.

A Comprehensive Look at Greece Crime Rates

Greece’s crime rating is moderate at 46.47.

In 2023, Greece recorded a total of 247,416 crimes , showing a slight increase from the 241,549 crimes in 2022. Among these, 10,101 were serious felonies, and 237,295 were minor offenses. Compared to the previous year, minor crimes rose by 3.01%, but major crimes actually dropped by 2.90%.

The Attica region of Greece counted the most criminal offenses in 2023 , a total of 112,187. This district covers the entire Athens metropolitan area, such as Athens, Elefsina, Megara, Laurium, and Marathon, as well as a small part of the Peloponnese peninsula and some surrounding islands like Salamis and Aegina. The bright side is that this is a slight improvement from 2022 when the region saw 115,231 crimes.

Source : Numbeo , 2024 data based on 1,958 contributors.

Personal Crime in Greece

Greece is generally safe when it comes to personal safety, but staying cautious is always a good move.

Here are some handy tips to keep things smooth:

• Avoid wandering alone at night, especially in the Athens suburb of Omonia or the bus and train stations in Larissa and Peloponnese.
• Save your accommodation’s location on your maps app so you can find it easily.
• Don’t accept drinks from strangers and never leave your drink unattended.
• Set up a group chat with your travel buddies so you can stay connected if you get split up.
• Always lock your hotel door and don’t open it for strangers.
• Don’t accept rides from people you don’t know—stick with a reliable taxi or ride-share service.
• If you think someone is following you, walk faster and head towards well-lit, busy areas.

If you experience a personal crime, call the police right away and get medical help, even if you didn’t suffer bodily harm. The emergency number is 112.

Property Crime in Greece

Greece has its share of pickpockets and petty thieves, so keeping an eye on your belongings is especially important here.

To do so, follow these tips:

• Stay sharp in busy spots and touristy areas.
• Watch out for strangers offering random advice or help.
• Avoid shady spots and sketchy parks after dark.
• Back up your important docs digitally and hide physical copies in your hotel.
• Use a money belt to keep cash and cards secure.
• Don’t leave valuables like phones or wallets unattended on public transport or tables.
• Carry only the cash you need for the day.
• Use ATMs in busy, well-lit areas or inside banks.
• Avoid using card readers that seem weird or off.
• Hide extra cash in sneaky spots, like inside your sock.
• Be alert—thieves often use distractions to make their move.

If you suffer a property crime, stay calm. Block your cards and notify the police as soon as you can!

Police Presence in Greece

Greece has the fourth highest police-to-population ratio in Europe , with 525 officers for every 100,000 people as of 2022, compared to 370 officers for every 100,000 people in Spain and 322 in Germany.

Alongside the official Hellenic Police, Greece also has a special Tourist Police Unit that speaks English and other languages and is professionally trained to assist tourists. You’ll spot these officers in major tourist hotspots and attractions.

For help, call the Tourism Police 24/7 at 1571 or reach the regular police at 100.

Public Transportation Safety in Greece

Public transport in Greece is safe and reliable. Buses cover most areas, trains link major cities, and Athens boasts a modern metro system. Just remember to keep an eye on your belongings while riding. Strikes can sometimes disrupt services, so stay updated and plan accordingly.

During summer, ferries run frequently, making island hopping a breeze. In winter, schedules are limited, but routes to Athens (Piraeus port) and major islands still operate. Always double-check ferry schedules before heading to the port.

Taxis are safe and metered, but to avoid surprises, confirm the fare before starting your trip. There are fixed rates for rides to and from Athens International Airport. Uber is also available in Greece.

Medical Care Quality in Greece

Healthcare in Greece is good, especially in larger cities like Athens and Thessaloniki. However, if you’re heading to the islands or remote areas, you might need medical evacuation to a central hospital for serious conditions.

Top hospitals in Greece include:

• 251 Air Force General Hospital, Athens (+30 2107463399)
• Alexandra General Hospital, Athens (+30 2103381100)
• Aiginiteio University Hospital, Athens (+30 2107289400)
• Evangelismos General Hospital, Athens (+30 2132041000)
• Laikο General Hospital of Athens, Athens (+30 2132060800)
• General Hospital of Argos, Argos (+30 2751024456)
• AHEPA University Hospital, Thessaloniki (+30 2313303110)
• Mediterraneo Hospital, Glyfada (+30 2109117000)

Don’t forget to get travel insurance that covers medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Is It Safe to Travel Solo in Greece?

Greece is generally a safe choice for solo travelers. The local hospitality here means many solo travelers leave with amazing experiences.

Some handy solo tips:

• Opt for a resort for the safest stay.
• Hostels are great too—perfect for meeting fellow solo explorers.
• Skip walking alone at night if your accommodation is far away; use Uber or a trusted taxi.
• Join guided tours instead of exploring completely solo.
• Keep your loved ones updated on your plans.
• No solo hitchhiking!
• Always watch your drink and how much you drink.
• Keep your phone charged and ready.

Is It Safe to Travel to Greece as a Family?

Greece is a safe family destination, brimming with family-friendly accommodations and activities to keep everyone entertained, no matter where you go.

One thing families should keep in mind is that not all areas are stroller-friendly, so a baby carrier might be a better option for sightseeing.

