UV Index in Athens, Greece

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Athens, Greece, where the sun's intensity can pose significant risks to skin health. The city experiences a Mediterranean climate characterized by hot, sunny summers, making awareness of UV levels essential for preventing sunburn and the longer-term effects of sun exposure. With peak UV Index values soaring to 10 during the midday hours, it's vital to stay informed and protect yourself while enjoying the vibrant outdoor life that Athens has to offer. Keep your skin safe by checking the UV Index before stepping out into the sun!

Hourly UV Index in Athens

During the day, the UV Index shows a notable rise, starting from a safe level of 1 at 07:00 and 08:00. As the sun climbs higher, it peaks at an intense 10 between 13:00 and 14:00, indicating a high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Be cautious during this timeframe! The index gradually dips to 7 at 16:00, then falls to a more manageable 2 by 18:00, before returning to a minimal 1 as daylight wanes. For those planning outdoor activities, it's crucial to protect your skin during the midday hours when the sun is strongest.

Average solar exposure data for the current time of the year. Actual values may vary and depend on many factors, such as cloud cover, vegetation cover, surface type, etc.
Time	UVI	Category	Time to Burn
07:00	1	low	45 min
08:00	1	low	45 min
09:00	3	moderate	30 min
10:00	5	moderate	30 min
11:00	8	very high	15 min
12:00	9	very high	15 min
13:00	10	very high	15 min
14:00	10	very high	15 min
15:00	9	very high	15 min
16:00	7	high	25 min
17:00	4	moderate	30 min
18:00	2	low	45 min
19:00	1	low	45 min

Monthly UV Index Trends in Athens

During the year, the UV Index fluctuates significantly, indicating changing exposure levels and recommended precautions. The high-risk months for UV exposure are April to September, when the UV Index peaks at 10, classified as very high. Specifically, visitors and residents should be particularly cautious from May through August, when burn time is only 15 minutes. In contrast, the UV Index is lower during the winter months, with January and December registering a UV Index of 3 and a burn time of 30 minutes. It is vital for individuals to take protective measures—such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade—especially during the high-risk months, to minimize the risks associated with excessive sun exposure.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Athens, Greece

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Athens. It measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun and helps assess the risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.

Data source: Statistical UV Index data for Athens, based on information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
Low (0-2): No protection needed.

Compare Athens UV Index with Other Greece Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Athens compares to other major locations across Greece. This comparison helps travelers and residents better understand regional sun intensity and plan outdoor activities with sun safety in mind.

Athens's solar exposure compared to other cities in Greece. Generated using Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service information.
	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Thessaloniki UVI	3	4	6	7	9	10	9	9	7	6	4	2
Larisa UVI	3	4	6	8	10	11	10	10	8	6	4	3
Patra UVI	3	5	6	8	10	11	10	10	8	6	4	3
Athens	3	4	6	8	10	10	10	10	8	7	4	3
Piraeus UVI	3	4	6	8	10	10	10	10	8	7	4	3