Weather in Chios in December
December is early winter in Chios: cool and one of the wettest times of year. Average highs reach 14°C / 57°F, with lows of around 8°C / 46°F. The sea averages about 17°C / 63°F, too cold for most people to swim. Rain falls on around 11 days, with about 143 mm in total, usually in bursts rather than all-day drizzle. Strong northerly and southerly winds are common, and the sea can stay rough for days at a time. Chios lies close to the Turkish coast, and its southern mastic villages are drier and warmer than the green north. 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. Sunny spells between the rain can be beautiful, with clear air and long views. Make the most of the middle of the day, when it's warmest and brightest.
Swimming in Chios in December
Swimming isn't really on the cards in Chios in December, with the water at around 17°C / 63°F. Save swimming plans for July, August and September, when the water is much warmer. Beaches like Mavra Volia and Karfas 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. A wetsuit makes a big difference if you want to get in.
Crowds & Prices in Chios in December
December is one of the quietest months in Chios, with few visitors and a local, everyday feel. It's the cheapest time to visit, with the best deals on accommodation. 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. You can usually book at short notice.
What's Open in Chios in December
Ferries to Chios from Piraeus run all year, but less often in December, and rough seas can cancel sailings. The island also has an airport with flights from Athens. 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.
Festivals & Holidays in Chios in December
On 6 December, Saint Nicholas, patron saint of sailors, is honored in harbors across Greece, and decorated boats appear alongside Christmas trees. Christmas is celebrated with church services, carols sung door to door by children and festive sweets like melomakarona and kourabiedes. In Chios, these occasions are celebrated much as they are across the rest of Greece. 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 Chios?
December is worth it for Chios if you're interested in culture, food and walking rather than beaches. Expect highs of around 14°C / 57°F, lows near 8°C / 46°F and rain on around 11 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 Chios in December?
In early December, the sun sets in Chios at around 4:55 pm. By mid-month it's around 4:55 pm, and by the end of December around 5:05 pm. All times are Greek local time. With short days, plan outdoor sightseeing for the morning and early afternoon.
Does it get stormy in Chios 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 mastic villages of Chios in December?
Yes. You can explore the mastic villages of Chios any time of year. In December it's quiet, with few visitors, and some tourist shops and cafés close for the season, but it feels authentic and peaceful. Pyrgi, with its patterned facades, and fortified Mesta are the highlights.
Do I need a car on Chios in December?
Yes, if you want to see more than Chios Town. Bus services are limited in December, and a car makes it easy to reach villages, beaches and viewpoints. Rental rates are among the lowest of the year, but fewer agencies are open.
Is December or January better for visiting Chios?
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.
Chios Weather by Month
