Last updated: January 18, 2025
Crete, Greece, exhibits a Mediterranean climate classified as Csa under the Köppen-Geiger system. Characterized by mild winters and hot summers, the island experiences a notable temperature range, with January's minimum plunging to -3°C (26°F) and July's maximum soaring to a sweltering 41°C (106°F). The annual average temperature of 18°C (65°F) further underscores the region's inviting warmth, shaping its rich biodiversity and vibrant cultural landscape.
In Crete, Greece, temperature patterns are marked by distinct seasonal variations that enhance the island's climatic appeal. Winter months, particularly January and February, showcase cooler temperatures, with minimums occasionally dipping below freezing, while averages hover around 11-12°C (52-54°F). As spring approaches, temperatures gradually rise, culminating in April's pleasant averages of 15°C (60°F) and maximums reaching 33°C (91°F). The transition to summer is evident in May and June, characterized by significantly warmer days, with June averaging 23°C (73°F) and peaking at 38°C (100°F). The peak of summer in July and August brings the hottest conditions, where maximum temperatures often soar to 41°C (106°F). As autumn arrives, September and October maintain warm averages around 20-24°C (68-75°F), before gradually descending into the cooler temperatures of November and December, and completing the cycle. This diverse temperature range throughout the year contributes to Crete's unique climate and vibrant natural scenery.
Crete's climate showcases a mix of stark temperature variations across its cities. In Irakleion, temperatures range from a chilly -1°C (30°F) in January to a sweltering 39°C (103°F) in August, as detailed in the monthly temperatures in Irakleion. Chania experiences slightly milder conditions, with January lows of 1°C (34°F) and August highs of 33°C (91°F) accessible via monthly temperatures in Chania. Rethymno presents extremes with its January lows dropping to -2°C (29°F) and unusual heat peaking in May at 35°C (94°F), information available at monthly temperatures in Rethymno.
In Crete, Greece, precipitation patterns exhibit a distinct seasonal cycle, predominantly concentrated in the cooler months. January and December are the wettest months, receiving 81 mm (3.2 inches) and 95 mm (3.7 inches) of rainfall, respectively, often accompanied by approximately 11 to 12 rainy days. February follows closely with 77 mm (3.0 inches) of rain over 8 days, while March sees a reduction to 58 mm (2.3 inches) across 7 days. As spring transitions into summer, a pronounced decrease in precipitation is observed, with April recording only 31 mm (1.2 inches) and May dropping further to 24 mm (0.9 inches), leading into the dry summer months.
From June through August, Crete experiences its driest conditions, with June receiving a mere 14 mm (0.5 inches) of rain over 2 days and July and August seeing minimal rainfall, just 9 mm (0.4 inches) and 5 mm (0.2 inches), respectively, often with no rainy days. As autumn arrives, precipitation begins to increase again, with September and October registering 20 mm (0.8 inches) and 39 mm (1.5 inches) across 2 and 6 days, respectively. November marks a return to wetter conditions with 73 mm (2.9 inches) over 8 rainy days, reinforcing the island’s seasonal climate variability and restoring moisture in preparation for winter.
Crete, Greece, is blessed with a remarkable amount of sunshine, particularly as the seasons transition from winter to summer. During the winter months, sunshine is limited, with January receiving 213 hours of sunlight, followed by a gradual increase in February to 264 hours. March and April continue this upward trend, boasting 333 hours and 346 hours respectively, as the island shakes off the chill and welcomes the blossoming warmth of spring. May further enhances this brilliance, with sunshine peaking at 397 hours, signaling the approaching summer season.
The summer months of June, July, and August are the pinnacle of sunshine duration on the island, with July standing out at 422 hours, illuminating Crete for nearly 14 hours a day. As summer fades into fall, sunshine hours begin to taper off, but remain relatively high, with September still offering 351 hours. October and November witness a noticeable decline, with 320 hours and 270 hours of sunshine respectively, while December rounds out the year with 262 hours. Overall, the striking trend from minimal winter sunlight to the long, sun-drenched days of summer highlights Crete’s vibrant climate, making it an alluring destination for sun seekers throughout the year.
The UV Index in Crete, Greece, exhibits significant seasonal variability, reflecting the intensity of sunlight throughout the year. Starting in winter, both January and December present a moderate UV Index of 3, an indication of lower sun exposure risk. As the days lengthen and temperatures rise, February sees a jump to 5, followed by a marked increase in March with a UVI of 7. By April, the UV Index escalates to 9, signaling the approach of summer and the growing need for sun protection.
