January Weather in Athens, Greece

Last updated: August 21, 2025

In January, Athens experiences a mild winter with temperatures ranging from a maximum of 22°C (72°F) to a minimum of -4°C (25°F). The average temperature hovers around 9°C (48°F), providing a refreshing escape from the mid-summer heat. Visitors can expect moderate precipitation, totaling approximately 57 mm (2.2 in) over about 7 days, adding a touch of winter charm to the city. Additionally, the relative humidity reaches 76%, creating a crispness in the air that invigorates the senses. Overall, January in Athens offers a blend of cool temperatures and occasional rain, making it a unique month to explore this historic city.

January Temperature in Athens

In January, Athens experiences cool temperatures, with a minimum dropping to a brisk -4°C (25°F), while the average hovers around a comfortable 9°C (48°F), peaking at a pleasant 22°C (72°F). As the month progresses, the city begins to thaw, heralding the arrival of February's milder days, where lows reach 0°C (32°F) and highs settle around 20°C (68°F). This trend towards warmth continues into March, as average temperatures climb to 12°C (54°F), paving the way for the blooming spring. January's chilly start is a reminder of the seasonal shift, with the forthcoming months showcasing Athens's inviting climate, gradually ascending to the heat of summer by May, where highs can soar to an impressive 36°C (97°F). Overall, January serves as a transitional period, opening the door to the sun-kissed days ahead.

January Weather in Athens: Daily Temperature Highs, Lows, and Averages

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Athens, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Athens, January typically has an average temperature of {2}°C ({3}°F), with highs reaching up to {4}°C ({5}°F) and lows dropping to around {6}°C ({7}°F).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec485154606977838376665952
Data source: Temperature data for Athens generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred temperature unit
The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

January Precipitation in Athens

January sees Athens wrapping up the holiday season under a veil of clouds, as it typically experiences 57 mm (2.2 in) of precipitation over about 7 days. This month marks one of the wetter periods of the year, with rainfall surpassing that of February and March, which both receive significantly less at 48 mm (1.9 in) and 39 mm (1.5 in) respectively. As winter progresses, the precipitation tends to taper off, with May and June bringing noticeably drier conditions, where rainfall drops to just 23 mm (0.9 in) and 33 mm (1.3 in). This trend of diminishing precipitation continues into the summer months, especially by August, when Athens enjoys minimal rainfall with just 4 mm (0.2 in) over no rainy days. Thus, January serves as a prelude to the drier, sunnier days ahead, setting the tone for a vibrant Mediterranean summer.

January Precipitation Trends in Athens

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Athens, with values for each month alongside January’s data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the amount of precipitation, providing insights into how January’s conditions compare to those of other months. In Athens, January typically receives around {2} mm ({3} inches) of precipitation spread over approximately {4} days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec5748394223339417304866
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred precipitation unit

January Humidity in Athens

In January, Athens experiences a notable humidity level of 76%, setting the tone for a slightly damp winter. This figure demonstrates a trend of relatively high humidity at the start of the year, similar to the end of December. As February rolls in with 75% humidity, we see a slight decrease, which continues through March at 74%. However, the humidity rises again in May, peaking at 77%, before it gradually declines over the summer months, reaching its lowest at 63% in August. The year then transitions back to similar humidity levels seen in winter, with November and December returning to 75% and 76%, respectively. This cyclical pattern highlights the Athens climate's mild yet moisture-rich winters contrasted against drier summer months, showcasing the city’s unique atmospheric rhythm throughout the year.

January Average Humidity in Athens

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Athens, with January’s data highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the fluctuation in humidity throughout the year, helping you understand how conditions vary by season. In January, average humidity in Athens is approximately {2}%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec76%75%74%75%77%72%68%63%65%72%75%76%
Data source: Humidity data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January UV Index in Athens