Other handy tips:

• Pack insect repellent, sunscreen, and any necessary medications.
• Make sure everyone’s vaccinations are up to date.
• Stick to reputable restaurants for dining.
• Renting a car is a good idea for easy travel, especially for larger families wanting to explore multiple cities.
• Keep a close eye on your kids, especially at the beach.

Perils of Nature: The Risk of Natural Disasters in Greece

When gearing up for a trip to Greece, keep an eye out for potential natural disasters, including earthquakes, wildfires, rain storms, dust storms, tsunamis, landslides, and volcanic eruptions.

Earthquakes

Greece sits right where the African, Eurasian, and Arabian tectonic plates meet, so earthquakes are pretty common here. The areas most prone to shakes include the Aegean Sea, the Cyclades, Crete, and parts of mainland Greece like Thessaloniki and Athens.

For example, on July 21, 2024, a magnitude-5.3 quake hit offshore southwest of Chania in Crete. Thankfully, there were no immediate reports of damage or injuries.

If you feel the ground shaking, here’s what to do:

• Drop to the ground.
• Take cover under something sturdy.
• Hold on until it stops.

Greece’s hot temperatures, strong winds, and dry vegetation make it a wildfire hotspot. The Peloponnese, Attica, and some Greek islands are particularly vulnerable.

With the ongoing heatwave, here’s how to stay safe:

• Stay away from affected areas, especially if you have breathing problems.
• Listen to local emergency advice.
• Stay updated with local news.

For real-time wildfire updates in Greece, check out DISARM Active Fire Monitoring .

Rain Storms

Fall and winter bring the wet season, so heavy rainstorms in Greece are more likely during these months.

For example, in September 2023, Storm Elias unleashed months of rain in just one day , flooding villages, covering roads, and closing schools.

The silver lining is that storms are usually well-forecasted, so you can plan around them. If you find yourself in a storm while in Greece, the best move is to stay indoors, avoid flooded areas, and wait for the weather to improve.

Dust Storms

In April 2024, Athens and other Greek cities were blanketed by dust clouds from the Sahara —one of the worst dust storms since 2018.

Dust storms are most common from March to June, especially in spring and early summer. They can dim sunlight, reduce visibility, and boost pollution levels, which isn’t great for your health.

If the local news warns of potential dust storms while you’re there, staying indoors and sealing those windows is best. Grab a mask and sunglasses to shield your lungs and eyes from the dust if you need to go outside.

Tsunamis in the Mediterranean can be caused by underwater earthquakes or volcanic eruptions. On October 30, 2020, a massive 7.0-magnitude earthquake caused a tsunami to strike Samos Island .

Tsunami alerts come in four flavors: warning, advisory, watch, and information statement. Each means different actions are needed, so tune into local radio or TV for the latest updates.

If you’re by the coast and feel a strong quake, watch the ocean closely. If it suddenly recedes, that’s your cue for a serious tsunami threat, so immediately head to higher ground.

In April 2024, a landslide hit the small island of Therasia near Santorini. While no one was injured, several shops took a hit.

Landslides can strike after heavy rains, strong earthquakes, or volcanic eruptions. So, before heading to mountainous regions or beaches flanked by rocky slopes, it’s a smart move to check the area’s landslide history. If it’s known to be unstable, you might want to plan an alternative adventure.

Volcanic Eruptions

Greece has a total of 3 active volcanoes , plus an active submarine volcano just off the coast.

Santorini was the last volcano that erupted in Greece in 1950, so it’s been a while since things got explosive. But remember, volcanic activity can be unpredictable, with sudden eruptions leading to evacuations, ashfall disrupting flights, and volcanic gasses posing health risks.

If an eruption does occur:

• Keep an eye on local media for updates.
• Follow evacuation orders and guidance from authorities.

Beware the Silent Threat: Carbon Monoxide Poisoning in Greece

Greece has been free of carbon monoxide incidents for a while now . The last CO incident happened back in 2006 in Corfu due to a faulty water boiler at a hotel.

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a toxic gas without odor or color that usually leaks from malfunctioning stoves, ACs, boilers, or heaters. Early symptoms can seem like the flu , with itchy eyes, headaches, nausea, and dizziness. At high levels, it becomes lethally dangerous very quickly.

In Greece, there’s no mandate yet for carbon monoxide detectors in homes, hotels, or rental units. So, it’s wise to either confirm with your hotel if rooms have CO detectors or bring a portable one. They’re affordable, easy to carry, and can be a lifesaver.

Remember , if your CO detector ever alarms, open the windows and get out of the room immediately.

Serenity by the Shore: The Safety of Greece Beaches

Greece has 625 Blue Flag beaches , ranking second in the world! These beaches, found in hotspots like Halkidiki, Rhodes, Corfu, and Attica, are top-rated for their cleanliness, safety, and facilities.

