Weather in Rethymno in December
December in Rethymno means early-winter conditions: cool and one of the wettest times of year. Average highs reach 15°C / 60°F, with lows of around 9°C / 48°F. Expect rain on around 12 days and about 169 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. The west of the island is usually wetter than the east, and snow is common on the peaks of Psiloritis and the White Mountains. Rethymno sits on Crete's north coast between Chania and Heraklion, with the Psiloritis range rising to the south. Days bring around 10 hours of daylight, so plan sightseeing for the middle of the day. Pack a warm jacket, layers and a waterproof, plus shoes that can handle wet paths. Plan outdoor time around the middle of the day, when it's at its warmest.
Swimming in Rethymno in December
At around 18°C / 65°F, the sea in Rethymno is swimmable in December if you don't mind a chill. For warm-water swimming, aim for July, August and September, when the sea is at its best. Beaches are empty and unstaffed in winter, so swim only in calm conditions. Many coves are rocky or pebbly, so water shoes are useful. If you feel the cold, a wetsuit top makes a difference.
Crowds & Prices in Rethymno in December
Tourism in Rethymno slows right down 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. 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 Rethymno in December
Ferries to Rethymno from Piraeus run all year, but less often in December, and rough seas can cancel sailings. 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. Museums and archaeological sites are open on winter hours. Most sites close on 25 and 26 December.
Festivals & Holidays in Rethymno 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 Rethymno, these occasions are celebrated much as they are across the rest of Greece. Outside these dates, it's a good time to experience ordinary Greek life, from the weekly market to the evening stroll.
Is December a Good Time to Visit Rethymno?
December is a maybe for Rethymno. 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 15°C / 60°F and lows near 9°C / 48°F. It suits travelers who want peace and local life. If you're after sun and swimming, June, September, October or November would suit you much better.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does the sun set in Rethymno in December?
Sunset in Rethymno is at around 5:10 pm at the start of December, around 5:10 pm in mid-December and around 5:20 pm by the end of the month, in Greek local time. The walls of the Fortezza make a great viewpoint.
Does it snow in Rethymno 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 visit the Fortezza in Rethymno in December?
Yes. The Fortezza in Rethymno is open all year on shorter winter hours, and in December you'll often have it almost to yourself. Like most Greek sites, it may close on some public holidays, so check the official hours before you go. The Venetian fortress overlooks the old town and harbor.
Do I need a car in Rethymno in December?
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 much less frequent in winter.
Is December or January better for visiting Rethymno?
December, for the festive atmosphere, with decorations, events and New Year celebrations. January is quieter and cheaper, with Epiphany on 6 January. The weather is similar, so it comes down to your dates.
Rethymno Weather by Month
