Weather in Crete in November
November is late autumn in Crete: pleasantly warm and fairly changeable. Expect highs of about 20°C / 68°F and overnight lows near 14°C / 56°F. The sea averages about 20°C / 68°F, bracing, and too cool for many swimmers. Rain falls on around 6 days, adding up to about 65 mm over the month. Summer lingers well into autumn here, and the first storms are usually brief and followed by clear, warm days. Crete is big enough to have several climates, with a milder north coast, a hotter, drier south and snowy mountains in between. Days bring around 10½ hours of daylight, so plan sightseeing for the middle of the day. Pack layers: T-shirts for the day and a light jacket or sweater for the evenings. Mornings and evenings get noticeably cooler as the month goes on. It's comfortable to be out all day, though the midday sun is still strong.
Swimming in Crete in November
The sea around Crete averages about 20°C / 69°F in November, refreshing rather than warm. The best time for swimming is July, August and September, with August usually the warmest. Elafonisi, Balos and Vai are local favorites. 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 November
Tourism in Crete slows right down in November. Prices are at their lowest of the year, although fewer hotels are open. 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. With so few visitors, the atmosphere is genuinely local, and people have time to chat. You can usually book at short notice.
What's Open in Crete in November
In November, 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 November
November is olive harvest season, when families gather to pick olives and the first new oil of the year appears. Raki distilling continues in the villages, often with food, music and an open invitation to join in. 21 November, the Presentation of the Virgin Mary, is marked with church services, and it's also Armed Forces Day. In Crete, these occasions are celebrated much as they are across the rest of Greece.
Is November a Good Time to Visit Crete?
It depends on what you want. In November, Crete is peaceful and inexpensive, but the season is over, the sea is too cool for most swimmers and the weather can turn. Expect highs of around 20°C / 68°F, lows near 14°C / 56°F and rain on around 6 days. It's fine for a quiet break or exploring Knossos. For a proper beach holiday, go in June, September or October.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does the sun set in Crete in November?
Sunset in Crete is at around 5:25 pm at the start of November, around 5:15 pm in mid-November and around 5:10 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 rain a lot in Crete in November?
November is when the wet season starts in earnest, with more frequent rain, especially in the west of the island. Rain still tends to come in bursts, with mild, sunny days in between, and it's rarely cold by the sea. Snow often returns to the high mountains by the end of the month.
Can I hike the Samaria Gorge in November?
No. The Samaria Gorge is closed in November. 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 November?
Yes, if you want to see more than Heraklion. Bus services are limited in November, 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 November or December better for visiting Crete?
It depends on your plans. November is usually a little milder, but most tourist businesses have closed. December is cooler and wetter, but brings a festive atmosphere, with Christmas lights and decorations. Neither is a beach month, so choose by your dates.
Crete Weather by Month
