Weather in Athens 🇬🇷
Monthly weather averages & travel planning
December
Avg Temp
13°C
Rain Days
8 days
Sun Hours
7 hrs
Humidity
65%
Europe › 🇬🇷 Greece › Athens
Updated: March 2026
Is December a Good Time to Visit Athens?
5/10
Fair
December is a fair time to visit Athens (5/10). With 7 daily sunshine hours and only 8 rain days, this month delivers genuinely reliable outdoor conditions, ranking it 12th sunniest of the year in Athens. Culture-focused travellers and those who prefer lighter crowds will find December a practical choice, with prices running lower than peak June without sacrificing all the good weather. January offers a similar profile at lower hotel rates if dates are flexible. The main practical note: Athens's popular sites are busiest between 10am and 3pm regardless of season. Arriving at opening time or after 4pm makes a significant difference to the experience. Planning tips: accommodation is generally available without long lead times, and flight prices are typically lower than peak season. Flexible travellers will find the best deals by booking 2-4 weeks ahead. Mid-week arrivals consistently unlock lower hotel rates than weekend check-ins.
vs November:18°C avg high
Visiting Athens in December means mild conditions with highs around 13°C. Factor in 8 potential rainy days and 65% average humidity when planning your daily activities.
13°C
55°F
Avg High
7°C
45°F
Avg Low
8 days
64 mm total
Rain Days
7h
per day avg
Sunshine
65%
Moderate
Humidity
Temperature in Athens in December
The 6°C day-night temperature range is typical for continental climates: a light jacket in the morning that you shed by midday and need again after sunset. Humidity averages 65%, which is comfortable for most visitors. On warmer days, lighter fabrics help with the mild stickiness in the afternoon. The UV index of 1 is low, meaning sun exposure is minimal concern and sunscreen is largely optional. Wind averages 15 km/h, light enough to be refreshing on warm days but noticeable in open coastal areas or elevated viewpoints. In Fahrenheit: 55°F average high, 45°F overnight low. Data sourced from Open-Meteo ERA5 climate reanalysis (1991–2020 normals).
Temperature Trends
High
Low
Rainfall (mm)
0-20 mm21-50 mm51-100 mm100+ mm
What to Wear in Athens in December
Morning7°CBefore the day warms up
Afternoon13°CPeak daytime temperature
Evening10°CAfter sunset cools down
Packing for Athens in December means dressing for 13°C days and 7°C evenings. A mid-weight jacket over a sweater handles 13°C daytime temperatures; the combination stays comfortable all day without overheating. Evening temperatures settle at 7°C, a modest 6°C drop that a light cardigan or denim jacket covers. European cobblestones reward low-profile walking shoes over flip-flops or heels, with cushioned trainers or leather walking shoes being the practical choice.
Local tip: Many of Athens's museums and galleries maintain cool interior temperatures regardless of outdoor conditions. A compact layer in your daypack lets you move between warm streets and chilled exhibition halls without discomfort.
Events in Athens in December
December has no major festivals or public holidays in Athens, which is one of its practical advantages for independent travellers. Attractions run at lower capacity than during peak event periods, queues are shorter, and accommodation is easier to find without needing to book many months in advance. Local restaurants, markets, and transport operate at a relaxed pace, making this an ideal time for visitors who prefer a more authentic, unhurried experience of everyday city life rather than large crowds drawn in by a single major headline event.
What to Pack for Athens in December
Based on 13°C average highs and 8 rainy days
- Warm jacket (down or fleece)
- Merino wool base layer (regulates temperature and resists odour)
- Sweaters and lined trousers
- Scarf and lightweight gloves
- Comfortable walking shoes (a second pair lets the first air out overnight)
- Universal travel adapter
- Small day pack for city exploration
- Reusable water bottle
Best Activities in Athens in December
- Explore the old town's cobblestone backstreetsMorning (9-11am)At 13°C, conditions are pleasant for unhurried exploration on foot
- Visit hilltop viewpoints for panoramic city viewsLate afternoon (4-6pm)Low sun angle creates dramatic light for photography while temperatures remain comfortable
- Bicycle rental for a half-day city circuitMid-morning startMild 13°C temperatures are ideal for extended cycling without excessive effort
- Boat tour of the river, bay, or canal networkLate morning departureComfortable weather makes open-deck boats viable without wind-chill concerns
- Afternoon in a world-class museum or galleryAfternoon (2-5pm)Pairs well with outdoor morning activities and provides a mid-day rest from sightseeing
- Coffee-house or traditional cafe culture experienceMid-morning or post-lunchA cultural ritual in this region that rewards slow appreciation regardless of weather
- Evening live music, theatre, or opera performanceEvening shows typically at 7-9pmConsistent evening temperatures make getting to and from evening venues comfortable
- Visit the main botanical garden or city park at seasonal peakYear-round; best light in morningDecember brings distinct seasonal changes to public green spaces worth exploring
- Warm up with traditional hot dishes: local stew, fondue, or braised specialities at a neighbourhood restaurantLunch (12-2pm) or dinner (7-9pm)Cold-weather cuisine is a genuine cultural experience and the best local restaurants serve their heartiest dishes in cooler months
Why is Athens cool in December?
In December, the Azores High weakens and retreats southward, allowing Atlantic storm tracks to cross the Mediterranean and bring the city its seasonal rainfall. Temperatures average 13°C during the day and drop to 7°C at night as cold continental air occasionally pushes in from the north. This is the rainy season that keeps the region's landscape green through spring. Climate data: Open-Meteo ERA5 (1991–2020).
