When is the best time to go on vacation to Crete: weather and temperature by month and season. Crete (weather) Climatic conditions in different parts of Greece

Crete is a unique Mediterranean pearl. The island allows its guests to enjoy the traditional Greek subtropics combined with North African influences. The weather on Crete, the diversity, softness and comfort of the climatic zones on the island are the result of an extremely successful and extremely southern geographical location.

From time immemorial, the Mediterranean has been famous for its mild climate and ideal weather conditions - everything here is conducive to relaxation.

And Crete is an excellent example in this regard. perfect combination two climate zones.

For millennia, the humid subtropics and North African heat have nurtured hedonism in the Greeks, which is instantly transmitted to anyone who sets foot on the coast.

The southernmost of all the large Greek islands, Crete pleases us, who love comfort and magical beauty, with mild winters and hot summers.

The diversity of relief and landscape on the island creates particularly dynamic weather conditions.

The weather can vary significantly even within a 30 kilometer zone. For example, a mountain range running from east to west protects southern part islands from the “cold northern winds”. Although, in the summer it is unlikely to freeze in Crete.

Two climate zones – two different holidays

The island allows its guests to choose: mild subtropics or hotter and drier - a matter of several kilometers between the coasts.

Southern and northern Crete differ not only in weather, but also in the density of tourists per square meter of beach. By the way, if you prefer a clear, cloudless sky and a light breeze, then in the northeast of the island the combination of these conditions is the most optimal.

The northern coast is humid, cooler, and there are more clouds and precipitation there. But at the same time, the water temperature is slightly higher.

The North African climate is hot, windy and dry. This is exactly how one can characterize the southern and east coast Krita. It is better to sunbathe and swim in the south in bays protected from the Sahara winds.

Despite the fact that the air in the south is warmer, the water is a couple of degrees cooler than at the opposite end of the island.

The most deserted beaches, a great place for solitude and escape from civilization, are also located in the southern part of the island.

Landscape elements: their unique dynamism

The weather in Crete differs significantly depending on the area: in the mountains the climate is harsh, winters are snowy.

After winter snowfalls, snow caps can still be observed on the mountain tops until mid-June.

IN summer time in the mountains it is cooler than on the coast, and temperature changes are more pronounced during the day. Near the sea the weather is milder and smoother.

Weather on the island of Crete by month

The weather in Crete varies dynamically and dramatically with the changing seasons. Even during the official off-season winter months, the island remains very attractive to tourists.

And not only the sights. On south coast Even on January days you can experience warm, dry, sunny weather. This is a great option to defuse the atmosphere of cold, gray Nordic everyday life.

It gets really hot on the island in summer. Despite the bodies of water surrounding the island, in the hottest summer months the thermometer can rise above 40C - but only on the southern coast.

Every month in Crete is special

  • January: cold, rainy, cloudy and cloudy. For January weather characterized by inconstancy, and occasionally she pleases those present with sunny days. average temperature air temperature is 12.5C, but there is a possibility of +18C;

  • February not significantly different from January: winter in Crete offers good weather only in the south of the island. A little warmer – 13.2C, a little sunnier and days with weather suitable for walking occur more often;

  • March: cold, windy in the north, keeping the temperature +13.6C. But there is already noticeably more sun. And in the south of Crete the temperature sometimes rises to +26 and sunny days fall almost as often as rainy ones;

  • April– the height of spring in Crete. Everything is blooming and pleasing to the eye with a variety of colors, the temperature rises to 15-20C, and it rains less and less often (6 days per month);

  • May in Crete is ideal for those who prefer an active holiday, do not like intense heat and are ready to swim at a water temperature of +19. The air warms up to 20-25C and only 4 days can it rain;

  • June– hot, sunny, beachy. The temperature rises to 28C, and in the south to 32C;

  • July, as well as August very hot, dry and windy months in all parts of the island. The time when the sea breeze dominates in Crete. The temperature rises to 30-40C, and only the mountains or the sea will help you escape the heat;

