When is the best time to go to Crete? When is the best time to go on vacation to Crete? Two climatic zones – two different holidays.

Climate of Crete

On the island of Crete, the climate is influenced by two regional zones - Mediterranean on most of the coast and North African in the south of the island.

In summer, the average air temperature in Crete ranges from +20 to +30 °C, and the humidity is consistently low, about 50%. On the southern coast, where the weather is determined by the North African climate zone, summers are always hotter and winters are cooler.

It often rains in Crete in winter. Precipitation in the form of snow is likely in the highlands, with the peaks of the White Mountains and the Ida Massif remaining snow-covered until late spring. In the lowland areas, the weather is changeable; at this time of year, the maximum precipitation falls here in the form of rain, and snow is very rare. Daytime temperatures on the coast in the winter months generally drop to +15...+20 °C, while air humidity is about 75%.

Most of the year the weather in Crete is favorable for beach holidays. Over three hundred days a year it is sunny on the island; dry and very warm holiday season lasts from April to November. Excursion holidays possible on the island all year round.

Water temperature and weather in Crete by month

In January and February The weather in Crete is cool and changeable - rainy and windy. During the day in Heraklion, Chersonissos, Rethymno it is about +15 °C, at night the air temperature drops to +7...+9 °C. In the middle of winter, 80-100 mm of precipitation falls per month.

With the coming Martha The winds hardly weaken, but the number of sunny days increases. It becomes a little warmer than in winter - literally by one or two degrees.

In April on the Greek island the weather is pleasant, spring, and nature delights travelers with lush flowers. This month there is still a high probability of precipitation, but the season is already opening in the main resorts: the water temperature in Crete rises to the required +18 °C, and daytime readings are close to +20 °C.

In May It's already full summer in Crete. During the day in Heraklion, Hersonissos, Chania the average is +23 °C, in Rethymno it is even warmer - about +25 °C. The sea is very calm: winter period The winds have already ended, and the summer has not begun.

All June The weather in Crete gives vacationers sunny and even hot days. A warm breeze blows by the sea, and the likelihood of rain is minimized. It’s good to both relax on the beaches and travel around the island, where a huge number of ancient monuments are collected.

In July and August The hottest time comes, when the air temperature in Crete often exceeds 30 °C. The water warms up to the maximum - up to +25 °C. At the same time, northern winds, typical for the summer season, begin to blow in Cretan resorts. On southern beaches The sea is calmer; waves appear on the coast in the north of the island.

In autumn the weather in Crete is less windy. Gradually the heat subsides, but the sea cools down much more slowly, and you can swim until the end of the season.

In September at the resorts of the island it becomes warm and comfortable, like in late spring - early summer. Average monthly temperature is +26 °C, at night the thermometer drops to +19 °C, so a windbreaker or a light sweater may be useful for evening walks.

Weather forecast for Crete in October from time to time it warns of rain - this month the humidity rises, on average up to 70 mm of precipitation falls.

In November is coming to an end beach season, as the weather becomes cool and unpredictable in terms of winds and precipitation. At the same time, the sea does not cool below +20 °C until the second half of December.

The holiday season begins in a couple of months. A wonderful holiday destination where... early spring to late autumn you can swim in the warm azure waters, there will be an island washed by three seas - Crete. When is the best time to go on vacation depends on your preferences. The tourist season is open here at any time of the year.

Location and climate of Crete

Crete is the largest of greek islands, located at the junction of Europe, Asia and Africa, 100 km from mainland Greece.

The weather in Crete enjoys sunshine and cloudless skies 340 days a year. The influence of two climatic zones is felt. The island, especially in the northern part, is exposed to a favorable Mediterranean climate, but the southern coast belongs to the North African subtropical zone, where the hot breath of the Sahara is felt.

Considering how the temperature of water and air changes by month, you can choose the most suitable leisure activity for you: from lazy beach holiday to sports activities and trips around the island. The weather forecast will help you navigate and adjust your vacation plans.

The wonderful climate of the Mediterranean resort attracts many tourists during cool winters and hot summers. You can admire the golden sandy beaches, relax your soul and body, enjoying the healing sea air all year round. And Greece exports local wine to many countries around the world

A mild winter is replaced by a warm one beautiful spring. In the hot summer it is so pleasant to plunge into the azure waters and lie on the cleanest sea beaches.

Prices for tours to Greece by month

Weather in Crete throughout the year

For vacationers planning to fly to Crete, the temperature by month will be the main factor when choosing leisure activities. After all, the resort is famous not only for water activities. Greece is the cradle of ancient civilizations. Monuments of ancient, early Christian and Byzantine cultures have also been preserved on the island of Crete. The climate of the Mediterranean in ancient times attracted the most different peoples. And today, just like thousands of years ago, people from all over the planet flock to the paradise island in the hope of getting a long-awaited blessed vacation.

