I've received a couple of emails recently about visiting Greece in January and February. Here's my travel tips and advice for visiting Greece in winter.
Visiting Greece in Winter
If you're planning to visit Greece in January or February, these frequently asked questions and answers might be of use. Have any other questions about Greece in winter you'd like answering? Leave a comment below and I'll get back to you!
1. It looks like January is off-season so will I be ok to book tours when I get there or should I do it now?
Answer: You could almost definitely book tours a day or two before you want to go, as tour operators will have room. From a practical point of view though, my travel tip is to book in advance.
This is from experience! I'm currently traveling around Asia, and we've spent a surprising amount of time researching and booking tours on the fly.
If we had booked in advance, we'd have more time enjoying the sights and sounds, and less time in front of a computer screen!
2. Do archaeological sites in Greece have shorter opening hours in winter?
Answer: yes they do! The major ones mostly close at 15.00, so get your sightseeing in early. Minor ones may not open at all. If you are visiting Athens, the Acropolis closes at 15.00, but the Acropolis Museum does open until 20.00, so you can plan your day around that.
3. Should I go to Mykonos in January or February?
Answer: This is a difficult one to answer! It really depends what it is you want to get out of Mykonos. You certainly won't be swimming or sunbathing at that time of year!
There won't be much in the way of tourist infrastructure open, but on the other hand, you will get a true taste of Greek island life in off-season.
If you've ever thought of moving to Greece, I'd suggest seeing Mykonos or any of the islands in the winter – Life might be a lot slower than you might expect!
4. Should I go to Santorini in January or February?
Answer: I think this is a great time to visit Santorini! Some of the tourist infrastructure will be closed, that's for sure. You might also have to take your chances with the weather. The massive positive side though, is that there are very few tourists at that time of year.
5. What's the weather like in Greece in January and February
Answer: Pretty cold actually! You might have noticed on the news that snow covered Athens earlier on in the month. It's a rare event, but spectacular. Towards the later end of February, the temperatures can pick back up though. It won't quite be shorts and t-shirt weather, but it will be a lot warmer than Northern Europe!
If you've got any questions about visiting Greece in winter, send them through to me by leaving a comment below. I'll do my best to answer them.
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Elsie Ray says
Planning trip February 2020. Appreciate all tips.
Dave Briggs says
Hi Elsie,
Sign up for the free Greece guides on this page, and you’ll find plenty to help you!