  • September- time velvet holiday in Crete, when the water temperature is still high, the sea breeze has already been replaced by a light breeze, and the air warms up to 25-27C;

  • October– it’s still warm, dry, sunny, but the air is already noticeably cooler, especially at night. +22C, several rainy days, periodically overcast skies and a storm in the first half of the day are quite typical for Crete;

  • november– the weather becomes changeable. Sunny days alternate with rainy ones, a cold wind blows, the air warms up to 15-17C;

  • December– a month of unpredictable weather in Crete: sunny days alternate with rainy ones, cold winds with warm ones, during the day the air temperature rarely rises above 15C.

Seasons

  • Spring.


    The tourist season in Crete begins in relatively rainy April, but April and May are months for everyone who is not afraid to get caught in the rain sometimes. At the beginning of the season, Crete pleases the eye with an indescribable number of flowering wild and ornamental plants. Not yet summer heat, and before the wind had time to clear up, the sea temperature was already quite suitable for swimming. The ideal time for a spring holiday in Crete is May.

  • Summer.


    Hot, windy - the height of swimming and relaxation. In summer it is good to travel around the island, but sometimes the lack of clouds in the sunny sky can only be compensated by artificial shade. In July and August the hottest and windiest weather is.

  • Autumn.


    The beginning of autumn, until mid-late October, is the velvet season on Crete. The winds subside, the sea is still very warm, and the summer heat has disappeared. But by November the swimming season on the island comes to an end and the famous rainy weather begins, when it seems as if the rain would never end, but would endlessly fall from the sky, knock on the roofs and drip down the collar.

  • Winter.


    This time of year in Crete is windy, wet, rainy and cool, with constantly changing weather. But even in the harshest winter month - January - there are very, very pleasant sunny days. There is even a week of Halcyon - “quiet days” - when the winds calm down, the rains stop and you can observe the sunny sky for several days in a row and enjoy the warm, humid air.

The weather and dress code depend on whether you are in the south or north of the island. In the south and in January you can periodically walk along the embankment wearing only shorts and a light T-shirt.

Water temperature


From January to December, the water temperature in Crete remains at or above 17C– from January to March.

In April and December the temperature is slightly higher - +18C. During these months, visitors to the island go swimming if it is a sunny day.

May and November delight with the sea +20С, and if in November it is already rainy and a strong wind is blowing, then in May you can safely swim.

But the inhabitants of the island open the swimming season no earlier than June, when the water temperature in the sea rises to 22-24 C– in October, at similar sea temperatures, heat-loving Cretans prefer to relax on the shore.

July and August are the warmest months, the sea warms up up to 24-26 and 26-27C respectively. And it maintains this temperature until velvet September.

When is the best time to go to Crete?


It's hard to name the most optimal time for a holiday in Crete.

The generally recognized tourist season begins in April and ends in October. But even winter in Crete has its own pleasant characteristics.

From April to October the weather on the island is stable, Atmosphere pressure fluctuates minimally over the months. Hot, dry and sunny.

For lovers active rest best suited late spring And early autumn– when the water is well warmed up for swimming, and the daytime heat does not interfere with physical activity and prolonged exposure to the sun.

The summer period is the most popular - June, July and August - months ideal for beach holidays and night parties. It’s warm to swim at any time of the day and you don’t have to worry too much about warm clothes for the trip.

The velvet season in September and October is ideal not only for active tourism, but also for family vacation with kids.

The identical temperatures of air and sea, the absence of heat and scorching sun during the day more than compensate for the coolness of the evening and night. When going to Crete in the fall, take warm clothes with you.

Despite all the changeability, windiness and rain winter weather, Crete is in demand for tourists even in autumn-winter period. Especially residents of the northern regions.

