What's the Weather like in Kos in December
December is the official start of the cold season, which continues on until the end of March. This month sees temperatures mostly in a range of 10 C (50 F) 15.5 C (60 F) with cloudy skies and probability and amount of rainfall close to its peak. The average temperature in December is 12 C (54 F) making it the third lowest of the year so it is recommended to bring warm rain proof clothes during this time.
The beginning of the month has highs and lows of 16 C (61 F) and 11.6 C (53 F) as they continue their fall, which began in September. Probability of rainfall during the beginning of December is around 46 % which is a little less than a coin flip making the whole month rainy as it rarely fluctuates from these chances. Cloud coverage continues its yearly rise beginning the month at 58 % (partly cloudy) coverage.
As the month progresses the highs and lows lose their speed and fall only gradually to 14.4 C (58 F) and 10 C (50 F) as the month becomes colder. Chance of rainfall keeps on its course of 46 % throughout the rest of the month with minor fluctuations that are too small to notice so be prepared for a higher than normal amount of rainfall if visiting in December. Cloud coverage around mid December rises above 60 % (partly cloudy) on its way to its yearly peak in January.
As the end of the month strolls in and the holidays are in full effect the highs come in at around 13.3 C (56 F) and the lows at around 10 C (50 F) as they barely move from mid month. This makes Christmas and New Years Eve the coldest times of the month for those who are planning a visit during these holidays. Cloud coverage ends the month at around 63 % (partly cloudy) which is very close to its 65 % peak in January so expect cloudy skies.
The average amount of rainfall in December is 164 mm divided into 12 days of the year, which is the second highest volume behind January. This means that more than a third of the days in December will see rain occur so expect to see it especially during the mid to the end of the month. Along with the higher than normal amount of rainfall the average sea temperature is 18 C (64 F) making the beach an unfavourable location to go to during this month.
As the cloud coverage rises and the days become gloomier the average daily hours of sunshine falls to 7 hours daily, which is the lowest amount of the year along with January and February. This along with the fact that it is officially wintertime in Kos makes for cold Mediterranean days. The good news is that the days will be warmer than those in Canada, the UK, and the Northern region of the US.
Kos Hotels in December
Finding a place to stay during the cold season is easier than most other times of the year with the exception of the holidays near the end of the month.
If you are planning a nice, quiet, beachside getaway with a loved one, choose the Carda Beach Hotel located in Kardamena along Kardamena beach. This hotel has most facilities you would expect such as a pool, a restaurant, and free Internet. Other facilities include a fitness centre, tennis courts and a spa.
Kos Palace Hotel located in the village of Tigaki is a great family option. The rooms come with separate balconies with a view of the ocean, and are well serviced and maintained. There's a lovely pool in a well-kept, large grassy area with more stunning views of the sea, plus a spa, great restaurant and bar, games room, volleyball court, outdoor play area and a mini market.
If you are looking for a luxury hotel try Cleopatra Kris Mari located in Kardamena, Kos. The friendly staff is available 24/7 for assistance and service, while the wonderful beach side restaurants are just a stone's throw away for added convenience. The pool area has plenty of sun beds, plus a billiards table and lively pool bar.
Smaragdi Studios located in the Lambi district on Kos's eastern coast close to Kos Town is another good choice for families. There's a lovely pool area equipped with a poolside snack bar, as well free parking. Lambi beach is within walking distance. The bar stocks imported beers and has large TVs ideal for keen sports fans.
Bars and Restaurants
Although it is low season in December many eateries stay open all year round, most of which are located in Kos Town or Old Town.
A great restaurant, which has recently won awards for excellent service, is the Petrino Restaurant located in Kos Town. There is a beautiful garden setting to enjoy while you sample a tasty selection of Greek dishes such as Saganaki di Gamberi, Antipasto di Carne and Chicken baked in yogurt. As this place focuses on fine dining it's a little bit more expensive than other options in the area but it's definitely worth it.
For top-notch traditional Greek food, head to Select Restaurant. The setting overlooks some ancient ruins, plus there are plenty of exciting local options to choose from such as Octopus in vinegar, Shrimps cocktail, steamed mussels, and chicken livers in spicy sauce.
While in Kos Town beeline for the Amparvis Taverna, which takes a climb to get to, but is well worth the effort. This truly authentic Greek tavern is one of a kind, with a warm, family-friendly setting and a menu fill of delicious dishes such as Moussaka and Gyros. Dine on freshly caught fish, and be sure to try Possa's cheese a delicacy unique to Kos.
Arguably one of the best restaurants in Kos Town, Efkalipty is known for its cleanliness, fresh and delicious food, friendly staff, and quick service. This delightful restaurant has recently won awards for its outstanding service and great cuisine such as their Bekri (drunkards) meze, Kos cheese Greek salad, and Lamb Kleftiki. Best of all it's a two minute walk from Lambi Beach, so you can enjoy your meal then take a stroll along the beach for a romantic end to your night out.
Things to do in Kos in December
There are not many activities on offer on the island during December due to the low temperatures around this time. Things like water sports, diving, and horseback riding are not available during off-season, but all of the island's famous historical sites are still open to the public. Kos will also be gearing up for the festive season, so you can enjoy elements of that, too.
Keen history buff? Then the Asklepion Kos is a must-see. This fascinating place displays Greek ruins of an ancient medical school where Hippocrates, the father of modern medicine, is said to have taught. There is a shop for you to buy souvenirs for those back home and entry to the ruins themselves is very inexpensive.
Climb up to the ancient Byzantine fortress known as the Paleo Pili located in Kos Town. It's quite a climb but you'll be rewarded with an amazing view of the island, not to mention thousand-year-old Byzantine church architecture and tranquil surroundings.
The Exhibition Centre of Modern History and Italian Architecture in Kos will offer a glimpse into Italian culture and history. The exhibition hosts various renowned artworks of famous Italian artists, architects and sculptors from past times. Most buildings date back to 1912 to 1939. A great place to admire impressive masterpieces and brilliant pieces of Italian artwork.
