Is January a good time to visit the Greek islands?

Don't let the cooler weather keep you from enjoying all the country has to offer; January is a lovely and rewarding time to travel to Greece. You'll get to experience the country's rich culture and stunning natural beauty without the crowds of peak season.



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The warmest Greek island in January is Crete, which has an average temperature of around 15°C (59°F) during the day and 10°C (50°F) at night.

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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.

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So, while Greece may not be as warm as it is in the summer months, it can still be a great destination to visit in January for those who enjoy winter sports or cultural activities. It's important to pack warm clothing and layers to stay comfortable during the colder temperatures.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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While it's not warm enough to sunbathe and swim in the sea, the weather in Mykonos in January is perfect for a relaxing break on this peaceful island. The average temperature is 12°C, dropping to lows of around 8°C at night.

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Best Time to Visit the Greek Islands: The Greek islands are at their best from late May to early October for swimming, suntanning, and beach weather; and from April to early November for sightseeing, hiking, and exploring. A good travel itinerary for Greece should consider the weather patterns of the Greek islands.

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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.

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Brief information about seasonality in Greece. In general, the islands “close for winter” at the end of October (beginning of November) and, depending on the island, the season is either extended or is a bit shorter.

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Islands with large cities like Rhodes, Lesvos, and Crete are like cities anywhere. They don't close for the winter. Life just changes. People spend more time indoors, but the restaurants and cafes, bars and clubs are still open and on warm sunny days people still sit outside to eat and drink, at least in the day.

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The most affordable Greek Islands to visit include Crete, Andros, Tinos, Corfu and Naxos. These cheap Greek Islands don't get nearly as many visitors as others, making everything from transportation to food and accommodations more affordable. And often, they're not even very far from the more popular islands.

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The very successful movie of Hollywood and Universal Studios with the wonderful songs of ABBA and amazing actors , Mamma Mia was filmed in Greece in Skopelos , Skiathos and Damouhari Pelion . Many visitors to our island , request information about the locations where the movie MAMMA MIA was filmed.

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Depending on the ferry route, there are seasonal crossings or ferry trips active all year round. So, before starting to plan your ferry trip, make sure to check the available ferry schedules for the Greek islands.

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Winters are mild, generally. But very cold days, with snow, can happen. You should wear warm clothes. Gloves are not necessary (except if you are going to the mountains to ski…).

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January is the coldest month out of the year and also boasts the lowest sunlight hours per day, as well as the highest number of rainy days per month. January is also the month that experiences the most snowfall in the Northern regions of the country, followed closely by February and December.

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