9 Amazing Destinations for Winter in Greece

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If you want to see a side of Greece usually reserved for locals, and really go off the beaten path, you need to experience at least one Greek winter. Discover some great destinations you can visit during winter in Greece.

When most people think of Greece, sun, sand and blue seas are usually the first thing that comes to mind. Even though I will be the last person to deny the incredible beauty of Greece in the summer, the country’s sunny reputation means it usually gets overlooked for winter tourism.

And this is a huge mistake. Take it from someone who has lived there half her life and literally wrote the guide book on Greece. I think the country has its beauty and advantages in every season; but Greece in the winter is particularly magical. And very off-season. Great for tourists who want a more local, and budget experience.

Greece may not have famous Christmas markets, New Year’s celebrations, or other winter tourism magnets. But visiting Greece in the winter opens up cosmopolitan destinations, adventurous trips, ski resorts, and other areas of the country that few outside tourists see. 

Where to Go in Greece in Winter

In northern Greece, the mountainous regions become blanketed with snow. Spend the winter in Athens, Greece, and you will see the city teem with local life and welcome fewer tourists, decreasing hotel prices. Not to mention, you get to explore Greece overall with fewer crowds.

So many interesting cities, picturesque villages, mountains, lakes, and lesser-known islands that have never really become known to non-Greek tourists, are also almost completely devoid of non-locals during the winter.

Where you decide to go depends partly on what experience you’re looking for; do you want to find a winter wonderland in the mountains? Go skiing and snowboarding with locals? Or do you want to see the islands at their calmest, in a totally different light?

Greece in December

Personally, I really love major cities in Greece in December, like Athens, as the city is all lit up for the Christmas season, and people in Athens go all out partying at bars and clubs to celebrate Christmas and New Year’s Eve. The last ten days, Greeks tend to be out and about quite a lot, sometimes eating with family members, sometimes just catching up with friends, as most non-service businesses are closed or working at very low capacity during the holiday season.

Celebrate New Year’s by viewing the fireworks over the Acropolis, or up in one of the mountain destinations local Greeks favor, with a table booked in advance for an evening of great food and fine wine.

Greece in January

The holiday season lasts a little longer in Greece, since January 6th is a major celebration – called the Epiphany. That means many people are still in semi-vacation mode until at least January 7th.

If you’re around in the early days, you will want to observe the location traditions on January 6th. In almost every village, town, and city, a priest throws the cross into the sea, and young men from the area dive in to retrieve it. Whoever manages to get it from the sea has God’s blessing for the year, or so the tradition says.

Greece in February

Since the holidays are over, this is a real low point in the season, even for locals, most of whom are back at work. And working longer hours sometimes, to make up for all the days off from the holidays. This also means you’re likely to find the best hotel deals in this month.

However, if you are a skiing and snowboarding fan, or just looking for great deals, this is definitely the time to visit the country, as snow is the most likely to have fallen. December can be a hit or miss month, and even in the beginning of January, snow can be thin on the ground.

Below I have included a mix of all destinations – from winter wonderlands to quiet islands. Here is your chance to discover another side of the country, and to explore these great destinations among Greeks, rather than the usual tourist crowds. So check out some amazing Greek winter destinations below!

Does it Snow in Greece?

A lot of tourists ask me “does Greece have snow?” Depending on where you are, yes, it very much does. In Athens, snow is a rare event even in the winter months, and the few times it does happen, you can expect just an inch or two that barely sticks to the ground. And Athenians to spend three days trapped inside panicking, while the city government tries to figure out what to do with this stuff on the ground.

Where Does it Snow in Greece?

But in the north, especially in the Epirus region, temperatures plummet, and you won’t find any trace of the famous Mediterranean climate. That’s why many locals who want a real winter vacation spend their holidays in northern and central Greece.

Snow is also less about latitude, and more about altitude in Greece. The mountains of central Greece and even the central Peloponnese are likely to get cold and experience snowfall in the winter months; even more likely in January and February.

Some brave few also head to the Greek islands in December. Despite the rain and cold weather, you can still have a great time without the beach bars and the sun. I will point out three of my favorite islands for winter tourism later in this post.

