Weather in Rhodes in December
December is early winter in Rhodes: mild and one of the wettest times of year. Daytime highs average around 17°C / 62°F, and nights drop to about 12°C / 54°F. Rain falls on around 11 days, with about 152 mm in total, usually in bursts rather than all-day drizzle. The sea averages about 19°C / 66°F, bracing, and too cool for many swimmers. Rhodes is one of the sunniest islands in Greece, and its east coast is usually calmer than the windier west. Winter here is shaped by the wind: storms sweep through regularly, often followed by calm, bright days. You get about 10 hours of daylight a day, so plan sightseeing for the middle of the day. Pack layers, including a warm sweater for the evenings and a light waterproof jacket. Weather can change quickly at this time of year, so check the forecast before a long day out. Plan outdoor time around the middle of the day, when it's at its warmest.
Swimming in Rhodes in December
The sea around Rhodes averages about 19°C / 67°F in December, refreshing rather than warm. For warm-water swimming, aim for August and September, when the sea is at its best. Tsambika, Anthony Quinn Bay and Lindos are local favorites. There are no lifeguards or beach services out of season, so swim with care. A short wetsuit helps if you feel the cold.
Crowds & Prices in Rhodes in December
Tourism in Rhodes 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. With so few visitors, the atmosphere is genuinely local, and people have time to chat. It's a good time to see everyday life, away from the summer bustle. You can usually book at short notice.
What's Open in Rhodes in December
Ferries to Rhodes from Piraeus run all year, but less often in December, and rough seas can cancel sailings. 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. Museums and archaeological sites are open on winter hours. Most sites close on 25 and 26 December.
Festivals & Holidays in Rhodes 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 Rhodes, as across Greece, these traditions are very much alive. Otherwise, life follows its normal rhythm, with Sunday lunches and busy cafés rather than big events.
Is December a Good Time to Visit Rhodes?
December is a maybe for Rhodes. 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 Rhodes in December?
In early December, the sun sets in Rhodes at around 4:55 pm. By mid-month it's around 4:55 pm, and by the end of December around 5:00 pm. All times are Greek local time. Monte Smith hill, above Rhodes Town, is a favorite viewpoint.
Does it get stormy in Rhodes 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 Rhodes Old Town in December?
Yes. You can explore Rhodes Old Town any time of year. In December it's quiet, with few visitors, and some tourist shops and cafés close for the season, but it feels authentic and peaceful. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the Palace of the Grand Master is the highlight.
Do I need a car on Rhodes in December?
Yes, if you want to see more than Rhodes Town. 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 Rhodes?
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.
Rhodes Weather by Month
