Planning a trip to Athens at Christmas? You get to see the city in a cooler, quieter season. Expect mild daytime temperatures near 14°C (57°F) and cooler nights around 9°C (48°F), which makes Athens one of the more comfortable European destinations in December.
Rain falls more often this month, but usually in quick bursts, not long storms.
You’ll notice shorter daylight hours, with the sun setting before early evening. Still, you’ll find enough light to wander historic sites and stroll through festive neighborhoods.
The air feels crisp, humidity sits at moderate levels, and the breeze sometimes picks up, so a light jacket or coat keeps you comfortable.
Christmas in Athens brings a lively vibe, with decorated squares, outdoor markets, and fewer crowds at big landmarks.
Overview of December Weather in Athens
December in Athens brings mild but cool conditions, especially compared to northern Europe. You’ll get moderate temperatures, some rainy days, and those shorter daylight hours that really mark winter here.
It’s not beach weather, but the climate stays comfortable enough for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Typical Temperature Range
In December, daily high temperatures usually reach around 13–15°C (55–59°F). Nighttime lows drop between 8–10°C (46–50°F).
Athens feels cooler than autumn but much milder than most northern European capitals at this time of year.
Some December days can get surprisingly warm, even above 20°C (68°F). The coldest nights might dip close to 0°C (32°F), but that’s rare.
Pack a mix of light layers and a warm jacket. A sweater or fleece usually works for daytime walks, but evenings get chilly.
Most hotels and restaurants use heating, so you’ll be fine indoors.
Rainfall Patterns and Frequency
December is one of Athens’ wetter months. On average, rainfall totals hit 65–75 mm (2.5–3 in) over about 10–12 days.
Rain tends to fall as short showers, not long, heavy storms.
You might get a few damp days in a row, but extended rain is pretty uncommon.
A compact umbrella or waterproof jacket is a smart idea. Streets can get slick after rain, especially on marble or stone paths near the historic spots.
Even with more rain, you’ll still have plenty of dry days to explore.
Sunshine Hours and Daylight
December means Athens has its shortest days of the year. Expect around 9.5 hours of daylight, with sunrise after 7:30 AM and sunset before 5:15 PM.
Average sunshine runs about 3–4 hours per day, among the lowest for the year. Cloud cover happens a lot, and skies look gray, especially after it rains.
With limited daylight, plan your sightseeing earlier. Outdoor attractions close earlier than in summer, but central areas like Syntagma Square and Plaka stay well-lit and pleasant for evening walks.
Humidity Levels
Humidity in Athens during December averages 70–75%, the year’s highest. The cooler air keeps it from feeling sticky, though.
You probably won’t notice much stickiness like in summer. The air feels crisp and occasionally damp when it rains.
If you have sensitive lungs, the humidity with cooler temps might feel heavier than in dry months. Still, most people find the atmosphere comfortable for walking and sightseeing.
Temperature Details for Christmas Week
During Christmas week, Athens usually has mild winter conditions with cool afternoons and chilly nights. Daytime temperatures stay comfortable for walking, while evenings and mornings feel noticeably colder.
Average Highs and Lows
In late December, daytime highs in Athens usually hit 55–59°F (13–15°C). That’s a bit cooler than early December but still mild compared to much of Europe.
Afternoon temperatures often sit in the low to mid-50s °F, so a light jacket or sweater is fine during the day. On warmer days, highs might get close to 60°F (15°C), though that’s not too common.
Nighttime lows average 42–46°F (6–8°C). Temperatures rarely drop below 36°F (2°C), so frost is unusual in the city center. The sea nearby helps keep extremes in check, making Athens relatively mild in December.
| Time of Day | Average Temperature | Typical Range |
|---|---|---|
| Afternoon High | 55–59°F (13–15°C) | 50–60°F (10–16°C) |
| Night Low | 42–46°F (6–8°C) | 36–55°F (2–13°C) |
These conditions make Athens in December comfortable for outdoor activities. Dress in layers so you can adjust as temperatures change.
Nighttime and Early Morning Conditions
The coldest part of the day arrives before sunrise. Around Christmas, early mornings often sit near the low 40s °F (about 6°C). If you head out at this time, you’ll feel a sharp contrast with the milder afternoons.
Humidity levels stay moderate, so the cold feels crisp, not damp. Winds from the north blow often, and while average speeds are about 10 mph (16 km/h), gusts can make mornings feel colder.
