Weather in Alonissos in January
January is the heart of winter in Alonissos: cool and often wet. Expect highs of about 12°C / 54°F and overnight lows near 7°C / 44°F. In the water, expect around 15°C / 59°F, too cold for most people to swim. Expect rain on around 8 days and about 54 mm over the month, often in heavy bursts with dry spells between them. Winter here is shaped by the wind: storms sweep through regularly, often followed by calm, bright days. Alonissos is covered in pine forest that runs down to quiet coves, and it sits within a national marine park. You get about 10 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. Sunny spells between the rain can be beautiful, with clear air and long views. Plan outdoor time around the middle of the day, when it's at its warmest.
Swimming in Alonissos in January
The sea around Alonissos averages about 15°C / 58°F in January, which is cold for swimming, though a few hardy locals still take a dip. The best time for swimming is July and August, with August usually the warmest. Beaches such as Agios Dimitrios and Milia are lovely for a walk, even when the water is too cold to swim. Beaches are empty and unstaffed in winter, so swim only in calm conditions. A wetsuit makes a big difference if you want to get in.
Crowds & Prices in Alonissos in January
January is one of the quietest months in Alonissos, with few visitors and a local, everyday feel. It's the cheapest time to visit, with the best deals on accommodation. It's a good time to see everyday life, away from the summer bustle. Tavernas that stay open cater mainly to locals, which is often when the food is best. You can usually book at short notice.
What's Open in Alonissos in January
Ferry links from Volos and Agios Konstantinos to Alonissos continue through January, 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 1 January. Boat trips into the marine park stop for the season.
Festivals & Holidays in Alonissos in January
New Year's Day is a public holiday, celebrated with family meals and vasilopita, a cake with a lucky coin baked inside. On 6 January, Epiphany, priests bless the waters, and young swimmers dive in to retrieve a cross thrown into the sea. In Alonissos, as across Greece, these traditions are very much alive. Otherwise, life follows its normal rhythm, with Sunday lunches and busy cafés rather than big events.
Is January a Good Time to Visit Alonissos?
January is worth it for Alonissos if you're interested in culture, food and walking rather than beaches. Expect highs of around 12°C / 54°F, lows near 7°C / 44°F and rain on around 8 days. 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 January?
Sunset in Alonissos is at around 5:10 pm at the start of January, around 5:25 pm in mid-January and around 5:40 pm by the end of the month, in Greek local time. With short days, plan outdoor sightseeing for the morning and early afternoon.
Is the sea rough in Alonissos in January?
It can be. January is one of the stormiest months in the Aegean, and strong northerly or southerly winds regularly whip up rough seas. On the worst days, ferries and small boats are delayed or cancelled, so leave a spare day before any flight home. Calm, sunny spells between storms are common too.
Can I visit the National Marine Park of Alonissos in January?
Probably not. Boat trips to the National Marine Park of Alonissos mostly run from late spring to autumn, so in January 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 January?
It helps. Buses run on a much thinner timetable in January, 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 January or February better for visiting Alonissos?
There's little between them. Both are the heart of the off-season, with cool, changeable weather and a quiet, local feel. February brings slightly longer days, the first almond blossom and often the start of carnival season, while January has Epiphany on 6 January. Choose by your dates, and keep ferry plans flexible.
Alonissos Weather by Month
