January and February are the two coldest months in Athens Greece, but it is still warmer than in most of Europe, making Athens a great winter destination. It is true that if you enjoy holidays with sandy beaches to relax on and swimming in the sea when it is pleasantly warm, the idea of a February holiday in Greece may not appeal.
But if you love the idea of slow travel, enjoying some of the finest archaeological and national monuments, discovering the local culture, great markets and delicious food, Athens will hit the spot.
Here are some helpful tips and local recommendations for an enjoyable February escape to one of the most beautiful European capitals, Athens.
How cold is Athens in February?
- Minimum temperature: 6°C (44°F)
- Maximum temperature: 13°C (57°F)
- Average temperature: 10°C (51°F)
- Average precipitation: 7 days
- Average daylight hours: 6 hours
Is February a good time to visit Greece?
Pros
- Prices for flights, hotels and car rentals are at their lowest – as much as 30% lower. It is possible to find affordable accommodation even in the most popular parts of Athens such as Acropolis, Plaka or Syntagma.
- The ancient sites will be much less crowded than they are in the summer and you will be able to relax and take your time visiting them.
- In addition to enjoying the capital city, it is the perfect time to take a double-vacation and visit Parnassos – Greece’s largest nearby ski resort.
Cons
- Pack your waterproof jacket and umbrella as there could be some rainy days.
- February is not a good choice of month is you want to stretch out on the beach.
- All the archaeological sites are open in February and some have reduced priced entrance tickets, but they may close early so check opening times to avoid disappointment.
What to wear in Athens Greece in February
Layers are the key to success if you are travelling to Athens Greece in February. A long-sleeved thermal shirt makes an effective base layer, followed by a light but warm sweatshirt or jumper, topped by a warm, waterproof jacket.
Comfortable boots or sporty shoes are ideal for exploring on foot. A hat, scarf and gloves are good additions on colder days – plus an umbrella, just in case.
Events in February in Athens
3- 5 February: The Greek Fine Food Exhibition
The 10th EXPOTROF is a huge trade fair that attracts 60,000 visitors who share a love of Greek food. The exhibition is open to the general public and will take place in the Mediterranean Exhibition Center in Paiania, a suburb of Athens, with 350 exhibitors taking part.
4 February: Museum Open Day
On the first Sunday in February, there is free entrance to many museums and archaeological sites all over Greece. In Athens, the following venues offer free entrance on this day:
- The Acropolis
- The Ancient Agora and the Roman Agora
- The National Archaeological Museum
- The Athens University Museum
23- 26 February: The Athens International Jewellery Show
This exhibition is the largest in Greece and attracts jewellers, watchmakers, silver and goldsmiths. The event showcases the latest trends and styles as well as the innovative use of different materials and is used by many international jewellers for networking. This exhibition is trade only.
Until 24 February: George Seferis, sixty years since the Nobel Prize
Giorgos Seferis, known as George Seferis in English, was a distinguished Greek poet and diplomat who won the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1963. The exhibition that honors him is being held in the Ghika Gallery in the Benaki Museum (Krizetou Street), Athens, where Seferis’ Nobel Prize is permanently on display.
The exhibition is dedicated to this important Greek milestone with a wealth of artefacts and photographs.
Best indoor places to visit in Athens
Best malls in Athens
If the weather is not as good as it could be, spending a few hours in one of the shopping malls located in or just outside Athens, could be the ideal solution. There are several great malls in and near Athens to consider.
The Golden Hall is located in front of the Olympic stadium on Kifisias Avenue, a 20-minute car journey from Syntagma. The Mall Athens is located in Marousi, which is a northern suburb of the city. McArthur Glenand Smart Park can be found in Spata, near the Attica Zoo and is a 30-minute drive from Syntagma.
Learn how to make Mezédhes (Mezé)
The most popular of all Greek meals must be the Mezé. This is a selection of plates with small tasting portions for everyone to share. A Mezé is not supposed to be hurried but to be enjoyed for several hours accompanied by good wine and great conversation.
Why not learn how to prepare your own version of Mezé to delight family and friends when you get home?
This small class (maximum ten people) is the ideal way to learn how to make seven of the traditional dishes including Tzatziki, filo cheese pies and meatballs. The lesson takes place with spectacular views over the Acropolis.
The best news is that once all the dishes have been made, everyone sits down to relax and enjoy all the delicious food with some local wine. This class can be adapted for vegetarians and vegans too.
Sample some excellent Greek wines in Athens
This memorable evening experience takes place just below Acropolis Hill with spectacular views of the Parthenon. One of Greece’s top sommeliers will introduce you to the world of fine Greek wines which include many produced by local wineries including Roditis, Limnio, Kidonitsa, Muscat, and Mandilaras.
The wines are carefully paired with local specialities provided by a nearby restaurant.
Best activities in February in Athens
Join a walking tour of the Acropolis and Parthenon
These two archaeological marvels are on everyone’s checklist when visiting Athens. On a bright winter morning what better way to spend the time than to join a walking tour led by an expert guide?
The guide makes the UNESCO World Heritage-listed site come alive as the former glory of these captivating ruins is revealed.
Enjoy a foodie walking tour
Nothing warms you up on a winter day in Athens like a gourmet tasting tour – the perfect way to explore the city’s cafés, markets, delicatessens and street food haunts. The tour is led by a local expert who explains the rich culinary history of Athens.
It includes a visit to Varvakios Agora to learn about all the local produce too, with samples to enjoy including breads, regional cheeses, freshly brewed coffee, local wine and loukoumades – delicious tiny doughnuts dipped in honey.
Sail to the Saronic Islands
If the weather is really good, why not seize the opportunity to explore the beautiful Greek Islands of Hydra, Poros and Aegina – without the crowds. Each of these Greek islands is picturesque and has its own character. All are within a comfortable length boat trip from Piraeus.
There is time to shop for souvenirs and see ancient monuments on Hydra, Poros, and Aegina, completed by some relaxing moments onboard and a Greek barbecue lunch.
Best ice-skating rings in Athens
If you or your children are tired of visiting the city’s archaeological sites and museums, why not have fun at one of the Athenian ice rinks? There are several different rinks that offer great skating and equipment renting in Athens:
- Ice n’ Skate at Egaleo
- Athens On Ice public ice skating rink is an outdoor rink situated at the 440 Foundry Pavilion at The Classic Centre. Sessions last 75 minutes
- Ice Arena Escape Centre is in the northern suburb of Ilion
A local’s tips for visiting Athens in February
Athens when the weather is sunny and bright is perfect if you have packed some warm layers and good walking shoes or boots. Athens has so much to offer visitors and it can all be enjoyed without the summer crowds.
Many of the small Greek islands are deserted in the winter months as all the restaurants, many shops and all the tourist attractions are closed so that everyone can take a well-earned rest. Some of the pretty Saronic islands can be visited and this makes a great day trip.
The key to a great February holiday is to be flexible in your plans and have a few good indoor ideas just in case it rains.