Captivating November and December with on sunny days and relatively warm sea. Even if at this time of year in the morning it's raining– by lunchtime, the sun will most likely be shining.

And even in cold, rainy January, it’s still worth trying to guess that sunny and warm week of calm to take a walk around the island. Admire the stormy winter sea, and maybe plunge into its cool, restless waves.

The weather in Crete changes not only from month to month, but also from year to year. Each month has its own temperature ranges and the most expected weather.

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Greece is a colorful, beautiful country that has its own culture, history, and attractions. When going to this place, tourists often wonder which part of the country is best to go to and at what time of year, since different parts of Greece have their own characteristics and different climatic and weather conditions. This article is devoted to the weather in Greece on Crete, an island that occupies one of the most worthy places among the resorts of this wonderful country.

Climatic conditions in different parts of Greece

The Greek Republic is characterized by a mild subtropical climate with warm, wet winters and hot, dry summers. Average air temperatures in the winter months are approximately +10 degrees Celsius, in the summer months – +32 degrees.

Conventionally, Greece can be divided into three climatic region and distinguish three types of climate: Mediterranean, Alpine and Central European. The Mediterranean type of climate is typical for the capital of the country - Athens and the island part. This type of climate is characterized by a fairly mild warm winter and very hot summers. The Alpine type of climate is common in the western and central parts of Greece - there are fairly warm summers, but longer cold and wet winters. Eastern and central Macedonia has a Central European type of climate, which is characterized by dry and hot summers, but cold and wet winters.

Weather - Crete island: water and air temperature by month

The island of Crete is characterized by a Mediterranean type of climate. The island is located in two climatic zones. The first is Mediterranean, which is typical for most of the island, and is characterized by fairly long rainy winters and dry, hot summers, the second is North African, which is typical for the southern regions of the territory, where milder winters and the highest summer temperatures are observed.

Crete is a sunny island, since the number of sunny days a year reaches more than three hundred, accordingly, the weather on the island of Crete always pleases tourists. However, what time to go here will depend on the preferences of tourists. Beach lovers and fans of excursion programs should go to Crete in order to be as comfortable as possible. different time of the year.

Winter

During the winter months on the island of Crete, the weather is not at all pleasing to travelers, which is why, to be honest, there are not enough vacationers here. The sea is already much colder than in the hot season, strong winds appear, the air warms up weakly, and only becomes a little warmer in the sun.

In December, the average air temperature during the day is 15.1 degrees, at night - 11 above zero, in January - 9.6 and 13.6 degrees, respectively. February also, alas, does not indulge in high temperatures - during the day it already becomes a little warmer here than in January, but it is not recommended to go out without a jacket. The average temperature here during the day is +14.6, at night – 9.5. In the sea, water in the winter months ranges from 16 to 18 degrees. From December to February, heavy rains periodically begin to fall, the number of rainy days per month is about five, the average rainfall is around 70 mm.

Spring

In spring, Crete becomes warmer and more pleasant. Although in March the air and water temperatures are a couple of degrees higher than in winter (average temperatures of the month are 16...16.5 degrees, there is less rain), you can safely go here in sightseeing tours. In April, the temperature increases every day, the duration daylight hours Same. The average air temperature during the day is almost 19 degrees, at night - 11. The sea warms up to 17...18 degrees.

But in May, you can, without hesitation, pack your bags and go open beach season. After all, the air temperature is already at least 23 degrees, the sea is warmed up to +20. It's still cool at night, but if you throw on a jacket you can go for night walks. The air temperature at night at this time is around 15 degrees Celsius.

Summer

And, of course, summer, when every day there are more and more tourists. During this period, travelers go on both beach and sightseeing holidays.

Note! When going to Crete in the summer, it is worth booking a tour in advance with a travel agency, since in this case the trip will cost much less.

June is the best time to come here with kids. It is no longer cold at all, but there is still no hot summer heat, which is typical for July and August. The average air temperature during the day is 26 degrees, at night – 18. The water temperature in the sea is 23.2 degrees Celsius.

