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Wintering in Greece with a camper – here’s how it works!
The sound of waves, freshly harvested oranges, and T-shirt weather: wintering in Greece is perfect for anyone longing to extend summer. Here’s how to make your holiday in Greece work during the colder months.
When it comes to winter, opinions in Germany are divided. Some people start listening to Christmas songs on repeat as early as the end of October and can’t wait to clutch an (overpriced) cup of mulled wine with icy hands. Others, on the other hand, can’t imagine anything better than escaping the cold winter and heading for warmer climates. Are you also toying with the idea of swapping snow and thick winter coats for a blue sea and mild temperatures this winter? Then Greece might be just the right destination to treat yourself to a break from sub-zero temperatures back home.
Temperatures in Greece from October to February – what weather can you expect on the mainland and the islands?
In general, you can enjoy a Mediterranean climate when camping in Greece at any time of year. While summers are usually very hot and dry, winter naturally looks a bit different. Greek winters are generally mild, although rainfall is fairly common, especially in coastal regions. That said, you don’t have to completely give up on sunny days. Inland areas tend to be drier in winter, but also cooler, and in the mountainous regions of Greece you should expect snowfall. The coldest average temperatures, around 5–10°C, can be expected in January and February. It’s noticeably warmer in October, with average temperatures of around 17–20°C, in November with averages of about 14–17°C, and even in December, when temperatures typically range between 7–14°C. However, weather conditions can vary greatly depending on the region, and as mentioned, inland and mountainous areas tend to experience below-average temperatures. We’ll share more about the warmest regions to visit in winter later in this article.
A holiday by the sea in Greece – what are water temperatures like in winter?
There’s certainly no shortage of sea around Greece. Autumn travelers can still enjoy water temperatures of up to 22°C. The coldest months are February and March, when average water temperatures drop to around 14°C. In November, December, and January, water temperatures fall somewhere between these highs and lows. Whether swimming is still appealing under these water and air temperatures is, of course, up to each individual.
How much does it cost to winter in Greece with a camper?
At campsites that are open outside the summer months, you can usually expect lower prices than during the peak season, and often even additional long-term discounts. We’ll take a more detailed look at the campsites themselves a bit later on. Besides the cost of your pitch, camper rental is of course another major expense—unless you already own your own camper or motorhome.
Sights in Greece and more – what does Greece have to offer in winter?
Greece is full of possibilities all year round. History and culture enthusiasts will get their money’s worth throughout the country, but especially in Athens – here you’ll find the famous Acropolis, several museums, creative neighborhoods such as Plaka, Metaxourgeio, and Exarchia, and of course countless opportunities to enjoy Greek cuisine. Elsewhere in the country, culture lovers can also discover impressive archaeological sites like the Theater of Epidaurus or the Minoan palaces, where the country’s rich history becomes truly tangible. Those who are more into active pursuits won’t miss out in winter either. Whether it’s windsurfing off the coast of Crete, taking a dip in the Mediterranean on warmer days, or hiking through Greece’s beautiful landscapes, you don’t have to give up outdoor activities during the winter months.
One of the best things about spending a winter holiday in Greece is that even at popular tourist hotspots, you’re spared the crowds that are typical in summer. This means you can enjoy Greece’s beauty in a much more relaxed and unhurried way. Another highlight of the winter months is the orange and olive harvest, so you get to enjoy delicious, freshly picked oranges and newly pressed olive oil.
Greece in October or January – which regions are best to visit?
The southern mainland and the islands located further south are the best choice for winter travel due to their average temperatures. You’re spoiled for choice between Crete, Rhodes, and the Peloponnese, which are generally the warmest regions in Greece during the winter months. However, you can also usually expect pleasant temperatures on other islands such as Naxos, Paros, or Aegina, as well as in Athens.
The best campsites in Greece in winter
Unfortunately, many campsites in Greece are only open during the main summer season. The good news, however, is that during the off-season, free camping is generally tolerated more than in peak season. This can be especially practical if you want to move on spontaneously in case a region turns out to be too cold. You can read more about wild camping in Greece here. We’ve selected a few campsites for you that remain open in winter and are located in the warmer regions of the country. A small tip on the side: for many campsites that aren’t open year-round or don’t provide clear information on their website, it can be worth simply calling and asking whether you can stay during your planned travel period.
Camping in Crete – a holiday on Greece’s largest island
Crete is one of the warmest places in Greece during autumn and winter. Here, you can enjoy your travel time under the Greek sun and discover plenty of highlights: Knossos, the Cave of Psychro, as well as countless beautiful beaches and hiking opportunities are waiting to be explored. During your stay on Crete, you can settle in at Camping No Problem in the southwest of the island, offering camping beneath plane trees and olive trees and located close to Agia Galini Beach. Further north on the island, you can also stay at Camping Elizabeth.
Camping in the Peloponnese – a classic destination for winter campers
The Peloponnese peninsula is probably the most popular spot for winter campers heading to Greece. And for good reason: here you’ll find sunshine, beaches, diverse landscapes, and cultural highlights and sights such as the Theater of Epidaurus. In the southeast of the Peloponnese, Camping Semeli is open even in winter and is located directly on the beach in Leonidion. If you ’re more drawn to the southwest, Camping Thines is another great option. Here too, you’ll be right by the sea and close to many worthwhile excursion destinations.
How do I best plan a road trip through Greece?
Planning a vacation can be quite time-consuming – and the longer you’re on the road, the more organization it usually requires. Especially on extended trips, it can help to keep your plans flexible and focus on a rough route rather than scheduling every single stop in advance.
Road trips through Greece are particularly well suited if you’re traveling not only in winter but also during the warmer autumn and spring months. During these seasons, the northern parts of the country are much more pleasant to explore thanks to milder temperatures, making it easier to enjoy longer drives, sightseeing, and outdoor activities along the way.
So you can see that spending the winter in Greece at pleasant temperatures is absolutely possible, as long as you stick to the south and especially the Greek islands. With the right preparation and the right mindset, you can enjoy the perfect mix of nature, culture, and adventure in Greece during winter. For more information about camping in Greece, take a look at our other articles on camping by the Greek sea and wild camping in Greece.
