Weather in Aegina in December
December is early winter in Aegina: cool and fairly changeable. Daytime highs average around 15°C / 59°F, and nights drop to about 9°C / 47°F. In the water, expect around 17°C / 63°F, cold enough that only hardy swimmers go in. Rain falls on around 6 days, adding up to about 64 mm over the month. Snow at sea level is rare, though the surrounding mountains often turn white during cold spells. Aegina sits in the sheltered Saronic Gulf, less than an hour from Piraeus, so its weather is close to that of Athens. You get about 9½ hours of daylight a day, so plan sightseeing for the middle of the day. Pack a warm jacket, layers and a waterproof, plus shoes that can handle wet paths. Short days and changeable skies are part of the appeal, with fewer visitors and a more local feel. Make the most of the middle of the day, when it's warmest and brightest.
Swimming in Aegina in December
The sea around Aegina averages about 17°C / 63°F in December, which is cold for swimming, though a few hardy locals still take a dip. For warm-water swimming, aim for July, August and September, when the sea is at its best. Beaches like Agia Marina and Marathonas are still worth a visit for the scenery and a walk along the shore. Beaches are empty and unstaffed in winter, so swim only in calm conditions. If you do go in, a wetsuit is a good idea.
Crowds & Prices in Aegina in December
December is one of the quietest months in Aegina, with few visitors and a local, everyday feel. Prices are at their lowest of the year, although fewer hotels are open. Christmas and New Year bring some Greek visitors home, but it stays quiet. Go midweek if you can, as weekends bring visitors from Athens. You can usually book at short notice.
What's Open in Aegina in December
Ferry links from Piraeus to Aegina continue through December, though with fewer sailings than in summer. The main town stays open all year, but beach resorts close and many hotels shut for the winter. Museums and archaeological sites are open on winter hours. Most sites close on 25 and 26 December. Check opening days before setting out, as some places open only at weekends.
Festivals & Holidays in Aegina in December
Christmas is celebrated with church services, carols sung door to door by children and festive sweets like melomakarona and kourabiedes. On 6 December, Saint Nicholas, patron saint of sailors, is honored in harbors across Greece, and decorated boats appear alongside Christmas trees. In Aegina, as across Greece, these traditions are very much alive. Beyond that, it's a month of everyday life, with locals filling the cafés and tavernas in the evenings.
Is December a Good Time to Visit Aegina?
Yes, if you're after a quiet, local-feeling trip. Expect highs of around 15°C / 59°F, lows near 9°C / 47°F and rain on around 6 days. In December, Aegina is ideal for trying the famous pistachios, museums and long lunches, with few other visitors around. Don't come for swimming or nightlife, though. For sun and sea with fewer crowds than summer, choose June, September or October.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does the sun set in Aegina in December?
In early December, the sun sets in Aegina at around 5:10 pm. By mid-month it's around 5:10 pm, and by the end of December around 5:15 pm. All times are Greek local time. The waterfront in Aegina Town faces west and is a lovely place to watch it.
Is it cold in Aegina in December?
Cool rather than cold by northern European standards. Days are often bright and mild, but evenings are chilly, and wind and rain can make some days feel properly wintry. Snow at sea level is rare. Pack a warm jacket and layers.
Can I visit the Temple of Aphaia in December?
Yes. The Temple of Aphaia is open all year on shorter winter hours, and in December you'll often have it almost to yourself. Like most Greek sites, it may close on some public holidays, so check the official hours before you go. It stands in pine woods on a hill in the northeast of the island, so you'll need a bus, taxi or car to get there.
Do I need a car on Aegina in December?
It helps. Buses run on a much thinner timetable in December, and some routes stop completely, so a hire car is the easiest way to explore. Rental rates are low off-season, but fewer agencies are open, so book ahead.
Is December or January better for visiting Aegina?
December has the edge for atmosphere, with Christmas decorations and New Year celebrations, while January is quieter still, with Epiphany on 6 January. The weather is similar: cool, changeable and occasionally stormy. Both suit travelers who want the island at its most local.
Aegina Weather by Month
