Weather in Samos in December
Expect cool, one of the wettest times of year weather in Samos in December, early winter. Temperatures typically peak at around 15°C / 59°F in the afternoon and fall to about 9°C / 48°F at night. Sea temperatures average 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. Strong northerly and southerly winds are common, and the sea can stay rough for days at a time. Samos is green and mountainous, and it lies so close to Turkey that you can see the coast across the strait. You get about 9½ hours of daylight a day, so plan sightseeing for the middle of the day. Bring a warm coat, layers, an umbrella and shoes that can cope with rain. Plan outdoor time around the middle of the day, when it's at its warmest.
Swimming in Samos in December
Swimming in Samos in December is possible but bracing, with the sea at around 18°C / 64°F. Save swimming plans for July, August and September, when the water is much warmer. Try Tsamadou and Potami for clear water. Beaches are empty and unstaffed in winter, so swim only in calm conditions. A short wetsuit helps if you feel the cold.
Crowds & Prices in Samos in December
December is one of the quietest months in Samos, 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. 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 Samos in December
Ferries to Samos 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. 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 Samos 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. Locals in Samos mark these dates in the traditional way, and visitors are welcome to join in. 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 Samos?
It depends on what you want. In December, Samos is peaceful and inexpensive, but the season is over, the sea is too cool for most swimmers and the weather can turn. In numbers: highs of about 15°C / 59°F, lows of 9°C / 48°F and rain on around 10 days in a typical December. It's fine for a quiet break or visiting Pythagorion. For a proper beach holiday, go in June, September or October.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does the sun set in Samos in December?
Sunset in Samos is at around 4:55 pm at the start of December, around 4:55 pm in mid-December and around 5:00 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 Samos 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 Tunnel of Eupalinos in December?
Yes. The Tunnel of Eupalinos is open all year on shorter winter hours, and in December you'll often have it almost to yourself. Like most Greek sites, it may close on some public holidays, so check the official hours before you go. This ancient aqueduct tunnel is near Pythagorion, and access inside is limited, so check the visiting times.
Do I need a car on Samos in December?
Yes, if you want to see more than Vathy. 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 Samos?
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.
Samos Weather by Month
