Greece in winter? Hell yes. While the summer crowds flock to the islands, winter reveals a side of Greece most travelers never see—quiet beaches, snow-dusted mountains, cozy villages, and ancient ruins without a soul in sight. It’s the perfect time to experience Greece’s magic without breaking a sweat or fighting for a sunset view.
From the jaw-dropping monasteries of Meteora to the charming streets of Athens’ Plaka district bathed in winter light, Greece proves it’s not just a summer destination. This is the land of myth, mountains, and Mediterranean charm, and winter brings it all to life in unexpected ways.
Whether you’re chasing adventure in the Peloponnese, sipping wine in Nafplio, or wandering through Crete’s quieter corners, Greece will surprise you this season. Let’s dive into 12 amazing places to visit in Greece this winter!
Top Destinations in Greece this Winter
Ready to discover the best destinations in Greece this winter? From the snowy mountain trails of Metsovo to the festive ambiance of Thessaloniki, Greece offers an array of unique experiences during the cooler months. Whether you’re exploring ancient ruins in Athens or enjoying the cozy charm of a Pelion village, Greece in winter has something special for every traveler. Here’s your ultimate guide to the best winter activities in Greece. Let’s dive in!
1. Metsovo
Perched in the Pindus Mountains, Metsovo is a charming alpine town that turns into a cozy retreat during winter. The stone-built houses, snowy rooftops, and traditional tavernas give it serious fairytale vibes. It’s a great base for skiing at the Anilio Ski Center or exploring nearby Aoos Lake and Valia Calda National Park.
Winter is also the perfect time to taste local specialties like metsovone cheese and hearty stews paired with wines from the region’s renowned Katogi Averoff Winery. I spent an entire evening by a crackling fireplace in a traditional taverna, sipping local wine while snow fell gently outside and the innkeeper shared stories of mountain life. For a laid-back winter experience blending mountain adventure, culture, and authentic Greek hospitality, Metsovo delivers.
2. Zagori
Zagori is a cluster of 46 traditional villages tucked into the Epirus region, known for its stone mansions, arched bridges, and dramatic landscapes. In winter, the Vikos Gorge and Tymfi Mountains are dusted with snow, offering spectacular views and fewer crowds. It’s a dream for hikers and photographers alike.
Stay in Papigo or Monodendri, where you can curl up in a rustic guesthouse and enjoy slow evenings by the fire. The region is famous for its mushroom dishes and locally foraged herbs. I hiked across the ancient Kokkoros Bridge in fresh snow, feeling like I was walking through a living postcard as mist rose from the gorge below. If you’re craving nature, silence, and stone-built charm, Zagori is Greece’s best-kept winter secret.
3. Patras
Patras, Greece’s third-largest city, shines in winter thanks to its legendary Patras Carnival, the biggest in Greece and one of the oldest in Europe. Held from January through February, it features parades, masquerade balls, and vibrant street parties. Beyond the festivities, explore the Castle of Patras, the Roman Odeon, and sip Greek coffee in the charming Upper Town (Ano Poli).
Winter is also a great time to try local sweets like diples and loukoumades. Located near the Peloponnese, Patras makes a fun cultural stop for travelers who love energy, history, and great sea views. I joined the carnival crowds dancing in elaborate masks through ancient streets, feeling the infectious joy that has made this celebration legendary for over 180 years.
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4. Mount Olympus
Snow-covered Mount Olympus is a mythical and majestic winter destination perfect for nature lovers and adventurers. Greece’s highest peak, and the legendary home of the gods, transforms into a frosty playground in winter. Base yourself in Litochoro, a picturesque town at the mountain’s base, ideal for hiking lower-altitude trails or visiting the Enipeas Gorge.
While the summit is snowbound, the national park remains open and beautiful. Visit the Mount Olympus National Park Information Center, explore Byzantine monasteries, and savor mountain cuisine like goat stew and wild greens. I stood at the base of the legendary mountain watching clouds swirl around its snow-covered peaks, imagining Zeus and the other gods looking down from their mythical throne. For a blend of mythology, nature, and peaceful winter landscapes, Mount Olympus is unforgettable.
