Greece in December: Unveiling the Winter Charm of the Aegean Gem

December 5, 2024

Whenever we think of Greece, our mind always resonates with the beautiful sunny islands, beaches full of golden sands, and clear blue skies. How if you visit Greece in December, the experience will be completely different. Likewise, you will find cities filled with festive lights, towns with cosy atmospheres and amazing landscapes in the charm of the season of winter. While the summer season may be a peak tourist season, in December, it transforms into a peaceful and magical destination where nature and culture follow tradition in such a unique way. Hence, if you are looking for a winter getaway, Greece in December should absolutely be on your travel list. 

Also if you are facing any issues understanding the process on how to apply Greece Visa from London, we will get that section converted before the end of this blog. 

Weather of Greece in December

Winter starts in Greece in December, but the climate is different all over the country. 

• Athens and Mainland Greece: Compared to other European countries, the weather is quite mild over here. Usually, the temperatures range from 10 degrees Celsius to 15 degrees Celsius in the daytime. So you can go out during the daytime to explore the ruins and even relax at the outdoor cafes. 

• Greek Islands: The temperatures are quite cooler in the region of Crete, Rhodes, and Santorini, which are around 8 degree celsius to 14 degree celsius. Hence, you won’t be able to swim in the cold water but still you can take a stroll around to get the picturesque background with no crowd of people at all. 

• Northern Greece: Now, in regions like Thessaloniki and Meteora, the temperature can drop as low as 5 degrees Celsius, and sometimes it even dips below freezing at night. That is why snowfall is very common in the mountain areas. If you like winter sports, then this is your place to enjoy them. 

Things To Do During Winters In Greece

Fewer Crowds, More Tranquility

Greece in December is actually a peaceful time to visit compared to the crowded time during summer. Some of the popular destinations are Athens, Santorini, and Mykonos, which you can visit with fewer tourists around you. So take your time to explore the landmarks properly of the Acropolis, Parthenon and other ancient ruins without waiting in long queues or jostling in between the overcrowded places. 

Festive Spirit and Christmas Celebrations

Greece in December is actually a festive month where Christmas is the major highlight. During this time the squares and streets will be decorated with the twinkling lights, Christmas trees and other traditional decorations. 

• Athens: The centre of the city’s Christmas celebration is done in the Syntagma Square. You get to see a grand Christmas tree, festive markets and live music. 

• Thessaloniki: If you want to experience some of the best winter wonderland, you should visit the Aristotelous Square along with the fun of holiday markets, ice skating rinks and the preparation of festive events. 

• Greek Islands: Most of the Islands organize traditional Christmas fairs. You can come here and enjoy the local tasty delicacies, handmade crafts and other cultural performances. 

Unique Winter Activities

Greece in December  will give you ample opportunities to try out the winter activities. 

• Skiing and Snowboarding: Just go to Mount Parnassus. This is considered as Greece’s top ski resort, located near the region of Delhi. There are even other popular ski destinations such as Mount Olympus and Kalavryta, where you will find these resorts hosting the winter activities. 

• Hiking and Nature Walks: As the temperatures are cooler during December in Greece, it is very ideal for hiking. You will find some of the magnificent scenic trains in the regions of Meteora and Vikos Gorge.

• Hot Springs: You can relax in the natural thermal springs which are located in Loutraki and Edipos. While doing that, try to heal your body and mind with the amazing view of the surrounding areas.  

Exploring Greek Culture in Winter

Traditional Villages

During the time of Greece in December, is actually a great time to visit the quiet and charming villages. You will surely experience some of the best and authentic Greek hospitality and culture. 

• Arachova: Arachnova, also known as Winter Mykonos, is a beautiful, picturesque village located in Delphi. Just visit there once, as the place offers cozy accommodations inside traditional taverns, from which you will get stunning views of Mount Parnassus. 

