If you’re planning a quick escape to sunny Greece in January or simply looking for a warm place in Europe to escape freezing winter temperatures in your own country, this guide sums up what is happening throughout Greece this time of year, to help you easily decide on a destination.
If you are eager to discover Greece’s treasures other than its famous beaches, such as its rich history and culture, or some good skiing, January is a good month to visit. It is great for exploring historical sites, museums, and local markets without the hustle and bustle of the high season.
Winter is also an ideal time to experience the Greek local culture and traditions. Many places, especially in rural areas, hold local festivals and events in January, allowing you to get involved and enjoy first-hand the amazing Greek customs and winter holidays.
How Cold is Greece in January?
The weather in Greece is usually mild but cold, with some cloudy days and a chance of rain in January. Wrap up warmly, and you will still be able to have a really good time—at your own pace and with no crowds.
Temperatures throughout Greece are typically well-above freezing this month, making it feel like spring, especially if you’re from a place further up north and used to below-zero temperatures this time of the year.
Here’s a snapshot of the typical Greek weather in January:
- Minimum temperature: 7°C (44°F)
- Maximum temperature: 13°C (55°F)
- The highest January temperature recorded in Athens: 21°C (69°F)
- Average temperature: 10°C (50°F)
- Average precipitation: 40 mm, with usually nine rainy days
- Average daylight hours: 10 hours of daylight, averaging three hours of sunshine each day
If you prefer slightly warmer days, head south to the Greek island of Crete, where the daily temperature averages 15-16°C (59-61°F). The temperatures will be lower if you travel further north. In cities like Larissa and Thessaloniki, for example, the average temperatures in January are 5-9°C (41-48°F).
Is January a Good Time to Visit Greece?
Pros
- The weather in January remains milder than in many other parts of Europe, but will still be cool for enjoying a day on the beach and definitely too cold for swimming in the sea.
- The archaeological sites will be a lot less busy, so you will be able to enjoy them at your own pace. During the winter months, many are open for shorter hours or do not open in the afternoons, so it is important to check.
- It’s the ideal time to enjoy the museums and art galleries of Athens, but guided tours will not be as frequent in January.
- You will be able to enjoy a more authentic experience visiting Greece in January as you will meet many more locals and fewer tourists.
- The prices for flights (including internal ones to the islands) and hotel rooms are significantly lower. You will also find excellent deals in hotels, even those close to the Acropolis.
Cons
- It is more difficult to visit the Greek islands, as ferries sometimes cannot sail because of high winds, so fewer transit routes from the main land to the islands are operational.
- Some of the smaller islands are incredibly quiet during the winter months as shopkeepers and restaurant owners close their businesses to take a well-earned break.
- January is not only the coldest month but also a rainy month in Greece. However, it is very unlikely that it will rain all day, every day, during your stay.
What to Wear in Greece in January
For January weather, a warm and waterproof coat is ideal. A hat, gloves, and scarf are good to pack to cover all eventualities. Light warm layers, including thermal tops, T-shirts, and sweaters, will help keep you warm, as will warm socks plus sneakers or boots.
Don’t forget warm nightclothes, an important addition to your travel bag, in case your accommodation is not well-heated at night.
Events, holidays and festivals in January in Greece
1 January – New Year’s Day
In Greece, January first is the feast day of Saint Basil (Ayios Vassilios) and marks the day when Greek families traditionally exchange presents. The New Year is usually welcomed with firework displays as the clocks strike midnight.
Vasilopita, a special almond and orange celebration cake, is served on this day. Each person receives a slice of the cake, with one slice containing a coin. The person who finds the coin in their slice is assured good luck throughout the year.
6 January – Epiphany – Ta Fota
On this day, Greeks celebrate the baptism of Christ. Ceremonies are held in all the coastal towns and lakesides by the bishop. He throws a large cross into the sea to bless the water while two doves are released, symbolizing the Holy Spirit.
Many local young men dive into the sea to retrieve the cross. The successful diver is blessed for the forthcoming year. People who grow fruit, vegetables, or grain often dip some in the blessed water to ensure a good harvest in the autumn.
12-15 January – Greek Jewelry and Art Show
This top show, held at the Mediterranean Exhibition Centre in Paiania, attracts 600 exhibitors from all over Greece and the Balkans. The exhibition is open daily between 10.00 and 19.00.
Throughout January: Cinedoc Festival
This annual festival, celebrating documentaries, begins in the autumn and continues through to the spring. During the festival, award-winning Greek and foreign documentaries are screened in Athens, Kalamata, Volos, Patras, and Amaliada.
The festival is organized by various organizations, including the French Institute of Greece, the Thessaloniki Film Festival, and the Thalassa Foundation. There are usually two new screenings per month, along with other linked events to encourage dialogue and education about filmmaking.
