Greece in winter is an entirely different country. Whether visiting the mainland or the islands, there’s a noticeable shift in the overall aura of the region. Contrary to the common misconception that Greece “shuts down” in the colder months, one can witness a more traditional and laidback side of the country in contrast to its high season. Moreover, this is also the time when the country’s northern part basks in the spotlight for providing winter-centric activities that bring tourists to Greece from across Europe and the world.
Reasons to visit Greece in winter solidify the notion that the country is more than a summertime wonder. In fact, come snow or shine, it continues to enchant visitors with its inimitability, unmatched beauty, fascinating history, and friendliness of its people.
Greece in Winter is a Bargain
Among the obvious reasons to visit Greece in winter is to save money. It’s officially off-season across most parts of the country, except for the northern ski regions. Therefore, like popular holiday destinations around the world, this is the time when you will receive maximum discounts.
Bargains for travelers are available when booking airplane tickets, hotels or excursions, shopping, renting scooters or boats, and sometimes while eating out. When planning a winter vacation, do remember that prices go back up momentarily during Christmas and New Year.
Winter Festivals
Since the entire country is typically busy during the tourist season, Greeks celebrate many of their traditional festivals in the off-season. Greece in winter thus presents an unmatched prospect to immerse yourself in the colorful celebrations and culture of the locals.
Visit Athens post-mid-December, and you’ll find the city and its sights lit up almost magically. The Christmas vibe runs through the capital’s streets, encapsulating everyone with its charm along the way. Similarly, in early January, the Carnival of Kastoria, Ragoutsaria, enchants visitors with a burst of colors as locals dress up in costumes, sing, dance, and participate in parades.
Furthermore, the performing arts have forever been an integral part of Greek civilization. And so, Thessaloniki celebrates independent cinema through its International Film Festival, held annually in November.
Pleasant Weather
Summer in Greece promises endless sunny days ripe for hours of sunbathing. However, afternoons are scorching, and one must take measures to protect themselves from the sun, especially if out and about exploring sites or hiking.
In contrast, the average temperature during November and December in Athens tends to be around 14°C. It goes down to about 11°C from January to March. There are also times when it goes up to 18°C.
As a result, Greece in winter is perfect for outside activities during the daytime. Whether exploring the Acropolis leisurely or conquering a hiking trail in Crete, one can enjoy the outdoors more freely.
Greece’s Winter Food Specialties
Made with much love using local ingredients, Greek food is a delight no matter the season. Still, tourists can savor some truly tummy-satisfying delicacies when visiting Greece in winter.
Gourmands interested in traditional recipes should try fasolada or spetsofai. The former is a hearty white bean soup with vegetables. At the same time, the latter consists of spicy sausages and red peppers in a tasty tomato gravy. Then there’s the unassumingly flavorful prasorizo, rice with chopped leaks. Or, for those with a sweet tooth, there are Christmas desserts like melomakarona – honey cookies and kourabiedes – almond butter biscuits.
Greeks also have their own version of mulled wine known as oinomelo. It comprises taking either red or white wine and adding spices and honey to it. Rakomelo is a winter alcoholic drink consisting of raki and honey. Served warm, it is quite popular in the ski regions of Greece.
Ski Season in Northern Greece
While the beaches of Greece are a summertime must, the 20 odd ski resorts of the country remain somewhat of a winter secret. Primarily located in the northern region, these ski resorts provide visitors with access to almost 200km of slopes, diverse in range, catering to both beginners and experienced skiers.
Among the most popular ski locations in Greece is Parnassos. Located only two hours from Athens, it has 23 routes and excellent facilities like a ski school, restaurant, and equipment shop to enjoy the snow season.
Kalavrita, under three hours from the capital, has 12 gradients of varying levels, including the longest slope in Greece. Elatochori Ski Center is on the northern side of Mount Olympus and has a ski school, chalet, six slopes, and two lifts.
Greece in Winter is Crowd-Free!
Imagine not having to stand in lengthy lines, walk into a famous restaurant and find the best seat, or book your hotel room last minute. Well, that’s Greece in winter for you.
No crowds also mean capturing that perfect photograph around otherwise busy historical sites. And winter it’s a great occasion to mingle with the locals, who tend to be more relaxed and talkative since there are fewer tourists.
It’s Still Possible to Island-Hop
When planning a winter holiday in Greece, island-hopping is still very much possible. While the schedules change, boats continue to sail to various archipelagos. With Ferryscanner, you can check the latest timetables and book ferry tickets to a destination of choice. Moreover, the website has an option to plan multiple routes, ideal for when island-hopping in Greece.
The bigger islands, particularly the ones in the south, are year-round destinations attracting visitors with their mild climate. Most tourists frequent Crete and Rhodes, known for hiking and historical significance, during this time.
Places like Santorini and Naxos are great options during the shoulder season. Other islands worth a visit in winter are Syros, Corfu, and Hydra.
Thermal Baths in Greece
Thermal springs present the perfect opportunity for those who desire to be in the water while vacationing in Greece during winter. Sulphur-rich and offering many health benefits, there are in excess of 80 hot springs in the country that are said to have therapeutic properties.
Aedipsos on the island of Evia is a world-famous spa town with several thermal baths. The healing water that flows to various spa centers contains minerals like calcium, magnesium, and iron. Pozar Thermal Bath in Pella, about 110Km from Thessaloniki, is another natural hotspot. With water temperature averaging 37°C, one can enjoy thermal springs, waterfalls, and natural pools here.
Lake Vouliagmeni in Attica has a resort-like feel with its sunbeds, bar, and restaurant. The thermal water fluctuates between 22°C – 29°C, which is ideal for a winter dip. Interestingly, the lake is also home to skin-exfoliating garra rufa fish that nibble away your dead skin as you swim.