When people think of Greece, images of an island, the sun and sea often come to mind. However, Greece during Christmas offers an entirely different charm—a serene escape where culture, tradition, and breathtaking winter landscapes converge. With fewer crowds and a unique festive atmosphere, the country reveals its quieter side, blending snow-capped mountains, fairy-tale villages, and historic cities adorned with twinkling lights. Whether you’re seeking adventure or a cozy holiday retreat, Greece’s Christmas season provides a magical alternative to the typical tourist hotspots, making it an ideal time to explore this versatile destination.
In addition to this blog post, we have a dedicated podcast episode available on all Podcast platforms, to give you some information about some of the destinations mentioned below. To listen to the episode on Spotify, click the link.
Greek Christmas Traditions
Let's have a quick look at some of the traditions over the festive season. Over Christmas (Christougenna in Greek), one of the most iconic Greek Christmas symbols is the karavaki (little boat), often decorated with lights and displayed in homes or public spaces to honors Saint Nicholas, the patron saint of sailors. Another tradition is the singing of kalanda, which is Greek Christmas carols, where on Christmas Eve, children visit homes in their neighborhoods, singing these festive songs and in return receive small treats or money.
On New Year’s (Protochronia in Greek), the traditions are tied to Saint Basil and families gather to share the Vasilopita, a sweet bread or cake baked with a hidden coin inside. A piece is allocated to each family member and symbolic recipients like “the house” or “Christ.” The person who finds the coin is believed to have good luck for the coming year.
The festive menu during this time, is quite meat dominated, although some families fast for some time leading up to Christmas. The traditional sweets are very unique and include melomakarona (honey-soaked cookies) and kourabiedes (almond shortbread). My personal favourtie are melomakarouna, and the more soaked the better!
To learn more about the traditions, typical food and sweets but also name days over the Christmas season, make sure to also tune in to one of our older episodes, My Greek Christmas & New Year.
Top destinations to visit in Greece during Christmas
Greece offers an enchanting mix of winter landscapes and festive traditions for Christmas. The two main cities of Greece, Athens and Thessaloniki transform into magical urban wonderlands during the Christmas season, blending vibrant city life with festive cheer.
In Athens, iconic landmarks like Syntagma Square are adorned with dazzling lights and impressive decorations, creating a joyful atmosphere for locals and visitors alike. The city hosts a variety of Christmas villages and markets, such as the festive setups at Technopolis in Gazi, where families can enjoy crafts, food, and entertainment. Meanwhile, the Acropolis serves as a breathtaking backdrop to holiday celebrations, blending tradition with modern festivities.
While in the second largest city, in Thessaloniki, known for its dynamic culture, embraces Christmas with open arms. Aristotelous Square becomes the heart of the city’s celebrations, featuring a giant Christmas tree and illuminated ship—a nod to Greece’s nautical heritage. The Ladadika district buzzes with life, offering cozy taverns and seasonal treats like kourabiedes and melomakarona. Additionally, Thessaloniki’s blend of Byzantine history and modern attractions gives it a unique charm, with holiday concerts and events adding to the festive spirit.
Lets take a look at some destinations other than the two major cities which should not be overlooked during this time. From snow-covered mountain villages to coastal retreats, here’s a curated list of destinations to make your Greek Christmas unforgettable:
Arachova
The Glamorous Alpine Village
Located near Mount Parnassos, Arachova is known as Greece’s winter wonderland. Its cobblestone streets, boutique shops, and proximity to the country’s top ski resort make it a favorite. Visitors can enjoy skiing, cozy chalets, and traditional Christmas treats like melomakarona.
Metsovo
Tradition in the Pindus Mountains
Nestled in the Pindus Mountains, Metsovo combines cultural richness with natural beauty. Highlights include the Averoff Gallery, local artisan crafts, and the unique smoked cheese, Metsovone. Winter activities like skiing at Politses and visiting the serene Aoos Lake offer something for everyone.
Oniroupoli (Drama)
A Fairy-Tale Experience
Drama’s Oniroupoli, or Dream City, offers one of Greece’s most enchanting Christmas celebrations. The town’s Municipal Garden and square transform into a whimsical wonderland, complete with Santa’s house, festive markets, and twinkling lights. Children delight in holiday workshops and fun rides, while adults enjoy shopping for crafts and tasting local delicacies. The community spirit and magical atmosphere make Oniroupoli a highlight of the season.
Pelion
Winter in Mythical Landscapes
Pelion offers a mix of snow-covered mountain villages and breathtaking sea views, especially in tts quaint villages like Makrinitsa and Tsagarada. The traditional stone houses, scenic trails through snowy forests and the Agriolefkes Ski Center make it perfect to go at this time. Local delicacies include "spetzofai" (pork sausage and peppers), "fasolada" (bean soup), and a variety of local cheeses, preserves, and desserts.
Kalavryta
History and Snow
Kalavryta’s scenic beauty and historical significance make it a standout Christmas destination. Enjoy skiing at the Kalavryta Ski Center or take a ride on the famous Cog Railway through the dramatic Vouraikos Gorge. The town’s festive ambiance and rich history make it perfect for a winter getaway.
Nafplio
Coastal Elegance
For a coastal twist on Christmas, visit Nafplio, one of Greece’s most romantic towns. Its picturesque streets are adorned with festive lights, and the Venetian architecture provides a stunning backdrop for holiday strolls. The main square, Syntagma Square, becomes the heart of the celebrations, featuring markets and cozy cafes serving warm treats. Visitors can explore the Palamidi Fortress or take a scenic walk along the promenade to Bourtzi Castle, both offering breathtaking views. With its rich history and festive ambiance, Nafplio is a perfect destination for a peaceful and enchanting Christmas escape.
Lake Plastira
A Serene Winter Escape
In Central Greece, Lake Plastira transforms into a snow-draped haven during Christmas. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains, the lake’s serene beauty is enhanced during the colder months, making it ideal for activities like hiking, horse riding, and canoeing. Visitors can also explore charming nearby villages such as Kalyvia or Neochori, which are known for their traditional stone architecture and cozy tavernas serving hearty local dishes.
Further Podcast Listening
Check out the following dedicated podcast episodes to help plan and inspire your trip to some of the above destinations. All relevant episodes are listed below:
Tips for Your Christmas Adventure
These are just a few of the best places to visit over Christmas in Greece and I hope this post will give you some inspiration for your future travels. But before I say goodbye...Here are some additional tips:
Festive Treats: Don’t miss traditional Greek Christmas sweets like kourabiedes and melomakarona.
Local Customs: Experience the Greek Christmas carols (kalanda) and village festivals for a touch of authentic culture.
Pack Warmly: Even in coastal areas, temperatures can drop significantly during the winter.
Plan accordingly: Reservations will be necessary during this time, especially at the more popular venues. Additionally on Christmas day for lunch, make sure you have plans as most places are closed. Ask your hotel to offer recomendations for that day.
These destinations blend festive cheer with Greece’s unique charm, offering a holiday experience filled with warmth, adventure, and unforgettable scenery. Whether you seek snowy mountains or historic towns, Greece has a Christmas spot waiting for you.
Did you enjoy this post? If so, please leave a comment below and spread the love in the MGI community. And if you have a request for a specific post, feel free to get in touch!
Affiliate Disclosure: Some of the links on this website may include affiliate links, which means if you book or purchase something through those links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Your support helps keep the site running, and I only recommend products and services I trust.
コメント