Weather in Alonissos in December
December in Alonissos means early-winter conditions: cool and one of the wettest times of year. Temperatures typically peak at around 13°C / 56°F in the afternoon and fall to about 8°C / 47°F at night. Expect rain on around 10 days and about 121 mm over the month, often in heavy bursts with dry spells between them. Sea temperatures average around 16°C / 61°F, cold enough that only hardy swimmers go in. Alonissos is covered in pine forest that runs down to quiet coves, and it sits within a national marine park. Strong northerly and southerly winds are common, and the sea can stay rough for days at a time. 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. Plan outdoor time around the middle of the day, when it's at its warmest.
Swimming in Alonissos in December
Swimming isn't really on the cards in Alonissos in December, with the water at around 16°C / 60°F. Save swimming plans for July and August, when the water is much warmer. Beaches such as Agios Dimitrios and Milia are lovely for a walk, even when the water is too cold to swim. There are no lifeguards or beach services out of season, so swim with care. A wetsuit makes a big difference if you want to get in.
Crowds & Prices in Alonissos in December
December is one of the quietest months in Alonissos, 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. With so few visitors, the atmosphere is genuinely local, and people have time to chat. Last-minute bookings are rarely a problem.
What's Open in Alonissos in December
Ferry links from Volos and Agios Konstantinos to Alonissos continue through December, though with fewer sailings than in summer. Most hotels, restaurants and bars close for the winter, and only a few places stay open for locals. Archaeological sites and museums keep shorter winter hours. Most sites close on 25 and 26 December. Boat trips into the marine park stop for the season.
Festivals & Holidays in Alonissos 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 Alonissos, as across Greece, these traditions are very much alive. Outside these dates, it's a good time to experience ordinary Greek life, from the weekly market to the evening stroll.
Is December a Good Time to Visit Alonissos?
December is worth it for Alonissos if you're interested in culture, food and walking rather than beaches. In numbers: highs of about 13°C / 56°F, lows of 8°C / 47°F and rain on around 10 days in a typical December. It's quiet, prices are low and the main town still has plenty going on, but the sea is cold and many resort businesses are closed. For beach weather, come in June, September or October instead.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does the sun set in Alonissos in December?
In early December, the sun sets in Alonissos at around 5:05 pm. By mid-month it's around 5:00 pm, and by the end of December around 5:10 pm. All times are Greek local time. With short days, plan outdoor sightseeing for the morning and early afternoon.
Does it get stormy in Alonissos in December?
December is one of the stormiest months in the Aegean. Strong winds and bands of rain come through regularly, and the worst storms can cancel ferries for a day or more. There are calm, bright days in between, and snow at sea level is very rare. If you're traveling by ferry, allow a buffer day before any flight home.
Can I visit the National Marine Park of Alonissos in December?
Probably not. Boat trips to the National Marine Park of Alonissos mostly run from late spring to autumn, so in December there are few or no regular departures, and rough seas can stop small boats anyway. If it's a must, ask locally about a private boat on a calm day. Boat trips from Patitiri explore the park's islets, and you may spot dolphins.
Do I need a car on Alonissos 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 Alonissos?
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.
Alonissos Weather by Month