The hot season begins in July and August, when there are a huge number of people on the beach. Average temperatures during the day during these months are at 29.6 degrees, at night – 22, and sea water warms up to 26.4 degrees.

Note! You should always remember that when going out in the sun, you need to use protection to protect your skin from ultraviolet rays.

Autumn

For lovers velvet season It is worth going to the island of Crete in the fall; September and even October are good times for a holiday. September usually pleases with still hot days with an air temperature of 28 degrees and a well-warmed sea up to 25.5 degrees. In October it is a little cooler, but still very comfortable. Temperatures remain around 24 degrees, the sea is still warm. But in the last week of October and in November, it is unlikely that you will be able to lie in the sun, since seasonal rains begin to fall, winds appear, the sea is not so warm and the temperature is already below +20 degrees.

Water temperature in Crete

To decide which part of the island and at what time to go on a beach holiday, it will be most convenient to familiarize yourself with the tabular data presented below, which contains information about the water temperature on the island of Crete in the most popular areas of the resort.

Heraklion,Chania,Rethymno,Lassithi,
water temperaturewater temperaturewater temperaturewater temperature
January16.6 16.6 16.7 16.6
February15.9 15.9 16 16
March15.9 15.9 15.9 16
April17.1 17 17.1 17.2
May19.8 19.5 19.8 19.8
June23.2 22.9 23.2 23.2
July25.6 25.5 25.8 25.5
August26.3 26.4 26.5 26.2
September25.4 25.4 25.6 25.4
October23.2 23.3 23.4 23.2
November20.6 20.8 20.8 23.2
December18.3 18.5 18.5 18.3

Weather forecast for Crete for the coming days

In the near future there will be warm, sunny weather on the island. The average daytime air temperature will remain at 26...28 degrees Celsius, and at night it will drop to 20...23 degrees. No precipitation is expected. A southwest wind of about three meters per second will blow on the island. Currently, the water temperature is 26 degrees, the sea is calm, there are no waves.

Holiday season in Crete

Beach on the island

The hot season on the island of Crete lasts, as in many parts of Greece, from late May to mid-September - most tourists have vacations during this time, and children have vacations throughout the summer. And in general, summer is a great time to relax. The temperature reaches maximum heights, there is practically no rain here, and the water is so warm that you don’t want to leave the sea.

But you can go to Crete both in autumn and winter, since October, like September, is quite warm here. The air temperature in October is around 29 degrees, and swimming in the sea is just as pleasant as in summer. Seasonal rains may sometimes occur at the end of October, but, as a rule, they are not a hindrance to vacation. But in November in Crete it becomes 9...10 degrees cooler than in October. This month is not suitable for a beach holiday - many resort villages and hotels are closed until the next season, but in major cities you can always find a place to stay overnight. But this is the best time for sightseeing, since most sites are open to the public all year round.

Note! Although most attractions in Crete are open to the public from November to May, the famous Botanical Garden in Chania is closed during this time.

But in winter time It's not worth going here on vacation. This is due to the fact that the weather is significantly worsening - the air temperature drops to 12...14 degrees, the rainy season begins, which can last for days, strong winds appear, and snow caps form on the tops of the mountains. Although for those who love tranquility, perhaps such weather will not ruin their mood, so it is up to travelers to decide whether it is worth coming here in winter.

