01
Summer
June – September
Daytime highs typically sit around 29–31 °C, sometimes higher, with warm evenings and plenty of sunshine. On the coast a northerly breeze often takes the edge off the heat.
Climate & seasons
Heraklion & Crete Weather
Crete has a Mediterranean climate: long, hot, dry summers and mild, wetter winters. Here is what to expect season by season, plus the best times to visit Heraklion.
Right now in Heraklion
Updated 16:4129°C
Clear
- Wind
- 8 m/sNW
- Humidity
- 47%
Next seven days
- Today29°25°
- Sun32°23°
- Mon32°25°
- Tue28°23°
- Wed29°22°
- Thu30°22°
- Fri29°22°
02
Spring & autumn
April – May, October
Mild and pleasant with comfortable temperatures, and the sea stays warm into early autumn — a good time for sightseeing.
03
Winter
November – March
Highs are commonly around 12–15 °C. It is the wettest part of the year, and the mountains inland can see snow.
When to visit
For beaches & heat
June to September brings the hottest, sunniest weather — the peak season for the coast and the sea.
For sightseeing
May, early June, September and October offer comfortable temperatures with fewer crowds.
A winter city break
Winter suits a quiet, budget city break rather than a beach holiday.
Weather & your flight
Summer weather rarely disrupts flights, though strong seasonal winds can occasionally affect schedules.
Full guide
Updated
Crete has one of the warmest, sunniest climates in Europe, which is why Heraklion International Airport “Nikos Kazantzakis” (HER) is so busy in summer. Knowing what the weather is doing helps you pack, choose when to visit, and plan around the peak-season heat. Here is what to expect through the year.
What is the weather like in Heraklion?
Heraklion has a Mediterranean climate: long, hot, dry summers and mild, wetter winters. Summer days are reliably sunny with little rain, while the coolest, greenest months are in winter. The sea stays warm well into autumn, which extends the swimming season.
Summer (June to September)
This is the peak. Average daytime highs are about 29 °C in July and August, and heatwaves push past 35 °C, with warm evenings and a lot of sunshine. A northerly breeze often takes the edge off on the coast. It is hot, so pack light clothing, sun protection and plenty of water — and expect the airport to be at its busiest.
Spring and autumn
Spring (April–May) and autumn (October) are mild and pleasant — comfortable temperatures, fewer crowds, and the sea still warm in early autumn. These shoulder seasons are a good compromise if you want warmth without the peak-summer heat and prices.
Winter (November to March)
Winters are mild by European standards, with average highs about 15 °C in January, but this is the wettest part of the year and the mountains inland can see snow. Many seasonal businesses and flight routes wind down, so the airport is far quieter.
When is the best time to visit?
For beaches and reliable heat, June to September; for sightseeing in comfort with thinner crowds, May, early June, September and October. Winter suits a quiet, budget city break rather than a beach holiday.
What to pack
- Summer: light clothes, hat, sunglasses, high-factor sun cream, a refillable water bottle
- Spring/autumn: layers and a light jacket for cooler evenings
- Winter: a warm layer and a rain jacket
Does the weather affect flights?
Summer weather rarely disrupts flights, though strong seasonal winds can occasionally affect schedules. The bigger summer factor is volume, not weather. Allow extra time at peak periods: see the timing guide. Check the live flight board before you travel.
Frequently asked questions
How hot does Heraklion get in summer?
Average highs are about 29 °C in July and August, and heatwaves push past 35 °C.
When is the best time to visit Crete?
June–September for the beach; May, September and October for warm weather with fewer crowds.
What is winter like?
Mild but the wettest season, with average highs about 15 °C; much quieter.
Does weather delay flights at HER?
Rarely — summer disruption is usually about passenger volume, not weather.