UV Index in Thessaloniki, Greece

Last updated: June 2, 2025

Understanding the UV Index in Thessaloniki, Greece is crucial for protecting your skin and maintaining overall health under the Mediterranean sun. With peak UV levels reaching 10 around midday, awareness of these readings can help you prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage. Thessaloniki’s Cfa climate offers warm summers that elevate UV exposure risks, making it essential for residents and visitors alike to stay informed and take necessary precautions. By comprehending the UV index, you can enjoy the sun safely while embracing the vibrant outdoor lifestyle that this beautiful city has to offer.

Hourly UV Index in Thessaloniki

The UV Index chart reveals a dynamic daily pattern of solar intensity. Starting early in the day, the UV Index remains low, peaking at 1 by 08:00. However, as the sun reaches its zenith, the index surges dramatically—hitting 7 by 11:00 and soaring to a maximum of 10 between 13:00 and 14:00. This signals a critical window for sun exposure, where protection is essential. As the afternoon progresses, the UV levels begin to decline, dropping to 4 by 17:00, before tapering off to 1 again by evening. To stay safe, it's vital to be cautious during those peak hours!

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	7	high	25 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 Thessaloniki

Throughout the year, the UV Index exhibits notable seasonal fluctuations, with the highest levels occurring from May to August. During this peak period, the UV Index reaches a very high level of 9 to 10, requiring careful attention as the burn time is reduced to just 15 minutes. The high-risk months for sun exposure are March through October, with particular caution advised during May to July. Visitors and residents should prioritize sun protection during these months by wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade to minimize harmful effects. Conversely, from November to February, the UV Index drops to moderate or low levels, where longer exposure times are safer, but awareness should still be maintained, especially during February and March.

Monthly Maximum UV Index for Thessaloniki, Greece

The monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) represents the highest UV radiation level recorded each month in Thessaloniki. 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 Thessaloniki, 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 Thessaloniki UV Index with Other Greece Cities

The table above highlights how UV exposure in Thessaloniki 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.

Thessaloniki'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	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
Piraeus UVI	3	4	6	8	10	10	10	10	8	7	4	3
Athens UVI	3	4	6	8	10	10	10	10	8	7	4	3