Corfu in December: weather and travel tips

Not sure what to expect of the weather in Corfu in December? Read on to find out average air and sea temperatures, what to expect in terms of costs and crowds, and what to wear. In addition, we share some inspirational Greece itinerary suggestions that’ll help you make the most of your winter break.

Is December a good time to visit Corfu?

Given that Corfu is often seen as a sun-drenched summer destination, with countless beautiful beaches, December isn’t the most obvious month to visit the island.

While it definitely isn’t the place to come if you’re looking for a true winter sun destination, and there is a higher chance of rainfall, December is a pretty good time to visit Corfu if you’re into culture and the great outdoors and like the sound of fewer crowds.

If you enjoy a quieter and more peaceful atmosphere, and are not bothered by the cooler weather, exploring the island in winter can be enjoyable. Decreased visitor numbers also mean you could get lucky and secure stylish accommodation at a lower price.

Considering visiting Corfu in December? Talk to our local Greek travel experts  and embark on your adventure hassle-free.

Air and sea temperatures in Corfu in December

Falling within winter period, December in Corfu is characterised by mild days and cooler evenings. 

In terms of air temperatures, we're talking an average of 11°C. This typically rises to 15°C by mid-afternoon and falls to an average low of 7°C during the evenings.

If you're thinking of coming to swim, note that the average sea temperature is a cool 16°C in December. 

Ready for you dream trip? Browse our inspirational Greece itineraries to start planning your perfect itinerary.

Average rainfall in December

With an average of 140mm of rain expected across the month, you’ll likely see more than a little rain if you visit Corfu in December.

In fact, some days only offer occasional sunny spells.

For more details on the weather in Greece around the year, read up on when to go to Greece. 

What about the crowds and cost?

Though Corfu is a year-round destination, December sits firmly in low season, which means smaller crowds, and lower costs when it comes to accommodation and flights.

Planning a trip to Corfu? Make sure to choose the ideal spot to stay and fully enjoy the beauty of the island.

Unforgettable, fully customisable Greece itineraries 

In the market for an unforgettable December break? Find inspiration in our Greece itineraries — here we highlight just a few of them.

• Coast of Crete — a stunning self-drive experience (10 days): if you’re longing for awe-inspiring scenery, ancient culture, and a sense of freedom, this self-drive trip along Crete’s coast has your name all over it. 
• Milos — an exclusive island idyll (9 days): for an alternate Greek Island experience, why not get to know the Aegean’s most exotic island while staying in a private luxury villa by the sea?
• Epirus and Athens — the Ancient Sites (8 days): shrouded in myths and legends of Greek gods and Roman and Byzantine warriors, sites in the Epirus region of Greece have fascinating tales to tell. Add to that exploring Athens and the magic of Zagori and this amounts to a diversely exhilarating experience.

All these suggestions can be customised to your exact needs, with a Greece local travel expert on hand to offer insider tips and take the hassle out of planning and booking.

Tips for travelling to Corfu in December

What to wear in Corfu in December

Bearing in mind the overall average temperature of 11°C, it’s unlikely you’ll want to wear shorts, t-shirts and floaty summer dresses if you visit Corfu in December.

Rather, you’ll want to pack warm clothes that’ll serve you well for average daily highs of 15°C, through to those chilly 7°C evenings. You’ll also want to bring a brolly, and a waterproof coat or jacket.

Consider renting a car

With a large local population and year-round tourists, Corfu’s public transport system doesn’t entirely shut down during out-of-season months like December. That said, bus services will be significantly reduced.

As a result, if you’re thinking of travelling off the beaten track — and you don’t fancy hanging around bus stops in the hope one will arrive sometime soon — you might want to hire a car.

Ready to explore Greece? Get started with our expert travel planning tips.

What to do in Corfu in December  

Aside from exploring elegant Corfu Town while it shimmers in seasonal lights, December is a great time to experience authentic island culture, with added sparkle.

See the Old Town twinkle with seasonal cheer

From 12^th December through to 7th January, Corfu’s Old Town is given a gorgeous festive makeover, replete with twinkling lights, Christmas trees and candy houses. 

Sample traditional food

When the temperatures drop, or when the rain starts to fall, enjoy a food crawl of the island’s cafés and restaurants. It's not for nothing that Corfu food culture is known around the whole world.

As for what to look out for on menus, meat lovers should make a beeline for soutzoukakia. This dish of beef meatballs and grilled peppers served with a spicy tomato and yoghurt dressing, is simply divine.

Meanwhile, gemizō — peppers and tomatoes stuffed with herb-infused rice — are so delish that even committed carnivores come back for more.

Stroll blissfully deserted beaches

While you will need a waterproof jacket, December is a good time to see a different side of Corfu’s beaches.

In contrast to the peak summer season and the autumn shoulder season, you can walk for miles without meeting another soul. 

Don’t miss Longás — one of the most beautiful beaches in Greece.

Walk the Corfu Trail

Intro adventure? Being cooler, December can be a good month to tackle the scenic Corfu Trail. 

Traversing a rich variety of terrain – from beaches to high peaks – this 200 km walking route covers the entire island from Cape Asprókavos in the south to Áyios Spyrídhon beach in the north. Experienced walkers can cover the route in around ten days. 

If that sounds too much like hard work, Corfu has a network of trails along the coast and across its mountainous interior.

Inspired by these ideas? Discover more reasons to visit Greece in winter.

Planning your December trip to Corfu

Love the sound of Corfu? Get yourself The Mini Rough Guide to Corfu. For more island inspiration, read, about the best Greek Islands to start planning your trip.  

Alternatively, if you’re not keen on planning, browse our customisable Greece itineraries.