I am thinking about taking an off-season quick trip to Athens in January. I realize that for Athens, this is the coldest time of year. But compared to other parts of Europe, it seems like Athens in January would be pretty mild and would allow for good site seeing with less crowds. We are thinking of doing a 5-6 night trip and using Athens as our home base to do things in Athens and day trips out of Athens. Does anyone have any thoughts on whether enough tourist sites or other activities would be open this time of year to make this trip worthwhile?
Posted by
Citizen of the World
2005 posts
Actually, January is fine for Athens because almost all its attractions are open and the weather is 55F/45F with rain falling only 5 days on average. That sounds downright tropical if you're coming from the East coast of the US. There may be more people in Athens the first week of January with visitors leftover from the holidays.
Have a great Trip!
Posted by
Brighton, UK
1419 posts
Pre Covid we were often in Athens in early January. We tended to spend Christmas and New Year there or in Nafplio. On a couple of occasions (out of around twenty) we had snow but much more common was being able to sit out for lunch in the sun. It’s colder in the evenings but then the tavernas have a nice cosy feel. As you say sights are much quieter.
My advice would be the obvious: make sure your accommodation has decent heating and take layers and a waterproof just in case.
Alan