Weather in Ithaca in December
December in Ithaca means early-winter conditions: cool and one of the wettest times of year. Daytime highs average around 16°C / 60°F, and nights drop to about 10°C / 49°F. The sea averages about 18°C / 64°F, refreshing for some, but too cool for most. Rain falls on around 13 days, with about 189 mm in total, usually in bursts rather than all-day drizzle. Ithaca is a small, green, mountainous island in the Ionian, right next to Kefalonia. Western Greece is the wettest part of the country, and heavy downpours often alternate with clear, mild days. You get about 9½ hours of daylight a day, so plan sightseeing for the middle of the day. Bring a warm coat, layers, an umbrella and shoes that can cope with rain. Short days and changeable skies are part of the appeal, with fewer visitors and a more local feel. Plan outdoor time around the middle of the day, when it's at its warmest.
Swimming in Ithaca in December
At around 18°C / 64°F, the sea in Ithaca is swimmable in December if you don't mind a chill. The best time for swimming is July, August and September, with August usually the warmest. Try Gidaki and Filiatro for clear water. There are no lifeguards or beach services out of season, so swim with care. If you feel the cold, a wetsuit top makes a difference.
Crowds & Prices in Ithaca in December
You'll have Ithaca largely to yourself in December. 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. 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 Ithaca in December
In December, ferries between Kefalonia and Ithaca run on a reduced winter timetable, and storms sometimes cause cancellations. Life goes on in the main town, but most resort hotels and beach tavernas close until spring. Museums and archaeological sites are open on winter hours. Most sites close on 25 and 26 December. It's worth calling ahead to restaurants, as off-season hours can be irregular.
Festivals & Holidays in Ithaca 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 Ithaca, these occasions are celebrated much as they are across the rest of Greece. Otherwise, life follows its normal rhythm, with Sunday lunches and busy cafés rather than big events.
Is December a Good Time to Visit Ithaca?
It depends on what you want. In December, Ithaca is peaceful and inexpensive, but the season is over, the sea is too cool for most swimmers and the weather can turn. In numbers: highs of about 16°C / 60°F, lows of 10°C / 49°F and rain on around 13 days in a typical December. It's fine for a quiet break or following in Odysseus's footsteps. For a proper beach holiday, go in June, September, October or November.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does the sun set in Ithaca in December?
In early December, the sun sets in Ithaca at around 5:20 pm. By mid-month it's around 5:20 pm, and by the end of December around 5:25 pm. All times are Greek local time. With short days, plan outdoor sightseeing for the morning and early afternoon.
Is it cold in Ithaca 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.
Is December a good time for walking on Ithaca?
Yes, on dry days. Walking in December can be very rewarding, with clear air and empty paths, but days are short, trails can be muddy after rain and the wind can be strong on exposed ground. Start early, carry a warm layer and check the forecast. Paths lead to places linked with Homer's Odyssey.
Do I need a car on Ithaca in December?
Yes, if you want to see more than Vathy. 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 Ithaca?
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.
Ithaca Weather by Month
