No location could make even the blues appear happier than paradisiacal Greece. December is the best time to visit this blue-and-white paradise since it offers a memorable and distinctive experience for exploring off-the-beaten-path locations and indulging in the most adventurous activities.
And for like this, all you need is this comprehensive guide to discover the best of Greece in December. The calm scenery, smaller crowds, and cultural events make it a captivating location for
Those who are looking for an off-season getaway.
Are you seeking the most adventurous winter travel spots for your next vacation? Here is a guide to exploring the gem of the Aegean Sea during winter. Read on to explore more!
Best Places To Visit In Greece In December
1. Pelion
Nestled between Pagasitikos and the Aegean Sea coast, Pelion is a collection of little villages that perfectly combine modern luxury with traditional charm. With its beaches, gardens, and captivating sunsets, Pelion's unique scenery is the ideal retreat for making the most of the Greek Christmas holidays.
Highlights include learning about the Centaur culture, skiing at Agriolefkes, discovering the incredible vegetation in Tsangarada, taking in the breathtaking sunsets from the Makrinitsa, sunbathing at the Pelion beaches, and more.
How to Get There
Nea Anchialos Airport is the closest airstrip to Pelion, roughly 30 kilometres from Volos. One can also use the green buses operated by Frequent KTEL from Volos to Pelion.
2. Karpenisi
When visiting Greece in December, Karpenisi, a charming little retreat in the centre of Europe, is a great area to explore because it's covered with snow. Known as a haven for thrill-seekers, Karpenisi is the ideal getaway for anyone looking for excitement. Every traveller can find something to enjoy in Karpenisi, whether in the middle of nature or by the shore.
The Karpenisiotis River horseback riding, the fir forests mountain biking, the biking to Mt. Kaliakouda, the rapid River Tavropos and Trikeriotis rafting, the kayaking at Kremaston Lake, the rock climbing and cave exploring at the Black Cave, and many other activities are must-dos.
How to Get There
The most direct and popular route to Karpenisi is from Lamia. Situated approximately 75 kilometers away, the path winds through verdant surroundings, thick forests, and varied terrain.
3. The Monemvasia
Situated on the eastern coast of the Peloponnese, Monemvasia is an island retreat near the charming town of Laconia. Monemvasia, often known as the Rock or the mythological Gibraltar of the East, is home to several historic Byzantine churches from the Middle Ages. It is one of the must-see Greek islands in December, literally translating into the single entrance derived from the Greek words "Mone" and "Emvasia."
Experiences must include exploring the Ancient Gate of Monemvasia, travelling to the Church of St. Anne, exploring Agia Sofia, the Acropolis or Castle of Monemvasia, visiting the Monemvasia Lighthouse, and much more.
How to Get There
The International Airport of Athens is the closest airport to Monemvasia, 330 kilometres away. Those who catch the green buses in Athens or the neighbouring cities of Molai or Sparti can also take the five-hour bus ride.
4. Zagorochoria
Situated in the Pindus Mountains of Epirus in northwest Greece, the region known as Zagori, or Zagorochoria, is a stunning area with just 46 communities. Mount Mitsikeli, the Aoos River, and Mount Tymfi encircle Zagori, similar to a downward equilateral triangle. Renowned for providing some of the best hiking paths, Zagori significantly increases Greece's tourism in December.
Aoös National Park hiking, Vikos Gorge the sport of canyoning and river rafting, Lake Ioannina skiing, Perama Cave exploration, Tymfi and Smolikas mountain trekking, Pindus National Park camping, and many more activities are must-do experiences.
How to Get There
The nearest airport to Zagori is Ioannina, which is 64 kilometres away and takes one hour to get there. Additionally, local buses from the nearby cities of Thessaloniki, Patra, and Athens can be boarded.
5. Saloniki
One of the most beautiful cities in Greece is Macedonia, also known as Thessalonica, Thessaloniki, or Salonica. It is the country's second-largest metropolis. It was initially regarded as the co-queen of the Byzantine Empire and is now well-known for being the co-capital of Greece. Furthermore, visitors to Greece in December must see this enchanted city and its allure in the winter months.
See the Hagia Sophia in Thessaloniki, investigate the Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki, stroll through history in Aristotelous Square, see the White Tower of Thessaloniki, and much more.
How to Get There:
If you're flying, you can catch a flight to the closest airstrip, Macedonia International Airport. Thessaloniki may be reached by train from major Greek cities using the recently established train system.
Conclusion
To sum up, a guide to explore the gem of the Aegean Sea during winter presents an unusual and captivating experience. Greece in December reveals a side of the nation that is both serene and thrilling, from the charming villages of Pelion to the snowy vistas of Karpenisi, the ancient attractiveness of Monemvasia, the action-packed Zagorochoria, to the cultural allure of Thessaloniki.
These off-the-beaten-path locations offer an unforgettable winter getaway, whether you're looking for peace or exciting activities. Accept the serene surroundings, diverse culture, and reduced tourist traffic, which make Greece the perfect destination during the off-season. Arrange your winter travels and explore Greece's splendour outside of the summer.