Summer months are characterized by extremely high UV levels, with June, July, and August each reaching a peak UVI of 11—the highest category on the scale, indicating very high risk for harm from unprotected sun exposure. Even as the season starts to shift into fall, September maintains a robust UVI of 9, before declining to 7 in October and 5 in November. This noticeable transition highlights the importance of sun safety measures during the warmer months, especially in summer when UV radiation is at its most intense, making Crete a place where sun care is paramount for both residents and visitors.
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In Crete, Greece, the daylight duration varies significantly throughout the year, reflecting the island's Mediterranean climate. During the winter months, daylight is limited, with January and February both offering just 10 hours of light, gradually extending to 11 hours in March as the days begin to lengthen. April ushers in a noticeable increase, providing 13 hours of daylight, while May reaches its zenith with 14 hours, marking the arrival of spring in full bloom.
As summer unfolds, June, July, and August consistently deliver 14 hours of daylight, creating long, vibrant days ideal for outdoor activities. However, as summer transitions to fall, daylight starts to dwindle, with August dropping to 13 hours and September offering 12 hours. The trend continues into October and November, where daylight falls back to 11 hours and 10 hours, respectively. Finally, December brings the shortest days of the year with just 9 hours of daylight, rounding out the cycle. This rhythmic pattern of changing daylight significantly influences the lifestyle and seasonal activities of Crete’s inhabitants and visitors alike.
Adelianos Kampos, situated on the island of Crete, Greece, exhibits a Mediterranean climate characterized by mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers. Average temperatures range from a winter low of -2°C (29°F) in January to a summer high of 34°C (93°F) in July and August, with notable warmth persisting from May through September. Rainfall is most abundant from November through February, with December being the wettest month at 115 mm (4.5 in), while the summer months see minimal precipitation, especially August with only 3 mm (0.1 in). The area enjoys significant sunshine year-round, peaking in July with 422 hours, offering ample opportunity for outdoor activities. For more information on the local climate, visit the Adelianos Kampos climate.
Agia Galini, Greece, located on the southern coast of Crete, experiences a Mediterranean climate characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. From June to August, temperatures range from 16°C (62°F) to 35°C (95°F) with minimal rainfall, making it the sunniest period with up to 422 hours of sunshine in July. Winter months, especially December and January, are cooler with average temperatures around 15°C (58°F) and receive higher precipitation, approximately 68-73 mm (2.7-2.9 in) each. Spring and autumn offer moderate temperatures, making them ideal for visitors who prefer milder weather and fewer crowds. For more detailed climate information, visit Agia Galini climate.
Agia Marina, Greece, experiences a Mediterranean climate characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. During the summer months, temperatures peak with average highs reaching 31°C (88°F) in July and August, while winters are milder with January's highs averaging around 11°C (53°F). Rainfall is most abundant in the winter, with December seeing the highest precipitation at 186 mm (7.3 in), contrasting sharply with the arid summer periods where July receives just 5 mm (0.2 in). The region also enjoys ample sunshine, particularly in July with 422 hours, offering plenty of sunlight year-round. For more detailed information, visit the Agia Marina climate.
Agios Nikolaos, Greece, enjoys a Mediterranean climate with warm, sunny summers and mild, wet winters. Summer months from June to September see average temperatures ranging from 24°C to 27°C (76°F to 80°F), peaking at 38°C (101°F) in August, with minimal rainfall between 3 mm and 5 mm (0.1 in to 0.2 in) and abundant sunshine, particularly in July with 422 sunshine hours. Winters, from December to February, are milder with average temperatures between 12°C and 14°C (54°F to 58°F), more frequent rain—reaching up to 43 mm (1.7 in) in December—and decreased sunlight. This unique climate of Agios Nikolaos makes it an attractive destination for those seeking a balance of pleasant temperatures and abundant sunshine throughout the year. For more detailed information, visit the Agios Nikolaos climate.
Analipsi, Greece experiences a Mediterranean climate with warm, sunny summers and mild winters. Temperatures peak in July and August, averaging around 25-26°C (78-79°F) and occasionally reaching up to 31°C (87°F), while January sees the coolest averages at 13°C (56°F). The region is known for its abundant sunshine, with July offering the most at 421 hours, although even the shortest month of January provides a remarkable 221 hours. Rainfall is infrequent during the summer months, with only 1-2 mm, while December is the wettest month, recording up to 52 mm (2.1 in) of precipitation. For more detailed climate information, visit Analipsi climate.