Sunshine Hours
The average number of hours per day with direct sunlight. Calculated from satellite measurements. Days with more than 7 hours of sunshine are ideal for outdoor activities. Under 3 hours means overcast conditions dominate.
UV Index
A scale from 0-11+ measuring ultraviolet radiation intensity. UV 0-2: Minimal risk. UV 3-5: Moderate, wear sunscreen. UV 6-7: High, hat and SPF 30+ essential. UV 8-10: Very High, limit midday exposure. UV 11+: Extreme, seek shade between 10am-4pm.
Rain Days
A rain day is counted when precipitation exceeds 0.1mm. This threshold captures even light drizzle. Unlike total rainfall in mm, rain days tells you how often you might need an umbrella, which is useful for planning outdoor activities.
Humidity
Relative humidity as a percentage. Below 40%: Dry, skin and throat may feel parched. 40-60%: Comfortable, ideal for most people. 60-80%: Sticky, light breathable fabrics recommended. Above 80%: Muggy, heat feels more intense; quick-dry clothing is essential.
Frequently Asked Questions
Athens in December
In December, Athens experiences average highs of 13°C (55°F) and lows of 7°C (45°F). Expect around 8 rainy days and 7 hours of sunshine per day, with humidity averaging 65%. The 6°C gap between daytime and overnight temperatures is worth planning around: light layers work for most visitors during the day, but an extra jacket is essential for evenings. UV exposure is moderate at index 1.
Athens typically sees 8 rainy days in December, with total precipitation of around 64mm. Rain is moderate and manageable. Showers tend to pass quickly, and a light rain layer or foldable umbrella is sufficient protection for most days. For context, the driest month in Athens typically sees 4-6 fewer rain days than December.
Pack a warm jacket, sweaters, and layering pieces for Athens in December. Temperatures can drop to 7°C at night, so thermal underlayers are advisable for evening outings. Waterproof footwear is a sensible precaution even though rain days are limited. A scarf, hat, and gloves handle the windchill on clear cold days, which often feel colder than the thermometer reads.
December is a reasonable time to visit Athens. Expect 8 rainy days, so pack a light rain layer for flexibility. Average temperatures of 13°C make outdoor exploration comfortable during the dry periods. With 7 daily sunshine hours, there are reliable windows of good weather to plan outdoor activities around, even if the month is not the driest on the calendar.
The average high temperature in Athens in December is 13°C (55°F), and the average low is 7°C (45°F). The mean daily temperature is approximately 10°C (50°F). The day-to-night range of 6°C is moderate, meaning a single light jacket covers most situations. These are 30-year climate normals based on the 1991 to 2020 reference period; individual years will vary, particularly in transitional months like spring and autumn.
The best month to visit Athens is generally June. June offers the most sunshine at 14 hours per day and only 3 rainy days. Average temperatures reach 30°C, making it comfortable for sightseeing, outdoor dining, and exploring the city. If your travel dates are flexible, planning your trip around June gives you the best chance of dry, bright weather.
December is shoulder or low season in Athens, meaning fewer tourists and generally lower prices than peak months. With 7 sunshine hours and 8 rainy days, the weather is less of a draw for mass tourism. This is an advantage for travellers who prefer a quieter, more relaxed experience with shorter queues and easier accommodation availability.
In December, Athens suits a range of activities thanks to cool conditions around 13°C. Mix of indoor and outdoor activities works well given the moderate chance of rain. Top options include exploring historic neighbourhoods, visiting museums and galleries, local food markets, and day trips to surrounding areas. With 7 hours of sunshine, parks and waterfront walks are particularly enjoyable.
December ranks 12th sunniest of the year in Athens, with an average 7 daily sunshine hours. The driest months are August, July, and June. July is the hottest month (33°C avg high); January is the coolest (12°C). From here, temperatures fall 1°C into January. Compared to last month (November: 18°C high, 7 rain days), December is cooler and wetter. December is one of the least sunny months, but that often means lower prices and fewer fellow tourists.
Year-Round Climate
| Month | High | Low | Rain Days | Sun | Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 12°C | 5°C | 8 | 7h | View |
| February | 13°C | 6°C | 7 | 8h | View |
| March | 16°C | 7°C | 7 | 10h | View |
| April | 20°C | 10°C | 6 | 12h | View |
| May | 25°C | 15°C | 5 | 12h | View |
| June | 30°C | 20°C | 3 | 14h | View |
| July | 33°C | 22°C | 2 | 14h | View |
| August | 33°C | 22°C | 1 | 13h | View |
| September | 28°C | 19°C | 3 | 11h | View |
| October | 23°C | 15°C | 4 | 9h | View |
| November | 18°C | 11°C | 7 | 8h | View |
| December | 13°C | 7°C | 8 | 7h | View |
January
8 rain days, 7h sun
12°5°
February
7 rain days, 8h sun
13°6°
March
7 rain days, 10h sun
16°7°
April
6 rain days, 12h sun
20°10°
May
5 rain days, 12h sun
25°15°
June
3 rain days, 14h sun
30°20°
July
2 rain days, 14h sun
33°22°
August
1 rain days, 13h sun
33°22°
September
3 rain days, 11h sun
28°19°
October
4 rain days, 9h sun
23°15°
November
7 rain days, 8h sun
18°11°
December
8 rain days, 7h sun
13°7°
Other Months in Athens
Plan Your Trip to Athens
Nearby Destinations
Cities within 500 km with comparable weather conditions
Data Sources for Athens
Climate normals represent 30-year averages (1991-2020). Individual years may vary.