Is it worth going to Crete in winter?

Is it worth going to Crete in winter? Crete is an ideal place to visit all year round. Its mild climate and its unique mountainous features attract visitors before and after the established touristy summer season. Crete's stunning natural beauty awakens in visitors an imperative need to discover its mountains, its gorges, its paths.

Is December a good time to visit Crete?

Crete weather December It's a bit too chilly for a dip in the clear waters lapping this Greek island and you'll need some winter clothing if you're exploring the beaches, villages and ancient sights in Crete. On average it's the wettest time to visit the island.

Is it worth it to go to Greece in the winter?

Visiting Greece in winter, you will find that the beaches are quiet, the islands are a little deserted, and the weather is undoubtedly chillier. But that doesn't make it a wrong time to visit. In fact, in many ways, winter is the best time to experience this ancient nation's culture, history, and versatility.

Where is the warmest part of Crete in winter?

The east of the island has less rain than the north and especially the north-west. In general, eastern Crete is warmer than western Crete, the southern part of the island is warmer than the northern, the western part of Crete has more vegetation and in the mountainous areas the weather is cooler.

Do hotels in Crete close for winter?

Greek islands which are smaller and less touristic have a shorter season, larger islands like Crete, Corfu and Santorini have extended seasons sometimes up to full year. Hotels have different opening/closing dates but the general rule for islands is that they open in April and close at end October.

Why is Crete so popular?

The largest Greek island has mild weather, pristine beaches, great offerings for foodies and wine lovers, hundreds of ancient sites, breathtaking landscapes and hiking paths and wild nightlife. It is the largest island in Greece, but has its own unique history and culture.

How far is Crete from Athens by ferry?

What's the distance between Athens and Crete? The distance between the port of Piraeus and Crete ranges between 145 nautical miles (269 km) and 200 nautical miles (370 km), depending on the port (Heraklion, Chania, Sitia, or Kissamos port).

Is it too cold to visit Greece in December?

Greece in December has chilly yet warm winter days, allowing you to explore the best of this incredible country. Picture things like archeological sites and museums to tavernas and charming villages. The weather in Greece in December typically ranges between 48°F and a maximum temperature of 57°F.

How many days is ideal for Crete?

Crete is Greece's largest island—just driving from one end to the other makes for a five-hour journey, and there's much to do and see in between. If you want to experience all Crete has to offer, plan to spend a full week exploring its monasteries, olive groves, towns, and coast.

Is Crete too touristy?

It really depends on where you stay on the island, there are numerous tourist resorts, but also quiet village locations and small unspoilt sea size villages too.

What is the coldest month in Crete?

The average Crete temperature decreases as you travel north. July and August are the warmest months, and January is the coldest month of the year. In summer, the average maximum temperature ranges between 20-30ºC (70-90°F) and in winter between 10-15ºC (50-60°F).

What is the best month to go to Crete?

The best time to visit Crete is from mid-May to June or from September to October.

Is Crete an expensive island?

You can spend as much or as little as you want in Crete. At the budget end of the spectrum, you're aided by the island's size and popularity, which means options are many. With some planning and shopping around, you can get good deals on transport and accommodation.

Can you swim in Crete in December?

Crete is an ideal place to enjoy swimming at any time of the year. All needed, beyond a good mood and leisure time, is a relatively nice day without much wind and extreme cold. You don't need to go too far away, because the informal meeting points of winter swimmers are located very close to the towns of the island.

Is it worth going to Greece in December?

Yes, it'll be cooler, windier, and much, much quieter compared to the summer months, but if your perfect holiday involves loads of walking and hiking by day and cozying up to a good book and a glass of wine by night, you might just fall in love with the Greek Islands in winter.

Is it worth going to Greek islands in December?

Greece in December is a gorgeous destination, especially for those who don't like heat and when planning budget-friendly trips. With the mild temperatures of Greece in winter, you can experience everything you want without getting swamped by large tourist crowds and without dripping sweat.

Is Santorini or Crete better?

Crete has better beaches but they're spread out and it takes a fair bit of effort to see the best beaches. Santorini is small and it's easy to get around to all the popular beaches. Crete has more small traditional (non-touristy) villages. Santorini is more romantic and better suited to a honeymoon.

Which Greek island is warmest in winter?

Greece's largest and most southerly island, Crete has mild and sunny weather throughout winter; in fact, it has some of the warmest winter weather in Europe with average highs generally around 15-16°C and average lows around 9-11°C. This makes it easy to get out and see everything this island has to offer.