Why visit Greece in winter
21.07.2023 - 07:39
/ roughguides.com
Visit Greece in winter. It's tourist light, but still history packed and the weather's cooler, yet often sunny. Discover the difference and take a look a Greece for winter breaks. The information in this article is taken from The Rough Guide to Greece your essential guide for visiting Greece.
Visit Athens in winter, because few tourists do. Average temperatures are about 12ºC, but you get frequent sunny days. So take advantage of less heat and low crowds to explore over 3000 years of history.
See the Acropolis and discover the Parthenon. Then go visit the marvellous Temple of Athena Nike. And the National Archeological Museum is fascinating, plus there's room to browse during winter. To make the most of your time, book Athens Studios in the historic centre.
You will find even more ideas for your holiday in Athens with our guide to the best things to do in Athens.
The Acropolis in Athens Greece in winter © Lambros Kazan/Shutterstock
Get to know Athens off-season and experience the city's unusual café culture. Visit bouzouki clubs and chat to locals. Then take advantage of fewer tourists to go on a night walk to discover the off-beat Athens' districts that often get overlooked in summer.
Prefer to leave planning and booking to experts? Have a look at some sample itineraries. Both Complete Greece or Greece Itineraries offer inspiration. All Tailor Made Trips can be modified together with your local expert, then booked for a stress-free holiday. Click 'Modify this itinerary' to contact a local Italy expert.
Forget ferries and visit the Peloponnese Peninsula. Joined to mainland by road bridge, it's loved for quaint fishing villages, Kalamata olive groves, traditional taverna and great local cooking.
Stay in chic Nafplio and explore the remarkable Venetian fortress. Don't miss a wander round the ruins of Ancient Corinth. Then go pay homage at the tomb of Agamemnon and applaud the Epidaurus amphitheatre. If you like the vibe, stay at Nafsimedon Hotel in Nafplio.
Crete has it all, even in colder months of the year. It's the largest and most southerly Greek island, so winter weather tends to be milder than elsewhere in the country. And there are barely any tourists to disturb the peace.
Lower temperatures are perfect for active holidays. Try gorge walking and trail hiking in the wild and lovely interior. And think about doing some climbing in the White Mountains. Choose the city of Chania as a base and stay at Notus in the Old Town.
Hiking the White Mountains in Crete Greece in winter © Markus Bolliger/Shutterstock
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Don't miss Heraklion in winter when it's light on tourists but still very long on history. Make a point of exploring the Venetian monuments, Koules Fortress and the impressive Lion Square.