Sunrise comes around 7:35 AM, with sunset near 5:10 PM. The short daylight window means evenings cool off quickly, and once the sun goes down, temperatures drop fast.
You won’t need heavy winter gear, since Athens rarely freezes in December. A medium-weight coat, scarf, and gloves are enough for being outside after dark.
Precipitation and Rainy Days
December in Athens brings cooler weather and a noticeable uptick in rainfall compared to the dry summer. Expect more wet days, though the total rain isn’t extreme by European standards.
Rainfall Amounts in December
December ranks as one of the wettest months in Athens. The city usually gets about 50–65 mm of rain over 9–11 days. That’s roughly one out of every three days with some rain.
Rain mostly falls in short, light to moderate showers. Snow is very rare in December, but it can happen in higher parts of the city.
Athens sees about 380 mm of rain per year, so December brings a good chunk of that. If you’re planning outdoor activities, keep an umbrella or light rain jacket handy.
| Month | Avg. Rainfall | Avg. Rainy Days |
|---|---|---|
| August | ~4 mm | 2 days |
| December | ~53–64 mm | 9–11 days |
Chance of Rain on Christmas Day
The chance of rain on December 25th is moderate. Based on climate data, there’s about a 30–35% likelihood of seeing some precipitation that day. You might get a brief shower in the morning or scattered rain later on.
Even when it rains, it rarely lasts all day. Showers usually pass quickly, and you’ll often get breaks of sunshine in between. Thanks to the Mediterranean climate, you’re more likely to have mild, cloudy, or partly sunny weather than a day of steady rain.
If you’re planning to spend Christmas outdoors, keep your plans flexible. Museums, historic sites, and cafés offer easy indoor escapes if a shower pops up. Most visitors find that December rain in Athens is manageable and doesn’t really stop sightseeing.
Sunshine, Daylight, and UV Index
December brings cooler weather, shorter days, and weaker sunlight to Athens. You’ll notice fewer hours of direct sun, longer evenings, and a low UV index that makes sunburn less of a concern.
Typical Hours of Sunshine
Expect limited sunshine during December in Athens. The city averages about 3 hours of sunshine per day, among the lowest for the year.
Clouds are common, and rainy days cut down on bright conditions. Still, when the sun does come out, the sky can look crisp and clear. That midday sun can make sightseeing surprisingly pleasant.
For outdoor plans, aim for late morning or early afternoon. That’s when the sun is most likely to appear and the air feels warmer. A light jacket is handy, since it cools quickly once the sun dips behind the hills.
Daylight Duration Around Christmas
Daylight is short in December. Around Christmas, Athens gets about 9.5 to 10 hours of daylight each day. Sunrise happens close to 7:30 AM, and sunset falls near 5:10 PM.
With less daylight, you’ll want to plan sightseeing earlier. Many archaeological sites and museums close by early evening, so starting your day early gives you more time.
Even with limited daylight, Athens has a soft winter glow that’s pretty atmospheric. Landmarks like the Acropolis or Syntagma Square look especially striking in the gentle afternoon light. Evening hours are great for indoor dining, cultural events, or just wandering through holiday displays.
UV Index and Sun Protection
The UV index in Athens during December stays low, usually between 1 and 2. The sun is weak compared to spring and summer, so the risk of sunburn is minimal.
You generally don’t need strong sun protection for casual outdoor time. If you’re outside for hours, especially at midday, a bit of sunscreen or sunglasses could still help.
Clear skies can make the sun feel stronger than you’d expect, even with a low UV index. A hat or moisturizer with SPF should be enough—no need to overpack sun gear.
Wind and Humidity Factors
December weather in Athens brings cooler air, more moisture, and moderate breezes. These factors shape how comfortable you feel outdoors, whether you’re strolling the city center or exploring ancient sites.
Average Wind Speeds in December
Winds in Athens during December are usually light to moderate. Speeds often range between 10–20 km/h (6–12 mph), with occasional gusts that feel stronger near the coast or in open spaces.
Breezes are more noticeable along the Saronic Gulf and lighter in sheltered neighborhoods. December doesn’t bring extreme wind events, but you might feel a steady chill with the lower temperatures.
Some days are calmer, but shifting weather can bring short periods of stronger winds, usually with rain showers or cold fronts. Most visitors stay comfortable with a light windproof jacket.
