Weather in Greece in December

Thinking about visiting Greece in December? Here’s what to expect from the weather in Greece in December, along with average temperatures, rainfall, travel costs, and crowd levels.

You’ll also find itinerary ideas and top picks for what to see and do during a winter trip, from ancient ruins to festive city strolls.

Greece in December at a glance

• As winter sets in, it brings with it cooler and occasionally chilly weather throughout the country.
• Temperatures range from 46°F to 61°F (8°C to 16°C).
• December falls in the rainy season in Greece, with an increase in rainfall compared to previous months, particularly in the northern regions and islands.
• December is considered the low tourist season in Greece, with fewer crowds and lower costs. 

What is the weather like in Greece in December?

If you’re planning a trip to Greece in December, expect mild but changeable winter weather. Average daytime temperatures range from 50-61°F (10-16°C) in most mainland cities, while the islands tend to be slightly warmer but windier. Rain is common, especially in the north and on the western coast.

Snow is possible in mountainous areas, including parts of the Peloponnese and northern Greece, while Athens and the southern islands stay mostly clear, with occasional showers. Sea temperatures hover around 63°F (17°C), which isn’t ideal for swimming but fine for coastal walks.

December isn’t typically considered the best time to visit Greece if you’re after beach days or island hopping. But it’s a rewarding time for cultural travel: quieter ruins, festive local markets, and fewer crowds at big-name sights.

Many of the best islands in Greece, like Crete and Rhodes, still have enough local life and open businesses to make a visit worthwhile. Just don’t expect peak-season buzz; this is Greece at a slower, more authentic pace.

Average daily temperatures in December

Stating the obvious, but don’t expect the weather in Greece in December to resemble the scorching hot days and balmy evenings you’ll experience during the summer months.

One thing to note is that Greece covers a pretty vast area, and temperatures vary. Overall, though, December sees a country-wide average of 54°F (12°C). Depending on where you’re traveling from, this may well be an improvement on bitterly cold conditions.

The further south you go, the warmer it’ll be. So, for example, while the northern city of Thessaloniki averages daily temperatures between 36°F (2°C) and 52°F (11°C), Athens’ December temperatures range between 46°F (8°C) and 59°F (15°C). As for the sea, expect average temperatures between 57°F (14°C) and 61°F (16°C).

Is December a good time to visit Greece?

December isn’t the first month that springs to mind for Greece trips, but that’s exactly what makes it appealing. Without the summer crowds, you’ll experience the country’s cultural side in a slower, more intimate way, ideal if you're into history, food, and local life.

If you’re after the best places to visit in Greece in winter, start with the classics. Major ancient sites like Delphi and Epidaurus are quiet, and you can explore without the heat or the long lines. Museums are calmer, prices drop, and some accommodations cost half of what you'd pay in July.

December is also the season for lights, markets, and low-key celebrations. An Athens city break at this time of year brings a festive edge, think Christmas bazaars, open-air concerts, and local cafés packed with people escaping the cold over hot rakomelo.

With unpredictable weather, tailor-made travel works best. It gives you the flexibility to focus on city culture, island calm, or winter hiking, depending on how the skies look.

Why December is a good time to visit:

• Fewer crowds at ancient sites: Big-ticket sights are blissfully quiet in December. No long lines, no packed tour groups, just space to explore.
• Festive city atmosphere: Cities light up with markets, music, and local traditions. You’ll find ice rinks, Christmas lights, and plenty of warm treats like melomakarona and roasted chestnuts.
• Lower travel costs: Early December is one of the most affordable times to visit. Accommodation, flights, and even car rentals are often much cheaper than in spring or summer.
• Local life on the islands: Some of the larger islands still have life beyond the tourist season. You’ll find cozy taverns, hiking trails, and a quieter, more authentic pace.
• Mild winter weather: While swimming’s off the table in most places, coastal regions often enjoy crisp, sunny days, perfect for walking, photography, and slow travel.

What about the crowd and cost?

Visiting Greece in December means fewer crowds. With that comes a reduction in the costs of accommodation and flights.