In January, Athens experiences a moderate UV Index of 3, with a burn time of approximately 30 minutes. This level of exposure marks the beginning of a gradual upward trend in UV intensity as the year progresses. By February, the UV Index rises to 4, maintaining the same short burn time. As spring arrives, March sees a notable increase to a high UV Index of 6 with burn times decreasing to 25 minutes. The trend sharply escalates in the following months, peaking at a very high UV Index of 10 from May to August, where sun safety becomes paramount with a rapid burn time of just 15 minutes. As summer fades into early autumn, the UV Index reduces slightly but remains significant at 8 in September and 7 in October. The cycle concludes with a return to a moderate level of 4 in November and 3 in December, reminding us of the importance of monitoring the UV Index throughout the year. For more detailed information, check out the Athens UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Athens for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Athens in January, representing the highest UV radiation level. The UVI measures the intensity of ultraviolet radiation from the sun, indicating the potential risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues. In January, the maximum UV index in Athens typically reaches {2}, which falls under the {3} exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec3468101010108743
Data source: Athens January UVI data generated using 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.

January Sunshine in Athens

In January, Athens basks in 200 hours of sunshine, setting the stage for a mild winter that gradually gives way to brighter days. As February rolls in, the warmth increases with 252 hours of sunshine, hinting at the forthcoming spring. With March heralding the change of seasons, sunshine surges to 328 hours, invigorating the city's vibrant outdoor life. This trend escalates into April, boasting 346 hours, and reaches a dazzling peak in June at 409 hours—perfect for sun-seekers. Although July and August maintain this sunny dominance with 423 and 396 hours respectively, a gradual decline begins as autumn approaches. By October, the hours dip to 313, and further down to 261 hours in November. As the year closes, December offers a gentle 250 hours, inviting a cozy atmosphere as the city transitions back to the enchantment of winter. Overall, the trajectory clearly illustrates Athens' evolution from the chill of January to the sun-drenched summer months, showcasing an appealing climate for all seasons.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Athens: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Athens experiences direct sunlight during the month of January, excluding cloudy or obstructed periods. This chart compares the sunshine duration of January with the other months of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec200h252h328h346h398h409h423h396h346h313h261h250h
Data source: Athens January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Athens During January

In January, Athens experiences a 45% chance of sunny weather, making it one of the cooler months for sunshine seekers. While this level of sun is modest, it sets the stage for a noticeable upward trend as the year progresses, with February climbing to 58% and March closely following at 57%. As spring emerges, sunny days become more frequent, peaking in summer with an impressive 94% to 95% likelihood in July and August. This transition underscores the city's shift from the mildness of winter to the vibrant warmth of summer, inviting visitors to experience a diverse range of weather throughout the year.

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in Athens

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Athens throughout the year, with January highlighted. It highlights the variation in sunshine across each month and provides an overview of the typical frequency of sunny days, offering insights into how often Athens experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec45%58%57%55%70%71%94%95%77%57%40%51%
Data source: Athens January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Athens in January

In January, Athens experiences just 9 hours of daylight, a stark contrast to the vibrant bursts of brightness that follow in the spring. As February unfolds, daylight increases to 10 hours, hinting at the warmth to come. By March, the days stretch to 11 hours, and the city begins to awaken from its winter slumber. Come April, daylight reaches a delightful 13 hours, paving the way for the sun-drenched days of May, which boasts 14 hours of glorious light. This ample daylight persists through June and July, ensuring plenty of time for exploration and enjoyment. However, as summer fades into August, daylight begins to taper off—slightly diminishing to 13 hours. September sees a gradual decline to 12 hours, leading into autumn’s softer light in October with 11 hours. November and December mirror January's earlier light with 10 and 9 hours respectively, completing the cyclical dance of daylight in Athens, from winter's quiet embrace to summer's vibrant glow.

Average Daylight Hours in Athens for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Athens throughout the year, with January highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec9h 50m10h 46m11h 58m13h 11m14h 14m14h 44m14h 28m13h 33m12h 23m11h 10m10h 6m9h 33m
Data source: Athens daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in Athens

In Athens, January greets residents and visitors with an average wind speed of 3.2 m/s (7 mph), setting a brisk tone for the New Year. This gentle yet consistent breeze is a hallmark of the city's winter, as it flows seamlessly into February with a slight decrease to 3.0 m/s (7 mph). As we transition into the spring months, the winds continue to soften, reaching a low of 2.6 m/s (6 mph) in April, hinting at the warmer days to come. Interestingly, May witnesses a further decline to 2.4 m/s (5 mph), marking the calm before the summer heat. However, starting in July, the winds pick up again, reaching 3.1 m/s (7 mph), demonstrating nature's cyclic rhythm. By October, the wind returns to moderate levels, maintaining an average of 3.1 m/s (7 mph), before peaking again in December, where it rises to 3.5 m/s (8 mph), reminding Athenians of winter's presence. Overall, the wind patterns in Athens showcase a fascinating transition from crisp winter gusts to lighter summer breezes, embodying the city's dynamic seasonal shifts.

