Weather in Nisyros in December
Expect mild, one of the wettest times of year weather in Nisyros in December, early winter. Temperatures typically peak at around 17°C / 62°F in the afternoon and fall to about 12°C / 54°F at night. Expect rain on around 11 days and about 152 mm over the month, often in heavy bursts with dry spells between them. Sea temperatures average around 19°C / 66°F, refreshing for some, but too cool for most. Strong northerly and southerly winds are common, and the sea can stay rough for days at a time. Nisyros is a round volcanic island, and its crater floor can feel much hotter than the coast on still days. Daylight lasts about 10 hours, so plan sightseeing for the middle of the day. Pack layers, including a warm sweater for the evenings and a light waterproof jacket. Plan outdoor time around the middle of the day, when it's at its warmest.
Swimming in Nisyros in December
Swimming in Nisyros in December is possible but bracing, with the sea at around 19°C / 66°F. For warm-water swimming, aim for July, August and September, when the sea is at its best. There are no lifeguards or beach services out of season, so swim with care. Smaller beaches often have no shade, so bring your own. If you feel the cold, a wetsuit top makes a difference.
Crowds & Prices in Nisyros in December
Tourism in Nisyros slows right down in December. Rates for rooms and car hire drop to their yearly lows. 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. With so few visitors, the atmosphere is genuinely local, and people have time to chat. Last-minute bookings are rarely a problem.
What's Open in Nisyros in December
Ferries to Nisyros from Kos run all year, but less often in December, and rough seas can cancel sailings. The main town stays open all year, but beach resorts close and many hotels shut for the winter. Museums and archaeological sites are open on winter hours. Most sites close on 25 and 26 December. Cash is useful, as smaller places may not take cards.
Festivals & Holidays in Nisyros 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 Nisyros, 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 Nisyros?
December is a maybe for Nisyros. 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 and lows near 12°C / 54°F. 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 Nisyros in December?
Sunset in Nisyros 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 Nisyros 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 Stefanos volcanic crater in December?
Yes. The Stefanos volcanic crater 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. You can walk down onto the crater floor.
Do I need a car on Nisyros 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 Nisyros?
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.
Nisyros Weather by Month