Humidity Trends and Comfort
Humidity rises in December compared to Athens’ dry summer. Average relative humidity sits between 70–75%, making the air feel damp, especially in the mornings and evenings.
Cooler temperatures and higher moisture give the air a sharper, brisk quality. It rarely feels oppressive, but dampness can make the cold feel more noticeable, especially on cloudy or rainy days.
You’ll probably feel more comfortable on drier days when humidity drops closer to 60%, often after a clearing breeze. Indoors, heating systems help reduce dampness, but outdoors, layered clothing lets you adjust as conditions shift.
For travelers, the humidity is manageable and just adds to the winter vibe in Athens.
What to Pack and Wear in Athens During December
December in Athens means mild but cool weather, with daytime temperatures often between 8°C and 15°C (46°F–59°F). Expect a mix of sunny days and occasional rain, so packing layers and versatile items will keep you comfortable in different conditions.
Clothing Recommendations
You’ll want to pack layered clothing so you can handle the temperature swings that happen all day long. A light or medium jacket works for daytime walks, but at night, you’ll probably reach for a warmer coat.
I always toss in long-sleeve shirts, sweaters, and cardigans so I can mix and match. Jeans or heavier pants make sense for most outings, and if you’re heading out in the evening, casual trousers look good too.
Comfortable walking shoes are a must. You’ll end up on your feet a lot, maybe wandering around the Acropolis or just getting lost in Plaka. Pick shoes with solid grip, since damp stones and old streets can get really slippery.
If you’re going out to eat or just hanging around the city at night, a neat sweater and some tailored pants will fit right in. You can leave the heavy winter gear at home, but honestly, summer stuff like shorts or sandals just won’t cut it.
Weather-Appropriate Accessories
Definitely bring a scarf, gloves, and a hat for those chilly mornings and evenings. Athens feels milder than northern Europe, but the wind sometimes makes it feel colder, especially if you find yourself on a hill like Lycabettus.
A compact umbrella, or maybe a lightweight raincoat, comes in handy, since December likes to surprise you with light showers. Sunglasses aren’t just for summer—winter sun can still glare off buildings and pavement.
I always pack a small day bag for stashing layers as the day warms up. If you’re checking out archaeological sites, grab a reusable water bottle and maybe some sunscreen, since that sun can still sneak up on you, even in winter.
Christmas Atmosphere and Seasonal Activities
Athens in December feels lively, with festive traditions everywhere you look. Streets glow with lights, public squares buzz with events, and bakeries fill up with seasonal sweets that are a big part of Greek holiday customs.
Festive Decorations and Events
Right in the center, Syntagma Square puts up a huge fir tree covered in thousands of lights. Music, performances, and stalls usually pop up all around, turning it into a gathering spot for locals and visitors alike.
You might spot karavaki—those small decorated boats—in a few neighborhoods. It’s a nod to Greece’s maritime roots and honestly, it’s a fun twist on the classic Christmas tree.
Neighborhoods like Plaka and Monastiraki look magical with string lights and all sorts of ornaments. Walking through these old streets, you get a mix of historic architecture and holiday spirit.
If you have kids, the Christmas Factory in Technopolis offers rides, crafts, and all kinds of entertainment. Over at the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center, you can catch concerts, ballet, or even try out ice skating. These spots blend culture with holiday cheer, so they’re usually pretty popular this time of year.
Sometimes, the best thing is just to wander decorated streets, duck into a cozy café, and watch how Athenians celebrate the season.
Traditional Greek Christmas Treats
Food really takes center stage during the holidays in Greece. Bakeries all over Athens pack their shelves with beloved sweets.
Two of the most popular are kourabiedes and melomakarona.
- Kourabiedes are almond cookies buried in powdered sugar.
- Melomakarona come soaked in honey and sprinkled with chopped walnuts.
You’ll also spot diples, which are pieces of fried dough drizzled with honey and nuts.
And there’s tsoureki, a sweet bread that smells like spices such as mahlab.
Another classic is vasilopita. This is a New Year’s cake with a coin tucked inside.
Families slice it at midnight on New Year’s Eve. Whoever finds the coin is supposed to get a stroke of good luck for the whole year.
Almost every bakery in Athens sells these treats, so you won’t have any trouble finding them as you wander the city.
Honestly, trying them with a hot coffee or cocoa in a cozy café just makes the holidays feel even more special.