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5. Pelion Peninsula
Between Volos and the Aegean Sea, the Pelion Peninsula is a magical winter escape where mountains meet the sea. Villages like Makrinitsa, Portaria, and Tsagarada are all about cobbled streets, fireplace taverns, and sea views framed by snow. Ski at Pelion Ski Center on Mount Pelion, then enjoy a long lunch with local dishes like spetzofai (sausage and peppers) or boubari.
The trails and traditional architecture make it feel like you’ve stepped into a Greek fairytale. Even in winter, you can catch glimpses of the coastline, making Pelion a perfect mix of alpine and coastal Greece. I sat in a mountain taverna watching snow fall while the Aegean Sea sparkled in the distance, amazed that I could experience both winter wonderland and seaside views in the same moment.
6. Delphi
There’s something even more mystical about Delphi in winter. The ancient sanctuary of Apollo—once considered the center of the world—sits quietly beneath snow-dusted Mount Parnassus, offering a peaceful and powerful experience without the tourist rush. Wander the Temple of Apollo, Theater, and Tholos with near silence and stunning mountain views.
Visit the excellent Archaeological Museum of Delphi, then head to nearby Arachova for cozy food and ski access. Delphi combines mythology, history, and nature in one breathtaking winter setting. I walked among the ancient ruins in complete solitude as snow began to fall, feeling the same sense of awe and mystery that pilgrims must have experienced thousands of years ago.
It’s a must for travelers seeking depth and serenity.
7. Arachova
Nicknamed the “Winter Mykonos,” Arachova is Greece’s chicest mountain town, especially in ski season. Located on the slopes of Mount Parnassus, just a short drive from Delphi, this alpine village offers access to the Parnassos Ski Center, the country’s top ski resort. The town itself is full of stylish cafes, boutique hotels, and vibrant nightlife, especially on winter weekends.
After skiing or snowboarding, enjoy local delicacies like formaela cheese, trahana soup, or a warm glass of rakomelo. Whether you’re into snow sports or just cozying up in a mountain lodge, Arachova is the place to see and be seen in winter Greece. I spent an entire evening in a chic mountain bar sipping rakomelo while watching well-dressed Athenians celebrate the weekend, feeling like I had discovered Greece’s answer to Aspen.
8. Kalavryta
Tucked in the Chelmos Mountains, Kalavryta is a fantastic winter destination for skiing, history, and natural beauty. The Kalavryta Ski Center is one of Greece’s best, with sweeping views of the Gulf of Corinth. Off the slopes, ride the scenic Odontotos Rack Railway through the dramatic Vouraikos Gorge, or visit the moving Holocaust Museum of Kalavryta, which honors victims of WWII atrocities.
Explore the Mega Spilaio Monastery, clinging to a cliffside, or warm up with hearty mountain food like goat stew and local honey. I rode the historic rack railway through snow-covered gorges, feeling like I was on a magical train journey through some of Europe’s most dramatic winter scenery. For a meaningful, adventure-filled winter getaway, Kalavryta packs a lot into a small mountain town.
9. Nafplio
One of Greece’s most romantic towns, Nafplio is magical in winter. With Venetian architecture, seaside promenades, and fewer crowds, it’s a peaceful alternative to the islands. Explore Palamidi Fortress, stroll through the old town’s alleys, or take a boat to the Bourtzi Castle in the harbor.
Winter weather is mild, and cafes stay lively with locals. Nafplio also makes a great base for day trips to Epidaurus, Mycenae, and Nemea (for wine lovers). I climbed the 999 steps to Palamidi Fortress on a crisp winter morning, enjoying panoramic views of the sea and old town without a single other tourist in sight.
Whether you’re into history, photography, or just soaking in charm, Nafplio is a year-round gem with extra magic in the off-season.