The Greek sea is generally safe, but it’s always good to be cautious, especially if you’re not a confident swimmer. Stick to where the locals go, and follow these tips for a safe beach day:

• Make your first stop at the lifeguard tower to get the scoop on current water conditions. If there are no lifeguards, chat with the locals for advice.
• Always face the ocean while swimming to avoid surprise waves.
• Exercise extra caution at remote beaches.
• Always swim with a group for added safety.
• Avoid ocean activities if you’ve been drinking.
• Keep an eye on your belongings.
• If waves get intense, dive under, come up behind the wave, and swim to shore between sets.
• Stay calm if caught in a rip current. Go with the flow, swim at an angle towards the shore, and signal for help.
• Avoid getting too close to rocky outcrops or cliffs; waves can knock you against razor-sharp barnacles and oysters.

Greece Weather Patterns: What to Expect

Greece, sitting pretty in southeastern Europe, enjoys a Mediterranean climate along its coasts and islands—think mild, rainy winters and hot, sunny summers. Up north, the weather takes a continental turn, bringing chillier winters with the occasional snow and frosty air, and sizzling hot summers.

Since we can’t dive into every climate detail for all of Greece, let’s spotlight the center-south, where the capital Athens is located.

The Weather in Athens

In Athens, temperatures typically range from 42°F (6°C) to 92°F (33°C) year-round.

The hot season lasts from June to September , with daily highs above 85°F (29°C). July is the hottest month, with average highs of 91°F (33°C) and lows of 73°F (23°C).

The cold season runs from late November to March , with highs below 62°F (17°C). January is the coldest month, averaging 42°F (6°C) at night and 55°F (13°C) during the day.

Rain is most common from mid-September to late May , with November being the rainiest month, averaging 2.4 inches (61 mm). The dry season from June to early September is notably dry, with July being the driest at just 0.2 inches (5 mm).

Winds pick up from mid-fall , starting in October and easing off by the end of March. February is the windiest month, averaging winds of 11 mph (18 km/h), while May is the calmest at 8.2 mph (13 km/h).

Beachgoers will enjoy clear skies from June to October , with July being the sunniest, boasting clear skies 98% of the time. December is the cloudiest, with skies covered or mostly cloudy 44% of the time. The sea is warmest from June to October, averaging above 74°F (23°C). August features the warmest water at 78°F (26°C), while February has the coolest at 58°F (14°C).

For the longest daylight hours , visit in June when daylight stretches to almost 15 hours. Conversely, December offers the shortest days, with around 9 hours and 30 minutes of daylight.

Monthly Average Temperatures in Athens

Source : WeatherSpark , 2024 data

When Is the Best Time to Visit Greece?

April and September are the best months to visit Greece. The weather is perfect—not too hot to fry under the sun or too chilly to shiver while sightseeing. Plus, you’ll dodge the summer crowds, meaning better deals on accommodation, tours, and flights.

Sure, summer in Greece is a dream with its sun-drenched beaches and vibrant atmosphere, but recent heat waves can turn it into a sizzling furnace, pushing you indoors during peak hours. And let’s not forget the summer rush—packed beaches, crowded restaurants, and sky-high prices.

Winter, on the other hand, is the low season.It’s cooler and quieter, and historic sites around Athens are almost empty. However, the holiday season does bring some festive vibes into the air. Plus, accommodation prices drop, making it perfect for budget-conscious travelers who don’t mind cold temperatures.

How to Stay Safe in Greece

• Travel light and smart—less luggage means fewer hassles!
• Keep a color copy of your passport handy and stow another copy in your bag. For extra security, email digital copies to yourself so you can access them anywhere.
• Chat with the locals—they’re your best bet for insider tips on safe spots, tasty restaurants, and friendly beaches.
• Stay updated by reading English newspapers and tuning into local news.
• When visiting churches or monasteries, dress appropriately – no swimwear or revealing clothes.
• In some areas like Omonia and Exarchia Squares, you might spot open drug use. Ignore them and do not engage in such activities.
• Greece’s toilets might be a bit old-school. Don’t flush paper—use the bins provided next to the toilet.
• Be respectful towards those around you. If you’re noisy and drunk, locals might call the police. Greeks appreciate good manners from tourists.
• Lock up your valuables in your hotel safe. While theft is rare, it’s better to be safe than sorry.
• Watch out when crossing streets—drivers might not pay much attention to pedestrian signs.
• Avoid trekking alone in remote areas. Some spots are sparsely populated, and it could take hours to reach help. Always go with a professional guide.
• Drink plenty of water. Tap water is usually safe on the mainland but stick to bottled water on the islands.

Emergency Numbers

• Overall Emergency: 112
• Fire Emergency: 199
• Ambulance Service: 166
• Police: 100
• SOS Doctors: 1016
• Tourist Police: 171
• Coast Guard: 108

Καλό ταξίδι or Safe Travels!

And that’s a wrap on your cheat sheet for safe traveling in Greece! While the odds of running into trouble are pretty slim, just like anywhere else, it’s smart to stay alert and be prepared for the unexpected.

Keep your wits about you, travel smart, and soak up every bit of your Greek escapade. Have a fantastic time exploring Greece!

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Santorini in January : What to Expect

Updated On: November 2, 2023

Written By: Pavlos Inglesis

Santorini in January is a great greek island to visit, but things are quite different on the island as January is considered winter in Santorini (or low season). Here is everything you need to know if you are looking to visit Santorini in January.

