What is the best time of year to go to Crete?

What is the best time of year to go to Crete? The best time to visit Crete runs from late May to June and from September to early October. Late spring brings fantastic flower blooming, sunny days, and warm water by pink and white sand beaches. Early autumn offers fewer crowds, affordable accommodation, and winemaking season.

Is Crete better than Santorini?

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.

Is Crete more expensive than Santorini?

Generally speaking, hotels in Crete are slightly cheaper than those in Santorini because they're popular among locals, and there are simply more. Crete's high supply and high demand keep prices relatively low, while Santorini's limited supply and extremely high demand increase rates significantly.

Does it get cold at night in Crete?

It can cool off at night more during this season, so make sure you are prepared with a warm sweater, especially in the mountainous areas. Winter in Crete brings colder weather to much of the island, with snow in the mountains and rain in the rest areas, but still, sunny days are very common.

What money do I need for Crete?

Just like the Greek mainland, the currency in Crete is the Euro (€). You'll probably get the most holiday money for your pounds if you change them before you go. All you have to do is decide if you prefer it all in cash, on a secure currency card or want a combination of the two for the most flexibility.

Is it safe to go to Crete right now?

The island is safe. The local economy counts on tourists, and the Cretans – like most Greeks – are friendly and welcoming. In any business where tourists turn up (which even includes tiny family-run eateries high in the hills), someone will speak English.

Can you swim in Crete year round?

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.

What is the nicest place in Crete?

Attractive Chania on the northwest coast is the best option for first-time visitors to the Crete. Easily the prettiest city on the island, Chania features a gorgeous harbor strung with sea-facing tavernas with a warren of pedestrian-only backstreets paved with pretty sandstone setts in the Old Town.

How many days in Crete is enough?

Crete in 4-5 days With a few more days in Crete, you can get out of the cities and off the beaten path to see more of the island's natural areas. Crete is known for its olive groves, and many of them welcome visitors.

Can you swim in Crete in May?

Best Time for Good Weather and Swimming: The warmest weather in Crete (and all the Greek islands) is between late May and early October when it's sunny, hot, and the water is perfect for swimming. Water temperature heats throughout the summer months and is warmest in August and early September.

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 Crete a cheap island?

The most affordable Greek Islands to visit include Crete, Andros, Tinos, Corfu and Naxos. These cheap Greek Islands don't get nearly as many visitors as others, making everything from transportation to food and accommodations more affordable. And often, they're not even very far from the more popular islands.

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 month is the best weather in Crete?

Weather in Crete The hottest months are between May to October, which is the best time to go for guaranteed sunshine and minimal rainfall. The weather in Crete is mild for the most part. April and May are very pleasant with an average temperature of 24°C and lows of 12°C.

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.

Where to avoid in Crete?