10. Thessaloniki
Greece’s second-largest city, Thessaloniki, comes alive in winter with energy, food, and culture. Known for its Byzantine churches, lively cafes, and vibrant street art, the city is less touristy than Athens but just as rich in experiences. Visit the White Tower, explore the Ladadika District, and duck into warm patisseries for bougatsa or tsoureki.
The city’s museums—especially the Archaeological Museum and Museum of Byzantine Culture—are fantastic. Winter means fewer crowds, mild temps, and nonstop nightlife. I spent an entire afternoon wandering through Thessaloniki’s vibrant neighborhoods, sampling bougatsa from street vendors while local artists painted murals on ancient walls.
If you want to blend city life with history and real Greek flavor, Thessaloniki delivers in every season.
11. Athens
Winter is arguably the best time to explore Athens. You’ll experience the Acropolis, Parthenon, and ancient ruins without the crushing summer crowds…or heat. The city has a crisp, energetic vibe in winter, with outdoor cafes still open and the scent of roasted chestnuts in the air.
Dive into history at the Acropolis Museum, warm up in the National Archaeological Museum, or explore hip neighborhoods like Psiri, Exarchia, and Plaka. January and February also bring local festivals, including the carnival season leading up to Clean Monday. I climbed to the Acropolis on a clear January morning and had the Parthenon almost entirely to myself, finally able to appreciate its majesty without fighting through crowds.
Whether you’re a history buff or culture lover, Athens in winter is cheaper, cooler, and full of hidden surprises.
12. Kastoria
Set beside a glassy lake and ringed by snow-dusted mountains, Kastoria is one of northern Greece’s most atmospheric winter towns. Known for its Byzantine churches and furrier history, the old town is full of Ottoman mansions and lakeside paths. Winter brings foggy mornings, cozy guesthouses, and hearty local food like fasolada and kavourmas.
Don’t miss the Dragon’s Cave, a lakeside cave filled with stalactites, or a boat ride on Lake Orestiada. With ski resorts nearby and fewer tourists year-round, Kastoria is a hidden gem for a peaceful, storybook-style winter escape. I took an early morning walk along the misty lake shore, watching swans glide through the fog while Byzantine church bells chimed across the water, creating the most serene winter moment I’ve ever experienced.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the Best Places to Visit in Greece in the Winter:
Looking for more helpful content on how to experience a Greek winter? Here are some popular questions from readers like you:
Is it worth visiting Greece in winter?
I highly recommend visiting Greece during the winter. It’s a time when you can explore famous historical sites without the crowds, experience local festivals, and enjoy the beauty of snow-covered landscapes. The atmosphere is more relaxed, giving you a genuine feel of Greek culture. Plus, the mild Mediterranean winter is perfect for those who prefer cooler, but not freezing, temperatures.
What is the warmest part of Greece in winter?
The southern parts of Greece, including Crete and the southern Peloponnese, tend to be the warmest in winter. Crete, especially, maintains mild temperatures and receives more sunshine than the northern regions. It’s ideal for those looking to escape harsh winters but still enjoy the season’s charm in the Balkans.
Where can I go in Greece for snow?
For snow and skiing in Greece, head to the mountainous regions. Places like Metsovo, Zagori, and the Pelion Peninsula are fantastic for experiencing a Greek winter wonderland. These areas offer great opportunities for skiing and snowboarding, especially at popular Greek ski resorts like Kalavryta and Parnassos.
Is Greece cheap in the winter?
Yes, Greece can be more budget-friendly in winter. Accommodation prices tend to drop outside the peak summer season, and you’ll find better deals on flights. Plus, with fewer tourists, you can enjoy more affordable dining and activities. It’s a great time to experience Greece without the summer price tag.
Which Greek island is open in winter?
Many Greek islands remain open in winter, but with fewer tourists, the experience is more laid-back. Crete, Rhodes, and Corfu are great options as they are larger and maintain a lively atmosphere year-round. You’ll find plenty of open shops, restaurants, and attractions, which makes them ideal for a winter island getaway in Greece.