Best Winter Destinations in Greece

Arachova (Αρἀχωβα)

One of the top destinations for winter sports and December holidays in Greece is the mountainside village of Arachova. The picturesque, amphitheatrical town has narrow streets and a jaw-dropping view of the valley below.

The village is full of warm coffee shops and restaurants to take the edge off the cold outside. However, don’t picture a rustic little traditional town. Arachova is one of the top destinations for bougie Greeks, so if that’s your jam, you will be surrounded by designer-wearing Athenians. If you are looking for something more traditional, that’s coming up soon on the list.

Arachova also has great ski slopes. Travelers and locals who like winter sports, including skiing and snowboarding, head up here between December and March to go down the mountains. If you want to hit the slopes, you might be better off visiting later in the winter season, as December can be hit or miss when it comes to snowfall.

For those who want to check out ancient sites, the famous Oracle of Delphi is only a 10-15 minute drive away, and remains open during the winter season. Of all the destinations on this list, Arachova in winter may be pricier than others as wintertime is the high season.

Driving Distance: 2 hours from Athens

Budget Hotels in Arachova

• Pansion Kokkobos: A clean, comfortable guesthouse located in the part of town above the main road ($70-80).
• Rigas Hotel Arachova: Guesthouse in a central location offering traditional Greek hospitality ($70-110).

Mid-Range Hotels in Arachova

• Hotel Parnassos: A cozy, mid-budget hotel right on Arachova’s main street. Ask for a room with a fireplace ($90-$120).
• Guesthouse Katafygio: A beautifully decorated guesthouse with cozy, comfortable rooms ($100-150)

Luxury Hotels in Arachova

• Alpen House Hotel & Suites: Cozy mountain lodge with rustic and luxurious touches, located just above the town of Arachova ($140-220)
• 5 Raches Suites: A luxury property for those who want their own family room suite with a mountain view. If you’re traveling with a group or family and want luxury with a view, this is your place ($190-320).
• VIP Chalet 4 Seasons: If you want to stay in a highly luxurious, and bonafide chalet property, this is the one ($210-300).

Local Tip: On your way to Arachova stop at Livadia for lunch. Livadia is a town about 20 to 30 minutes before your final destination. Greeks famously say it has the best souvlaki in all of Greece.

Mount Pelion (Πἠλιο)

Photo by Dan Taylor-Watt via Flickr/CC BY 4.0

This densely forested mountain near Volos is home to ski centers, stunning coastal areas, and some of the most charming traditional villages in Greece. Makrinitsa has a magnificent view of the Aegean, and Portaria is full of elegant old mansions. Many locals will tell you the town of Milies may be one of the prettiest in all of Greece.

The historic houses of Pelion are known as archontika, or “noble houses”. The Ottomans left this area of Greece to its own devices, for the most part. So in the 18th and 19th centuries, wealthy Greek merchants built their mansions here.

Go to Pelion if you want to ski, walk around centuries-old streets, and admire beautiful forests and waterfalls all in the same trip. If there’s no snow for winter activities, active travelers can also enjoy plenty of hiking and walking trails through unspoiled nature. Make sure to duck into the shops selling local wild herbs, olive oil, and other regional products and pick up something from home.

Driving Distance: 4 hours from Athens (3 hours from Thessaloniki)

Budget Hotels in Pelion

• Gastronomy Hotel Kritsa: Hotel and restaurant housed in a neoclassical building on Portaria’s main town square ($50-85).
• Archtonikou Pantou: Traditional, cozy guesthouse in a neoclassical buliding in the town of Portaria ($50-80).

Mid-Range Hotels in Pelion

• Archontiko Anemos: A gorgeously decorated boutique hotel with luxurious, comfortable rooms in Makrinitsa ($110-140).
• Erofili Hotel & Suites: A beautifully decorated, cozy yet airy guesthouse with stunning views ($80-150)

Luxury Hotels in Pelion

• Pacithea Villas: Gorgeous villas for a big group or family in the charming villages of Milies in Pelion ($320-420).
• Peliva Nature Suites: This almost perfectly-rated hotel offers elegant stone suites in the stunning town of Milies ($175-250)

Local Tip: If it’s up and running, take the Pelion Train, a magical route in the area.

