What's the Weather Like in Zante in January
Temperature
Zante, Greece, an island in the Ionian Sea, entertains a Mediterranean climate. January weather continues to moderate with temperatures averaging 13Cº (55.5Fº), and an average high of 18Cº (64.4º) and average low of 8Cº (46Fº). January is the coolest month of the year with some days reaching a high of 19Cº (66Fº), while evenings can dip as low as 5C º(41Fº).
Temperatures remain fairly steady, except for a slight decline in the evenings. It rarely freezes. January is comfortable as the dew point, a better measure of comfort per person, is mostly dry. The days, therefore, feels like a range from a high of 11Cº (52Fº) to a low of 6C º(42Fº) with no discomfort due to heat and humidity. Relative humidity ranges from a high of 92% to a low of 70% with the low decreasing throughout the month.
Rain and Wind
Zante weather remains mostly unvaried and predictable but January temperatures of 20Cº (68Fº) are not uncommon. Many days, while mild with it's typical Mediterranean weather, may be rainy with around twelve days of participation and accumulation of approximately 150 mm. The precipitation ranges from a drizzle to light and moderate rainfall with only an occasional thunderstorm.
There is a 43% chance that rain may occur during a January day. It can be cloudy with a median cloud cover ranging from 70% at the beginning of the month but decreasing to about 62% by the end of January. Wind is minimal in January with a daily mean speed of between 5 mph and 10 mph, coming mostly from the north.
Average Sunshine Hours
There are approximately five daily sunshine hours with nine and one half hours of visible daylight. The sea temperature remains warm and pleasing at 16Cº (61Fº) despite the winter month.
Average Sea Temperature
The January average sea temperature is fairly constant at 16Cº (61Fº) but perhaps decreasing a couple of degrees towards the end of the month.
Zante Hotels in January
There are hundreds of properties on the island, including hotels, resorts, villas, apartments, country homes and even a farm. Since January is off-season, some may be closed so plan carefully. Lodging ranges from budget, self-catered or all-inclusive, and high end. Many are located on the variety of beaches while others are located a short distance to the shores.
The romantic Phoenix Hotel in Zakynthos Town, with its port and ocean view,occupies a prime spot in the centre of town. It's an all-inclusive property, offering room service, WI-Fi, car and bike rental and The Café Central restaurant on site, plus a rooftop bar.
Just out of town is the Pension Elena providing simple and affordable accommodations. It has a view of the ocean with small balconies and the nights are quiet so the ocean can be heard. Breakfast is included. Near the airport in Kalamaki is the Meandros Boutique Hotel with its kitchenettes, pool, and gardens. There are plenty of restaurants within walking distance of the hotel.
Zante Beach for January
Thanks to its island location in the Mediterranean, you're spoiled for choice when it comes to beaches in Zante. They are famous for their exotic beauty and crystal clear, green waters. The beaches range from sandy to rocky; from busy to secluded with some only accessible by boat.
Amboula Beach is a small beach which is rarely mobbed with tourists. It's partly organised, offering sunbeds and umbrellas, along with nearby parking. If you're looking for breathaking cliffside views, head to Dafni Beach, which commands amazing views of the Gulf of Laganas. The beach is located in a remote corner of the island and you'll find peace and quiet here, especially at this time of year.
Bars and Restaurants
There is a wide variety of cuisines on Zante including traditional Greek fare rich in meats, fish, vegetables and local cheeses and yogurts. Restaurants range from the simple tavernas to hotels and high-end dining.
If you're looking for classic local fare in a friendly setting, head to Zorbas Greek Taverna in Tsilivi. This traditional restaurant serves a variety of local favourites, such as Greek salads, grilled meats and fresh seafood dishes. It's a great place to unwind at the end over the day over a glass of ouzo and mezze platter.
Porto Mela also comes highly recommended for those in search of Greek fare and local hospitality. Located near Vasilikos, it's a little off the beaten track but it's well worth the journey. Local seafood is the biggest draw by far on the menu here, and the restaurant serves generous portions at reasonable prices.
The Nobelos Bio Restaurant serves fine food, while emphasising local cuisine with a scenic view. The family run restaurant is known for organic food and growing its own herbs and making their own ice cream featuring several and unusual flavours, all of which are highly reputed. There's also an extensive wine list alongside the dishes on offer.
For simple snacks and cocktails, the Crystal Beach Bar in the Crystal Beach Hotel in Kalamaki, features music and charming atmosphere. Hot dogs, fries and homemade milkshakes should keep hungry children happy, while parents will be pleased by their tasty selection of cocktails. The Greek Caipirinha is particularly recommended.
Things to do in Zante in January
Zante has much to offer in the way of activities and attractions. A brilliant way to discover the historic town of Zakynthos is to join the Zante Free Walking Tour and explore on foot. You'll come by old churches, monuments and other public buildings, along with a variety of shops, bars, cafes and restaurants. Learn about the island's history and heritage, its occupiers and the Great Earthquake of 1953.
If you want to explore the natural beauty of the island then there's no better way to do so than by boat tour. There are more than a dozen operating companies plying their trade, and among these the Levante Speedboat is particularly recommended. Operating out of the harbour in Tvilisi, you'll be whisked over to Shipwreck Cove and the legendary Blue Caves in the morning, while in the afternoon tours run to Keri Cove, which is known for its sea turtles.
Askos Stone Park, near the Alykanas Resort, is a natural habitat preserving the area's natural flora and fauna of about 200,000 plants, bushes, and trees with some olive trees as old as 600 years. It is a the home of hundreds of animals living in the wild. These include natural inhabitants such as hawks, amphibians, and insects as well as species not native to the island: squirrels, chinchillas, goats, sheep from Africa and even a raccoon from North America. Askos Stone Park has been successful in breeding the endangered Platonia Deer that can be seen roaming freely.