Average January Wind Speed in Athens

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Athens, with values for each month shown alongside January's data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It illustrates the average wind speed, offering insights into how January's wind conditions compare to the rest of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec3.2 m/s3.02.92.62.41.83.12.73.03.13.03.5
Data source: Athens January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in Athens Compares to Other Months

Weather in Athens varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares January’s weather to other months in Athens, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.

In comparing the weather between January and February, January is characterized by slightly colder temperatures, with a minimum of -4°C (25°F) and an average of 9°C (48°F), while February experiences milder conditions, starting at a minimum of 0°C (32°F) and an average of 10°C (51°F). Both months see similar maximum temperatures, with January peaking at 22°C (72°F) and February reaching up to 20°C (68°F). Precipitation is relatively comparable, with January receiving 57 mm (2.2 in) over 7 days, whereas February has slightly less rainfall at 48 mm (1.9 in) over 8 days. Humidity levels remain consistent, hovering around 76% in January and slightly lower at 75% in February. For a more detailed look at February's climate, check out Athens weather in February.

January and March in Athens exhibit notable differences in weather patterns. January experiences colder temperatures, with a minimum of -4°C (25°F) and an average of 9°C (48°F), while March sees milder conditions, starting from a minimum of 0°C (32°F) and averaging 12°C (54°F). Precipitation is slightly higher in January at 57 mm (2.2 in) over 7 days, compared to March's 39 mm (1.5 in) over just 5 days. Additionally, humidity levels are fairly similar, with January at 76% and March at 74%. For a more comprehensive look at March's weather in Athens, you can check Athens weather in March.

January weather in Athens presents a cooler climate, with minimum temperatures dropping to -4°C (25°F) and average highs around 9°C (48°F), peaking at 22°C (72°F). This month sees a considerable amount of precipitation, totaling 57 mm (2.2 in) over about 7 days, and the humidity levels are relatively high at 76%.

In contrast, April ushers in much milder conditions, featuring minimum temperatures of 4°C (40°F) and an average increase to 15°C (60°F), with maximums reaching 29°C (85°F). Precipitation in April decreases to 42 mm (1.6 in) over approximately 5 days, and the humidity remains slightly lower at 75%. For more detailed insights on the weather conditions in April, you can check Athens weather in April.

In January, the weather is typically cooler, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -4°C (25°F) to a maximum of 22°C (72°F), averaging around 9°C (48°F). This month also sees a fair amount of precipitation, totaling 57 mm (2.2 in) over about 7 days, along with a humidity level of 76%. In contrast, May brings much warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 10°C (51°F) and a peak of 36°C (97°F), averaging 21°C (70°F). The month is drier, with only 23 mm (0.9 in) of precipitation occurring over 4 days, and a slightly increased humidity level of 77%. For a detailed look at weather trends, check out Athens weather in May.

The weather in January and June presents a stark contrast in climate. January features cooler temperatures with a minimum of -4°C (25°F), an average of 9°C (48°F), and a maximum of 22°C (72°F), accompanied by 57 mm (2.2 in) of precipitation over 7 days and a humidity level of 76%. In contrast, June boasts warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 13°C (56°F), an average of 25°C (77°F), and a maximum of 38°C (101°F). The month experiences less rainfall, totaling 33 mm (1.3 in) over just 5 days, and a slightly lower humidity of 71%. For more detailed information about June weather specifically, check out Athens weather in June.

