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Greece in December: Weather, Christmas, What's Open and Where to Go
By the iLoveGreece editorial team · Last reviewed 2026-10 · 2 sources listed below
Quick answer
December in Greece is cool and fairly wet: about 14°C by day in Athens and 15°C in Crete, with rain on around 10–12 days. It's a good month for Athens and Thessaloniki at Christmas, mountain villages, and quiet sightseeing, not for beaches. Ferries run on year-round routes, but most small-island hotels are closed until spring.
Weather in December
| Place | High | Low | Sea | Sun a day | Days with rain |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Athens | 14°C | 7°C | 17°C | 4 h | 10 |
| Crete (Heraklion) | 15°C | 9°C | 18°C | 4 h | 12 |
Christmas and New Year
- Athens lights a big Christmas tree in Syntagma Square in late November, with lights along Ermou and the central avenues.
- New Year's Eve: a free concert and fireworks or drone show in central Athens.
- Shops open longer in the weeks before Christmas; 25–26 December and 1 January are public holidays.
- Try melomakarona and kourabiedes, the Christmas biscuits sold in every bakery.
Where to go in December
- Athens and Thessaloniki for Christmas atmosphere, museums and food.
- Mountain villages like Arachova, Zagori and Metsovo for fires, tavernas and snow.
- Crete: Chania and Heraklion stay open all year.
- Avoid planning around small Cyclades: most hotels and restaurants are closed.
Good to know
- Sites close early in winter, often by mid-afternoon.
- State museums are free on the first and third Sunday.
- Fewer flights to islands; flying via Athens is often the only option.
FAQ
Is December a good time to visit Greece?
For Athens, Christmas atmosphere and mountain villages, yes. For beaches and island-hopping, no.
Does it snow in Greece in December?
In the mountains, often. Athens and the islands very rarely see snow.
What's open in Santorini in December?
A small number of hotels and restaurants in Fira stay open; most of Oia and the beach areas close until spring.
Is there a Christmas market in Athens?
Yes, small seasonal markets and events appear around central squares; the main focus is the Syntagma tree and lights.
Sources
Related guides
- Christmas and New Year in Athens: What to Do, What's Open, Weather
- Greece in November: Weather, Sea, What's Open and Is It Worth It?
- Crete in October and November: Weather, Sea Temperature and What's Open
- Santorini in October: Weather, Sea Temperature and Is It Worth It?
- Greece in January: Weather, Skiing, Free Museums and Is It Worth It?
- Greece in February: Weather, Carnival, Almond Blossom and Travel Tips
Updated 2026-10. General planning guidance. Check with operators and local authorities.