Weather in Rethymno in August
In Rethymno, August brings high-summer weather that is hot and almost completely dry. Daytime highs average around 31°C / 88°F, and nights drop to about 22°C / 72°F. Nights stay warm, so air-conditioning helps. Sea temperatures average around 26°C / 79°F, warm enough for long swims. Rain is almost unheard of. Rethymno sits on Crete's north coast between Chania and Heraklion, with the Psiloritis range rising to the south. The meltemi blows along the north coast on many days, keeping the heat bearable but making north-facing beaches choppy. You get about 13½ hours of daylight a day, leaving long, light evenings. Bring loose, light clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, strong sunscreen and sunglasses. When the wind picks up, a light windproof layer is handy for evenings by the water. The sun is strong from mid-morning onwards, even when a breeze makes it feel cooler. Plan sightseeing for the early morning or evening, and keep the midday hours for the beach or a shaded taverna.
Swimming in Rethymno in August
Expect the sea around Rethymno to be about 26°C / 78°F in August, comfortable for long swims. The water is at its warmest of the year now, after warming steadily through July. On windy days, choose a beach sheltered from the north, where the water stays calmer. The water is famously clear, which makes it great for snorkeling. Popular beaches fill up by late morning, so arrive early.
Crowds & Prices in Rethymno in August
August is one of the busiest months of the year in Rethymno, and the crowds show it. Hotel prices are at their highest, and flights and ferries cost more too. The days around 15 August, a major Greek holiday, are the busiest of all, with ferries and rooms fully booked. Weekdays are calmer than weekends at the most popular spots. Book rooms, ferries and car hire well in advance.
What's Open in Rethymno in August
In August, ferries from Piraeus to Rethymno run often, with extra fast boats in the peak season. The airport has direct flights from across Europe in the season, as well as flights from Athens. It's the full season, so hotels, restaurants, beach bars and excursions are all running. Museums and sites are open on extended summer hours. Boat trips and excursions run regularly, weather permitting.
Festivals & Holidays in Rethymno in August
Many Greeks return to their home villages in August, and panigyria, village feasts with live music and dancing, run late into the night. 15 August, the Dormition of the Virgin Mary, is the biggest summer holiday, with church services and village festivals everywhere. In Rethymno, these occasions are celebrated much as they are across the rest of Greece. Summer evenings are the time for festivals, open-air cinemas and late dinners outdoors.
Is August a Good Time to Visit Rethymno?
August is a great time to visit Rethymno if you want long beach days, a warm sea and the island at its liveliest. Expect highs of around 31°C / 88°F and lows near 22°C / 72°F. It suits families on school holidays and anyone who loves a busy summer atmosphere. It's less ideal if you dislike crowds or high prices. For a calmer trip with the sea still warm, consider June, September, October or November instead.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does the sun set in Rethymno in August?
Sunset in Rethymno is at around 8:25 pm at the start of August, around 8:15 pm in mid-August and around 7:55 pm by the end of the month, in Greek local time. The walls of the Fortezza make a great viewpoint.
Is it windy in Rethymno in August?
It can be. The meltemi, the northerly summer wind of the Aegean, often blows along Crete's north coast in August, making the sea choppy on north-facing beaches. It keeps the heat more bearable, though, and on windy days the south-coast beaches are usually calmer.
Can I visit the Fortezza in Rethymno in August?
Yes. The Fortezza in Rethymno is open on longer summer hours, but August is hot and busy. Go right at opening time or late in the day, bring water and a hat, and expect crowds around midday. The Venetian fortress overlooks the old town and harbor.
Do I need a car in Rethymno in August?
Not for Rethymno itself, which is easy to explore on foot. A car is the best way to reach the Amari Valley, Preveli and the south coast, as bus connections are limited.
Is August or September better for visiting Rethymno?
September, for most travelers. The sea is still warm and the weather still summery, but crowds and prices drop and the heat softens. August suits you only if you want the busiest, liveliest time of year.
Rethymno Weather by Month