Chania, located on the island of Crete, Greece, offers a diverse climate characterized by mild winters and warm summers. Winter temperatures, from January to March, range from a minimum of 1°C (34°F) to a maximum of around 20°C (69°F), accompanied by higher precipitation levels, particularly in December with 186 mm (7.3 in). From April onwards, temperatures rise steadily, peaking in August with daytime highs of up to 33°C (91°F), while the summer months receive minimal rainfall, as low as 5 mm (0.2 in) in July. Sunshine is abundant throughout the year, exceeding 400 hours in June and July. For more detailed information, visit Chania climate.
Chora Sfakion, Greece experiences a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers. Winter temperatures range from -1°C (31°F) to 21°C (69°F), accompanied by higher precipitation levels, peaking at 142 mm (5.6 in) in December. As the year progresses to summer, temperatures rise significantly, reaching up to 34°C (94°F) in May, while rainfall decreases substantially, bottoming out at just 3 mm (0.1 in) in August. The region enjoys ample sunshine throughout the year, particularly from May to August, with sunshine hours peaking in July at 422 hours. Those interested in more detailed climatic data can visit Chora Sfakion climate.
Galia, Greece experiences a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers. In winter, temperatures range from 4–20°C (40–69°F), accompanied by significant rainfall, such as 68 mm (2.7 in) in January, while in summer, temperatures rise to a peak of 35°C (95°F) in July and August with minimal rainfall, as low as 1 mm (0.1 in) in August. The region enjoys abundant sunshine throughout the year, peaking at 422 hours in July. This climate, characterized by seasonal variation in temperature and precipitation, makes Galia an alluring destination for visitors, particularly during the warm and dry summer months. For more detailed information, you can visit Galia climate.
Georgioupolis, located in Crete, Greece, experiences a Mediterranean climate characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wetter winters. Average temperatures range from 10°C (51°F) in January to 25°C (78°F) in August, with summer highs reaching up to 33°C (91°F). Precipitation is most abundant during the winter months, peaking in December with 142 mm (5.6 in), while the summer is notably dry, especially in July and August with only 9 mm (0.4 in) and 3 mm (0.1 in) respectively. With ample sunshine, particularly from May to August where monthly sunshine exceeds 390 hours, visitors can expect plenty of sunny days. For more detailed information, visit the Georgioupolis climate.
Gouves, Greece, enjoys a Mediterranean climate characterized by mild winters and warm summers. From January to March, temperatures range from a minimum of -1°C (30°F) to a maximum of 25°C (77°F), with moderate rainfall averaging 61 mm (2.4 in) per month. As spring transitions into summer, temperatures rise significantly, peaking in August with average highs around 39°C (103°F) and minimal rainfall at 10 mm (0.4 in). Sunshine is abundant, reaching its zenith at 422 hours in July, while the months from October to December are cooler and wetter, with temperatures from 4°C (40°F) to 33°C (92°F) and increased precipitation up to 69 mm (2.7 in) in December. For further details about the climate in Gouves, visit the Gouves climate page.
Ierapetra, located in Greece, boasts a Mediterranean climate characterized by mild winters and warm, dry summers. Temperatures range from an average low of 4°C (40°F) in January to a high of 34°C (94°F) in July, while the city receives very little rainfall, especially in the summer months, with July and August seeing as little as 2 mm (0.1 in) and 1 mm (0.1 in), respectively. Sunshine is plentiful, particularly from May through August, when the area enjoys over 390 hours of sunlight each month. This favorable weather makes Ierapetra a popular destination for those seeking a sun-kissed retreat. For more detailed information about the climate, visit Ierapetra climate.
Irakleion, Greece, experiences a Mediterranean climate characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The temperature ranges from a mild average of 10°C (51°F) in January to warm 26°C (78°F) in July and August. Precipitation is highest in the winter months, reaching up to 69 mm (2.7 in) in December, while the summer months see much less rainfall, with August having as little as 10 mm (0.4 in). In terms of sunshine, July enjoys the highest amount with 422 hours, contrasting with the least sunny month, January, which has 210 hours. For more detailed climatic information, refer to this Irakleion climate.
Istro, Greece enjoys a Mediterranean climate characterized by mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers. January temperatures range from 4°C to 19°C (40°F to 66°F) with the highest precipitation of 51 mm (2.0 in) in December. The summer months, particularly July and August, witness peak average temperatures reaching 26°C (79°F) with minimal rain, only 2 mm (0.1 in) to 1 mm (0.1 in), and abundant sunshine exceeding 400 hours. Transition months like April and October offer pleasant conditions with average temperatures between 15°C and 21°C (60°F and 70°F) and moderate sunshine. Explore more about Istro's climate here.
