Best time to go to Heraklion Average weather of Heraklion, Crete
Tony Samson last update: 18/04/2024When is the best time to go to Heraklion?
The best time to visit Heraklion, taking into account both the climate and the number of tourists, is from May to October. If you are wondering when to go to Heraklion, this six-month period offers favorable weather with pleasant temperatures and abundant sunshine.
During this time, the climate is particularly conducive to exploring the city's historical and cultural treasures, as well as relaxing on the pristine beaches in the region. The months of June, July, August, September, and October are also the most suitable for swimming, with water temperatures ranging from 22°C (72°F) to 28°C (83°F) , allowing you to fully enjoy the Aegean Sea.
However, it is worth noting that the peak tourist season in Heraklion is between July and October. This period is marked by a higher influx of visitors, which can make some tourist sites more crowded. Nevertheless, the festive and lively atmosphere of the city during these months is a real asset for those who appreciate dynamism and liveliness.
If you prefer to avoid the crowds, the months of May and June, as well as November and December, are quieter periods. Although the weather is slightly less favorable towards the end of the year, the climate remains pleasant and will allow you to enjoy the city in a more tranquil atmosphere.
In conclusion, whether you are a fan of swimming, a history buff, or enjoy sunny walks, you will find happiness in Heraklion. The question is not so much when to go to Heraklion, but rather deciding what you want to do once you are there.
So, when is the best time to go to Heraklion? Here's some more information to help you in your decision:
- The best months for good weather in Heraklion are February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December
- On average, the warmest months are June, July, August and September
- Heraklion has dry periods in June, July and August
- The coldest months are January and February
- The rainiest months are January and December
- August is the best month for swimming
Annual weather in Heraklion
Weather details in Heraklion month by month
Weather and climate in Heraklion
Welcome to Heraklion, the blessed land where the sun shines almost all year round. Benefiting from a Mediterranean climate, the city of Heraklion, in Crete, is an ideal place for those who love the sun, the sea, and history. According to the Köppen-Geiger classification, Heraklion's climate is a hot-summer Mediterranean climate (Csa), which means summers are hot and dry, while winters are mild and wet.
Winter in Heraklion (December to February)
Winter in Heraklion is mild, with temperatures ranging from 12°C (54°F) to 16°C (61°F) . Although it is the wettest season of the year, with an average of 5 to 6 rainy days per month, this does not prevent the sun from shining most of the time. Clear and sunny skies dominate the winter period, offering pleasantly bright days.
Spring in Heraklion (March to May)
Spring in Heraklion is an ideal season to visit. Temperatures start to rise, reaching up to 23°C (74°F) in May. Rain becomes increasingly rare, with only 1 to 3 days of precipitation per month. Sunny weather prevails, making this season perfect for enjoying the still quiet beaches and blooming nature.
Summer in Heraklion (June to August)
Summer in Heraklion is hot and dry, with temperatures reaching up to 29°C (85°F) in August. It is the perfect season to lounge on the beaches and enjoy the warm sea. Rain is rarely seen, with virtually no rainy days during these months. The sky remains clear most of the time, offering many hours of sunshine.
Autumn in Heraklion (September to November)
Autumn in Heraklion is still warm in September, with temperatures reaching up to 27°C (81°F) . Temperatures start to drop in October and November, but remain pleasant, ranging between 18°C (65°F) and 23°C (74°F) . Rainy days gradually increase, but the sun still prevails, making autumn in Heraklion pleasant and colorful.
In conclusion, no matter the time of year you choose to visit Heraklion, you are almost guaranteed to encounter the sun. Whether you are a fan of sunny swims or a history enthusiast looking for milder temperatures to explore archaeological sites, Heraklion has something to offer in every season.
Charts: temperature and rainfall in Heraklion
In the charts below, you can see the following seasonal norms for the city of Heraklion: the minimum and maximum outdoor temperature, the risk and amount of monthly rainfall, daily average sunshine, sea temperature, and relative humidity for each month of the year.
Outside temperature
Precipitation (rainfall)
Daily sunshine hours
Sea temperature
Humidity
Peak visitor numbers and tourist seasons in Heraklion
Find out when Heraklion has its high tourist season (the period when the influx of tourists is highest) and off-peak tourist season using our data and figures.
Tourist seasons in Heraklion
- Very low season in Heraklion
The months with the lowest number of tourists are: January, February, March, November and December. - Low season in Heraklion
The months with low numbers of tourists are: April, May and June. - High season in Heraklion
The number of visitors to Heraklion is high in: July, September and October. - Peak season in Heraklion
The largest number of tourists visiting Heraklion is during: August.
Figure: Visitor index for Heraklion month by month
Best time for low prices in Heraklion
Average prices of hotels in Heraklion month by month
Generally, October is the month with the lowest hotel prices in Heraklion. So this is a great time to save on your holiday! In contrast, February is statistically the most expensive month of the year for hotels.
Find the best price for your hotel room
Average price for flights to Heraklion
A return flight between London and Heraklion is generally cheaper if you go in november ($ 174 on average): this is the best time for travellers on a tight budget. In contrast, you may end up paying $ 115 more for your airline ticket to Heraklion if you go in august.
Find the best price for your flight Flight prices to Heraklion
Average price of hiring a car in Heraklion
On average, it costs $ 26 per day to hire a car in Heraklion. This price varies by $ 36 depending on the month. In february, hiring a car costs an average of $ 15 per 24 hours, so this is the best time to save money! In contrast, the average price in august is $ 51.
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