Monemvasia (Μονεμβασιἀ)

Monemvasia is a visually stunning castle town built into a majestic, large rock jutting out of the sea off the Peloponnesian coast. It is also the longest continuously inhabited castle town in all of Europe.

Throughout history, it has gone through Byzantine, Venetian, and Ottoman hands, lending it a unique atmosphere with arched alleyways, fortified walls, and a main cobblestone street (the former Agora) full of cafes, artisanal shops, and restaurants.

You can only wander within the castle walls on foot. But the mild and sunny weather in the Peloponnese, even during the chilly winter season, allows you to do so comfortably. This area of southern Greece rarely, if ever, gets snow, so as long as you have a warm jacket and a glass of red wine at night, you should be good.

If you want to get great pictures, make sure you’re out and about at sunset, when the light hits the stones and turns the whole town a shade of violet.

Driving Distance: 3 hours and 30 minutes from Athens

Budget Hotels in Monemvasia

• Menexes Suites Monemvasia: A romantic hotel with white and rock walls favored by couples, located right in the castle town ($65-80)
• Pramataris: One of the most affordable local hotels, but it’s outside the castle town, across on the mainland. You’ll have to walk or drive across ($50-70)

Mid-Range Hotels in Monemvasia

• Malvasia Traditional Hotel: Monemvasia spoils you for choice; another gorgeous hotel with the area’s traditional architecture and stunning sea views ($75-150).
• Guesthouse Kellia: Stone-built, spacious rooms in the castle town surrounded by a gorgeous garden ($70-110)

Luxury Hotels in Monemvasia

• Casa Felicia – The Castle Mansion: A three-bedroom, luxurious villa in a traditional stone buliding in the castle town ($200-250)
• Moni Emvasis Luxury Suites: Stately, gorgeous suites with panoramic views of the castle town below ($230-320).

Local Tip: Have a taste of Malvasia while you’re here, the local sweet wine.

Athens (Αθἠνα)

Obviously the city of Athens doesn’t need much of an introduction. If you’ve been to Greece in the summer, chances are you’ve climbed up to the Acropolis and walked through the market at Monastiraki.

Or at least had a layover on your way to Mykonos.

But Athens in winter is a very different, and in my opinion, better experience. In the summer tourist season, locals become part of a mass exodus from the burning sun and 100-degree weather, leaving central Athens to be taken over by tour groups and a haze of tourist traffic.

In winter, Athens very much becomes a fully Greek city again. It’s also one of the best places to visit in Greece in December, as Athens at Christmas time is all lit up, with a Christmas tree set up in Syntagma Square, and celebrations and parties going on all over the city.

Head out with the alternative crowd in Gazi. Walk the charming streets of Plaka surrounded only by local Athenians. Admire the beautiful old buildings in Psiri. Get your classy night out in Kolonaki.

The only thing to keep in mind is that archaeological sites often shut down earlier in the winter thanks to reduced daylight hours. So double-check closing times for ancient ruins and make sure you visit earlier in the day. 

If you explore Greece during the Christmas season, know that younger Greeks today spend Christmas Day with their families and Christmas night out at bars and clubs. A lot of people have also received their holiday bonuses by this time, so you can expect big crowds out and about.

The only con is that you may have to deal with one of the country’s relatively frequent winter rains.

Driving Distance: None. Because, well..you’re here. 

Budget Hotels in Athens*

• Okupa: Modern, charming hotel located between the young, cool, alternative neighborhoods of Kerameikos and Psirri, right next to the city center ($75-100)
• Living Yard Acropolis: Housed in a neoclassical Athenian building, Living Yard Acropolis is near a metro station and ten minutes from the Acropolis itself ($65-95)

Mid-Range Hotels in Athens*

• B4B Athens Signature Hotel: This centrally located hotel has rooms that are modern, tech-filled, yet incredibly comfortable; and a rooftop view of the Acropolis ($90-140).
• Ivis 4 Boutique Hotel: Sleek, modern rooms with balconies and terraces overlooking central Athens; located in trendy Psirri neighborhood ($160-220)

Luxury Hotels in Athens*

• Electra Metropolis Athens: Known for both its stunning rooms and incredible rooftop restaurant; just steps away from Syntagma Square ($250-300)
• The Dolli at Acropolis: One of the newest luxury hotels in Athens on Mitropoleos Avenue, with a rooftop restaurant and Infiniti pool overlooking the Acropolis – the building has some next level grandeur ($530-850).

