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Heraklion (Kreta) Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Heraklion (Kreta).
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10-day forecastForecast
Climate overview of Heraklion (Kreta)
It is much colder during the winter periods and reaches its minimum in January at an average of 15°C (59°F). The lowest water temperature is approximately 17°C (63°F) the end of winter in March. This season is also considerably wetter, with January receiving approximately 86 mm (3.4 in) and being the wettest month. December is the sunniest month with only 117 hours of sunshine. Despite its dryer summer, Crete is still a relatively green island because the autumn, winter, and spring months together bring good amounts of rainfalls amounting to an average annual total of 519 mm (20 in).
Heraklion (Kreta) Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Heraklion (Kreta) - and find the best time to visit.
Monthly Temperature in Heraklion (Kreta)
In Heraklion (Kreta), temperatures differ significantly between summer and winter months. On average, daytime temperatures range from a comfortable 30°C (86°F) in July to a moderate 15°C (59°F) in January.
Nighttime temperatures range from 23°C (73°F) in July to 9°C (48°F) in January.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in Heraklion (Kreta)
On average, Heraklion (Kreta) receives a reasonable amount of rainfall, with an annual precipitation of 520 mm (20 in). The seasons in Heraklion (Kreta) bring significant changes in precipitation. The wettest month, January, receives moderate rainfall, with an average of 86 mm (3.4 in) of precipitation. This rainfall is distributed across 12 rainy days.
In contrast, the driest month, July, experiences much less rainfall, totaling 4.5 mm (0.2 in) over a single rainy day. These distinct seasonal differences provide diverse experiences throughout the year. For more details, please visit our Heraklion (Kreta) Precipitation page.
The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail, and snow
The average number of days each month with precipitation
Sunshine Hours in Heraklion (Kreta)
In Heraklion (Kreta), summer days are longer and more sunny, with daily sunshine hours peaking at 12.4 hours in July. As the darker season arrives, the brightness of the sun becomes less. December sees a soft sun for only 3.9 hours per average day.
Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.
Monthly hours of sunshine
Daily hours of sunshine
Water Temperature in Heraklion (Kreta)
The mean water temperature over the year ranges from 17°C (63°F) in February to 26°C (79°F) in August.
Water temperature over the year
Humidity in Heraklion (Kreta) by Month
The relative humidity is high throughout the year in Heraklion (Kreta).
The city experiences its highest humidity in January, reaching 68%. In June, the humidity drops to its lowest level at 57%. What does this mean? Read our detailed page on humidity levels for further details.
Relative humidity over the year
Wind Speed in Heraklion (Kreta)
The mean wind speed over the year ranges from 1 m/s (2 knots) in May and June to 2 m/s (4 knots) in January, February, March, April, July, August, September, October, November and December. What does this mean?
The mean monthly wind speed over the year (meters per second)
Best Time to Visit Heraklion (Kreta)
The most comfortable overall weather for exploring Heraklion (Kreta) is usually found in April, May, June, September, October and November. Conditions are generally least comfortable in January, February, March and December.
Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.
Jan
good
Feb
good
Mar
good
Apr
excellent
May
excellent
Jun
excellent
Jul
very good
Aug
very good
Sep
excellent
Oct
excellent
Nov
excellent
Dec
good
- Best overall: April, May, June, September, October and November
- Warmest weather: July and August
- Most sunshine: June and July
- Fewest rainy days: June, July, August and September
- Best for swimming: June, July, August, September, October and November.
- Seasonal pattern: A distinct dry season from April to September, with warm summers and mild winters
Frequently asked questions about the climate in Heraklion (Kreta)
What is the best time to visit Heraklion (Kreta)?
April, May, June, September, October and November typically offer the most optimal weather in Heraklion (Kreta). In contrast, January, February, March and December tend to have less optimal conditions. Heraklion (Kreta) has a distinct dry season from April to September, with warm summers and mild winters.
What temperatures can I expect in Heraklion (Kreta)?
Daytime highs range from 15°C (59°F) in January to 30°C (86°F) in July. Nighttime lows range from 9°C (48°F) to 23°C (73°F). Temperatures vary considerably through the year.
How much rain does Heraklion (Kreta) get?
Annual rainfall is around 520 mm (20 in). January is the wettest month with 86 mm (3.4 in), while July is the driest with 4.5 mm (0.2 in).
How sunny is Heraklion (Kreta)?
Heraklion (Kreta) receives around 2,785 hours of sunshine per year. July is the sunniest month with 372 hours, while December is the cloudiest with just 117 hours. Overall, Heraklion (Kreta) enjoys abundant sunshine.
Heraklion (Kreta) 3-Day Forecast
Heraklion (Kreta) on the map
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