If you are planning to visit Santorini island in Greece in January, you should know that this is considered the “low” season and along with February, this is considered the coldest month on the island. The weather in January in Santorini can usually be anything between 0-15 degrees Celsius, and it can be cold, wet, rainy and windy. January is the month when the seasonal businesses in Santorini are mostly closed, so you need to be aware of that.

BEST HOTEL IN SANTORINI IN JANUARY: Nefeles

BUT ALSO CHECK:

• For Couples: Thireas
• For Families: De Sol
• For Honeymoon: Nefeles
• With Private Pool: Aqua
• Cave Hotel: Asha
• In Oia: The Dream

There are still many things to do and see but swimming in the sea or your private pool and sunbathing won’t be one of these.

January in Santorini is probably the coldest and wettest month of the island (along with February and March) and it’s definitely not a hot month. Unfortunately, you are not going to get summer weather in January and you won’t be able to enjoy the awesome beaches in Santorini , as it would probably be too cold for most of the people.

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The island won’t feel crowded in January and it’s probably one of the quietest months of the year. All beachside areas will be closed in January, as May is the month they are opening for business.

Don’t get me wrong, there is still going to be some life in Perissa, Perivolos and Kamari but it’s going to feel very deserted compared to June, July or August.

Some of the restaurants will be open in January in Perissa, but none of the famous beach clubs will be open.

I always feel though, that a visit to a Santorini beach is still worthwhile as walking on the beach can always be very relaxing and refreshing.

READ ALSO:  Where to Stay in Santorini Santorini in April Best Hotels in Oia Best Hotels in Fira

I will put it this way:  if August is 120% busy for Santorini, then January is about 5% busy.

Keep reading…

VERY IMPORTANT TO KNOW FOR SANTORINI IN JANUARY

• MOST businesses, restaurants, hotels, bars and shops  will be CLOSED in January in Santorini but not in Fira (the capital town of the island)
• January is considered the “ LOW SEASON” for Santorini and one of the quietest months of the year. This is very good if you are looking for lower prices on hotels and accommodation as generally, it’s cheaper than the summer months.
• The weather in January in Santorini can be cold, wet and windy but also sunny and relatively warm. You would definitely need a heavy jacket even during the day and nights can be cold and humid, especially if it gets windy. Do not pack swimsuits if you are planning to visit Santorini in January! (what is wrong with you??)
• The seawater will be cold (at least for most people) and swimming in the sea won’t be possible. If it’s windy, it can even be dangerous! No one will stop you from swimming if you feel brave enough though…
• Because it’s low season yet and most businesses will not be open, I strongly suggest you stay in Fira as it’s the capital of the island with the most open shops and restaurants throughout the year.
• All of the beach bars in Santorini will be closed in January.
• Most of the restaurants in Santorini will be closed in January but Fira will still have many restaurants to feed you. Oia on the other hand will probably have only fewer option for food open.

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🛏️ Booking.com   is the website with the most available rooms and Private Villas in Athens, Santorini , Mykonos & Crete  (more than Airbnb!)

⛴️ Ferryhopper   is the best website to book your ferry tickets or check the timetables for Santorini, Mykonos , Crete & all greek islands

🏺 Get Your Guide  has the best and largest variety of Tours in Athens and the greek islands (Santorini, Mykonos, Crete etc)

🚙 Rentalcars is the easiest way to rent a car or a quad for Greece with thousands of available options

✈️ Booking.com Flights  has all the available flights to and from the greek islands

🚕 Book Your Driver (Taxi) directly with booking.com’s large and safe platform of available certified drivers

How is the weather in Santorini in January ?

January in Santorini is cold and relatively wet. The temperature can be anything between 0-20 degrees Celsius (or 40-60 Fahrenheit) but it can feel cold, especially during the night because of the chilling and humid wind.

January weather in Santorini is usually predictable and you will most likely get some rain but you will also get some (strangely) sunny days.

During the day, you will definitely need a heavy jacket (especially if it’s cloudy), so no t-shirts or shorts, unfortunately… If it’s sunny though, you may be able to wear a t-shirt during the day (#climatechange).☀️

January in Greece (and in Europe) is considered winter and not summer but the weather is still better than in the major European capitals (Paris, London etc). It’s still the Meditteranean after all!

Where to stay in Santorini in January?

January is the low season on the island and since most of the businesses will be closed, your options are limited.

If you are visiting Santorini in January, I highly recommend you stay in Fira , which is the liveliest town on the island, any time of the year , as it’s the capital.

Unfortunately, you won’t be able to enjoy any of the famous Santorini beaches in January as the sea water is too cold at that time and there is literally no life around. All the beach clubs and most of the hotels and restaurants will be closed during January in Perissa, Kamari and Perivolos which are the most famous beaches on the island.

That doesn’t mean though that you cannot visit the beaches at all as they are fantastic anyways.

