Burhan
- May 22
- 10 min read

January Weather in Greece: Tips & Forecasts

Greece is a beautiful country to visit any time of the year, but January can be a challenging month for travelers due to its unpredictable weather. As the coldest month of the year, Greece experiences snowfall in mountainous regions and frequent rainfall on the western coast. Cloud cover and wind are also common during this time.

December and January have similar weather patterns in Greece. The temperature ranges from 8°C (46°F) to 14°C (57°F), with an average of 11°C (52°F). However, December tends to be slightly wetter than January.

Santorini is a popular tourist destination in Greece known for its stunning views and picturesque villages. In January, Santorini experiences cool temperatures ranging from 10°C (50°F) to 14°C (57°F). It's not the best time to visit if you're looking for sunny beach days, but it's perfect for exploring the island without crowds.

The wettest month in Santorini is typically December, with an average precipitation rate of 78mm. However, January is not far behind with an average precipitation rate of 67mm. Despite this, there are still plenty of things to do on the island during this time, such as visiting museums or enjoying hot springs.

January also happens to be the month with the least sunshine in Santorini. The island receives an average of four hours of sunlight per day during this time. But don't let that deter you from experiencing all that Santorini has to offer!

Average Temperature and Weather Conditions in Greece during January

Average Temperature:

Greece is a beautiful country with an average temperature of around 10°C during January. The daytime temperatures range from 12°C to 16°C, while minimum nighttime temperatures can drop to 5°C. This moderate temperature makes it an ideal time to visit Greece.

Weather Conditions:

Greece has perfect weather conditions in January. It is not too hot or too cold, making it the perfect time for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The weather data collected from various weather stations across Greece shows that the average high temperature during January is around 13°C, while the average low temperature is about 7°C.

Monthly Rainfall:

The average rainfall in Greece during January is around 60mm, with monthly rainfall averaging at 11 days. The wettest part of Greece during this month is located in the western region of the country, where there are more rainy days compared to other parts of the country.

Water Temperature:

The water temperature averages at around 16°C during this month. While it may be too cold for swimming, it's still a great time for water sports like surfing and windsurfing.

Degree Days:

During January, degree days - which are used to measure heating or cooling requirements - are relatively low in Greece due to its mild climate. This means that you won't need to rely on air conditioning or heating as much as you would during hotter or colder months.

Sunshine Hours:

In terms of sunshine hours per day, Santorini has an average of four hours per day in January. However, this number can vary depending on the location within Greece and specific weather conditions.

Top Places to Visit in Greece during January

Santorini: A Must-Visit Destination in January

If you want to experience the stunning views and peaceful atmosphere of Santorini without the crowds, then January is the perfect time to visit this beautiful island. During this month, the weather is mild with temperatures ranging between 10°C and 15°C, making it ideal for exploring its many attractions.

One of the top things to do in Santorini during this season is to walk along the picturesque villages of Oia and Fira. You can admire their traditional architecture, narrow streets, and blue-domed churches while enjoying breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea. Another must-visit attraction is Akrotiri Archaeological Site, where you can see well-preserved ruins from a Minoan settlement that was destroyed by a volcanic eruption around 1,500 BC.

Historic Sites: Athens and Delphi

January is also an excellent time to explore Greece's ancient history without having to endure the summer heat or deal with large crowds. Athens, for instance, boasts some of Europe's most impressive historical sites such as Acropolis Hill and Parthenon Temple. These landmarks offer visitors a glimpse into ancient Greek civilization through their magnificent architecture and fascinating exhibits.

Another destination worth visiting during this season is Delphi. This UNESCO World Heritage site was once considered as the center of the world by ancient Greeks who came here to consult with oracle Pythia. Today, visitors can explore its extensive ruins that include temples, theaters, stadiums as well as a museum that showcases various artifacts from its glorious past.

Mystras: The Medieval Castle Town

Located in Peloponnese region near Sparta town, Mystras offers visitors a chance to step back in time and witness an impressive collection of medieval architecture. Its castle town dates back to Byzantine times when it served as an important cultural center for Greeks who were trying to preserve their heritage under Ottoman rule.

The town's main attraction is its impressive fortress that offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Visitors can also explore its many churches, monasteries, and palaces that showcase various architectural styles from different periods. Some of the most notable landmarks include the Palace of Despots, Church of Saint Demetrios, and Monastery of Peribleptos.

