Sprawling across the Attica Basin, Athens is renowned as the city that housed Plato's Academy and Aristotle's Lyceum. Notably the birthplace of democracy, it is the capital of Greece as well as its largest city. Teeming with countless monuments of archaeological significance and museums galore to tickle your historical bone, Athens is also a hub for artists owing to its rich heritage. As you immerse yourself in the prolific culture of this historic city, don’t forget to partake of the local delicacies. If you’ve got a penchant for street art, the incredible displays of graffiti are sure to blow your mind. Here’s our take on visiting Athens in the winter, and if you're looking to visiting Athens in January, look no further!
What makes Athens in January Special?
Although the city is chiefly a summer destination, if you were to visit Athens in January, you’ll truly be able to appreciate the city’s charm and the local delights. Since January is typically the coldest time of the year in Greece, it’s a great opportunity to dodge the usual large tour groups and crowds of cruise passengers. Although it snows for merely a few days annually, the snow-covered Acropolis is a rare sight and a wonder to behold. Athens in the winter is an intimate affair, stripped as it is of the sunny spirit that you often see in travel guides or on social media. Moreover, don’t underestimate the range of scrumptious winter delicacies and sweets you can bite into. It’s safe to say that visiting Athens under the mantle of winter winds and chilly charm is the perfect way to glimpse this historic place with a fresh perspective.
Athens Weather in January
You can anticipate average high temperatures around 13°C to 14°C, while the average low temperatures fall to about 6°C to 7°C. Expect rainfall, but don’t be daunted by the prospect of snow. Instead, embrace the experience that most explorers forego - and witness the Athenian winter like a true local.
Visting Athens in January : Things To Do
1
The Acropolis
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Acropolis is Athens’ most famous landmark and is renowned for housing the Parthenon. To avoid the crowd that begins forming around 11 AM, we suggest visiting the site on a weekday, early in the morning.
January Timings
Open daily from 8 AM – 5 PM
Athens, 105 58
Greece
Getting There ›
2
Museum of Cycladic Art
The Museum of Cycladic Art is home to one of Greece’s most distinctive collections of Cycladic Art. We suggest visiting the display depicting everyday life scenes in Classical Athens. The museum remains closed on Tuesdays.
January Timings
Monday, and Wednesday to Saturday: 10 AM to 5 PM
Sunday: 11 AM to 5 PM
Neofitou Douka 4, Athina 106 74
Greece
Getting There ›
