If you are planning a tourist trip to Greece in January, be prepared for the fact that the weather will not be hot and sunny, conducive to a beach holiday. January is considered the coldest month of the year. Despite this, one should not count on severe frosts either.
Weather in Greece in January
- In Thessaloniki, the temperature is + 2-9C. There is less precipitation compared to December. January has an average of eight rainy days. However, sometimes there can be cold snaps with snowfall, leading to the appearance of ice. Similar conditions can be noted on the Halkidiki peninsula.
- In the city of Larissa, in the homeland of Achilles, it can be + 10C during the day, but in the evening and at night it will be cooler + 2C. In this regard, warm clothing is indispensable.
- Are you a warm-hearted person? This means that the best region for recreation is the south. In Athens, it can be + 13C during the day and + 7C at night. Livni cannot be called frequent guests.
- On the Peloponnese peninsula, which is the southern edge of mainland Greece, there are up to thirteen rainy days in January. However, the temperature regime pleases: + 6-15C.
- Speaking of island Greece, a significant amount of precipitation can be noted. The record holder is the Ionian Islands. For example, in Corfu in January there may be 14 rainy days, but the temperature, fluctuating between + 6-14C, is really pleasing.
Holidays and festivals in Greece in January
When planning your holidays in Greece in January, be prepared for amazing holidays.
The first of January is the Day of St. Basil the Great. On this holiday, the family should gather at one table. The main dish is the "basilopita" pie, in which it is customary to hide coins for wealth and happiness.
Epiphany is celebrated on January 6 in Greece. On this day, a ritual of consecration of water, festive services are held near open reservoirs. The eighth of January is the holiday of Gynecocracy, when men have to do all the housework.
In Greece, unusual carnivals take place in January. For example, on the 17th, on the day of St. Anthony in Patras, masquerade processions begin, stretching for a month and a half. In Kastoria, the Raguzaria Carnival is held annually, lasting three days, dedicated to the ritual exorcism of evil spirits. In Naoussa, during the festivities, the central fountain is filled with wine. In Thessaloniki, it is customary to hold fire shows and yoghurt fights during festive processions.
Visit Greece in January, this is a great opportunity to enjoy a rich cultural holiday!