Kalyves, Greece, experiences a Mediterranean climate characterized by mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers. From January to December, temperatures range from a minimum of 3°C (37°F) in January to a maximum of 32°C (89°F) in August. Precipitation peaks during the winter months, with December receiving the most rainfall at 149 mm (5.9 in), while the summer months are notably dry, with June and July receiving minimal rain. The region enjoys generous sunshine, especially from May to August, when sunlight exceeds 395 hours monthly. For more detailed information, visit the Kalyves climate page.
Kato Gouves, located on the island of Crete in Greece, experiences a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers. From December to February, average temperatures range from 10°C to 12°C (51°F to 55°F), accompanied by higher precipitation, reaching up to 69 mm (2.7 in) in December. The summer months from June to August are characterized by average temperatures between 23°C and 26°C (74°F to 78°F), minimal rainfall, and peak sunshine hours, especially in July, which has 422 hours of sunshine. Spring and autumn transition smoothly with moderate temperatures and variable rainfall, making it pleasant for outdoor activities. For more detailed climate information, you can visit the Kato Gouves climate page.
Khersonisos, Greece experiences a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers. Winter temperatures range from -1°C (30°F) to 24°C (76°F), with precipitation peaking at 69 mm (2.7 in) in December. In contrast, summer months, particularly August, witness higher temperatures from 19°C (67°F) to 39°C (103°F), with minimal rainfall, as low as 10 mm (0.4 in) in August. Sunshine is abundant year-round, especially in the summer, with July basking in the longest daylight hours at 422. For more climate details, see the Khersonisos climate.
Kissamos, located in Crete, Greece, enjoys a Mediterranean climate characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wetter winters. The summer months from June to August are particularly warm, with average temperatures around 25°C (78°F), reaching maximums of up to 33°C (92°F), accompanied by minimal rainfall of around 3–8 mm (0.1–0.3 in) and abundant sunshine, peaking at 422 hours in July. Winters, spanning December to February, tend to be milder with average temperatures around 12°C (54°F) and more frequent precipitation, especially in December with 148 mm (5.8 in) of rain. Despite the cooler and wetter winters, Kissamos still experiences a fair amount of sunshine, ensuring a pleasant climate year-round. For more detailed information, visit the Kissamos climate page.
Limin Khersonisou experiences a Mediterranean climate characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wetter winters. Temperatures peak in August, with averages around 26°C (80°F) and highs reaching 40°C (104°F), while January is the coolest month, averaging 11°C (52°F) with possible lows of -1°C (31°F). Rainfall is sparse during the summer, with July and August recording minimal precipitation of 13 mm (0.5 in) and 7 mm (0.3 in) respectively, while the wettest months are February and December with around 50 mm (2.0 in) each. The area enjoys abundant sunshine, especially in July with 422 hours, contributing to its appeal as a sunny travel destination. For more detailed information, please see the Limin Khersonisou climate.
Makry-Gialos, located in Crete, Greece, experiences a Mediterranean climate characterized by mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers. Winter temperatures range from a minimum of 6°C (43°F) to a maximum of 20°C (68°F), while summer months see temperatures rise, with July and August averaging 25°C (78°F) to 26°C (79°F) and reaching highs of 30°C (87°F) to 31°C (87°F). Precipitation is more frequent during the winter months, with December receiving up to 52 mm (2.1 in) of rain, whereas summer months like July and August are nearly dry, each recording just 1 mm (0.1 in) of rain. The region enjoys abundant sunshine, particularly from April to September, with July boasting the highest average of 421 hours of sunshine. For more detailed climate information, visit the Makry-Gialos climate page.
Malia, Greece experiences a warm Mediterranean climate characterized by hot summers and mild winters. Average temperatures range from 11°C (52°F) in January to 26°C (80°F) in the peak summer months of July and August, with maximum temperatures reaching up to 40°C (104°F) in August. Precipitation is generally low, peaking slightly in winter months with up to 50 mm (2.0 in) in February, but dropping significantly in summer with just 7 mm (0.3 in) in August. Abundant sunshine is a notable feature, especially from April to September when sunshine exceeds 350 hours each month, making it a sunny haven much of the year. For more details, visit Malia climate.
