Weather in Kos in December
In Kos, December brings early-winter weather that is mild and one of the wettest times of year. Daytime highs average around 17°C / 62°F, and nights drop to about 12°C / 54°F. The sea averages about 19°C / 66°F, bracing, and too cool for many swimmers. Expect rain on around 11 days and about 152 mm over the month, often in heavy bursts with dry spells between them. Kos is long and fairly flat, with sandy beaches along its coasts and a mountain ridge running along the south of the island. Winter here is shaped by the wind: storms sweep through regularly, often followed by calm, bright days. Daylight lasts about 9½ hours, so plan sightseeing for the middle of the day. Bring layers, a warm sweater and a light waterproof, as the weather can turn. Plan outdoor time around the middle of the day, when it's at its warmest.
Swimming in Kos in December
The sea around Kos averages about 19°C / 66°F in December, refreshing rather than warm. For warm-water swimming, aim for July, August and September, when the sea is at its best. Paradise Beach and Tigaki are local favorites. There are no lifeguards or beach services out of season, so swim with care. A short wetsuit helps if you feel the cold.
Crowds & Prices in Kos in December
You'll have Kos largely to yourself in December. 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. Tavernas that stay open cater mainly to locals, which is often when the food is best. It's a good time to see everyday life, away from the summer bustle. You can usually book at short notice.
What's Open in Kos in December
Ferry links from Piraeus to Kos 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 Kos 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. Locals in Kos mark these dates in the traditional way, and visitors are welcome to join in. Otherwise, life follows its normal rhythm, with Sunday lunches and busy cafés rather than big events.
Is December a Good Time to Visit Kos?
December is a maybe for Kos. It's quiet and relaxed, with mild spells that are nice for walking, but the sea is cooling, the weather is less reliable and many seasonal businesses have closed. Expect highs of around 17°C / 62°F, lows near 12°C / 54°F and rain on around 11 days. It suits travelers who want peace and local life. If you're after sun and swimming, June, September, October or November would suit you much better.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does the sun set in Kos in December?
Sunset in Kos is at around 4:55 pm at the start of December, around 4:55 pm in mid-December and around 5:05 pm by the end of the month, in Greek local time. With short days, plan outdoor sightseeing for the morning and early afternoon.
Does it get stormy in Kos 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 Kos Town in December?
Yes. You can explore Kos 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. The ancient agora and the Castle of the Knights sit right in the center.
Do I need a car on Kos 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 Kos?
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.
Kos Weather by Month
