Weather in Poros in December
December is early winter in Poros: cool and fairly changeable. Daytime highs average around 15°C / 59°F, and nights drop to about 9°C / 47°F. In the water, expect around 18°C / 64°F, bracing, and too cool for many swimmers. Rain falls on around 6 days, adding up to about 64 mm over the month. Snow at sea level is rare, though the surrounding mountains often turn white during cold spells. Poros is separated from the Peloponnese by a narrow channel, and its pine-covered hills make it greener than most Saronic islands. You get about 9½ 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. 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 Poros in December
The sea around Poros averages about 18°C / 64°F in December, refreshing rather than warm. Save swimming plans for July, August and September, when the water is much warmer. Try Love Bay for clear water. Beaches are empty and unstaffed in winter, so swim only in calm conditions. Many coves are rocky or pebbly, so water shoes are useful. A short wetsuit helps if you feel the cold.
Crowds & Prices in Poros in December
December is one of the quietest months in Poros, with few visitors and a local, everyday feel. 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. Weekends are busier than weekdays, as it's a popular escape from Athens. You can usually book at short notice.
What's Open in Poros in December
Ferry links from Piraeus to Poros continue through December, though with fewer sailings than in summer. 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. It's worth calling ahead to restaurants, as off-season hours can be irregular.
Festivals & Holidays in Poros 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 Poros, as across Greece, these traditions are very much alive. Outside these dates, it's a good time to experience ordinary Greek life, from the weekly market to the evening stroll.
Is December a Good Time to Visit Poros?
December is a maybe for Poros. 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, lows near 9°C / 47°F and rain on around 6 days. 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 Poros in December?
In early December, the sun sets in Poros at around 5:10 pm. By mid-month it's around 5:10 pm, and by the end of December around 5:15 pm. All times are Greek local time. The clock tower above the town is the favorite viewpoint.
Is it cold in Poros in December?
Cool rather than cold by northern European standards. Days are often bright and mild, but evenings are chilly, and wind and rain can make some days feel properly wintry. Snow at sea level is rare. Pack a warm jacket and layers.
Is Poros a good weekend trip from Athens in December?
Yes. Poros is lived in all year, ferries from Piraeus run daily and in December it's a peaceful escape, though some seasonal hotels and tavernas close. You can also drive to Galatas on the Peloponnese coast and cross by small ferry in minutes.
Do I need a car on Poros 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 Poros?
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.
Poros Weather by Month
