Does Greece shut down in January?


Does Greece shut down in January? 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.


Which Greek islands are open in January?

If you want a wider choice of bars and restaurants still open, it's best to stick to the main islands, such as Crete, Rhodes, Corfu, and Santorini. These islands have large permanent populations, and remain active even in the off-season.


Is January a good time to visit Athens?

January is the coldest month of the year in Athens—nighttime lows dip to 45°F (7°C)—but it can also be one of the best months to visit due to the lack of crowds.


Is Greece cheap in January?

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.


Can you swim in Greece in January?

The temperature of most Greek seas is about 14-16°C during the coldest winter months (January through March), with 14°C being suggested by the Open Water Swimming societies as the minimum water temperature at which wetsuits are optional.


Is Santorini worth it in January?

With the highest average monthly rainfall (4.5 inches/115 ml), least daily hours of sunshine, and some of the coolest temperatures of the year, January in Santorini is not the best month weather-wise.


Can you visit Greek islands in January?

If you don't plan on hitting the beaches, consider a trip to Greece during the winter. While the weather is cooler (the average temperatures hover around 50 degrees Fahrenheit), the crowds are much thinner. In 2023, around 635,000 people visited Greece in January, and a mere 572,500 came in February.


Can you go swimming in Greece in January?

Yes you can. For the most part the waters at Greek beaches begin to get cold after January. That doesn't mean you'll be hitting the beach and doing what you would do in the summer. Each season has its offerings, beauty and secrets so keep note.


What months is Greece closed?

Greek islands which are smaller and less touristic have a shorter season, larger islands like Crete, Corfu and Santorini have extended seasons sometimes up to full year. Hotels have different opening/closing dates but the general rule for islands is that they open in April and close at end October.


What is off season in Greece?

Winter (November - March) is the low season of sunny Greece. While the big islands like Crete, Rhodes and Corfu entertain visitors all year round, the smaller islands wind down for winter. This would be a wonderful time to visit Greece for a laid-back holiday if you don't mind the cold.


Do hotels in Greece close in winter?

Greek islands which are smaller and less touristic have a shorter season, larger islands like Crete, Corfu and Santorini have extended seasons sometimes up to full year. Hotels have different opening/closing dates but the general rule for islands is that they open in April and close at end October.


Is it worth going to Greece in winter?

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.


Which Greek island is warmest in January?

1. Crete. Greece's largest and most southerly island, Crete has mild and sunny weather throughout winter; in fact, it has some of the warmest winter weather in Europe with average highs generally around 15-16°C and average lows around 9-11°C.


Which month is best to visit Greece?

July and August are the hottest. The best time to visit is late spring (May) and fall (Sept–Oct). It's pleasant, with comfortable weather, no rain, and smaller crowds (except during holiday weekends). Winter (late October through mid-March) is colder, with some rainfall.