Weather in Lipsi in December
December is early winter in Lipsi: cool and one of the wettest times of year. Temperatures typically peak at around 15°C / 59°F in the afternoon and fall to about 9°C / 48°F at night. In the water, expect around 18°C / 64°F, bracing, and too cool for many swimmers. Expect rain on around 10 days and about 139 mm over the month, often in heavy bursts with dry spells between them. Lipsi is a small, low island north of Leros, with quiet bays and little shelter from the wind. Strong northerly and southerly winds are common, and the sea can stay rough for days at a time. 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. Plan outdoor time around the middle of the day, when it's at its warmest.
Swimming in Lipsi in December
Swimming in Lipsi in December is possible but bracing, with the sea at around 18°C / 65°F. The best time for swimming is July, August and September, with August usually the warmest. Platis Gialos is a local favorite. 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 Lipsi in December
Tourism in Lipsi slows right down 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. Tavernas that stay open cater mainly to locals, which is often when the food is best. Check that your accommodation is open before you travel, as many places close for winter.
What's Open in Lipsi in December
Ferries to Lipsi from Patmos and Leros run all year, but less often in December, and rough seas can cancel sailings. Only a handful of rooms and one or two tavernas stay open, and some days almost nothing is. Archaeological sites and museums keep shorter 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 Lipsi 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. In Lipsi, as across Greece, these traditions are very much alive. Beyond that, it's a month of everyday life, with locals filling the cafés and tavernas in the evenings.
Is December a Good Time to Visit Lipsi?
December is a maybe for Lipsi. 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 15°C / 59°F and lows near 9°C / 48°F. It suits travelers who want peace and local life. If you're after sun and swimming, June, September or October would suit you much better.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does the sun set in Lipsi in December?
In early December, the sun sets in Lipsi at around 4:55 pm. By mid-month it's around 4:55 pm, and by the end of December around 5:05 pm. All times are Greek local time. With short days, plan outdoor sightseeing for the morning and early afternoon.
Does it get stormy in Lipsi 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.
Is December a good time for walking on Lipsi?
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 from the harbor village to small beaches around the island.
Do I need a car on Lipsi in December?
No. Lipsi is small enough to explore on foot, and the distances between the harbor, village and beaches are short. In December, seasonal minibuses and beach boats usually don't run, so be ready to walk and bring sturdy shoes.
Is December or January better for visiting Lipsi?
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.
Lipsi Weather by Month