While this is great for your pocket, be aware that some hotels and guest houses close for the winter months. You should also expect a reduction in flights and ferry services. 

In fact, some of the smaller islands essentially close down for the winter in terms of offering visitors places to stay, eat, and be entertained, so choose your destination wisely.

Where to go in Greece in December

The weather in Greece in December can be unpredictable, mild and sunny one day, rainy or chilly the next, but that doesn’t mean you should stay home. In fact, some of the best places to visit in Greece shine in winter, especially if you’re into culture, good food, and slower-paced travel. Here’s where to go.

Athens

Athens in December has a quieter charm. You can stroll through the Acropolis without the crowds, explore museums in peace, and enjoy festive markets in neighborhoods like Plaka and Syntagma. The city feels more local in winter, with cozy cafés and seasonal candy like kourabiedes everywhere.

Thessaloniki

Greece’s second city is perfect for a December escape, creative, walkable, and full of warm bakeries and subway bars. The waterfront is moody and beautiful in winter light, and the mix of Byzantine churches and lively food culture makes it a solid choice for an off-season city break.

Crete

One of the few islands that stays lively year-round, Crete offers winter hiking, great food, and mild weather, especially along the south coast. Towns like Chania and Heraklion still buzz with local life, and December is ideal for exploring archaeological sites without the summer heat. Beaches are quiet, but the sea is still beautiful for long walks and dramatic views.

What to do in Greece in December

As we said at the outset, visiting Greece in December can be pretty darn rewarding for travelers on a budget who are into cultural experiences. 

Overall, December is a good month to visit Greece to explore the likes of ancient sites and museums in crowd-free conditions. If you’re also into adventure, it's pretty easy to slip from ancient sites to ski slopes.

With all that in mind, read on for suggestions about the best things to do in Greece in December.

Visit Christmas markets in Athens

Discover Athens Christmas Factory, Christmas Warehouse Market, and Kallidromiou Christmas Market and store for handmade vacation gifts, traditional Greek candy, and food.

December is also a great time to see some of the top sites in Athens without having to wait for hours.

Planning on sticking around? Explore the best places to stay in Athens.

Have a wonderful culinary experience

In December, Greeks enjoy an array of traditional dishes and candy to celebrate the vacation season.

Indulge in Greek cuisine by tasting traditional winter dishes like moussaka, soups, and roasted meats. Savor local wine and spirits like Retsina or Tsipouro.

Ski in winter wonderlands

Let’s face it, Greece doesn’t have a reputation as a premier skiing destination. It’s not really even on anyone’s radar as such. But some regions of the country have truly mighty mountains, and the winter months bring snow and opportunities to ski them.

For example, Mt Parnassós draws skiers from Athens, while the Peloponnese offers downhill action and alpine beauty at Kalavryta on Mt Helmós.  

Head to year-round island idylls

If the idea of skiing in Greece seems too incongruous, larger islands like Crete, Corfu, and Rhodes are pretty lively throughout the year.

While you might not be basking in the scorching hot sun or bathing in warm waters, December offers ample opportunities to stroll charming streets, explore countless archaeological sites, and eat, drink, and be very merry.

Plan your trip with our Greece itineraries

Our Greece itineraries are crafted to help you experience the best of the country, stress-free. Think of them as a starting point, perfect for planning, but flexible enough to adjust to your own pace and interests. After all, travel is about freedom, but a little planning goes a long way.

• Greece itinerary 7 days: A week in Greece covers the essentials, often a mix of Athens and a few iconic islands. Expect to see ancient ruins, charming villages, and picturesque beaches.
• Greece itinerary 10 days: Ten days allows you to explore both mainland highlights and more islands, giving you a taste of Greece’s history, culture, and island life.
• Crete itinerary: A journey through Crete's rugged landscapes, ancient ruins, and stunning beaches. A combination of historic towns, secluded beaches, and traditional Cretan cuisine awaits you.
• Santorini itinerary: A focused itinerary on Santorini’s breathtaking views, volcanic beaches, and famous sunsets. Perfect for those looking to relax, explore charming villages, and enjoy the island’s romantic atmosphere.