See also:  The 25 Best Restaurants of Santorini

Here are some handy tips to have in mind when looking for a hotel in Santorini in January (and not only):

For views to the volcano and the caldera:   Fira (best place to stay in January),  Firostefani ,  Imerovigli ,  Oia

For being close to all the bars, restaurants, shops, nightclubs and the buzz:   Fira  (it’s the capital of the island and the town with the most grocery stores, shops and nightclubs open in January),  Oia (very quiet in January)

For equally beautiful sunsets and views to the caldera and the volcano (without thousands of tourists):   Imerovigli  and  Firostefani (best for the summer months)

For being closer to the famous black beach (like a 5-mins walk close…) and the best beach bars of the island:  Perissa   or  Perivolos  (no famous caldera and volcano views though and also not good for the low seasons as most of the hotels and businesses are closed)

For being closer to the other black beach with lots of restaurants and amenities:   Kamari  (no famous caldera and volcano views though)

For being close to the famous Red Beach but still have views to the caldera:   Akrotiri  (but it’s a 20-30 mins drive from  Fira -capital – avoid it in January)

For being closer to most of the Santorini wineries ( and you don’t care about the famous volcano/caldera views) :   Pyrgos (most of the wineries are closed in the winter except Santo Winery )

For having the best private pools and jacuzzis with caldera views in Santorini:   Imerovigli  or  Firostefani .

What do I need to pack for a trip to Santorini in January ?

Forget about: swimsuits, bikinis, monokinis, Borat-kinis, speedos, Hawaiian flowery shirts, normal t-shirts, shorts, etc. You need to pack heavy and light winter clothes. You need your jackets, your sweaters and your trousers. You need your sweatpants for those hiking tours and your comfy jeans. No summer clothes at all…

Is January a good time to visit Santorini?

January is still a great time to visit Santorini (as it’s every month in my opinion) but it’s not the best month if you are looking for summer weather and beach life because it’s….the winter.

If you are looking to get budget accommodation and cheaper hotels then this is a great option, as prices tend to be relatively lower during the low season (but you get fewer hotels to choose from though).

The seawater is cold in January and all beach clubs in Santorini are closed during this month.

The black beaches of Perissa, Perivolos and Kamari will feel empty and deserted that month.

See Also:  Best Beaches in Santorini you MUST visit (even if you don’t swim)

Can You Swim in Santorini in January?

Unfortunately, not. You won’t be able to swim in the seawater in January in Santorini and most beach businesses, shops, bars, restaurants, tavernas, beach clubs and hotels at the famous seaside towns of Kamari, Perissa and Perivolos will be closed. They usually open in early May and close at the end of October.

January is definitely the heart of the winter in Santorini .

What things you can do in Santorini in January ?

Obviously, you cannot do everything you’d do during May , June , July, August, September or  October  as most businesses, tour operators and hotels WILL BE CLOSED. However, there are still lots of things to do on the island (and that’s the great thing about Santorini in general)

• Visit the amazing Santorini Beaches for a walk and photos (if you feel brave enough to swim, then go for it!)
• Wine tasting at any of the  Best Wineries on the island (in January Santowines Winery and Venetsanos Winery are open)
• Visit the Akrotiri prehistoric ruins (open all year round)
• Do one (or more…) of these things (depending on what is available in January)

What are the flights to Santorini in January?

For January, here are the companies with direct flights to Santorini usually (these change every year so please double-check before booking anything):

Aegean Airlines

Olympic Air

Sky Express

Astra Airlines

Thomas Cook

Norwegian Airlines

(unfortunately, there are no direct flights from outside Europe to Santorini in January…you have to get off at Athens and then take another plane or ferry to Santorini )

January is usually the month when the flight operators may not operate any flights at all and your only option would be to travel through Athens. There are also no flights between Mykonos and Santorini during January.

What are the ferries to Santorini in January?

Read my super-detailed guide for all the ferries in Santorini here:

How To Get From Athens to Santorini

But you can also check the best website for ferries in Greece directly: Ferryhopper

January in Santorini is still a great time to visit the island, but you won’t be able to swim in the sea or enjoy the famous beach life of the island as it’s the heart of the low season (or the winter). The amazing volcano views and incredible landscape will still be there and available for you to enjoy but the island will feel very quiet and relaxed. You can still do things in January, such as hiking the path from Fira to Oia or even visiting the amazing Museums of the island. You will still be able to visit 1 or 2 wineries (Santowines is open throughout the year). In regards to accommodation, you must stay in Fira as it is the capital town and the place with the most open businesses and life during the winter.

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TOP RATED HOTELS IN:

Oia:  Maregio Suites Fira:  Cosmopolitan Suites Imerovigli:  Grace Santorini Firostefani:  Tsitouras Perivolos:  Orabel Suites Perissa:  Anastasia Princess Kamari:  Sunrise Studios

TOP RATED VILLAS IN:

Oia:  Anemi House

Fira:  Anteliz Villa

Kamari:  Eolia Villa

Pyrgos:  Sensation Villa

Akrotiri:  Cavo Ventus

Firostefani:  Villa Aura

Imerovigli:  Grace Villa

BEST THINGS TO DO IN SANTORINI:

🌄 Sunset Cruise with Meals and Drinks

🍷 Half-Day Wine Adventure Tour

🥾 Hike the path from Fira to Oia

ALL AVAILABLE FERRIES TO GREEK ISLANDS:

Readers said:.

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My name is Pavlos and I come from the beautiful country called Greece. You can follow me on Twitter here and I will try to do my best to respond to you personally. This is my blog to help you plan your next holidays to Greece and the greek islands, whether it is Santorini, Mykonos, Crete or even Athens. I was actually born in Athens and I have been to almost all of the greek islands and pretty much most of mainland Greece. I know the ins and outs of my country and hopefully my travel blog will help you make the most of your holidays.

