Christmas Holidays to Greece

Some parts of Greece keep a surprisingly mild climate through the winter months and suit a sunny break.

• Crete: Crete is the most reliable choice for mild December weather, because its southern coast is sheltered from the northerly winds that bring cooler conditions to the mainland. The island's main airport and good connections make it easy to reach, while its long beaches stay pleasant for walking. We find this island suits travellers who want a warm base with plenty to explore inland, although some resorts close for the winter, so the choice of hotel matters a great deal. It is exactly the brief our Crete holidays deals are built around.
• Rhodes: Rhodes benefits from its position in the south-eastern Aegean, which typically gives it milder days than the northern islands during the festive weeks. The island has year-round accommodation in its capital, which means you can rely on a warm base even when many seasonal hotels have shut. Our view is that this island works well for couples and history lovers who want sunshine, although evenings can be cool and you should pack layers for trips to the outer villages. It is exactly the brief our Rhodes holidays deals are built around.
• Athens: The capital rarely feels as hot in December as it does in summer, but the city is mild compared with much of northern Europe and rarely sees prolonged frost. Its ancient hilltop monuments and museums are open throughout the winter, and the old districts stay lively with local diners rather than summer tourists. We recommend the capital as a dependable city base, with the trade-off that the sea is too cold for swimming, so the trip is best suited to sightseeing and food. It is exactly the brief our Athens holidays deals are built around.
• Corfu: This Ionian island has a wetter winter than the southern islands, but it remains one of the greener and more temperate options in the region. Its main town has a Venetian character that feels attractive in the quieter months. We would advise choosing this island for a slower, scenic break rather than a beach-focused trip, because the rainfall is heavier and some seafront businesses reduce their hours. It is exactly the brief our Corfu holidays deals are built around.
• Santorini: This Aegean island is warmer than many of its neighbours in winter, and its volcanic cliffs and caldera views remain striking on clear days. Its main town keeps some services open through the season, though the island is much quieter than in summer. We think it is best for couples who want dramatic scenery and a calm stay, but you should book accommodation in advance, as the number of open properties drops sharply after the New Year period begins. It is exactly the brief our Santorini holidays deals are built around.