Greece Holidays in January

Some parts of Greece hold on to noticeably milder weather in January, and these are the places we would look at first if warmth is your priority.

• Athens: Athens sits in the south of the mainland and generally has the mildest winter conditions among the main Greek destinations, with cool but rarely harsh days. Because the city is open all year, its cultural attractions, the hilltop ancient citadel and the Plaka district remain fully running in January, which is a real advantage over many island resorts. The trade-off is that evenings can feel cool and damp, so pack layers. For a city trip with reliable weather and full services, the capital is the strongest choice this month. It is exactly the brief our Athens holidays deals are built around.
• Crete: Crete is Greece's largest island, and its southern coast tends to keep milder weather than the mountainous north during the winter months. The island's main airport, which sits near the capital, serves as the principal gateway for visitors, while the western harbour has a Venetian old quarter that stays lively with local residents. Expect fewer beach visitors and some seasonal closures on the coast, so check which hotels are open before committing. For a larger island with year-round life, the island offers more choice than most. It is exactly the brief our Crete holidays deals are built around.
• Rhodes: Rhodes is one of the more southerly islands in the Dodecanese and benefits from comparatively gentle winter conditions. The medieval Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and remains open to walk through in January, though the beach resorts on the east coast are largely quiet. Ferry links to nearby islands are reduced at this time of year. For history and a mild winter setting, the island is a sensible pick. It is exactly the brief our Rhodes holidays deals are built around.
• Corfu: Corfu is in the Ionian Sea and tends to be greener and wetter than the Aegean islands, with more rain falling during the winter. Its historic town, with a Venetian fortress and UNESCO-listed Old Town, is worth visiting on a dry day. Many beach resorts close for the season, so this is a place for culture and scenery rather than swimming. Choose it for heritage and greenery rather than guaranteed sunshine. It is exactly the brief our Corfu holidays deals are built around.
• Nafplio: Nafplio is a harbour town on the Peloponnese, a short distance from the capital, and its sheltered position helps make it a pleasant place to walk in winter. A hilltop fortress overlooks the town and makes a rewarding climb on a clear day. Restaurants and cafes are open but not as busy as in summer, so booking ahead for meals is wise. It suits travellers who want a relaxed base with easy day trips.