Athens Weather in December

Athens occupies the Attica Basin ringed by mountains — Hymettus to the east, Penteli to the northeast, Parnitha to the north, and Aigaleo to the west — creating a natural bowl that traps pollution and amplifies heat. The Saronic Gulf to the south channels afternoon sea breezes (the meltemi) that provide crucial cooling from May through September. Athens has one of Europe's most severe urban heat island problems, with city center temperatures regularly 10°F above the surrounding countryside in summer. Winters are mild and rainy (45–60°F), summers hot and dry (85–100°F).

Holiday season. Many cities decorate beautifully. Book ahead for December travel.

Athens has a classic Mediterranean climate but is notably hotter and drier than coastal Greek islands due to its inland location in the Attica basin surrounded by mountains. Summers are among the hottest in Europe; winters are mild and pleasant.

• ✓Sunscreen and hat essential June–September
• ✓Comfortable walking shoes for cobblestones
• ✓Layers for spring and fall
• ✓Light jacket for winter evenings