In January, the weather is considerably cooler, with temperatures ranging from a chilly -4°C (25°F) to a pleasant 22°C (72°F), and an average temperature of 9°C (48°F). This month experiences an average of 57 mm (2.2 in) of precipitation over approximately 7 days, and the humidity is relatively high at 76%. In contrast, July brings much warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 19°C (67°F) and a maximum soaring to 42°C (108°F), averaging around 28°C (83°F). Rainfall is minimal during this month, with only 9 mm (0.4 in) over 2 days, and humidity drops to 68%. For more insights, you can check out the weather details here: Athens weather in July.

In January, the weather in Athens is quite chilly, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -4°C (25°F) to a maximum of 22°C (72°F) and an average of 9°C (48°F). The month experiences around 57 mm (2.2 in) of precipitation over approximately 7 days, resulting in a humidity level of 76%. In stark contrast, August boasts much warmer conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 19°C (66°F) to a staggering maximum of 43°C (109°F), accompanied by an average of 28°C (83°F). This month sees minimal precipitation, only about 4 mm (0.2 in) and no rainy days, with humidity dropping to 63%. For more details, you can check Athens weather in August.

January weather in Athens presents a cool experience, with temperatures ranging from a chilly minimum of -4°C (25°F) to an average of 9°C (48°F) and a maximum of 22°C (72°F). With about 57 mm (2.2 in) of precipitation spread over 7 days and a humidity level of 76%, the month often feels damp and brisk. In contrast, September ushers in much warmer conditions, where the minimum temperature is a pleasant 13°C (55°F), averaging 24°C (76°F) and reaching as high as 37°C (98°F). This month offers significantly less precipitation at just 17 mm (0.7 in) over only 2 days, and a lower humidity level of 65%, creating a much drier and more enjoyable atmosphere. For more details about the September climate, check out Athens weather in September.

January and October showcase contrasting weather patterns. In January, temperatures can drop to a chilly minimum of -4°C (25°F), with an average of 9°C (48°F) that peaks at 22°C (72°F). This month also experiences more rainy conditions, with a total precipitation of 57 mm (2.2 in) over approximately 7 days and humidity averaging 76%. In stark contrast, October enjoys milder temperatures, starting at a minimum of 7°C (45°F) and averaging 19°C (66°F), with highs reaching up to 31°C (89°F). It is also drier than January, with only 30 mm (1.2 in) of precipitation over about 4 days and slightly lower humidity at 72%. For more detailed information, you can check Athens weather in October.

In January, the weather in Athens is notably cooler, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -4°C (25°F) to a maximum of 22°C (72°F) and an average of 9°C (48°F). This month also sees a bit more precipitation, totaling 57 mm (2.2 in) over about 7 days, coupled with a high humidity of 76%. In contrast, November offers milder temperatures, with a minimum of 4°C (39°F), an average of 15°C (59°F), and a maximum reaching 25°C (78°F). Precipitation is slightly lower, at 48 mm (1.9 in) over the same 7-day period, and humidity remains relatively similar at 75%. For more information, you can check Athens weather in November.

In January, the weather in Athens is characterized by cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -4°C (25°F) and an average of 9°C (48°F), peaking at 22°C (72°F). The month also sees about 57 mm (2.2 in) of precipitation over 7 days, maintaining a humidity level of 76%. In contrast, December offers slightly warmer conditions with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 1°C (34°F) to an average of 11°C (53°F), and a maximum of 21°C (70°F). Precipitation in December is a bit higher at 66 mm (2.6 in) spread over 9 days, but the humidity remains the same at 76%. For more details about December weather in Athens, you can visit Athens weather in December.

Compare Athens's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in Athens

January in Athens presents a refreshing contrast to the warmer months, where mild and chilly conditions prevail. With temperatures averaging around 9°C (48°F), visitors can expect cooler weather that might dip to -4°C (25°F) overnight. Unlike the summer heat, January sees an increased chance of precipitation, with about 7 days of rain, totaling 57 mm (2.2 in). This month also boasts a notable 76% humidity, providing a unique, brisk atmosphere that differs significantly from the dry, sweltering days of summer. Embrace the cool, crisp air of Athens in January, a perfect time for exploring the rich history and vibrant culture at a leisurely pace. For more detailed information on what to expect throughout the year, check out Athens Climate.