Weather in Kos in January
Expect cool, one of the wettest times of year weather in Kos in January, the heart of winter. Daytime highs average around 15°C / 59°F, and nights drop to about 11°C / 51°F. In the water, expect around 17°C / 63°F, too cold for most people to swim. Rain falls on around 11 days, with about 186 mm in total, usually in bursts rather than all-day drizzle. Winter here is shaped by the wind: storms sweep through regularly, often followed by calm, bright days. Kos is long and fairly flat, with sandy beaches along its coasts and a mountain ridge running along the south of the island. 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. Make the most of the middle of the day, when it's warmest and brightest.
Swimming in Kos in January
The sea around Kos averages about 17°C / 63°F in January, which is cold for swimming, though a few hardy locals still take a dip. Save swimming plans for July, August and September, when the water is much warmer. Beaches such as Paradise Beach and Tigaki 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 Kos in January
January is one of the quietest months in Kos, 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 Kos in January
Ferry links from Piraeus to Kos continue through January, though with fewer sailings than in summer. Direct international flights run mainly from spring to autumn, while flights from Athens operate all year. The main town stays open all year, but beach resorts close and many hotels shut for the winter. Archaeological sites and museums keep shorter winter hours. Most sites close on 1 January.
Festivals & Holidays in Kos 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. Locals in Kos 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 January a Good Time to Visit Kos?
January is worth it for Kos if you're interested in culture, food and walking rather than beaches. In numbers: highs of about 15°C / 59°F, lows of 11°C / 51°F and rain on around 11 days in a typical January. 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, October or November instead.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does the sun set in Kos in January?
Sunset in Kos is at around 5:05 pm at the start of January, around 5:15 pm in mid-January and around 5:35 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 Kos 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 Kos Town in January?
Yes. You can explore Kos Town any time of year. In January 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 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 Kos?
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.
Kos Weather by Month