*Like the rest of the list, price estimates are based on winter seasonal prices

Local Tip: Head to one of the FOUR Athenian bars that have made the top 100 cocktail bars in the world: The Line, Bar in Front of the Bar, The Clumsies, and Baba Au Rum

Zagorohoria (Ζαγοροχὠρια)

Zagorohoria, or Zagori, is a protected area of 46 charming mountain villages (or 48…no one can seem to agree), built amphitheatrically among the mountains of Timvi, Pindos, and Mitiskeli.

The towns have traditional stone and wood architecture, but each is also quite unique in what it offers tourists. Papingo, Monodendri, Tsepelovo, and Aristi seem to be some of the local favorites. The area also has plenty of natural beauty to take in and explore, from crystal clear rivers to breathtaking gorges.

Papingo in particular is a favorite winter trip destination among Greeks, and is seen as a bit of a ritzy destination, despite its traditional air. If that’s not your style, there are plenty of quaint villages in these mountainous regions to transport you back to the Greece of 60 or 70 years ago.

Personally, I loved the charming villages of Monodendri and Tsepelovo the best. Monodendri actually makes a great base from which to explore the rest of the mountain villages, as driving between them can take a long time thanks to the winding, narrow roads.

Driving Distance: 6 hours from Athens

Budget Hotels in Zagori

• Virginia: Comfortable rooms with fireplaces and mountain views in a traditional stone structure ($70-80)
• Archontiko Dilofo: A stone guesthouse with a garden, terrace, and warm, traditional touches everywhere, including colorful local carpets ($70-90)

Mid-Range Hotels in Zagori

• Hotel Athina: For an even quieter stay, check out the rustic Hotel Athina in the serene, tiny village of Elati ($90-120).
• Arktouros Hotel: This family-run, boutique hotel has warm, traditional touches everywhere and offers exceptional local hospitality; it’s also in centrally located Monodendri ($85-120)

Luxury Hotels in Zagori

• Papaevangelou Hotel: You’ll feel the traditional mountain atmosphere in the cozy wood and stone rooms here in Papigo ($130-180)
• Aristi Mountain Resort: One of National Geographic’s “Unique Lodges of the World”, this luxurious resort overlooks Vikos Gorge from the highest point of Aristi village ($220-350).

Local Tip: Head to Vikos Gorge (Φαρἀγγι του Βικοὐ) for some impressive scenery. The best observation point is at Beloi Viewpoint.

Metsovo (Μἐτσοβο)

Up in the mountains of Epirus lies the charming village of Metsovo. Known for wine, cheese, and its smoked meats, Metsovo is the perfect place to bundle up during the cold winter months.

For those who believe Greece has mild winters and doesn’t really get “cold”, the weather forecast in Metsovo will surprise you. Even in the summer, average temperatures stay in the 60s and 70s (Fahrenheit) while the rest of the country is scorching. In the winter? Temperatures often drop to below zero.

One famous spot here is Katogi Averoff, a hotel, winery, and legacy institution built by one of Greece’s most recognizable, rich, and philanthropic families. It was the first winery to produce red wine in all of Greece, and is still famous for some great vintages today.

Visit the meat-focused restaurants (ovelistiria) and cheese shops around the main square (I love both Pigi and Gnision). Head to the Metsovo Folk Art Museum, which is actually the old Tositsa Mansion – another well-known philanthropic family in Greece. Here, you can take a tour and discover not only how this family lived, but what homes in northern Greece were like almost a century ago.

The culture of Epirus is quite distinct from the rest of Greek culture. This is reflected in their housing, decor, lifestyles, and art. They even have their own dialect!

That’s part of the beauty of exploring Greece’s northern regions – you get to see a whole different side of the country’s rich history. And if you want to pair a visit to Metsovo with a ski holiday? Enjoy winter sports at nearby Metsovo and Anilio Ski Center.

