Weather in Crete in February
February is late winter in Crete: cool and often wet. Temperatures typically peak at around 16°C / 60°F in the afternoon and fall to about 9°C / 47°F at night. In the water, expect around 16°C / 61°F, cold enough that only hardy swimmers go in. Rain falls on around 8 days, with about 68 mm in total, usually in bursts rather than all-day drizzle. The west of the island is usually wetter than the east, and snow is common on the peaks of Psiloritis and the White Mountains. Crete is big enough to have several climates, with a milder north coast, a hotter, drier south and snowy mountains in between. Daylight lasts about 11 hours, so plan sightseeing for the middle of the day. Bring a warm coat, layers, an umbrella and shoes that can cope with rain. Plan outdoor time around the middle of the day, when it's at its warmest.
Swimming in Crete in February
Swimming isn't really on the cards in Crete in February, with the water at around 16°C / 60°F. Save swimming plans for July, August and September, when the water is much warmer. Beaches such as Elafonisi, Balos and Vai are lovely for a walk, even when the water is too cold to swim. Beaches are empty and unstaffed in winter, so swim only in calm conditions. A wetsuit makes a big difference if you want to get in.
Crowds & Prices in Crete in February
Tourism in Crete slows right down in February. Rates for rooms and car hire drop to their yearly lows. With so few visitors, the atmosphere is genuinely local, and people have time to chat. It's a good time to see everyday life, away from the summer bustle. Tavernas that stay open cater mainly to locals, which is often when the food is best. Last-minute bookings are rarely a problem.
What's Open in Crete in February
In February, ferries between Piraeus and Crete run on a reduced winter timetable, and storms sometimes cause cancellations. Direct international flights run mainly from spring to autumn, while flights from Athens operate all year. The main town stays open all year, but beach resorts close and many hotels shut for the winter. Archaeological sites and museums keep shorter winter hours. The Samaria Gorge is closed from November to April.
Festivals & Holidays in Crete in February
February is usually carnival season, known as Apokries, with parties, costumes and parades in the weeks before Lent. Clean Monday, the first day of Lent, falls in February or March and is a public holiday, marked with kite flying, picnics and meatless feasts. In Crete, as across Greece, these traditions are very much alive. Otherwise, life follows its normal rhythm, with Sunday lunches and busy cafés rather than big events.
Is February a Good Time to Visit Crete?
Yes, if you're after a quiet, local-feeling trip. In numbers: highs of about 16°C / 60°F, lows of 9°C / 47°F and rain on around 8 days in a typical February. In February, Crete is ideal for exploring Knossos, museums and long lunches, with few other visitors around. Don't come for swimming or nightlife, though. For sun and sea with fewer crowds than summer, choose June, September or October.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does the sun set in Crete in February?
Through February, sunset in Crete moves from around 5:45 pm to around 6:15 pm in Greek local time, as the evenings get longer. In mid-February, expect it at around 6:00 pm. With short days, plan outdoor sightseeing for the morning and early afternoon.
Does it rain a lot in Crete in February?
February is still the rainy season in Crete, but rain usually arrives in bursts from passing storms rather than for days on end. The west of the island is generally wetter than the east. Between fronts there are plenty of bright, mild days, and the countryside is at its greenest.
Can I hike the Samaria Gorge in February?
No. The Samaria Gorge is closed in February. 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 February?
Yes, if you want to see more than Heraklion. Bus services are limited in February, 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 February or March better for visiting Crete?
March is usually the better choice. Days are longer, the weather starts to turn springlike and the island goes green, while February is still firmly winter. Neither month is for the beach, and in both many tourist businesses are still closed.
Crete Weather by Month
