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Greece in January: Weather, Skiing, Free Museums and Is It Worth It?

Greece in January: the coldest month, about 12°C in Athens and 14°C in Crete, Epiphany on 6 January, skiing on Parnassos, free museum Sundays and the lowest prices of the year.

By the iLoveGreece editorial team · Last reviewed 2026-10 · 1 source listed below

Quick answer

January is the coldest month in Greece: about 12°C by day in Athens and 14°C in Crete, with rain on 8–12 days and snow in the mountains. It's the cheapest, quietest time for Athens and mainland sightseeing, and the season for skiing on Mount Parnassos and other ski centres. Islands are very quiet and many hotels are closed.

Weather in January

January averages (Weather2Travel)
PlaceHighLowSeaSun a dayDays with rain
Athens12°C5°C15°C4 h8
Crete (Heraklion)14°C7°C16°C4 h12

What to do in January

  • Athens museums and sites without crowds; free entry on the first and third Sunday.
  • Skiing at Parnassos (near Delphi and Arachova) and other ski centres, depending on snow.
  • Mountain villages in Zagori and Pelion with wood fires and hearty food.
  • Thessaloniki for food and Byzantine churches.

Holidays

  • 1 January: New Year's Day; families cut the vasilopita cake with a hidden coin.
  • 6 January: Epiphany (Theofania). Priests throw a cross into the sea, rivers or harbours and young swimmers dive to retrieve it; Piraeus and island harbours hold ceremonies.

Islands in January

  • Crete and Rhodes have open towns and the mildest weather.
  • Year-round ferries continue, but wind cancellations are more frequent; keep plans flexible.
  • On small islands, expect most hotels, restaurants and car rentals to be closed.

FAQ

Is January a good time to visit Greece?

It's good value for Athens and the mainland, and for skiing. It's the coldest and wettest month, so not for beaches.

How cold is Athens in January?

Average highs are about 12°C and lows about 5°C.

Can you ski in Greece?

Yes. Parnassos, near Delphi, is the best known; the season usually runs from about December to March depending on snow.

Are Greek museums free in January?

State museums and sites are free on the first and third Sunday of each month from November to March.

Greece in winter →Delphi and Parnassos →What to see →

Sources

Related guides

Updated 2026-10. General planning guidance. Check with operators and local authorities.