Driving Distance: 4 hours and 30 minutes from Athens

Budget Hotels in Metsovo

• Asteri Metsovou: Built and decorated in the traditional local style, serving local food products for breakfast – walking distance from the main square ($64-85)
• Nuca Guesthouse: Family-run cozy guesthouse with comfortable rooms and excellent hospitality ($70-80)

Mid-Range Hotels in Metsovo

• Hotel Victoria: Guests rate Hotel Victoria very highly for the owner’s hospitality, and the rooms’ comfort and view ($100-130).

Luxury Hotels in Metsovo

• Katogi Averoff & Winery: One of the most historic luxury hotel in the area, with a winery included. Stay in a suite with a fireplace! ($160-190)
• Grand Forest Metsovo: Named one of the “Leading Hotels of the World” with top-rated service; it’s up on the hillside overlooking Metsovo ($350-420).

Local Tip: If you don’t stay at Katogi Averoff Hotel, tour the winery here. It’s the first winery to produce red wine in Greece and a famous establishment in its own right. You can check out more info on winery tours and get contact information on the website.

Greek Islands in Winter

Ferry routes to the islands get disrupted or don’t run as often in the winter in Greece. Unless you’re a cold plunger, you probably won’t want to take a dip in the Aegean Sea…but there is still plenty of beauty in the Greek islands even when the temperature drops.

Popular Greek islands like Mykonos become semi-ghost towns. But you can find year-round destinations in the Aegean and Ionian Seas. The best Greek islands to visit in winter are generally those that either are closer to Athens, or have a permanent year-round population, translating to a fair amount of establishments staying open to serve the locals.

In the winter, travelers leave and islanders fill up the local establishments. The Greek islands actually become a haven for some writers and artists who find their winter getaway here, using the peace and inspiration to create.

If that is the kind of island life you are looking for, check out the following places:

Hydra (᾽Υδρα)

The island of Hydra is just two hours away from Athens by ferry. Routes continue pretty frequently during the winter months. You won’t be going for the beaches at this time of the year. But you can enjoy the island’s particular appeal all the same.

Hydra doesn’t allow cars It’s a calm, pedestrian-friendly oasis travelers love, with traditional stone houses lining the street. 

Artists, painters, and writers love to retire to Hydra in the winter to get inspiration from the landscape, historic town, and beautiful sea, while dealing with fewer crowds. One of the island’s most famous residents, Leonard Cohen, met the love of his life – Marianne – here and also fell in love with Hydra’s natural beauty.

Ferry Distance: From Athens, Hydra is 2 hours away.

Budget Hotels in Hydra

• Amaryllis Hotel: A comfortable hotel in the main town of Hydra made excellent by the owner’s hospitality and service ($65-80)

Mid-Range Hotels in Hydra

• Psaropoula Guest House: Get your own Mediterranean-styled apartment right above the main town and harbor ($100-120).
• Paradiso: A beautiful guesthouse with a kitchen and patio; the latter is a great place to relax and enjoy the view ($85-100)

Luxury Hotels in Hydra

• Upper Hydra: These airy, modern, luxurious rooms retain a Mediterranean air, as well as incredible views of photogenic Hydra ($155-195)

Local Tip: Check the weather and ferry routes before heading to the port. If weather gets severe (rare, but still), the ferries may not run.

Syros (Σὐρος)

Syros is one of the few islands in the Cyclades that maintains a sizable population year round. The main town, Ermoupolis, used to be the capital of the Aegean. As a result of that legacy, many aristocratic, neoclassical houses line the streets. Locals also maintain a taste for theater, film and the finer things.

For a small island, Syros has a great variety of cultural and historic sites. Go to medieval Ano Syros up on the hilltop or the grand town hall and truly huge main square in the city center of Ermoupolis.

There is a strong Catholic influence on the island (one of the few such places in Greece). You can see splendid Catholic and Orthodox churches visible on the town’s skyline.

In winter, all the mesmerizing buildings and city center are lit up for the holiday season, which makes Syros a beautiful sight even at this time of year. For travelers who want an island that combines history with cultural landmarks and the arts, Syros is a great place to visit in the off-season. 

