Dreams of Greece often include these things: Santorini's trademark white and blue architecture featuring breathtaking ocean views, the ancient ruins of Athens, or maybe even the party island of Mykonos. Whatever it is, it usually doesn't include driving down a snow-drenched road surrounded by forests. Even more is that dreams of Greece don't usually involve the thought of winter, at all.
However, to forget that some parts of Greece do turn into winter wonderlands would be to forget about some of its most beautiful - albeit, unfamiliar - landscapes. There are some travelers out there who enjoy the peace and tranquility that comes with a perfect winter scene, and Greece is home to one of the most scenic in the world.
Ready to find out why it's worth changing summer plans for?
Greece's Winter Beauty & Where To Find It
For some reason, it often comes as a surprise that a destination as tropical as this - one that practically exudes summer vibes, no less - experiences a pretty significant winter season. While thoughts of its snowfall are gone and forgotten once one is lounging on a beach in Santorini, it should be noted that temperatures in Greece can get as low as 48 degrees Fahrenheit, but remain somewhere around 53 degrees. With that being said, the further north one travels, the lower the temperature will get. In the country's more mountainous regions, the temperature can drop as low as -4 degrees Fahrenheit. This is where visitors will find the most snow and, on the rare occasion, they may not even need to go much further north than Athens to witness such a display.
It can be argued that these smaller mountains towns and villages in Greece offer more authenticity than its tourist hotspots. Not only are travelers veering from the well-traveled path of beach days and parties, but they might also learn to embrace the quieter, more traditional side of this beautiful country. That's not the only reason to visit Greece in the winter, though:
- Experience Greece's authentic winter food (which is different from its seasonal summer dishes)
- Avoid crowds around popular landmarks that are still open during the winter
- Take advantage of the holiday season when visiting in December
- Go skiing on some of Greece's most scenic slopes
- Enjoy the country's natural thermal spas
- Embrace the warmth and coziness of a small Greek village as the snow falls
Best Places To Visit In Greece During The Winter
There are a surprising number of towns and cities to visit in Greece once the weather turns chilly. The best part about this is that none of them are likely to be crowded, since Greece is, and likely always will be, a summer destination first and foremost.
Nymfeo
As far as Greece's most beautiful villages go, Nymfeo is definitely one of them. In the winter, this entire village takes on a new persona as it sits against the dramatic backdrop of Mount Vitsi. The first thing that most visitors will notice is its architecture, which can be seen in all of its traditional stone houses. Taking a hike through snow-covered beech tree forests or visiting the wild bear sanctuary, Arktouros, are only two ways to appreciate its scenery.
Delphi & Mt. Parnassos
Some may already be familiar with Delphi due to it being the home of the Oracle of Delphi. This ancient site holds a lot of significance in Greek culture, and the winter is one of the best times to visit and avoid the crowds. Mr. Parnassos is home to scenic skiing but is also known as a sacred mountain to the Greeks. In addition to skiing, visitors to the mountain can take scenic hikes and stay in any number of small villages along its slopes.
Arachova
Known as a very classic winter destination in Greece, Arachova is home to many lower-mountain options for skiing and hiking. For those who would rather stay at a lower elevation, this affords one the opportunity to experience winter in Greece while having access to high-end hotels, charming inns, and local dishes and wine courtesy of the Mt. Parnassos mountain region.
Lake Vouliagmeni & Loutraki Pellas
For those who'd rather warm themselves up than take a chance with chilly temps on the slopes, a thermal pool might just be the answer. Lake Vouliagmeni is a thermal lake, which means that it remains a constant warm temperature all year-round. Its beautiful natural rock formations create somewhat of a protected cove, and the experience is a tranquil one.
Loutraki Pellas is located in Macedonia and features a thermal spa and services for those seeking some serious pampering. This thermal spring is sure to get visitors warm and toasty despite the chilly temps outside. It's also a great location from which to set out exploring some of Macedonia's other winter towns.
Winter in Greece can be just as, if not more, rewarding than a summer vacation. Many times, the prices will be more affordable, the crowds will be thinned, and it's a great way to experience authentic towns and villages.