Greece Weather December Guide for Travel Holidays Tours Packages

Greece Weather December Guide for Travel Holidays Tours Packages

December brings winter charm to Greece, offering a quieter atmosphere, festive decorations, and a unique way to experience the country beyond summer crowds. While beach activities slow down, Greece in December is perfect for Greece cultural sightseeing, city breaks, mountain escapes, and couples seeking peaceful honeymoon vacations. With attractive prices on hotels, tours, and travel packages, it is also a great time for budget-friendly holidays.

Whether you are planning a relaxed vacation, cultural travel experience, or exploring Greece through organized Greece tours and packages, this guide explains everything about Greece weather in December.

Average Weather in Greece in December

December is winter across Greece, but conditions vary by region.

  • Athens & mainland cities: 7°C – 15°C (45°F – 59°F)
  • Greek islands: 9°C – 16°C (48°F – 61°F)
  • Northern Greece: 2°C – 10°C (36°F – 50°F)
  • Sea temperature: Around 16°C (61°F)
  • Rainfall: Moderate
  • Daylight: About 9.5 hours per day

Snow is rare in cities but common in mountainous areas, where winter tourism becomes popular.

What to Wear in Greece in December

Warm and layered clothing is essential for winter travel in Greece.

Recommended items include:

  • Medium-weight winter jacket or coat
  • Sweaters and long-sleeve tops
  • Comfortable waterproof shoes
  • Scarf, gloves, and warm socks
  • Umbrella or rain jacket

Swimwear is optional, mainly for hotels with heated pools or spa facilities.

Is December a Good Time to Visit Greece?

Yes, December is excellent for travelers who prefer calm destinations, cultural experiences, and festive city atmospheres.

Advantages of visiting in December:

  • Very few tourists at major attractions
  • Lower hotel and flight prices
  • Ideal for museums and historical sightseeing
  • Cozy holiday atmosphere in cities
  • Attractive winter travel packages and tours

Things to consider:

  • Cold sea for swimming
  • Limited ferry schedules to smaller islands
  • Occasional rainy days

Overall, December is ideal for cultural travelers and couples seeking quiet honeymoon vacations.

Best Places to Visit in Greece in December

Athens

Athens is lively in December, decorated for Christmas and New Year. Visit the Acropolis, museums, and enjoy warm cafés and winter food specialties.

Thessaloniki

This northern city becomes festive with markets, lights, and events, perfect for holiday travel and urban sightseeing tours.

Crete

Crete enjoys milder winter weather than most regions, making it suitable for outdoor exploration, cultural sightseeing, and relaxed holidays.

Mountain Villages

Destinations like Arachova, Kalavryta, and Metsovo offer skiing, fireplaces, and traditional winter charm.

Things to Do in Greece in December

  • Visit museums and archaeological sites
  • Enjoy Christmas and New Year celebrations
  • Explore traditional winter villages
  • Taste seasonal Greek dishes and desserts
  • Relax in spa hotels and boutique accommodations

December is ideal for slow travel and immersive cultural experiences.

Greece Travel Costs and Packages in December

December is part of the low season, making it attractive for travelers seeking value.

You can expect:

  • Discounted hotels and luxury resorts
  • Lower flight prices
  • Affordable guided sightseeing tours
  • Budget-friendly vacation packages

Many tour operators offer winter packages in Greece including Athens, Thessaloniki, and cultural excursions, suitable for families, solo travelers, and honeymoon vacation couples.

Christmas and New Year in Greece

Greece celebrates Christmas on December 25 and New Year on January 1.

Travelers can enjoy:

  • Festive decorations in city centers
  • Traditional sweets like melomakarona and kourabiedes
  • Local music and holiday markets
  • Fireworks and public celebrations

These traditions add a special charm to winter holidays in Greece.

Greece Weather in December Compared to Other Months

December is colder and wetter than November but milder than January in many regions. It offers the lowest crowds and some of the best prices of the year for travel and accommodation.

Final Thoughts: Is Greece Worth Visiting in December?

Absolutely. Greece in December offers peaceful cities, rich culture, festive spirit, and excellent value for money. While it is not suitable for beach vacations, it is perfect for sightseeing, cultural discovery, winter tourism, and romantic honeymoon escapes.

Whether you travel independently or choose organized tours and travel packages, December provides a unique and memorable Greek holiday experience.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

  1. Is Greece very cold in December?
    Greece is cool but not extremely cold in December. Coastal cities remain mild, while northern and mountain regions experience colder temperatures and occasional snow.
  1. Can you swim in Greece in December?
    Swimming is uncommon due to cold sea temperatures, but some hotels offer heated pools and spa facilities for relaxation during winter holidays.
  1. Are tourist attractions open in December?
    Yes, most museums and historical sites remain open year-round, especially in major cities like Athens and Thessaloniki.
  1. Is December suitable for honeymoon vacations in Greece?
    Yes, December offers privacy, affordable luxury hotels, cozy cities, and peaceful surroundings, ideal for couples seeking quiet honeymoon vacations.
  1. Are travel packages cheaper in December?
    Yes, December is low season, so Greece travel packages and tours are significantly cheaper than in summer months, offering excellent value.

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