With an average of 12 hours of sunshine per day and average temperatures of between 27 to 29 degrees Celsius, sites like Preveli beach and Balos Lagoon are perfect additions to your itinerary. Temperatures can drop significantly from day to night which offers some respite from the heat, so we recommend sensible wardrobe planning so you can enjoy the entire day in the fresh air.

Summer also brings a whole host of events, perfect for those wanting a cultural experience which goes beyond the classic visits to historic sites. Chania Summer Festival and Chania Rock Festival are both packed with attractions for everyone, with live music, food, and performances of dance and theatre. In Rethymno, the Cretan Diet Festival commences every year in July and is designed to showcase Cretan gastronomy. Perfect for foodies, local produce is offered to guests alongside explanations of the various health benefits and superior quality of Crete’s fresh food. Winemakers are also invited, making this a truly holistic dining experience. Do note, however, that the island can get quite busy during peak tourist times, and that accommodation prices are usually at their highest.

Weather wise, there can be big differences depending on where you are staying on the island such as on the coast or in the mountains, or in the western or eastern regions. Average daytime temperatures range from between 15 and 21 degrees with around 4-5 hours of sunshine. At night, temperatures can drop as low as 5 degrees in January. At times, Crete can feel a little drizzly and blustery in winter, so be sure to pack accordingly and take a raincoat so you can enjoy walks and the best of what Crete has to offer, regardless of what nature throws at you! Cooler, wetter weather need not stop you exploring Crete as, even during the winter months, many of the iconic historical and cultural sites remain open and Crete is known as a year-round holiday destination. If you don’t mind the cooler temperatures, this might be a good time to visit Crete and take in landmarks without facing the queues. Fabulous food and drink are always available, though the towns can become a little sleepier in the wintertime, so is perhaps not the time of year for those who are keen to experience a vibrant atmosphere. Winter features some of the key holy celebrations in Crete, with festivals of Epiphany and John the Baptist in January, and of course the series of Christmas and New Year celebrations happening the month before. Winter is the best time to visit Crete if you are keen for a quieter vacation, filled with atmospheric warmth gained from festivities and feasting.

Summer also brings a whole host of events, perfect for those wanting a cultural experience which goes beyond the classic visits to historic sites. Chania Summer Festival and Chania Rock Festival are both packed with attractions for everyone, with live music, food, and performances of dance and theatre. In Rethymno, the Cretan Diet Festival commences every year in July and is designed to showcase Cretan gastronomy. Perfect for foodies, local produce is offered to guests alongside explanations of the various health benefits and superior quality of Crete’s fresh food. Winemakers are also invited, making this a truly holistic dining experience. Do note, however, that the island can get quite busy during peak tourist times, and that accommodation prices are usually at their highest.