Temple/Museum: Olympian Zeus and National Archaeological Museum

If you're interested in Greek mythology and history, then visiting the Temple of Olympian Zeus and National Archaeological Museum in Athens should be on your list. The temple was built around 6th century BC to honor the king of gods, Zeus. Although only a few columns remain standing today, they are still an impressive sight to behold.

The National Archaeological Museum houses one of the world's largest collections of ancient Greek artifacts that date back to prehistoric times. Visitors can see various sculptures, pottery, jewelry as well as frescoes that offer insight into Greece's rich cultural heritage.

Events Happening in Greece during January

Athens Epiphany Day on January 6th

January is a great time to visit Greece, especially if you're interested in experiencing some of the country's cultural events. One such event is Athens Epiphany Day, which takes place on January 6th. This holiday celebrates the baptism of Jesus Christ and involves the blessing of waters by priests across Greece.

The main celebration takes place in Athens, where a large crowd gathers to watch as a priest throws a cross into the sea or a river. Young men dive into the water to retrieve it, and whoever finds it first is said to have good luck for the coming year. The event is followed by music, dancing, and traditional food.

Athens International Film Festival in late January

Another exciting event happening in Greece during January is the Athens International Film Festival. This festival showcases both Greek and international films and attracts filmmakers from all over the world.

The festival takes place over several days at various venues throughout Athens. In addition to film screenings, there are also workshops, discussions with filmmakers, and other related events. If you're a film buff or just looking for something unique to do during your trip to Greece in January, be sure to check out this festival.

Greek National Opera performances throughout January

If you're interested in experiencing some of Greece's performing arts scene during your visit in January, consider attending one of the Greek National Opera's performances. The company puts on several shows each month at their home venue in Athens.

In January 2022, they will be performing classics like "La Traviata" by Verdi and "Carmen" by Bizet along with contemporary works like "Erofili" by Giorgos Koumendakis. Attending one of these performances is an excellent way to immerse yourself in Greek culture while enjoying some beautiful music.

Athens Twilight Half Marathon on January 25th

For those who enjoy running, the Athens Twilight Half Marathon is a must-attend event. This race takes place on January 25th and starts in the late afternoon, with runners taking in the sights of Athens as they run through the city streets.

The course is challenging but rewarding, taking runners past some of Athens' most famous landmarks like the Acropolis and Parliament building. There are also shorter races for those who don't want to tackle the half marathon distance. Whether you're a serious runner or just looking for a fun way to stay active during your trip to Greece, this event is worth checking out.

Thessaloniki International Exhibition Fair throughout January

Finally, if you're interested in seeing some of Greece's industry and commerce in action, consider attending the Thessaloniki International Exhibition Fair. This annual event takes place throughout January and attracts exhibitors from all over Greece and beyond.

Visitors can expect to see displays from various industries including agriculture, technology, fashion, and more. There are also cultural events like concerts and art exhibitions as part of the fair. If you're interested in learning more about modern Greece while enjoying some entertainment, this fair is definitely worth a visit.

Travel Tips for Athens and Other Places in Greece during January

Athens is a city that has a lot to offer, even during the winter months. January can be an excellent time to explore the city center, as there are fewer tourists and shorter queues at popular sites like the Acropolis Museum. Here are some travel tips for Athens and other places in Greece during January.

Explore Athens City Centre

Athens is a bustling city with plenty of things to see and do. During January, the weather is mild, making it an ideal time to explore the city center on foot. Take a stroll around Syntagma Square or Monastiraki Square, where you can find local markets selling everything from souvenirs to fresh produce.

Visit Popular Sites

The Acropolis Museum is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Athens. During January, you can avoid long queues by visiting during off-peak hours or on weekdays when there are fewer visitors. The museum houses ancient artifacts from the Acropolis site, including statues and pottery.

Take a Day Trip

Greece has many stunning beaches that are worth visiting even during winter months. Some of the best beaches near Athens include Vouliagmeni Beach and Glyfada Beach. You can also take a day trip to nearby islands like Aegina or Hydra for some scenic views and delicious seafood.

Plan Indoor Activities

January in Greece can be rainy, so it's essential to pack appropriate clothing and plan indoor activities in case of inclement weather. Visit museums like Benaki Museum or National Archaeological Museum for an educational experience about Greek art and history. You could also enjoy a leisurely meal at a local taverna while listening to traditional music.

Explore at Night

While temperatures may be cooler at night during January, it's still possible to enjoy Athens after dark. Take a stroll through Plaka neighborhood's narrow streets illuminated by street lamps or visit Psiri district for live music performances and cocktails.