The weather in Crete for the year ahead is quite predictable, and by looking at the forecast for the months and regions of Crete, you can have a clear idea of what your vacation will be like.

Mild winter

The winter months are good for excursion trips, especially for those who do not tolerate heat well, avoid crowds and want to save money. The prices are really good. Travel agents are vying with each other to offer last-minute tours. The staff of half-empty hotels greet you as if they had been waiting for your arrival all their lives. The number of vacationers increases along with prices closer to the New Year. And although the amount of precipitation is quite high, Crete sometimes gives several summer-like warm days, when the air suddenly warms up to 20°.

Weather in Crete in December similar to our weather in September and October. Daylight hours are rapidly decreasing and amount to only 6.5 hours. The sun hangs low over the horizon and gives almost no warmth. The winds are getting stronger, it's getting colder, it's starting to wet season. The air temperature in the mountains does not rise above zero, and snow often falls on the peaks. Average readings for Crete:

in the air during the day from 12° to 19°;
cool nights – 12-15°;
at sea the same 12-13°.

Weather in Crete in January extremely unstable. Lots of rainy days. But if you remember what the temperature is at this time of year in Russia and compare with local conditions, it becomes clear that winter holiday in Crete is not so bad. Moreover, prices in Crete continue to please, and there is enough entertainment - festivals, street musicians. January characteristics:

11°, maximum 15° during the day;
10-12° at night;
11-12° in sea water.

Weather in Crete in February not conducive to rest. Reviews from tourists are quite pessimistic. This is the worst month for travel. On average there are 6 rainy days in February.

Visitors can count on modest temperature readings:

during the day up to 15°;
nights are cold, up to 9°;
The water temperature at the end of February is up to 16°.

But you can live on the island for little money, book inexpensive excursions and visit local restaurants, because Greece has amazing cuisine.

It is better to spend February in Heraklion, where it is warmer and drier than other resorts.

Spring in Crete

Weather in Crete in March remains cool, but you can already feel the breath of spring:

in the air 16° during the day;
at night still up to 9°;
water temperature 18°.

At the end of March it gets noticeably warmer, all of Greece blooms and smells fragrant, more tourists come, and with them the cost of travel increases.

Weather in Crete in April quite spring. The beginning of the season, when the beaches on the island of Crete officially open, has the following climatic indicators:

During the day it rapidly warms up – up to 20-21°;
the nights are still cool - up to 12°;
at sea 18°.

The most comfortable holiday will be in Heraklion. The rains stop, the wind is 3.9 m/sec, it’s sunny, and at the end of April, brave souls begin to swim.

Weather in Crete in May conducive to active pastime. Rain is still possible in early May, especially on the west coast. But already in mid-May the air temperature rises, the wind subsides, and the most quiet season rest: the winter period of winds is over, and the summer period has not yet begun. If you also do not tolerate heat well and are ready to swim in the cool sea, your holiday will be ideal. At the end of May the island is quiet and warm:

the average temperature in the daytime is 23°, in Rethymnon – 25°;
at night up to 19°;
water temperature – 19-20°.

Crete in summer

Weather in Crete in June gives vacationers clear, hot days. The water in the sea is warming up, you can safely swim, and the beach season begins. The heat in early June is not yet so noticeable - 25°, and swimming can be combined with excursions. When choosing where to go on vacation in Crete in June, keep in mind that the water temperature on the southern beaches is a couple of degrees lower, it’s equally hot everywhere, and music and culinary festivals are held in the cities. Greece loves holidays. At the end of June you can expect:

daytime temperature up to 30°;
the night gives coolness - up to 18°;
water temperature 22°.

Weather in Crete in July becomes a real test of strength. If at the beginning of July 29-30° seems to you to be the peak of heat, do not be fooled! It will be even hotter at the end of July:

in the daytime the temperature is 35°, sometimes up to 40°;
warm nights - up to 22°;
The water is heated to 24°.

Where is the best place to relax? Only on the coast. Crete is exposed to winds from all sides, but in extreme heat the sea breeze is pleasant and fresh. It is better to purchase tickets in advance during peak season.

Weather in Crete in August similar to July:

during the day the air temperature is often more than 30°;
at night 21-22°;
water temperature 25°.

Ticket prices are still high. At the end of August, strong northerly winds rise, the sea is restless, but the sweltering summer heat recedes. If you are in doubt about where it is better to relax at this time, choose the southern coast.