Palaiochora, Greece, experiences a Mediterranean climate characterized by mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers. Winter months, particularly December, receive the highest precipitation, reaching 112 mm (4.4 in), while July and August see minimal rain, averaging only 2–3 mm (0.1 in). The temperatures range from an average low of 0°C (32°F) in January to soaring highs near 38°C (101°F) in August. Sunshine is abundant throughout the year, peaking at 421 hours in July, and remains substantial even in the cooler months. For more detailed climate information, visit Palaiochora climate.
Panormos, Greece, enjoys a Mediterranean climate characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Average temperatures range from 12°C (54°F) in January to 26°C (78°F) in August, with peak summer temperatures reaching up to 32°C (91°F). Precipitation is heaviest from November to February, with up to 122 mm (4.8 in) in December, while summer months see minimal rainfall, with June through August each only receiving 8 mm (0.3 in). Sunshine hours peak in the summer at 423 hours in July, ensuring plenty of daylight for outdoor activities. For more detailed information, visit the Panormos climate page.
Pyrgos, Greece experiences a Mediterranean climate characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wetter winters. Temperatures range from a minimum of -1°C (31°F) in January to a maximum of 41°C (106°F) in July and August, with average temperatures varying from 11°C (52°F) in January to 28°C (83°F) during the peak summer months. Precipitation is relatively low throughout the year, peaking at 47 mm (1.8 in) in December, and dropping to just 3 mm (0.1 in) in August. The region enjoys abundant sunshine, peaking at 422 hours in July, which is characteristic of its location. For more information, visit the Pyrgos climate page.
Rethymno, Greece, experiences a Mediterranean climate characterized by mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers. January sees temperatures ranging from -2°C (29°F) to 21°C (70°F) with 89 mm (3.5 in) of precipitation, while July, the warmest month, ranges between 18°C (65°F) and 34°C (94°F) with only 8 mm (0.3 in) of rain. The annual sunshine hours peak in July with 422 hours and dip in January to 213 hours, highlighting the region's ample daylight during the summer. Rainfall is more frequent from November to February, with December having the highest at 115 mm (4.5 in), indicating Rethymno's distinct seasonal weather pattern. For more details on Rethymno's climate, visit the Rethymno climate page.
Schisma Eloundas, Greece, experiences a Mediterranean climate characterized by mild, wet winters and hot, arid summers. January temperatures range from a chilly 1°C (34°F) to a mild 24°C (75°F), while in the peak of summer, such as August, temperatures can soar up to 38°C (101°F). Rainfall is sparse during the summer months, with June and July receiving as little as 5 mm (0.2 in) of precipitation, while December sees higher rainfall at 43 mm (1.7 in). Sunshine is abundant throughout the year, especially from May to August, with July enjoying up to 422 hours of sunshine. For more detailed climate information, visit the Schisma Eloundas climate.
Stalis, Greece, experiences a Mediterranean climate characterized by mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers. Winter temperatures range from below freezing to a high of 25°C (78°F), with January being the coldest month and up to 49 mm (1.9 in) of rainfall in December. The summer months, especially July and August, are warm, with average temperatures peaking at 26°C (80°F) and occasional highs of 40°C (104°F), while monthly precipitation drops to just 7 mm (0.3 in) in August. Sunshine is abundant, particularly from April to September, with July receiving up to 422 hours of sunlight. For more detailed information, visit Stalis climate.
Stalos, Greece, enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate characterized by warm, dry summers and cool, wet winters. The summer months from June to August see average temperatures ranging from 22°C (72°F) to 25°C (77°F) with minimal rainfall, particularly in July where precipitation is just 5 mm (0.2 in). The winter months, from November to January, experience cooler temperatures averaging between 11°C (53°F) and 17°C (63°F), with December being the wettest month, receiving 186 mm (7.3 in) of rain. Sunshine is abundant throughout the year, peaking in July with 422 hours. For more detailed information, visit Stalos climate.
In conclusion, Crete's climate presents a dynamic interplay of temperatures, precipitation, sunlight, UV exposure, and daylight duration throughout the year. With its mild winters and hot summers, the island offers a diverse environment ideal for a variety of outdoor pursuits. The noticeable seasonal shifts, characterized by increasing sunshine and UV levels in summer, underscore the importance of sun safety for residents and tourists alike. Furthermore, the rhythmic variation in daylight hours enhances the charm of each season, enabling a range of activities that capitalize on the abundant natural light. Overall, Crete's climate not only supports its rich biodiversity but also contributes to its appeal as a year-round destination for those seeking both relaxation and adventure in the sun.