Check out my full in-depth travel guide to Syros if you plan to visit soon.

Ferry Distance: 2-4 hours from Athens by ferry (but just a 35-minute flight if you can book one)

Hotels in Syros*

• Hotel Hermes: A stunning hotel on the harbor that’s been a favored local establishment for decades, for its beautiful restaurant as well as for its rooms ($82-120)
• Syroc Maison: Located up in Ermoupoli’s charming alleyways, in one of the city’s traditional, artistocratic, neoclassical homes ($80-115)
• Amare Boutique Suites: Near the beautiful Church of St. Nicholas and the picturesque neighborhood of Vaporia ($70-80)

*In the wintertime, there are more apartments available to book than hotels; while Syros has a WHOLE lot of stunning hotels, I have only included the ones that stay open in the winter.

Local Tip: Check out the Apollon Theater and try to catch a show; it is also known as La Piccola Scala because it was designed as a small version of La Scala in Milan.

Corfu (Κἐρκυρα)

Corfu is already a top destination for international visitors to Greece, particularly those from the UK. However, few visit it during the wintertime, which is a shame. Because in addition to its beautiful beaches, the top highlights in Corfu are the old town and some of the island’s charming views and villages – things that can be enjoyed in any weather, making it a perfect destination for off season Greece.

Not to mention, the island has a population of 100,000 people. Therefore, many establishments, especially those located away from the beaches, will remain open year-round.

Stroll around the Old Town of Corfu, visit Pontikonisi – the island with one resident, and check out the grandeur of Achilleion Palace. You can also take a walk from the Fortress to the old windmill to get a sense of the island’s history and the main town’s views.

For something more alternative, you can go up to explore the “ghost town” of Old Perithia; though you will definitely want to take a car that can handle some dirt roads. Or just go with a tour, like the one I linked to.

Distance: 50 minute flight from Athens

The hotels recommended below are mainly in Corfu’s Old Town, since most beach resorts are closed, and you’re unlikely to want to go for a swim anyway in the wintertime.

Mid-Range Hotels in Corfu

• Casa Verde: A beautiful historic building in the old town converted to a stunning boutique hotel with spacious rooms ($85-110)
• Vittori Corfu Rooms: Centrally located hotel in another gorgeous old building, perfect for couples wanting a romantic getaway ($85-95)
• Locandiera: Cozy guesthouse in the Old Town district with modern, comfortable rooms ($95-110)

Luxury Hotels in Corfu

• New York Luxury Suites: Don’t be fooled by the name; these suites are still very much in Corfu’s Old Town, with gorgeous balconies overlooking the historic streets below ($110-180)
• Arcadion Hotel: This luxurious hotel overlooks Spianada Square and the Old Fortress; the rooms are impeccably decorated and extremely comfortable. ($127-160)

Local Tip: One of my favorite places to visit in Corfu town is Plous Books & Coffee. I love a good bookstore, and if I can get a great cup of coffee and cozy up with a good book, all the better. They have books in English and French as well!

Winter in Greece: Cuisine

You can’t visit Greece without indulging in the local cuisine. But one of the best things about visiting in the winter (besides avoiding the bustling peak season) is that the local cuisine changes somewhat depending on the season.

Fresh calamari and fish are great for summer, and are still available in many places during the winter. Fun fact: calamari season usually is during the winter, so that’s when you get them at their freshest.

But the great thing about Greek destinations like Metsovo and Zagorohoria is that they specialize in a lot of hearty Greek dishes perfect for keeping you warm and insulated while you slalom down the slopes.

Or you know…just hang around a cozy fire. No one’s judging.

When you explore the mountainous regions of Greece, you will find seasonal specialties like stews, soups, and smoked meats everywhere. Greek winter food includes bouyiourdi, mpekri meze, stifado, kavourmades, lachanodolmades.

If you want to visit Greece, but with a lower budget and fewer tourists, exploring Greece in winter may be your best bet. Experience the Greek holiday season! Or simply find the best places to visit in Greece in winter!

Have you visited any of these Greek destinations? Let me know what you thought in the comments below!