Weather in Santorini in January
January in Santorini means midwinter conditions: cool and often wet. Average highs reach 14°C / 58°F, with lows of around 10°C / 50°F. Rain falls on around 9 days, with about 79 mm in total, usually in bursts rather than all-day drizzle. The sea averages about 16°C / 61°F, too cold for most people to swim. Strong northerly and southerly winds are common, and the sea can stay rough for days at a time. Santorini is a volcanic island with little shelter or shade, and the caldera rim is often windier than the beaches below. Daylight lasts about 10 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. Short days and changeable skies are part of the appeal, with fewer visitors and a more local feel. Make the most of the middle of the day, when it's warmest and brightest.
Swimming in Santorini in January
Swimming isn't really on the cards in Santorini in January, with the water at around 16°C / 62°F. The best time for swimming is July, August and September, with August usually the warmest. Beaches such as Perissa and Kamari are lovely for a walk, even when the water is too cold to swim. Beaches are empty and unstaffed in winter, so swim only in calm conditions. If you do go in, a wetsuit is a good idea.
Crowds & Prices in Santorini in January
You'll have Santorini largely to yourself in January. It's the cheapest time to visit, with the best deals on accommodation. 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. Tavernas that stay open cater mainly to locals, which is often when the food is best. You can usually book at short notice.
What's Open in Santorini in January
Ferries to Santorini from Piraeus and Rafina run all year, but less often in January, and rough seas can cancel sailings. Direct international flights run mainly from spring to autumn, while flights from Athens operate all year. Most hotels, restaurants and bars close for the winter, and only a few places stay open for locals. Museums and archaeological sites are open on winter hours. Most sites close on 1 January. Fira and Oia keep a few hotels and restaurants open, but many close.
Festivals & Holidays in Santorini in January
On 6 January, Epiphany, priests bless the waters, and young swimmers dive in to retrieve a cross thrown into the sea. New Year's Day is a public holiday, celebrated with family meals and vasilopita, a cake with a lucky coin baked inside. In Santorini, 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 January a Good Time to Visit Santorini?
January is worth it for Santorini if you're interested in culture, food and walking rather than beaches. Expect highs of around 14°C / 58°F, lows near 10°C / 50°F and rain on around 9 days. It's quiet, prices are low and the main town still has plenty going on, but the sea is cold and many resort businesses are closed. For beach weather, come in June, September or October instead.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does the sun set in Santorini in January?
In early January, the sun sets in Santorini at around 5:15 pm. By mid-month it's around 5:25 pm, and by the end of January around 5:40 pm. All times are Greek local time. Oia is the most famous place to watch it, but it gets very crowded, so Fira and Imerovigli along the caldera are good alternatives.
Is the sea rough in Santorini in January?
It can be. January is one of the stormiest months in the Aegean, and strong northerly or southerly winds regularly whip up rough seas. On the worst days, ferries and small boats are delayed or cancelled, so leave a spare day before any flight home. Calm, sunny spells between storms are common too.
Is January a good time to walk from Fira to Oia?
Yes, on dry days. Walking in January 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. The path follows the caldera rim and takes around three to four hours.
Do I need a car on Santorini in January?
It helps. Buses run on a much thinner timetable in January, 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 January or February better for visiting Santorini?
There's little between them. Both are the heart of the off-season, with cool, changeable weather and a quiet, local feel. February brings slightly longer days, the first almond blossom and often the start of carnival season, while January has Epiphany on 6 January. Choose by your dates, and keep ferry plans flexible.
Santorini Weather by Month
