Weather in Corfu in December
Expect cool, one of the wettest times of year weather in Corfu in December, early winter. Daytime highs average around 15°C / 59°F, and nights drop to about 7°C / 45°F. The sea averages about 17°C / 63°F, too cold for most people to swim. Expect rain on around 11 days and about 183 mm over the month, often in heavy bursts with dry spells between them. Western Greece is the wettest part of the country, and heavy downpours often alternate with clear, mild days. Corfu is one of the wettest parts of Greece, which is exactly why it's so green, with olive groves and cypress trees everywhere. Daylight lasts about 9½ hours, so plan sightseeing for the middle of the day. Pack a warm jacket, layers and a waterproof, plus shoes that can handle wet paths. Make the most of the middle of the day, when it's warmest and brightest.
Swimming in Corfu in December
At around 17°C / 63°F, the sea in Corfu is too cold for most people to swim in December. Save swimming plans for July, August and September, when the water is much warmer. Beaches such as Paleokastritsa and Glyfada 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 Corfu in December
You'll have Corfu largely to yourself in December. Rates for rooms and car hire drop to their yearly lows. 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. It's a good time to see everyday life, away from the summer bustle. Last-minute bookings are rarely a problem.
What's Open in Corfu in December
Ferry links from Igoumenitsa to Corfu continue through December, though with fewer sailings than in summer. Direct international flights run mainly from spring to autumn, while flights from Athens operate all year. Life goes on in the main town, but most resort hotels and beach tavernas close until spring. Archaeological sites and museums keep shorter winter hours. Most sites close on 25 and 26 December.
Festivals & Holidays in Corfu 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. Locals in Corfu mark these dates in the traditional way, and visitors are welcome to join in. 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 Corfu?
December is worth it for Corfu if you're interested in culture, food and walking rather than beaches. In numbers: highs of about 15°C / 59°F, lows of 7°C / 45°F and rain on around 11 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 Corfu in December?
Sunset in Corfu is at around 5:20 pm at the start of December, around 5:15 pm in mid-December and around 5:25 pm by the end of the month, in Greek local time. The Kaiser's Throne viewpoint above Pelekas is a favorite on the west side of the island.
Is it cold in Corfu in December?
Not very. December is mild by northern European standards, but it's one of the wettest months in western Greece, with regular rain and wind. Snow at sea level is rare. Pack a warm, waterproof jacket and layers for the evenings.
Can I visit Corfu Old Town in December?
Yes. You can explore Corfu Old Town 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. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Do I need a car on Corfu in December?
Yes, if you want to see more than Corfu 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 Corfu?
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.
Corfu Weather by Month
