Weather in Crete in December
December in Crete means early-winter conditions: mild and one of the wettest times of year. Average highs reach 17°C / 63°F, with lows of around 10°C / 51°F. Expect rain on around 10 days and about 91 mm over the month, often in heavy bursts with dry spells between them. The sea averages about 18°C / 64°F, bracing, and too cool for many swimmers. Crete is big enough to have several climates, with a milder north coast, a hotter, drier south and snowy mountains in between. The west of the island is usually wetter than the east, and snow is common on the peaks of Psiloritis and the White Mountains. You get about 10 hours of daylight a day, so plan sightseeing for the middle of the day. Pack layers, including a warm sweater for the evenings and a light waterproof jacket. Plan outdoor time around the middle of the day, when it's at its warmest.
Swimming in Crete in December
The sea around Crete averages about 18°C / 64°F in December, refreshing rather than warm. For warm-water swimming, aim for July, August and September, when the sea is at its best. Good spots include Elafonisi, Balos and Vai. There are no lifeguards or beach services out of season, so swim with care. If you feel the cold, a wetsuit top makes a difference.
Crowds & Prices in Crete in December
You'll have Crete largely to yourself in December. Rates for rooms and car hire drop to their yearly lows. Christmas and New Year bring some Greek visitors home, but it stays quiet. Tavernas that stay open cater mainly to locals, which is often when the food is best. It's a good time to see everyday life, away from the summer bustle. Last-minute bookings are rarely a problem.
What's Open in Crete in December
Ferry links from Piraeus to Crete continue through December, though with fewer sailings than in summer. Direct international flights run mainly from spring to autumn, while flights from Athens operate all year. Life goes on in the main town, but most resort hotels and beach tavernas close until spring. Museums and archaeological sites are open on winter hours. Most sites close on 25 and 26 December. The Samaria Gorge is closed from November to April.
Festivals & Holidays in Crete in December
On 6 December, Saint Nicholas, patron saint of sailors, is honored in harbors across Greece, and decorated boats appear alongside Christmas trees. Christmas is celebrated with church services, carols sung door to door by children and festive sweets like melomakarona and kourabiedes. In Crete, as across Greece, these traditions are very much alive. Beyond that, it's a month of everyday life, with locals filling the cafés and tavernas in the evenings.
Is December a Good Time to Visit Crete?
December is a maybe for Crete. It's quiet and relaxed, with mild spells that are nice for walking, but the sea is cooling, the weather is less reliable and many seasonal businesses have closed. Expect highs of around 17°C / 63°F and lows near 10°C / 51°F. It suits travelers who want peace and local life. If you're after sun and swimming, June, September or October would suit you much better.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does the sun set in Crete in December?
Sunset in Crete is at around 5:10 pm at the start of December, around 5:10 pm in mid-December and around 5:15 pm by the end of the month, in Greek local time. With short days, plan outdoor sightseeing for the morning and early afternoon.
Does it snow in Crete in December?
Not on the coast. Snow is very rare at sea level in Crete, but the high peaks of Psiloritis and the White Mountains are usually snow-capped in December. Down by the sea, expect mild days mixed with rainy, windy spells from passing storms.
Can I hike the Samaria Gorge in December?
No. The Samaria Gorge is closed in December. It usually opens around the start of May and closes at the end of October, depending on the weather and water levels, because winter rains make it dangerous. In dry weather, shorter gorges such as Imbros are an alternative.
Do I need a car in Crete in December?
Yes, if you want to see more than Heraklion. Bus services are limited in December, and a car makes it easy to reach villages, beaches and viewpoints. Rental rates are among the lowest of the year, but fewer agencies are open.
Is December or January better for visiting Crete?
December has the edge for atmosphere, with Christmas decorations and New Year celebrations, while January is quieter still, with Epiphany on 6 January. The weather is similar: cool, changeable and occasionally stormy. Both suit travelers who want the island at its most local.
Crete Weather by Month
