Weather in Lemnos in December
In Lemnos, December brings early-winter weather that is cool and one of the wettest times of year. Expect highs of about 13°C / 56°F and overnight lows near 8°C / 47°F. Expect rain on around 10 days and about 121 mm over the month, often in heavy bursts with dry spells between them. Sea temperatures average around 16°C / 61°F, cold enough that only hardy swimmers go in. Lemnos is a low, volcanic island in the north Aegean, with open landscapes and few trees to block the wind. 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. Pack a warm jacket, layers and a waterproof, plus shoes that can handle wet paths. Weather can change quickly at this time of year, so check the forecast before a long day out. Make the most of the middle of the day, when it's warmest and brightest.
Swimming in Lemnos in December
Swimming isn't really on the cards in Lemnos in December, with the water at around 16°C / 60°F. Save swimming plans for July and August, when the water is much warmer. Beaches are empty and unstaffed in winter, so swim only in calm conditions. The water is still wonderfully clear, even when it's too cold to stay in long. A wetsuit makes a big difference if you want to get in.
Crowds & Prices in Lemnos in December
December is one of the quietest months in Lemnos, with few visitors and a local, everyday feel. Rates for rooms and car hire drop to their yearly lows. 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. You can usually book at short notice.
What's Open in Lemnos in December
Ferries to Lemnos from Lavrio and Kavala run all year, but less often in December, and rough seas can cancel sailings. The island also has an airport with flights from Athens. 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.
Festivals & Holidays in Lemnos 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 Lemnos, 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 Lemnos?
Yes, if you're after a quiet, local-feeling trip. Expect highs of around 13°C / 56°F, lows near 8°C / 47°F and rain on around 10 days. In December, Lemnos is ideal for exploring its sand dunes, museums and long lunches, with few other visitors around. Don't come for swimming or nightlife, though. For sun and sea with fewer crowds than summer, choose June or September.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does the sun set in Lemnos in December?
Sunset in Lemnos 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 Lemnos 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 Pachies Ammoudies sand dunes in December?
Yes. The Pachies Ammoudies sand dunes is accessible all year, and it's quiet in December. Check the weather before you go, as rain and wind can make paths slippery and exposed spots cold. They're in the north of the island, near Gomati.
Do I need a car on Lemnos in December?
Yes, if you want to see more than Myrina. 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 Lemnos?
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.
Lemnos Weather by Month
