While only the hardiest are plunging into the still-chilly Med, crystal-clear days and moderating temps mean that the island is open for exploration. The final Sunday sees spectacular parades that devolve into mass frivolity. Life in towns and cities is punctuated by Carnival, a thrilling three-week pre-Lenten celebration featuring masquerade balls, street parties, treasure hunts and more. Families venture out for walks in the hills, especially on the first Monday of Lent. The brisk temps continue into February, although hillsides show flashes of green and speckles of color from the very first wildflowers.
February equals fun, from country hikes to Carnival Key events: New Year's Day (Feast of St Basil), Epiphany (Blessing of the Waters). The big days for Cretan families are New Year's Day when people eat vasilopita (golden glazed cake) and January 6, the day of the Epiphany when priests bless the waters. It's cold so bundle up for bracing walks on the deserted beaches and seek out warmth and intellectual stimulation in museums and churches. January is the month for museums and churchesįew visitors ply the winding roads of Crete during January when the tallest peaks are often capped with snow. Most days have less than a 10% chance of rain.Īverage temps during the short days of weak sunlight hover around 15✬ (59✯), and storms off the Med can drop large amounts of rain and blow chilly winds for days on end. You may even find last-minute deals.Īverage daytime highs range from 20✬ to 27✬ (68✯ to 80✯) depending on your proximity to summer. Prices are moderate and the availability of flights and rooms is good.
Most businesses and attractions are open, which means you can rent a beach umbrella, enjoy a seaside taverna lunch and visit a remote church on a mountain pass. Crete is open and uncrowded in shoulder season (April to June, September and October) Book everything far in advance as flights and hotels fill up quickly.Īverage summertime highs are 29✬ (84✯), with higher temps on the beaches and hillside trails. The temps are sweaty but the Med offers temperate relief. Join the masses reveling in high-season heat during July and AugustĮverything is open in high season and there are non-stop parties wherever visitors gather. Get the inside scoop on the latest cultural happenings all over the world delivered weekly to your inbox with our email newsletter.
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