Booking.com  i s the website with the most available rooms and Private Villas in Athens, Santorini , Mykonos & Crete  (more than Airbnb!)

Ferryhopper    is the best website to book your ferry tickets or check the timetables for Santorini, Mykonos , Crete & all greek islands

Get Your Guide  has the best and largest variety of Tours in Athens and the greek islands (Santorini, Mykonos, Crete etc)

Rentalcars is the easiest way to rent a car or a quad for Greece with thousands of available options

Booking.com Flights  has all the available flights to and from the greek islands

Santorini Secrets

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How To Spend One Day In Athens, Greece: The Perfect Itinerary For Cruise and Quick Visits

Discover the ultimate family guide to spending a quick and efficient one day in Athens, Greece. Explore top attractions, top attractions, and travel tips for a cruise port day or one-day visit.

The city of Athens is one of the most awe-inspiring urban centers on the planet.

When my family had the chance to stroll down the narrow streets and climb up to the Athena Parthenon, we came face-to-face with a jaw-dropping amount of history. My family loved the city so much that we came back to Greece twice in just six months. A travel experience that we very rarely have a chance to do when we travel.

The first time that we came to Greece, we spent two days in Athens. On our second visit to a cruise port during our Greek Islands cruise , we only had one day in Athens to see as much as possible.

After both of those visits, I think we’ve perfected that brief but epic itinerary that will let your family experience the best things to do in the city on a short schedule.

Athens is, after all, one of the most awe-inspiring places to visit in Greece . At one time, this was one of the most influential cities in the world. It was the birthplace of philosophy, democracy, and many of the world’s best adventure stories .

Our first visit to Athens was on a dramatic road trip inspired by our boys’ love of the Percy Jackson and the Olympian’s modern fantasy series. The book series follows a young demi-god living in modern times as he navigates a balance of living as the son of a Greek God while still living life as a modern teenager. It’s a wild ride.

If you’re looking for a one-day Athens itinerary, this city guide is perfect to help you plan your visit. We covered most of the big experiences in the city and even had time for a few unexpected adventures that you’ll likely not find in many other places.

How you follow this itinerary is going to depend a lot upon your timeline. I’ve laid out some of the more time-sensitive items, such as the Acropolis and some of the restaurants. But I recommend following a path that hits the major sights for the rest of it based on where you’re staying so that you avoid too much walking, especially if you’re visiting Athens with younger children.

Breakfast At Migniardis

If you’re arriving to Athens on a cruise ship, you may not have the chance for this, as you’ll likely be eating on the boat. But if you have a full day to spend in the city, this is where we would start.

We love keeping it as local as possible, so when we started our one day in Athens, we wanted to fuel up with a local hotspot. We had researched local Greek breakfast spots and cafes and came across Migniardise at Veikou 30, Athina 117.

This lovely little cafe is run by a man named Thanos (which my kids just couldn’t believe after watching some Marvel movies), who was an absolute gem, showing off his favorite Greek treats, amazing coffee, and traditional Greek dishes.

Migniardise is a classic Greek cafe, so there are no seats inside, but there are a couple of small tables outside where we enjoyed our breakfast.

The Acropolis

Let’s face it. The Acropolis is the face of Athens. And any family visiting the city will definitely want to check this off of their Athens bucket list.

The Acropolis was the first place that my family visited in the city. We had originally booked tickets on Get Your Guide, but those tickets turned out to be fake (we don’t get burned often, but when we do, it hurts). So, we ended up getting our tickets directly from the ticket booths outside of the entrance.

You can also purchase tickets and a gu i ded tour from Viator at a very good price if you’d like to have an expert on hand to show you around.

We visited Athens in March, so the crowds weren’t nearly as busy as they can get during the peak summer months, but the Acropolis grounds were still buzzing with excited visitors.

I highly recommend that you visit first thing in the morning as the crowds get busier throughout the day, and so does the heat. There is very little shade around the Acropolis, so take advantage of the cooler mornings to enjoy yourself.

Before we went in, the boys posed with a gladiator outside of the entrance. We were celebrating Cohen’s birthday, and when the actor found out, he gave them each a cool Greek pendant.

Within the Acropolis, there are several different things to do. I recommend grabbing a map and planning out your visit beforehand so that you get to all the stops that resonate best with you. Most visitors walk up the stairs to get to the entrance, but there is an elevator for those with mobility issues or for parents with strollers.

Give yourself at least a couple of hours to go through the Acropolis grounds. Some of the top places to visit are the Propylaea (where most people enter), the Theatre of Dionysos, the Odeion of Herodes Atticus, the Erechtheion, the Temple of Athena Nike, and the Parthenon itself.

The Theatre of Dionysos is often heralded as the world’s oldest theater. The views here, overlooking the surrounding area and Athens itself, are spectacular.

Hadrian’s Arch and the Statue of Zeus at Olympia

There’s something uniquely magical about ancient monuments. In our travels, we’ve been lucky enough not just to encounter many of the modern wonders of the world like Machu Picchu , Petra , and Chichen Itza , but we’ve also gotten glimpses of what remains of several of the Ancient Wonders of the World including the Temple of Artemis in Selcuk , Turkiye, the Great Pyramids of Giza , and on our one-day tour of Athens, the Statue of Zeus at Olympia.