Best Indoor Places to Visit in Athens, Greece in January
1. Discover the Treasures of the Acropolis Museum
The Acropolis Museum, home to one of the premier archaeological collections in Greece, is less crowded in the winter months. Purchase a quick entrance to the museum, where you can explore at your own pace using a self-guided audio tour downloaded onto your smartphone.
The artifacts, fascinating to see in this contemporary-designed museum, have their history clearly explained in the commentary.
2. Explore the Athens Archaeological Museum
With no queues at the National Archaeological Museum in Athens and an available smartphone audio tour, you can focus on the exhibits that interest you the most. Upon arrival, simply download the offline smartphone tools using Wi-Fi.
3. Ponder Over Amazing Illusions
For a change from ancient ruins and museums, or if you have children who need entertainment, the city’s Museum of Illusions is an excellent choice. It’s fun to enter the infinity mirrored room or take selfies in the upside-down room.
Along with classical optical illusions, there are holograms, puzzles, and brainteasers in the playroom – a great experience for all ages!
Best Winter Activities in Greece
1. Enjoy the Acropolis and Plaka on Foot
Immerse yourself in the atmosphere of ancient Athens and its iconic sights on this four-hour private walking tour. A bright January day is perfect for this activity, as the cooler temperatures are ideal. You will receive interesting information about Athens’ history while visiting the Temple of Nike, the Propylaia Gates, and the Parthenon.
Afterwards, enjoy a stroll through the historic neighborhood of Plaka, admiring its neoclassical architecture. You will have the opportunity to relax over a good cup of Greek coffee and enjoy tastings of salami, traditional pies, and some desserts, while learning from your guide how each is prepared.
2. Visit Dramatic Meteora
Meteora is one of the most stunning UNESCO World Heritage Sites, but it can get unbearably busy in the summer. This tour starts at Kalabaka Train Station, and you must make your own way there. Your guide will be waiting with a comfortable minibus to take you to see the six major monasteries.
You’ll have the chance to tour the three most popular monasteries (entrance fees not included in the tour price) and to learn about their history and some folk tales from your guide. There is also time to visit the Hermit’s Cave. The tour is available in English or Spanish.
3. Go Winter Island Hopping
If you miss the Greek islands, this tour takes you from Piraeus into the Saronic Gulf to stop at three of the prettiest islands. They may not be at their most colorful in winter, with bare trees and no flowers, but they offer tranquility and few tourists, showcasing their best qualities. Caveat: The tour takes place only when the weather permits, as the boat will not sail in poor conditions.
You will be able to enjoy a stroll under the red-tiled roofs of Hydra, do some souvenir shopping in Poros, and visit the Temple of Aphaia in Aegina. There will be free time on each island for shopping or visiting ancient monuments. If the weather is good, lunch is enjoyed onboard the boat.
4. Discover Athens by Night
In January, the days are short and the nights are long, but this offers a unique opportunity for a nighttime tour of Athens‘ ancient sights. The monuments are bathed in golden floodlights at night, presenting a magnificent view. Other stops on this four-hour private excursion include Lycabettus Hill and the Port of Piraeus. You can spend as much time as you wish at each stop.
Top Ski Resorts in Greece
1. Mount Parnassos
Location: Central Greece, 180 kilometers northwest of Athens
Mountain Name: Parnassos
Mount Parnassos ski resort is the largest and best-known in Greece, featuring the first gondola lifts in the country. It offers 23.4 km of slopes (two-thirds of which are easy and one third are intermediate) and 10.6 km of ski routes, with 17 lifts for transportation. The resort is located between elevations of 1,581 and 2,250 meters.
It’s a popular destination for both locals and tourists and is generally busiest during weekends and public holidays. Besides skiing and snowboarding, the region is famous for historic and archaeological sites like ancient Delphi.
2. Kalavryta
Location: Western Greece, about a three-hour drive from Athens
Distance from Athens:
Mountain Name: Chelmos
Situated in Western Greece, the Kalavryta ski resort provides 12.2 km of slopes (around 40% are easy, half are intermediate, and a few difficult) served by 8 lifts. This resort is known for being at higher elevations, between 1,700 and 2,325 meters, offering a diverse range of slopes suitable for various skill levels. Its proximity to Athens makes it a convenient skiing destination.
3. Kaimaktsalan
Location: Central Macedonia, about a two-hour drive from Thessaloniki
Mountain Name: Voras
Located in Central Macedonia, Kaimaktsalan ski resort offers 10.1 km of slopes (half easy, half intermediate) and is supported by 5 ski lifts. The resort’s elevations range from 2,022 to 2,480 meters. As it does not have very difficult slopes, it is suitable for beginner and casual skiers.
A Local’s Tips for Visiting Athens in January
While it’s the coldest month in the Greek capital, the weather is still milder than in many other European capitals like London or Paris. Pack plenty of light, warm layers that you can take off or add on, and you’re set for a great time in Athens.
The cooler, changeable weather in January makes sightseeing more comfortable, and you’ll benefit from lower prices, fewer tourist crowds, and the chance to enjoy truly authentic Athens and meet the locals.
