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Crete

With a combination of mythological history and modern conveniences, the stunning island of Crete contains the perfect blend for an unforgettable Greek island holiday. Stretching out across 260km, Crete is blessed with breathtaking scenery, gorgeous azure waters and dozens of undiscovered villages to explore. Chania’s Venetian harbour is packed with cosy eateries from which to enjoy locally caught seafood, whilst the eastern city of Heraklion houses a world famous Archaeological Museum containing remains from the Minoan era. The ancient settlement of Knossos and the spectacular Samaria Gorge are also essential stops on any Cretan itinerary. By night, Crete shows a different side to its personality with nightclubs in Hersonissos and chic bars in Rethymnon providing the perfect opportunity to unwind after a day of absorbing Crete’s natural charms.

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What you’ll love most about Crete

  • Visit the ancient Minoan Palace of Knossos, one of the island’s most significant archaeological sites
  • Explore the charming old town of Chania, with its Venetian harbor, narrow streets, and colourful buildings
  • Take a boat trip to the stunning Balos Lagoon and enjoy the turquoise waters, pink sand, and dramatic cliffs
  • Hike the Samaria Gorge, a spectacular natural wonder with stunning views and rich flora and fauna
  • Enjoy the island’s delicious cuisine, including Cretan dakos, dolmades, and grilled meats
  • Explore the island’s natural wonders, such as the Lassithi Plateau, the Richtis Gorge, and the Imbros Gorge
  • Balos Lagoon, Crete

  • Cobbled street of old town Rethymno in Crete

  • Beach of Triopetra, Crete

  • Loutro village, Crete

  • Colourful street in Chania, Crete

  • Kalyves village, Crete

  • Narrow street of Old Town Chania, Crete

Average temperature

Information below is based on average highest temperature for each month.

  • 16℃
  • 16℃
  • 17℃
  • 20℃
  • 24℃
  • 28℃
  • 30℃
  • 29℃
  • 27℃
  • 24℃
  • 20℃
  • 16℃
  • 14
  • 11
  • 8
  • 6
  • 3
  • 1
  • 1
  • 1
  • 2
  • 6
  • 8
  • 9

Information above is based on the average number of days which experience some form of rainfall for each month.

Rainfall

When to Visit

Below gives you information and a rating of the best time of year to visit.

January

January is wintertime in Crete, with cooler temperatures ranging from 8°C to 16°C. While it’s too cool for beach activities, it’s a good time for exploring historical sites like the Palace of Knossos or enjoying the island’s quieter atmosphere. Rain is possible, and some attractions may have reduced hours.

February

February remains cool and can be rainy, with temperatures similar to January. It’s a low season, ideal for those who prefer fewer tourists. Outdoor activities may be limited due to weather, but it’s a good time for cultural experiences and exploring Crete’s archaeological sites and traditional villages.

March

March sees the onset of spring, with gradually warming temperatures ranging from 10°C to around 18°C. The weather improves, making it a pleasant time for sightseeing and hiking in the Samaria Gorge. Wildflowers start to bloom, adding colour to the landscape, and the island becomes more lively as the tourist season begins to pick up.

April

April offers mild and enjoyable weather, with temperatures ranging from 12°C to 20°C. It’s an excellent time for exploring Crete’s natural beauty, including the blooming gardens and archaeological sites. Easter is celebrated with vibrant local festivals and traditional Greek events, adding a cultural dimension to the visit.

May

May is warm and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 16°C to 24°C. It’s an ideal time for beach activities as the sea starts to warm up, and outdoor activities like hiking and exploring ancient ruins are enjoyable. The island is less crowded than in peak summer, providing a more relaxed experience.

June

June is warm, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 28°C. The weather is excellent for beach activities, swimming, and exploring Crete’s scenic coastline. The island’s tourist season begins to ramp up, but it’s still manageable. It’s also a great time for enjoying outdoor dining and local festivals.

July

July is hot, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C. It’s peak tourist season, with bustling beaches and vibrant nightlife. It’s ideal for beachgoers, water sports enthusiasts, and exploring the island’s beautiful beaches and clear waters. Summer festivals and cultural events add to the lively atmosphere.

August

August remains hot and is one of the busiest months of the year. The weather is perfect for beach activities, with the sea at its warmest. It’s also a great time for enjoying Crete’s nightlife and participating in local festivals. However, the island can be crowded, and prices are higher during this peak season.

