Greece generally has a Mediterranean climate, with mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers. However, Greece’s large size and diverse terrain mean that the country can have a range of different weather conditions. But does it snow in Greece? Let’s find that out!
Does It Snow in Greece?
Greece is a country located in southern Europe. Despite its southern location, Greece does experience some snowfall each year, especially in the northern and central parts of the country.
The snow season in Greece typically runs from December through February, with the heaviest snowfall occurring in January.
So, Yes, it does Snow in Greece. Although it does not snow everywhere in Greece, there are some areas where snow is common. Snowfall accumulates to less than an inch in residential areas where, but it tends to fall more in Mountainous regions.
The most popular ski resort in Greece is located on Mount Olympus, where skiing and snowboarding are enjoyed by visitors from all over the world.
How Often Does It Snow in Greece?
Greece is a beautiful country with plenty of sunshine, but what about snow? Many visitors are surprised to learn that it actually does snow in some parts of Greece, particularly in the northern and mountainous regions.
In general, the further north and inland you go, the more likely you are to see snow. The Greek mainland typically sees around 1-5 days of snowfall each year, with some areas seeing even more.
For example, the city of Ioannina in northwestern Greece has an average of 2 days of snowfall per year.
Of course, this is all dependent on the weather conditions in any given year. Snowfall can sometimes occur as early as October in the north, but it usually doesn’t start regularly falling until December or January.
The snow season usually lasts until March or April, though in some years, it can last until May. If you’re hoping to see snow during your trip to Greece, your best bet is to visit between December and March.
Keep in mind that the higher altitude you go, the more likely you are to see snow – so if you really want to make sure there’s snow on the ground, head for one of Greece’s mountains or ski resorts!
When Does It Snow in Greece?
The answer to this question can depend on what region of Greece you are asking about. The northern and central parts of Greece tend to experience snowfall more frequently than the southern regions.
In general, snowfall typically occurs in Greece between the months of December and March.
What Is the Weather Like in Greece?
Greece enjoys a warm Mediterranean climate, with mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers. However, the country is mountainous, and there can be significant variations in temperature from one area to another.
The Greek islands – such as Crete, Rhodes, and Corfu – enjoy a particularly mild climate, with average temperatures of around 18-20 degrees Celsius in the winter and up to 35 degrees in the summer.
In general, the further north you go in Greece (for example, to Thessaloniki), the cooler it becomes – especially in winter. Snow is common on mountain peaks such as Mount Olympus and Mount Parnassus but rarer at lower altitudes.
What Are the Best Things to Do in the Snow in Greece During Winter?
Although most people associate Greece with beaches and sunny weather, the country actually has a lot to offer in winter.
From snow-capped mountains to festive Christmas markets, here are some ideas on the best things to do in Greece during the colder months to get you started.
1. Enjoy the Snow
One of the best things about winter in Greece is the opportunity to enjoy some winter sports.
Skiing and snowboarding are popular activities in the country, and there are a number of great resorts to choose from. If you’re not a fan of skiing, you can also enjoy sledding, snowshoeing, or just playing in the snow.
2. Explore Historic Sites
Greece is home to some of the world’s most famous historic sites, and although many of them are best visited during the warmer months, they can still be enjoyed in winter.
The Acropolis in Athens is one example – although it can be chilly at this time of year, it’s definitely worth braving the cold to see this iconic site.
3. Shop at Christmas Markets
If you’re visiting Greece during December, make sure to check out some of the country’s Christmas markets.
Athens has a number of great markets, selling everything from traditional Greek Christmas decorations to delicious festive food. Most markets are open from late November until just before Christmas Day.
Conclusion
From the research that was gathered, it appears that snow does fall in some parts of Greece, but not all. The mountainous regions are the most likely to have snow, with the north and northeast being the most likely areas. The island of Crete also has a good chance of seeing snowfall.
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