Crete in winter

Subtleties of tourism in Crete

When going on vacation to Crete, you should take into account the recommendations and advice of experienced tourists:

  • when going to Greece, you must remember to apply for a Schengen visa; without it, entry into the country is prohibited;
  • when going to Crete to explore the island, an excellent solution would be to rent a car - some companies do not even require an international license, others even just need photocopies of the license;
  • when renting a car, travelers are provided with 100% insurance;
  • A rented car should be returned with the same filled tank as it was rented; if there is more gasoline, no one will return the difference;
  • the roads on the island are very good, with excellent coverage, except for the roads in the mountains - there you should be very careful and careful while driving;
  • You should park only in authorized places, since the fine for incorrect parking will be from 60 to 80 euros*, and for not fastening your seat belt - 360 euros;
  • if it is not possible to travel by car, then there is nothing wrong with that, since the island has well-developed transport links, you can always catch a ride or call a taxi without any problems;
  • when you come to Crete, you should definitely get acquainted with Greek cuisine - the food will be the most delicious in non-tourist places, as in most countries of the world;
  • when swimming in the sea among the rocks, you should look carefully at your feet when entering the water so as not to step on a sea urchin;
  • When going fishing on the island of Crete, you should never touch the fish with your hands, as there are poisonous species which can cause severe discomfort;
  • Cretans are very sincere and friendly people who are always happy to see guests from other countries in their homeland.

Today the island of Crete is very popular among tourists different ages and nationalities. In 2018, throughout the summer there were a huge number of people who came here to relax, enjoy Greek culture, history and the beauty of nature. Usually, no matter what time tourists choose to relax, they never regret that they went here.

* The prices indicated in the article are current at the time of publication of the material.

In the high season, the air warms up to +30°C, and the sea +24.9°C. Low - air +16.4°C, water +16.2°C, precipitation 67.5 mm, 6 rainy days, only 16 sunny days. This is a city in Greece. The weather in Crete by month, winter, spring, summer and autumn is presented in the graph below. The beach season here lasts at least 5 months.

The best months to travel

In July, June, August - best time for relax. The weather is nice and warm, from +28.6°C to +31.8°C. At this time of year there is little rain, no more than 0 days per month, with precipitation ranging from 0.0 to 26.2 mm. Also in Crete there is a warm sea with water temperatures from +22.6°C to +26.6°C and swimming is a pleasure. There are maximum sunny days for the whole year - from 26 to 30 days. The monthly climate and temperature in Crete are calculated based on recent years.



Air temperature in Crete by month

The difference in daily air temperature throughout the year is 15.4°C, but due to the presence of the sea, the weather in Crete and the monthly climate in Greece are quite mild. Most cold month- January, when the air warms up to +16.4°C, and the warmest is August with +31.8°C.

Water temperature in Crete

The beach season here lasts 5 months: June, October, September, July, August. The sea temperature at this time of year ranges from +22.6°C to +26.6°C, conducive to pleasant swimming. Worst weather in Crete and the water temperature was recorded in March +16.2°C.

Number of rainy days and precipitation

A bad month for travel is February, it rains on average 6 days. Maximum monthly norm precipitation is 67.5 mm.



Rest comfort rating

Climate summary

Month Temperature
air during the day
Temperature
water
Sunny
days
Rainy days
(precipitation)
January +16.4°C +16.9°C 16 4 days (49.5mm)
February +16.6°C +16.4°C 16 6 days (67.5mm)
March +18°C +16.2°C 17 5 days (41.7mm)
April +21.3°C +17.2°C 24 2 days (19.2mm)
May +23.8°C +19.6°C 29 3 days (17.0mm)
June +28.6°C +22.6°C 26 3 days (15.2mm)
July +29.7°C +25.6°C 30 1 day (0.0mm)
August +31.8°C +26.6°C 28 0 days (26.2mm)
September +27.2°C +25.4°C 27 2 days (23.2mm)
October +25°C +23.1°C 25 4 days (33.4mm)
November +19.5°C +20.4°C 19 1 day (26.6mm)
December +18°C +18.5°C 17 4 days (51.2mm)

Number of sunny days

Beautiful sunny weather will delight tourists in July - as many as 30 sunny days per month. Great time for a holiday in Crete.

Wind speed

The wind reaches its maximum strength in January up to 5.2 m/s with gusts up to 7.2 m/s.

