February is a fantastic time to visit Athens. Although the first part of the month can still be wintery and frigid, by late February the temperatures begin warming up slightly and the Carnival season (called “Apokreas”) descends. This fun, indulgent time in the three weeks leading up to Lent involves all sorts of fun and festivities. The best part? Due to the colder weather, there are hardly any crowds.
**Weather in Athens in February**
February in **Athens** represents one of the chilliest periods of the year. While it might be considered cold by **Athens** standards, it’s worth noting that it remains noticeably warmer compared to many other destinations across **Europe** during the same timeframe. The average temperature hovers around 50 to 55°F (10 to 13°C). Nighttime lows can dip to around 45°F (7°C), so packing accordingly is definitely recommended.
Rainfall during February is considered moderate, with precipitation occurring on approximately one out of every four days. However, the majority of inclement weather tends to concentrate at the beginning and middle of the month. As February progresses toward its end, there’s a greater chance of sunshine gracing the city, and you might even spot wildflowers beginning to bloom in areas like the **Agora**. To ensure comfort and preparedness, it’s advisable to pack a selection of warm clothing items. A dependable raincoat is also a smart addition to your luggage, just in case you encounter a rainy spell. Remember that layering is key! This will allow you to adjust to fluctuating temperatures throughout the day.
**Crowds and Costs in Athens During February**
One of the significant advantages of visiting **Athens** in February, despite the slightly cooler temperatures, is the relative absence of large tourist crowds. Particularly at the start of the month, you’ll find that the city is far less congested than during peak season. This means you can leisurely explore the streets, visit the local markets, and delve into the city’s museums and other prominent tourist attractions without battling hordes of other visitors. Enjoy a more intimate and relaxed experience of **Athens**.
As the **Carnival** season approaches, the number of visitors does tend to increase gradually. However, even with the influx of Carnival revelers, **Athens** remains considerably less crowded in February than during the bustling summer months. An added bonus of visiting during this off-peak season is the reduced costs. You’re likely to find more affordable flight options, and hotel rates can be significantly lower, sometimes even half the price of what they would be in June or July. This makes February a budget-friendly time to explore the wonders of **Athens**.
**Exploring Athens and Beyond: Where to Go in February**
February presents an ideal opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich cultural offerings of the capital city. Explore the diverse range of museums in **Athens** or spend some time browsing the fascinating exhibits at an art gallery. Don’t miss the chance to wander through the vibrant “laiki” markets, where you can experience the authentic flavors and aromas of local produce and goods. Another highlight is indulging in the city’s incredible street food scene. The lines at the **Acropolis** will be noticeably shorter in February, allowing for a more relaxed and enjoyable visit to this iconic landmark. Furthermore, you won’t have to contend with the intense heat that often plagues the city during the summer months. With a warm jacket in tow, exploring the ancient ruins in February can be a truly memorable experience.
For those seeking day trip adventures, consider a journey to **Delphi**, situated approximately two hours northwest of **Athens**. In **Delphi**, you’ll have the opportunity to discover the marvels of ancient Greek archaeology. A must-see is the **Sanctuary of Apollo** (often referred to as the **Oracle of Apollo**), an ancient temple dedicated to the renowned god of prophecy. It’s important to remember that **Delphi** tends to be chillier than **Athens**, so make sure to dress accordingly to stay warm and comfortable.
If you have an affinity for skiing, you’ll be pleased to know that there are several ski resorts located in the mountains surrounding **Athens**. Among the popular options are **Parnassos Ski Resort**, nestled on **Mount Parnassus**, and **Kalavrita Ski Center**, situated on **Mount Helmos**. Alternatively, you could embark on a day trip to the famous wine region of **Attica**, where you can sample some of the region’s finest wines. Another option is to take a short trip to one of the Greek Islands, although keep in mind that the weather may not be conducive to sunbathing on the beaches.
**Things to Do in Athens During February**
One of the most compelling reasons to visit **Athens** in February is the opportunity to explore the **Acropolis** without the overwhelming crowds that characterize the rest of the year. You’ll be able to stroll through the historic structures, such as the iconic **Parthenon** and the ancient **Theatre of Dionysus**, in a much more relaxed and unhurried manner. Also, the cooler temperatures mean you won’t be as prone to overheating as you might during the scorching summer months.
If you happen to encounter a particularly cold day during your visit, consider spending some time indoors at one of **Athens**’ exceptional museums. The **National Archaeological Museum** and the **Museum of Cycladic Art** are excellent choices for immersing yourself in art and history. As **Carnival** celebrations get underway, you can look forward to vibrant nightlife, including a variety of culinary delights, lively parties, and special events.
For a memorable day trip, February is a fantastic month to visit **Delphi** and witness the impressive **Oracle of Apollo**, a revered ancient temple dedicated to the god of healing and prophecy. Or, if you’re in the mood for a more leisurely experience, treat yourself to a wine-tasting session at the **Papagiannakos Winery** in the **Attica** region, the birthplace of the beloved retsina wine.
If exploring the Greek islands is on your wish list, consider visiting **Kea**, which boasts an extensive network of hiking trails. These trails offer scenic and engaging activities for colder days when the beach might not be the most appealing option. While **Kea** may be warmer than **Athens**, it will still be cooler than during other times of the year. While a day trip might be a bit challenging, a weekend excursion from the city is definitely feasible. The drive to **Lavrion**, where you can catch the ferry to **Kea**, takes approximately 45 minutes.
**Events in February in Athens**
**Carnival / Apokreas (dates change):** In Greece, the **Carnival** season is traditionally referred to as **Apokreas**. The kickoff of **Apokreas** usually occurs sometime in February, often towards the middle or end of the month, adding a festive atmosphere to the city. While the season officially begins with the religious ceremony of **Triodion** (which sometimes falls in January), the real festivities commence on **Tsiknopempti**, also known as “Burnt Thursday.” Similar to **Fat Tuesday** or **Mardi Gras** celebrations, **Tsiknopempti** often involves dancing, drinking, and general merriment. The week following **Tsiknopempti** is **Cheesefare Thursday**, which marks the start of the main **Carnival** weekend, with even more celebrations and events taking place throughout the city.
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