Very little remains of the statue of Zeus beyond the throne on which the statue once stood and a few broken columns. But the Arch of Hadrian, which was built right between the ancient city of Athens and where Hadrian’s new city was being built, is still a majestic place to visit in Athens. The arch stands next to a busy roadway but offers a beautiful frame for the nearby Acropolis.

Panathenaic Stadium

After taking in the wonders of the Acropolis, we took a leisurely stroll down from the hilltop, pausing to grab some roasted chestnuts and some golden Olympic tiaras on the way. We continued down past the Acropolis Museum.

The museum is a wonderful stop, especially if you love museums. For us, our one-day Athens itinerary didn’t really allow for it. We wanted to have our feet in history, not just see it on display. So we continued downhill toward the Panathenaic Stadium.

It was March, and back home, the boys were preparing for their spring track and field meets, so a stop at the first modern Olympic Stadium seemed like a perfect way to set the mood. The stadium, originally built in 144 CE, is the only stadium in the world to be completely built out of marble. It was excavated and renovated to be used in the inaugural 1896 modern Olympic games. The stadium hosted four of the nine Olympic events from that year. It was used for the Olympics again in during the 2000 Summer Olympic Games.

After running around the track a few times, we dipped into one of the athlete tunnels on the north side of the museum. The tunnels lead to a cool little free museum where you can see a huge collection of Olympic torches from the past century.

Tripodon Street

The oldest surviving road in the world is Lake Moeris Quarry Road in Egypt , which has been in existence for more than 4,000 years. But the oldest road in Europe is right here in Athens. Tripodon Street runs through the Plaka from Thespidos Lisou and is essentially a section of Flessa Street.

At 18 feet wide, Tripodon was actually one of the widest streets in Europe at one point. Nowadays, it’s a narrow lane lined with wonderful restaurants, cafes, and shops.

Strolling down Tripodon isn’t just a cool walk down memory lane. It’s a convenient way to get to some of the best things to do in Athens, like the Plaka. I highly recommend stopping at one of the ice cream shops along the way and treating yourself to a cold treat, especially if you’re visiting Athens during the summer.

Lunch at Varvakios Central Municipal Market

Just past the end of Tripodon St. at the corner of Socratous 9 and Thatrou 2 was one of Athen’s hidden gems. Diporto restaurant was one of the oldest restaurants in Athens and had been serving set blue-collar meals across from the city’s Municipal market for decades. Unfortunately, Diporto closed its doors shortly after our last visit.

But if Diporto was on your Athens culinary list, don’t fret; the Municipal market has loads of amazing places to eat, many with the same rough-and-tumble vibe that Diportos so loved. You’ll find kebabs, grilled sardines, salads, and authentic Greek cuisine as fresh as it could possibly be.

Enjoy some time wandering through the aisles, picking out your seafood or meats and vegetables, and watching as it’s crafted into an unforgettable meal.

Hadrian’s Library

Just a ten-minute walk from the Varvakios Central Municipal Market is Hadrian’s Library. Built in 132 CE, the library was used for art exhibitions, as well as a place of worship. But its primary function was as an archive for many of the city’s important documents.

Hadrian’s Library suffered heavy damage during an earthquake in 237 CE but was repaired in 402 by Herculius the Perfect of Illiricum. This is a beautiful historic spot, and a visit here doesn’t take much more than about 20-30 minutes.

The Ancient Agora

Circling back around the top of the Plaka, we enjoyed a shady 10-minute walk to the Ancient Agora. The Agora is a BIG stop, almost as involved as a visit to the Acropolis itself, and if you find yourself walking in, try to limit your visit to one hour in length so you’ll have time to see the rest of the city.

Some of the most notable stops in the Agora are the Temple of Hephaestus, the Stoa of Attalos, and the Odeon of Agrippa. There’s also an on-site museum called the Agora Museum located in the reconstructed Stoa of Attalos. There are some fascinating exhibits and many pieces of art from the original buildings.

You can get a guided tour of the Ancient Agora if you’d like, but if you want to save some money and still learn, there’s a fantastic  free audio gui de from Rick Steves’ Europe that we used. It has loads of great information and helped to keep us on track while we were exploring.

Sunset and Dinner at Mount Lycabettus

Athens can sport some beautiful sunsets, and one of the things that I’d love to do on a one-day Athens itinerary is to get to the top of Mount Lycabettus, the highest point in the city, and watch the sunset.

Unfortunately, we didn’t have time to do this on our second day, as our Greek Islands cruise was leaving early. But if you get the chance, the photos that I’ve seen are beautiful. You can actually see Mount Lycabettus from the Acropolis, so it’s easy to scout out the location to decide if the weather will cooperate for you.

There’s a funicular railway that can take visitors up from the lower terminus at Kolonaki (on Aristippou Street). At the summit is the 19th-century Chapel of St. George, a theater, and a restaurant.

The restaurant, Orizontes , is beautiful and offers incredible views of the city, especially on a clear night. The servings are generous and tasty, but expect to pay tourist-level prices here. But the scenery is worth it.