Crete is the largest island of the Greek archipelago, occupies its southern part and is simultaneously surrounded by three seas. The sunniest island after Cyprus with a long summer season attracts tourists with picturesque mountain landscapes, an exquisite coastline, superbly equipped beaches and the brightest architectural echoes of the world's oldest Minoan civilization. The Tour Calendar will tell you why it’s so great to vacation on Crete in the second half of spring, the first half of June or during the velvet season.

Tourist season in Crete

Crete resembles a small country with great opportunities. It is an island of fertile plateaus, spectacular valleys, golden sands, stunning views and pleasant smells. The island is especially attractive due to the opportunities to approach any traveler with great care: secluded resorts for lovers of silence, lively beaches for party lovers, a variety of water activities for sports and active individuals, worthy offers for vacationers with children. People start coming here already in , and the mass tourist season ends in .

High season in Crete

High season in Crete the whole summer lasts - that is, and the air temperature at this time ranges from +28 °C to +30 °C. In the southernmost parts of the island, the thermometer often jumps to +40 °C under the influence of the Sirocco wind blowing from the Sahara. There is one little secret for those who love the height of summer: not all beaches in Crete are crowded at this time. Yes, they are quite remote from the Cretan cities and offer a minimum of amenities, but for the opportunity to be in solitude, many are ready to sacrifice anything. In addition, at the height of summer it is customary to go to the north of the island, to the Aegean coast.

Low season in Crete

All three winter months and in Crete there is a decline tourist season. At this time, those who do not have much interest in beach holiday. The weather is changeable, fluctuations are most typical for daytime, the expected air temperature is up to +16 °C + 17 °C. It may suddenly become colder or, conversely, warmer. At the same time, you couldn’t ask for better weather conditions and prices for sightseeing.

Swimming season in Crete

The holiday season in Crete begins in mid-April. At this time it happens official opening beaches of the island. Meanwhile, the water in the Mediterranean Sea becomes comfortable for swimming only at the end of May - about +19 °C +21 °C. In July and August, when the weather is hot, the water temperature reaches its maximum - +25 °C. The sun is in daytime 24 hours is very dangerous, so try to get to the beach early in the morning and late in the evening. Beach holidays become the most comfortable - heatwave subsides and the sea becomes cooler by 1 °C.

Velvet season in Crete

The end of September and all of October in Crete refers to the so-called velvet season. At this time it is not as busy as in summer, but it is still sunny, and the weather conditions are conducive to long stays on the beach and swimming. Judge for yourself: temperature sea ​​water September - +24 °C, October indicator - +23 °C. The only inconvenience may be that at night in October it is already cold - only +16 °C. An undeniable advantage of the velvet season in Crete is the reduction in prices for housing, food and various services.

It's festival time in Crete

Be prepared for the fact that whenever you arrive in Crete, you will find yourself at one or another celebration. In January, this is, of course, Christmas, which is celebrated. In April and March, Crete celebrates Maslenitsa; in April, the islanders celebrate Easter on a grand scale; on March 25, they celebrate Greek Independence Day; on April 23, St. George, the patron saint of the island, in mid-July the residents of Rethymno celebrate the Wine Festival, and on September 8 they celebrate the birthday of the Virgin Mary “Genisis tis Panangias”.

Climate in Crete

Crete is a large island with predominantly mountainous terrain. And the climate at different ends of the island is completely different. In the north of the island, separated from the south by a central mountain range with an east-west orientation, there is a moderate Mediterranean type of climate, as in all European resorts. In the south it is much hotter, drier and sunnier, as it is subject to North African climatic zone. In mountainous regions it is always colder, and in winter there is snowfall. In general, winter on the island is mild but rainy. The degree of air humidity on the island is generally determined by the proximity of the sea. So, for all coastal resorts, due to humidity, it is typical that hot weather will be less tolerated, and in winter temperatures in the coastal zone will be lower.