What to Pack for a Trip to Greece in January

Layered Clothing is Essential for a Trip to Greece in January

Greece in January can be quite unpredictable. While some days might be sunny and mild, others could be cold and rainy. So, it's essential to pack layered clothing that you can easily put on or take off as per the weather conditions. When packing for your trip, keep in mind that the temperature during the day is usually around 10-15°C (50-59°F), while at night, it drops to around 5°C (41°F).

To stay comfortable throughout your trip, pack a mix of long-sleeved shirts, sweaters, cardigans, and jackets. You could also bring along a few pairs of jeans or pants that you can wear with your tops. Make sure to include thermal underwear if you're planning on visiting mountainous regions like Meteora or Zagori.

Don't Forget to Pack a Waterproof Jacket and Comfortable Walking Shoes

As mentioned earlier, January in Greece is known for its occasional rain showers. To stay dry during these times, it's essential to pack a waterproof jacket or coat. Look for something lightweight yet sturdy that can withstand heavy rainfall.

Apart from the jacket, don't forget to pack comfortable walking shoes as well. Since most of Greece's tourist attractions involve walking tours, having comfortable shoes will make your trip much more enjoyable. Opt for sneakers or boots with good grip so that you can walk comfortably on uneven surfaces like cobblestone streets.

A Warm Hat, Scarf, and Gloves are Necessary for Chilly Evenings

Even though Greece doesn't experience extreme winter temperatures like other European countries do; however, evenings in January can still get chilly. Therefore packing warm accessories such as hats scarves and gloves are necessary items to carry along with you when traveling through Greece.

Sunscreen and Sunglasses Are Still Important As The Sun Can Still Be Strong During The Day

Just because it's winter doesn't mean that the sun isn't shining. In fact, Greece is known for its sunny weather even in January. Therefore, it's important to pack sunscreen and sunglasses to protect yourself from harmful UV rays. The sun can still be strong during the day, so make sure you apply sunscreen with a high SPF to avoid getting sunburned.

Best Time to Book Flights and Accommodations for Greece in January

Booking flights and accommodations for Greece in January should be done ahead of time due to high demand. Historical data shows that January is a great time to visit Greece with a lower amount of tourists compared to other times of the year. Last-minute bookings for Greece in January may result in higher prices due to limited availability.

Great Time to Visit Greece in January

January is one of the best months to visit Greece as it offers mild weather, fewer crowds, and cheaper travel expenses. The average temperature ranges from 8°C (46°F) to 14°C (57°F), making it an ideal time for outdoor activities such as hiking, sightseeing, and exploring historical sites. Moreover, you will have more opportunities to interact with locals and experience authentic Greek culture since there are fewer tourists around.

Booking Flights and Accommodations Ahead of Time

Due to its popularity during this month, it is important to book your flights and accommodations ahead of time when visiting Greece in January. This ensures that you get the best deals on both airfare and lodging while avoiding last-minute price hikes or limited availability issues.

When booking flights, consider using flight aggregator websites like Skyscanner or Kayak that allow you to compare prices across multiple airlines. Be flexible with your travel dates if possible since fares tend to fluctuate depending on demand. Also, consider flying into Athens instead of smaller regional airports since there are more flight options available.

For accommodations, look for hotels or vacation rentals located near popular tourist destinations such as Athens or Santorini. Booking.com or Airbnb can provide a range of options at different price points. Keep in mind that some hotels might be closed during this month due to low season; therefore, research well before finalizing your booking.

Last-Minute Bookings May Result in Higher Prices

While last-minute bookings can sometimes offer discounts during off-seasons, the same does not apply when traveling to Greece in January. Due to the limited availability of flights and accommodations, booking at the last minute may result in higher prices. Therefore, it is recommended to book your trip at least a month in advance to ensure that you get the best deals.

Greece Weather in January

In conclusion, Greece is a great destination to visit even during the winter season. The weather may be chilly, but the country's rich culture and history make up for it. During January, you can expect cool temperatures and occasional rain showers, so it is essential to pack warm clothing and waterproof gear. Athens is a must-visit city with its ancient ruins and museums that showcase Greece's fascinating past.

If you're looking for a winter getaway with stunning scenery, head over to Meteora or Mount Pelion. Both destinations offer breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains and picturesque villages. You can also attend various events like the Epiphany Celebrations in Thessaloniki or the International Film Festival in Athens.

When planning your trip to Greece in January, book your flights and accommodations early to take advantage of lower prices. It is also advisable to check the weather forecast regularly before traveling as conditions can change quickly.