• Zagorohoria: There is a cluster of stone-built villages in Epirus, Zagorohoria. Travellers who are nature lovers and are looking for some peaceful retreat, this is the place that one needs to be. There are even stone bridges, hiking trails, and local cuisine available. 

• Metsovo: The region is located in the Pindus Mountains. It is quite a charming town that is famous for its architecture of houses. It is even famous for its local cheeses, and warm hospitality. 

Greek Cuisine in Winter

As the winter falls in Greece in December, it brings a lot of hearty and tasty dishes to warm one’s soul. Hence, for everyone who is travelling to Greece in winter, some of the must-try winter foods are:

• Avgolemono Soup: It is a very delicious soup that is made with chicken, rice, eggs and lemon. 

• Souvla: It is basically a large piece of meat that is slowly cooked on a spit. It is a popular dish that is enjoyed in the festive gatherings. 

• Loukoumades: These are some of the Greek doughnuts on which honey is poured and then sprinkled with cinnamon. It is a perfect sweet treat that needs to be savoured on a sweet day. 

• Tsipouri and Raki: Some of the traditional Greek spirits are really very popular in winter. They are normally enjoyed with a plate of small dishes. 

Places To Visit In Greece In December

Athens

Visiting Greece in December, especially Athens, is like finding a perfect mix of culture, historical facts, and the lovely cheer of festivals. You should definitely visit the great Acropolis, then the National Archaeological Museum, and finally, take a stroll through Plaka, one of the oldest neighbourhoods of the city. Take your time visiting the fabulous Christmas markets and the amazing decorations in Syntagma Square. 

Santorini

Normally Santorini is famous for its summer sunsets, and it even gets better in the month of December as it offers a quieter and more intimate experience. To explore more, wander around through the layers of charming villages like Oia and Fira. You can even enjoy the island’s local wines and view the stunning caldera view without the commotion of the crowds. 

Thessaloniki

Going to Greece in December, that too in the second largest city. It is one of the live destinations in December. You will get to see a great amount of Byzantine history. Do visit the White Tower. Also, participate in the great festival in Aristotelous Square.

Meteora

There are monasteries which have been built in between the rock formations. It is really an amazing sight all year round. In December, the cliffs will be filled with snow, which makes the atmosphere very serene. Thus as a whole, you can do a lot of exploration and photography in this magical destination.

Crete

One of the largest islands in Greece is Crete.  You get a mild winter climate over there. There are plenty of natural and cultural attractions. You can visit the ancient ruins of Knossos, then go for a hike through Samaria Gorge. Stay in some traditional villages to receive one of the best island’s hospitality.  

Few Tips while visiting Greece in December

• Pack Warm Clothing: Though the climate in the coastal areas will be milder, the regions in the mountains will be full of cold and snow. So pack layers of clothing, a warm jacket and a pair of comfortable shoes for exploring. 

• Be prepared for rain: Greece in December can be sometimes rainy, so it’s best to pack an umbrella and waterproof clothing. 

• Check Opening Hours: In winter, some of the main attractions for tourists and restaurants can have reduced working hours. It even happens on the island as well. So do check in advance to avoid disappointment. 

• Book Accommodations Early: Though the crowds during December are very less but, in the popular destinations like Arachova and Meteora, tourists flock up to enjoy the holiday season. 

Get some professional help in availing the Greece Visa Appointment from UK

Are you facing any difficulty in getting an online Greece Schengen Visa from the UK to visit Greece in December? If yes, then worry not. You can use our professional expertise at GREECE VISA UK. Just click on the Apply Online tab. A list of forms will appear, continue then to fill in your details. Make the payment before submission. You will be contacted by our executives immediately to discuss everything to book your Visa appointment date. Your satisfaction with our service will be considered the top priority. 

Conclusion

Visiting Greece in December will surely be a unique experience. Just visit the main attractions, relax and have tasty cuisines, have a great fun cheering for the festivals. This way you will have a great time. No need to worry anymore if it will be different in the month of December. Just pack your bags and create magnificent memories that will stay in your mind for a long time. 

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