SOMETHING ABOUT VISIT CRETE, GREECE

When to Visit Crete, Greece

The island is a perfect destination all year round.

Summers are long and dry, with temperatures that can be quite high during the months of July and August. This is the peak season and therefore the island tends to be packed with tourists.

Accommodation can be hard to find and somewhat expensive if you do not book well in advance.

Restaurants and attractions are jam-packed so you might find that is often necessary to wait in line or fight for a free parking spot.

Yet, despite all of this, the high season in Crete is great for nightlife, beach parties, and meeting friends from all over the world.

Both autumn and spring, the shoulder seasons, are my favorite times of the year to fully enjoy Crete. The temperatures are milder, but going to the beach is still pleasant.

Late autumn and early spring can be extremely hot with no rain. 

The winter period is not long, but it can be very cold and rainy. The highest peaks of Crete receive lots of snow and are popular places to go skiing and snowboarding.

Driving is not really dangerous, but some roads can be inaccessible due to snow and rain. Take that into consideration if you plan to drive around in winter.

Crete’s most important cities, such as Chania, Heraklion, and Rethymnon don’t close for winter! There are still plenty of shops and restaurants open as well as several hotels and studios for rent, making it a great place to visit in January. 

These three cities are home to some of Greece’s most important universities, so the island has a lively population of young adults coming from all over Greece to study.

December, January, and February are not the most popular months among tourists, but if you’re not a beach fanatic, you will definitely have fun.

How to Get Around Crete

Probably the most comfortable way to visit Crete is to do so by renting your own vehicle and having the freedom of reaching every corner of the island.

The public bus system is quite good and it will safely take you from one main city to the other.

Still, many of the southern coasts of Crete remain quite isolated when it comes to bus schedules, and many villages are hard to reach if you don’t have your own wheels.

Public transport is the answer if you don’t really want to drive around Crete. But if you’re looking to get to the most secret corners of the island, driving is the way to go since taking a taxi can be somewhat expensive to travel long hours.

Is Crete Safe?

Many people ask if Crete is a safe place to visit.

This is a very common question when people decide to book their holiday on the island. Other than the occasional pickpocketing (bound to happen in any crowded tourist destination), visiting Crete is very safe. 

Of course, and out of precaution, it’s always a must to book solid travel insurance for your trip. 

That being said, locals are incredibly hospitable and helpful, always willing to offer assistance to anyone in need. Most of them speak fairly good English or are open to finding someone to help you that has the right language skills you need.

Now You’re Ready to Visit Crete!

There you have it, a guide to visiting my home, and one of the top places to see in Greece. Whether you’re into lazing on a beach, exploring hidden villages, or sampling tasty food, there’s something for you in Crete.

For more on travelling to Greece, make sure you check out this Ultimate Travel Guide to Greece. It’s jampacked with information on where to go, when to go, things to do, how to get around, must-try foods, health and safety, pros and cons, and much more! Everything you need to know to make your trip to Greece a memorable one.