September

September offers warm, pleasant weather with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 28°C or so. The summer crowds start to thin out, making it a good time for a more relaxed experience. The sea remains warm, ideal for swimming and water sports. It’s also a great time for hiking and exploring Crete’s natural beauty without the peak summer heat.

October

October brings cooler temperatures, ranging from 17°C to approximately 25°C, and fewer tourists. The weather is still warm enough for beach activities and exploring Crete’s landscapes. The island’s cultural events and festivals continue, and it’s a pleasant time to visit historical sites and enjoy the local cuisine.

November

November sees cooler temperatures, ranging from 12°C to 20°C, and an increase in rainfall. While beach activities are less favourable, it’s a good time for cultural and historical exploration with fewer tourists. The island becomes quieter, making it a peaceful time to enjoy Crete’s heritage sites and traditional villages.

December

December is cool, with temperatures ranging from 8°C to 16°C . It’s winter on the island, with a higher chance of rain and cooler temperatures. While beach activities are limited, it’s a good time for exploring Crete’s cultural sites, enjoying holiday festivities, and experiencing the island’s winter charm.

Our Ratings

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Where to book


Here to help you find your ideal holiday at the best possible price – with a huge variety of breaks to suit all tastes & budgets. Experienced travel consultants available 7 days a week to help you book an ATOL & ABTA bonded holiday – book with confidence.

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eShores specialises in tailor-made multi-centre holidays, seamlessly blending multiple destinations into one trip. Explore the beauty of Thailand, island-hop the Greek islands, or embark on an epic American road trip – anything is possible. With consultants averaging 15 years’ experience, your dream holiday is in expert hands, so you can relax and enjoy the adventure!

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“Holiday Best is here to provide travellers with comprehensive travel solutions. We do this through our flexible options and owned products. We are with our customers at every step of their experience – because we believe that’s the way travel should be.”

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“At Just You, we’ve been crafting worldwide touring holidays specifically for solo travellers for over 20 years. There’s so much included in our tours: flights, accommodation (own rooms are guaranteed) and all breakfasts. We pack in amazing experiences, as well as free time to relax and explore. With expert Holiday Directors, we’re there for you throughout your trip.”

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For over 30 years Pure Crete has been offering traditional Cretan villas and houses with breath-taking rural and coastal views. They also organise a range of walking holidays with professional guides so you can discover the real Crete.

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For more than 60 years, Travelsphere has been crafting amazing itineraries to destinations around the world. They take care of all the details so you don’t have to. From flights, hotels, the services of an expert Holiday Director, and a range of incredible experiences, each tour is designed to immerse you in local culture, cuisine and take you to explore all the very best sights.

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Tropical Sky offers luxury tailor-made tours and holidays specialising in providing expert travel advice and exceptional unhurried customer service. With a wealth of experience we will find the perfect trip for you.

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Hotels

  • Best of the Best
  • Life of Luxury
  • Unique & Fabulous
  • Creature Comforts
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5* Grecotel Creta Palace

With plenty to please families and couples alike, the Grecotel Creta Palace is a versatile holiday choice. Set on a stretch of sand and pebble beach in the picturesque town of Missiria it’s also conveniently located for visiting the livelier Rethymnon, which is just four kilometres away.

Our Rating: Life of Luxury

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5* St Nicolas Bay Resort Hotel & Villas

A small boutique offering the services of a large luxury resort, St Nicolas Bay Resort Hotel and Villas is a beautiful and intimate retreat near Crete’s popular town Aghios Nikolaos. We love how the resort has added a contemporary twist, and yet doesn’t lose the charm of authentic Greek hospitality. A well-deserved member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World, the accommodation at St Nicolas Bay is luxurious. Minimalist Greek décor complements the incredible garden or sea views beautifully.

Our Rating: Best of the Best

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5* Stella Island Luxury Resort & Spa

The adults-only Stella Island Luxury Resort & Spa effortlessly impresses with its chic, modern interiors and laidback luxury atmosphere. You’ll find the resort on Crete’s northern coast in Analipsi. Wander through the grounds and you’ll see that the lagoon-like pool winds its way through the complex, and it comes with wooden sunbathing platforms. On one side, there’s a huddle of swanky swim-up rooms, and elsewhere you’ll find overwater bungalow rooms – you’d be forgiven for thinking you’d pitched up in the Maldives.

Our Rating: Best of the Best

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