Weather: When is the Best Time to Visit Crete?

As we approach Winter, many of our thoughts are turning to a 2019 holiday – with one of the most anticipated aspects being the blissful warmth of the sun and idyllic blue skies. 

For some, the lure of 30-degree heat is a crucial component of their holiday but for others, a gentler temperature may be the better choice. So, when is the best time to visit Crete? This will depend very much on what you plan to do – be it hiking in the Samaria Gorge or lazing by your private pool.
Let’s take a closer look at the different seasons of Crete and understand how best to plan your holiday accordingly.

Early Spring: April to May

This is a glorious time to visit Crete as the beauty of the wildflowers will be at its peak. Expect for temperatures to range between 17 and 24 degrees, which for many northern Europeans will be a pleasant heat. The island is awash with colour at this time of year – with an abundance of orange and lemon trees and the magical spectacle of snow caps on the White Mountains.

Aside from the natural beauty of Crete in early Spring, there are many other benefits of visiting at this time of year. Cheaper flights and readily available car hire are both important factors to consider, as well as the option to take advantage of low occupancy villa discounts which are available outside of peak season. With fewer crowds and gentler temperatures, outdoor enthusiasts can explore ancient ruins and hike in the beautiful scenery without the need to seek out shade from the midday sun. Take a look here for more information on visiting Crete in the Spring!

Late Spring: May to June

If swimming in the sea is a must for your trip, then a visit to Crete in later Spring would be a good choice. By June the sea temperature will have warmed up nicely and even little ones will be happy to splash and swim to their hearts content. This time is still considered to be outside of “peak season” (don’t forget those low occupancy discounts!) yet the island will be alive and buzzing with plenty of choice when it comes to eating, sightseeing and activities. With steadily rising temperatures comes the opportunity to swim and sunbathe in your private villa and enjoy pleasant evenings without the need for a warmer outer layer as may be the case in early Spring.

Summer: July to August

Come July, temperatures will be climbing steadily to an average of 25 to 30 degrees. Perfect for sun worshippers and lovers of water sports! Although much hotter at this time of year, there is often a pleasant breeze that can bring welcome respite from the heat of the sun. Many of our villas have shaded seating areas which offer a relaxing midday retreat and the blessing of good air conditioning is also a great way to stay refreshed during these warmer months. Although outdoor pursuits such as hiking may be all the more challenging in peak season, good preparation and plenty of sun cream and water will make the experience just as enjoyable!

Late Summer & Autumn: September to October

This is one of the most popular times to travel – especially for seasoned visitors to the island. Since these months are officially “low peak” - flight prices should come down accordingly and travellers can once again take advantage of cheaper villa rates and low occupancy discounts.  Temperatures will remain in the pleasant range of between 22 to 27 degrees – falling slightly as time passes from September through to October. The sea temperature is sublime at this time of year, having been warmed up nicely throughout the season. Subsequently, swimming and water sports are still very much on the cards – and can be enjoyed with fewer crowds!

It goes without saying that whatever time you choose to visit the wonderful island of Crete, there will be an abundance of excellent local cuisine, dramatic scenery and of course – the warmest of welcomes from the Cretan locals.

If you are still in the process of planning your 2019 holiday to Crete, then why not take a look through our fantastic selection of fully licensed villas.