Crete in spring

Spring is a blooming, fertile time in Crete. If in March the breath of spring is still barely noticeable, then in April the island is already blooming. Of course, precipitation continues for up to 5 days, but it is very warm weather: +20 °C in and +24 °C in . At the end of spring, the beach season opens. But those who find 19 °C sea water insufficient can simply enjoy sunbathing on the seashore.

Temperature and weather in Crete in spring

Weather in MarchWeather in AprilWeather in May
Temperature average+14 +16 +20
Temperature during the day+17 +20 +24
Temperature at night+10 +12 +15
Water temperature+16 +17 +19
Rain8 days6 days3 days
Humidity63% 59% 60%

Crete in summer

Summer on the island is hot and dry. Periods of high humidity occur in the southern regions of the island. The natural temperature for summer Crete ranges from +27 °C to +29 °C. However, if you go south, be prepared for both +35 °C and +40 °C. Burning hot winds, bringing with them sand and dust, are also not uncommon. Fortunately, they pass very quickly, cooling thanks to the northwestern breeze “Meltemi”, which is awaited like manna from heaven not only by beach relaxers, but also by surfers and kitesurfers.

Temperature and weather in Crete in summer

Weather in JuneWeather in JulyWeather in August
Temperature average+23 +26 +25
Temperature during the day+28 +29 +29
Temperature at night+18 +22 +21
Water temperature+22 +24 +25
Rain1 day1 day1 day
Humidity57% 56% 59%

Crete in autumn

The autumn climate of the island is reminiscent of the temperate spring season. in Crete it is considered summer, although the average temperature drops slightly: during the day it is expected to be around +27 °C, while the water continues to hover at around +24 °C - +25 °C. A light wind is blowing more and more often, but it is no longer similar to just a sea breeze. In the next two months it becomes cooler, but not significantly. However, the rainy season begins (especially in the west), which contributes to the arrival of cold nights. Moreover, solar activity decreases to 5 hours a day, dividing clear sky with gray clouds. Happens a couple of times a season severe storms, usually characteristic of such bad weather, a warm gusty wind blows with sand from the Sahara Desert.

Temperature and weather in Crete in autumn

Weather in SeptemberWeather in OctoberWeather in November
Temperature average+23 +20 +17
Temperature during the day+27 +24 +21
Temperature at night+19 +16 +13
Water temperature+24 +23 +20
Rain2 days6 days8 days
Humidity60% 63% 64%

Greece occupies the southern part of the Balkan Peninsula and islands in the Mediterranean, Cretan, Ionian and Aegean Seas. Crete is the largest island owned by Greece and the fifth largest in the Mediterranean Sea. The Mediterranean climate prevails in Crete, air humidity is 50%. The sun shines about 280 days a year. Swimming season lasts from mid-spring to mid-autumn. Climate coastal zone and the central part, which is covered with mountains, is different. There are differences in weather conditions not only by month, but also depending on the location of the coast. When choosing a holiday route, you should take this into account.

On the coast Summers are dry, winters are mild, snowfalls are extremely rare. It rains from mid-autumn to early spring.
East End Crete (Sitia) has a drier and warmer climate than the western one (Chania). This is noticeable even in the difference in the abundance of vegetation. Sitia resembles a desert, Chania is a green oasis.
Warmer and drier climate south coast, when compared with the north.
In the mountainous part Cretan winters are quite harsh. Low temperatures and heavy snowfalls are not uncommon. On the mountain tops, snow can remain until mid-summer.

Temperature indicators

Winter is the season of wind and rain

In January the weather in Crete is rainy and cold. The average air temperature is +15°C. Water temperature – +17°C. Strong winds may rage along the coast. But over the course of one week, the gusts of wind subside, and the weather is calm, good, and windless. Residents of Crete call this period “quiet days”.

