Thessaloniki, located in northern Greece, has a Mediterranean climate with some continental influences due to its inland position and proximity to mountains. Thessaloniki’s weather varies distinctly across the seasons. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect throughout the year, based on long-term patterns:
Winter in Thessaloniki (December–February)
Why Visit Thessaloniki in winter? Festive vibes, rich history, and great food without the crowds. Christmas markets at Aristotelous Square and the festive lights around the city attracts many visitors during the Christmas season. Visit the museums of Thessaloniki. If you love snow, take a trip to Seli or 3-5 Pigadia ski resorts (about 1.5–2 hours from Thessaloniki). Relax at the Pozar Thermal Springs in Loutraki, perfect for wintertime. Thessaloniki can be rainy in winter, so bring an umbrella and warm layers.
- Temperature: Daytime highs average 9–11°C (48–52°F), with lows around 2–4°C (36–39°F). January is the coldest month, occasionally dipping below freezing, especially at night.
- Precipitation: Rainfall is common, totaling 35–50 mm per month, often as steady drizzle or short showers. Snow is rare in the city itself but can occur once or twice a winter, though it usually doesn’t stick long.
- Conditions: Overcast skies dominate, with about 3–4 hours of sunshine daily. Fog can roll in from the Thermaic Gulf, and chilly northern winds (like the “Vardaris”) sometimes make it feel colder. Thessaloniki’s airport faces problems during the winter due to fog. It is not rare to snow even in the center of the city.
Spring in Thessaloniki (March–May)
Why Visit Thessaloniki in spring? Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds, and beautiful blooming scenery. Top Activities: Explore the White Tower and Ano Poli (Old Town) with its charming alleys and Byzantine walls. Visit the Rotunda and Arch of Galerius, two of Thessaloniki’s most iconic historical sites. Stroll along the Nea Paralia (New Waterfront Promenade) and enjoy the spring breeze. Take a day trip to Vergina (Royal Tombs of Macedonia) or Mount Olympus for nature and history. Pack a light jacket for cooler evenings and occasional spring rain.
- Temperature: A gradual warmup begins. March sees highs of 14–16°C (57–61°F), rising to 20–25°C (68–77°F) by May. Nights start at 5°C (41°F) and climb to 12–14°C (54–57°F).
- Precipitation: March and April are relatively wet, with 40–55 mm of rain, peaking in spring showers. By May, rainfall drops to around 30–40 mm.
- Conditions: Spring is vibrant, with blooming greenery. Sunshine increases to 7–9 hours per day by May, though early spring can still feel crisp, especially with the Vardaris wind.
Summer in Thessaloniki (June–August)
In Thessaloniki, during summer you will experience warm, sunny weather perfect for beach days and vibrant nightlife. Visit the crystal-clear waters of Halkidiki (Sani, Gerakini, Kavourotrypes, Kassandra, Sithonia).
- Temperature: Hot and dry. Daytime highs average 29–32°C (84–90°F), often hitting 35°C (95°F) or more during heatwaves, especially in July and August. Nighttime lows hover around 18–21°C (64–70°F).
- Precipitation: Rainfall is scarce, dropping to 20–30 mm per month. Brief thunderstorms might pop up, but they’re rare.
- Conditions: Long, sunny days dominate, with 10–12 hours of sunshine. Humidity can climb (50–70%), making it feel sticky, especially near the coast. The Vardaris wind occasionally offers relief. Best for: Beach trips to nearby Halkidiki or waterfront walks in Thessaloniki.
Autumn in Thessaloniki (September–November)
In autumn visitors in Thessaloniki would experience mild temperatures, fewer tourists, and a cozy, local atmosphere. Visit Pelion or Mount Olympus for colorful autumn landscapes. Thessaloniki International Film Festival (November) attracts cinema lovers from all over the world. Pack a mix of light and warm clothes, as nights get cooler.
- Temperature: September starts warm, with highs of 27–29°C (81–84°F), cooling to 16–18°C (61–64°F) by November. Lows drop from 16°C (61°F) to 6–8°C (43–46°F). The city looks beautiful with autumn colors, and the sea remains warm for swimming until early October.
- Precipitation: Rainfall ramps up, especially in November, the wettest month, with 50–60 mm. October and November see more frequent showers.
- Conditions: Early autumn is pleasant and sunny (8–9 hours of daylight), but cloudier, cooler weather sets in by late fall. Fog and wind pick up again as winter nears.
- Vardaris Wind: This cold, dry northwesterly wind blows periodically, especially in autumn and winter, lowering the “feels-like” temperature.
- Annual Averages: Thessaloniki gets about 450–500 mm of rain yearly, with 80–90 rainy days. Temperatures range from an average low of 2°C (36°F) in winter to a high of 32°C (90°F) in summer.
- Daylight: Hours range from 9–10 in winter to 14–15 in summer.