Autumn in Crete

Weather in Crete in September not so hot and windy, especially in the mountains, where it is better to relax with a sweater or jacket in your wardrobe. For most tourists, vacation becomes more comfortable. Reviews from tourists are the most positive , in Greece in full swing velvet season:

at the beginning of September during the day 26-27°, at night the air temperature is 20°;
at the end of September 23-24 during the day, at night up to 19°;
water temperature from 26° to 23°.

The beach holiday continues.

Your vacation is comfortable no matter where you plan to relax. True, storms occur in the second half of the month.

Weather in Crete in October still good for holidays. A trip can cost you very little; prices for holidays and food begin to decline in the first half of October. In the morning and evening it is already quite fresh, but in the afternoon you can swim and sunbathe. Is it worth going to Crete at the end of October? Judge for yourself:

in early October about 24° during the day;
fresh nights 17-18°;
water temperature 23°, at the end of October 21°.

Weather in Crete in November unpredictable. Clear days are replaced by rains, often strong winds blow from the Sahara, and clouds of sand cover the sun. But the air temperature is quite acceptable:

in the air 20° during the daytime;
at night up to 14° at times;
water temperature 21°.

Which Resorts in Crete have the best weather?

Most of the resort towns of Crete are located in its northern part. The most famous among them is Heraklion, which at the same time represents largest city islands, port, administrative center, where life is in full swing all 4 seasons. True, there is nowhere to swim in the city itself. But the surrounding area is attractive clean beaches. Located on the shore of the bay, local hotels are protected from strong winds and the water here is calmer.

The second largest city, Chania, is located on the shore Aegean Sea. This is an iconic place where Venetian and Greek cultures are mixed. Visiting it and observing the architectural and natural sights of Crete is recommended for everyone who comes to the island for the first time. The sea current here is quiet and calm, the water warms up very early, and the holiday season opens from the first days of April and lasts until the end of November. Average temperature at this time it fluctuates from 25° to 30°.

Do you want to swim where there are no waves? Then you have a direct road to Hersonissos, a city on the shores of the beautiful Malia Bay. Tourists fell in love with this cheerful youth city for its convenient infrastructure and gorgeous beaches. The ideal period for swimming is from May to October. And then the windy season begins, the sea cools down, it is often stormy, and the air temperature is not very conducive to beach fun.

A respectable public comes to Rethymno, preferring a leisurely, relaxed holiday away from noisy entertainment. Reviews from vacationers are most enthusiastic, especially from those who prefer silence and privacy. The water in the sea is very clean, and if you look at the months, it is better to go here from May to October, when the water temperature in the sea (up to 30°) is higher than in the air (up to 26°).

The island of Crete in its southern part has rocky shores, indented by small coves. Mountain springs flowing down cool the water, and the sea temperature here is even swimming season several degrees lower than in the northern regions. But at the peak of the heat, when the thermometer goes off scale, amateurs flock here wildlife. Hiding from the hot desert winds in one of the picturesque bays, you can swim and dive into cool waters, where there are almost no waves. Ticket prices here are slightly lower than on the northern coast.

Greece ranks southern part 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. The Mediterranean climate prevails in Crete, air humidity is 50%. The sun shines about 280 days a year. The 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 between months, 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.
Eastern part Creta (Sitia) is drier and warm climate than the western (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 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. On the southern coast, due to strong winds, the sea water is slightly 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. The heat and dryness begins, which correspond to the summer months in 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. Northern 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 by southern winds during this period. 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 of cold wind. The average air temperature in December is +16°C, water temperature is +18°C.

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 the southern part of the island from “cold northern winds" Although, in summer period There is hardly any time 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 in square meter 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 the south coast, even on January days you can find 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 water bodies surrounding the island, in the hottest summer months The thermometer can rise above 40C - but only on the south 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. The average air temperature is 12.5C, but it is possible to get +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 storms 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 an amateur who is not afraid to sometimes get caught in the rain. At the beginning of the season, Crete pleases the eye with an indescribable number of flowering wild and ornamental plants. There is no summer heat yet, and The winds had cleared up, and 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, right up to 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, when it seems as if the rain will never end, but will endlessly fall from the sky, knock on the roofs and leak 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 most warm months, the sea is warming 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 is difficult to name the most optimal time for a holiday in Crete.

Generally recognized tourist season starts 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, atmospheric pressure fluctuates minimally over the months. Hot, dry and sunny.

For lovers active recreation late spring is best and early autumn– when the water is well warmed up for swimming, and the daytime heat does not interfere 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 holidays with children.

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 raininess of 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 it rains in the morning at this time of year, the sun will most likely be shining by lunchtime.

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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