In February, Crete is only a little warmer and sunnier. The temperature of the air and water in the sea remains the same. The weather is still unpredictable. Rainy, cold, windy days alternate with calmer and warmer ones. The swollen buds of almond trees remind us of the imminent arrival of spring.

The weather in Crete in March is usually still cool and windy. But the rainy season can be considered over. The average air and water temperature is +17°C. The vegetation begins to wake up, flowers bloom, and the first green leaves appear. Despite quite low temperature, the bravest and most seasoned begin to swim in the sea.

Spring Awakening

In April, real spring comes to Crete. It rains rarely and does not last long. On average, the air warms up to 20°C, water – up to +18°C. This weather contributes to the wild revival of nature. The island is covered in bright and fragrant wild flowers in April and is very beautiful.

The weather in Crete in May finally becomes sunny and warm. Since May 10th it has rained very rarely. The Meltemi north wind, which will begin to appear in the summer, is not yet blowing. The sea, where the water has warmed up to +20°C, is quiet and calm. The average air temperature is +23°C. Despite these idyllic conditions, it's worth taking a jacket with you on holiday, as the evenings can still be cold.

In May, Crete and all of Greece are especially beautiful. A riot of colors, the fragrance of flowers and lush greenery delight the eye and intoxicate. It is during this month that the island turns into a huge festival site. It all starts with May Day - Workers' Day. Greece celebrates this holiday on a grand scale and with a lot of fun. May 18 Crete remembers tragic events- the battle for Crete with by the German invaders. At the end of May, the residents of Crete again celebrate the ancient holiday of Anastenaria. A special feature among the songs and dances is walking on hot coals.

Summer – everyone goes to the beach

In June throughout the territory In Crete, the average temperature is approximately the same - from +23...26°C at the beginning of the month and to +25...30°C at the end. The water temperature near the northern coast reaches + 23°C. Off the south coast due to strong winds The sea water is a little colder, on average – + 23°C. It is better to choose morning or evening to relax on the beach; it is too hot during the day.

In July, real heat comes to Crete, but with it comes a north wind. The average air temperature is +27°C, water temperature is +24°C. Heat and dryness begin, which correspond summer months on Crete.

In August, the island welcomes vacationers with even hotter and drier weather. The average air temperature is +30...+35°C, water temperature is +26...27°C. North winds continue to attack Crete. During this period, you can only go on a beach holiday, taking with you a reliable supply drinking water. For people who find it difficult to tolerate high temperature, this season will not work. Even those who can easily endure the heat need to buy hats for relaxation, sunscreen and glasses.

Autumn – refreshing coolness

The weather in Crete in September becomes less hot and windy. The sun is still very active, and nothing indicates the approach of the rainy season. The average air temperature is +25...27°C, water temperature is +24...26°C. The evenings may already be chilly. It is worth taking a light jacket with you, especially if you are going to the mountains.

The weather in Crete in October is sunny and slightly windy. Such conditions would be more suitable for the summer months in our climatic conditions. The average air temperature is +24°C, water temperature is +22°C. Rains are possible, but they are rare and do not last long. October is the month when the entire island celebrates the harvest festival of grapes. Ra ka - a local drink made from the same grapes - flows like a river. It is also impossible to do without songs and dances.

In November, the weather on the island of Crete becomes unpredictable. Sunny, calm days suddenly give way to rain. The island is attacked during this period southerly winds. Sometimes they even bring sand from the Sahara Desert that obscures the sky. This spectacle looks very picturesque. The average air temperature in November is +20°C, water temperature is +21°C. Holidays on the island are still possible, but you need to take warm clothes and an umbrella with you.

In December, the weather in Crete is very reminiscent of an unbalanced, capricious madam. On the south coast, warm sunny days are possible, when absolutely nothing prevents you from putting on a swimsuit and enjoying a beach holiday in comfortable conditions. All this grace literally disappears in a few hours and begins heavy rain, strong gusts cold wind. The average air temperature in December is +16°C, water temperature is +18°C.

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