Bonus Things To See With One Day In Athens For Those Fast Travelers

I recognize that not everyone travels slowly, so if you’re the type of traveler who can rip through a destination at lightning speed, here are a few bonus stops to enjoy on your Athens day trip.

Monastiraki Market

Markets are my favorite way to get into the heart of a new city, and one look at the bustling entrance to Monastiraki Market on Ifestou Street will let you know that you’ve arrived where the action is.

Although Monastiraki is dubbed as a Flea Market, it really only fits that bill on Sundays. Monday through Saturday, the market is a bustling hub of stores selling everything from trinkets to antiques, much more akin to the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul . But on Sundays, locals lay out rugs and hock wares, bringing a new level to the busy market experience.

You’ll find great deals on clothing and souvenirs such as handmade sandals (Christina picked up a lovely pair that she still uses all of the time), clothing, artwork, and baked goods. Most of the items are priced to bargain, so bring your poker face. The bargaining here is all in good spirits, and if you get a great deal, you may even be congratulated!

There are countless cafes and small restaurants throughout Monastiraki Market. One of my top food stops in Monastiraki is Bairaktaris. This famous souvlaki spot has been run by the same family since 1879!

Church of Panagia Kapnikarea

Stroll around historical Athens, and you’ll notice some gorgeous small stone churches that dot the urban landscape. These are some of the oldest and most beautiful places of worship in the country. The most famous of these is the Church of Panagia Kapnikarea at Pl. Kapnikareas 3.

The history of the church is spotty, but it’s believed that it was built sometime in the 11th century, possibly around 1050 CE, over a Greek temple that was dedicated to either Athena or Demeter.

Inside, the small but opulent church is dark and broody, but the artwork and design are quite spectacular. There are no photos allowed inside the church, but it’s definitely worth a visit. To add to the allure, there are some wonderful cafes and ice cream shops nearby.

Have An Extra Day? Here’s How We Would Spend A Second Day In Athens

If you have a second day in Athens, you may want to check out our two-day Athens itinerary . It runs at a slightly more relaxed pace but lets you see some of the city’s top attractions.

But if you’d like to expand your reach around Athens, it’s road trip time. I recommend either renting a car or joining a tour to visit Sounion and the Temple of Poseidon. This beautiful cliffside temple was a key reason that we chose to visit Greece, as Poseidon is the main God in the Percy Jackson book series!

Sounion is about an hour from central Athens, and if you have the chance to get there for a sunrise view of the temple, you won’t regret it.

The scenic drive around Cape Sounion is wonderful, and if you love snorkeling, it has some of the clearest water in Greece. This private half-day tour takes you out to Cape Sounio for that beautiful sunset and includes dinner and drinks.

Family-Friendly Places To Stay In Athens

If you’ve only got one days in Athens, picking the right places to stay can be the difference between experiencing and commuting.

We chose to splurge and stay close to the historic old town. Yes, the prices are higher, and the rooms are smaller, but because we only had a limited amount of time, we wanted to ensure that we had as much time to explore as possible.

We stayed at Old Time Apartments , which is just a short walk to the Acropolis. The rooms were clean and comfortable, and they had more than enough space for the four of us and Christina’s parents, who had joined us for our mainland tour of Greece.

If Old Time Apartments is booked, nearby Apartments Tina is another highly-rated place to stay with a similar setup. They also offer a free Airport shuttle, which we didn’t need because we were driving in Greece.

Tips For Visiting Athens With Kids

Like any big city, there are a few things to know about Athens before you visit. These Athens tips should help you plan for your visit and save you a little money and time when you’re in the city.

• You can save money using the Acropolis and Six Archaeological Site combo ticket . It includes access to the Acropolis, Ancient Agora, Roman Agora, Temple of Zeus, Aristotle’s School, Hadrian’s Library, and Kerameikos Ancient Cemetery. The ticket also includes five audio guides so you can learn about the attractions along the way.
• Before you go, check out our  Greece family travel guide , which has loads of tips, including Greek words to know, electrical outlet types, and other important need-to-knows before you go.
• Plan for Heat and Hydration, especially during the summer. Athens can get very hot, and many of the archaeological sites do not have much shade. Carry a filtered water bottle , wear hats, and apply sunscreen regularly. Plan outdoor activities like visiting the Acropolis early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the peak heat.
• Athens has a reliable and affordable public transportation system, including buses, trams, and the metro. The metro is particularly useful for getting around quickly and avoiding traffic. Consider getting an “Athens Transport Ticket” or a family pass for easy access to all public transport.

How to Get to Athens?

If you’re visiting Athens from out of town, it’s a very easy city to get to. There is reliable public transportation that includes buses, trams, and a metro. We used public transit to get from the cruise port to the old town, which took us about an hour.

There are ticket booths near most stops, and many shops and groceries also sell public transportation tickets. Most transit options will take you right to Syntagma Square near the Parliament buildings.

Athens Airport is located about 30 minutes from central Athens. Taxis and shuttles are available to take you straight to the urban center. We rented a van at the airport and drove ourselves. It was an easy drive for the most part, but expect very narrow streets and limited parking once you get to the older section of the city.

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