Rhodes Weather in January

January weather

January feels mild compared with a northern European winter, but it's often grey, damp and windy. Daytime highs reach 15°C, while nights sit around 12°C. Rain falls on 15 days, so wet spells can interrupt outdoor plans.

You can still explore the lanes of Rhodes Old Town, visit the Palace of the Grand Master or linger over lunch in a taverna. But slick cobbles and showers make long beach days and exposed coastal walks a poor bet. Choose flexible plans, and keep indoor sights in mind for rainy afternoons.

What's on

New Year's Day is a public holiday in Greece, and Epiphany on January 6 is marked with the Blessing of the Waters. In Rhodes Town, the ceremony is held around Mandraki Harbour, where a cross is traditionally thrown into the water. It's a local moment worth seeing if you're nearby.

Travelling with kids? The harbour ceremony can be a memorable outing, but it may be chilly and wet, so don't count on a long waterfront stay.

Crowds and costs

January is low season, far quieter than the busy summer months. You'll find more space in the Old Town and around Mandraki, and flights and hotels are often cheaper than in peak season. Some beach businesses and seasonal hotels close, though, and opening hours can be limited.

A useful Rhodes tip: check whether the Palace of the Grand Master is open before making it your rainy-day plan. Then head to a nearby café for pitaroudia, local chickpea fritters, if the weather turns. The island's best visiting months are generally spring and autumn, so January suits you best if quiet streets matter more than sunshine.