Weather in Rethymno in March
Expect mild, often wet weather in Rethymno in March, early spring. Temperatures typically peak at around 17°C / 62°F in the afternoon and fall to about 9°C / 48°F at night. Expect rain on around 8 days and about 93 mm over the month, often in heavy bursts with dry spells between them. Sea temperatures average around 16°C / 61°F, cold enough that only hardy swimmers go in. Rethymno sits on Crete's north coast between Chania and Heraklion, with the Psiloritis range rising to the south. Snow often lingers on the highest peaks while the lowlands turn green and fill with wildflowers. You get about 12 hours of daylight a day. Bring layers, a warm sweater and a light waterproof, as the weather can turn. The weather can change from one day to the next, so check the forecast before planning a long day out. Plan outdoor time around the middle of the day, when it's at its warmest.
Swimming in Rethymno in March
At around 16°C / 60°F, the sea in Rethymno is too cold for most people to swim in March. 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. The best swimming weather is still a few months away. If you do go in, a wetsuit is a good idea.
Crowds & Prices in Rethymno in March
Tourism in Rethymno slows right down in March. It's the cheapest time to visit, with the best deals on accommodation. It's a good time to see everyday life, away from the summer bustle. With so few visitors, the atmosphere is genuinely local, and people have time to chat. 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 Rethymno in March
Ferries to Rethymno from Piraeus run all year, but less often in March, 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 March.
Festivals & Holidays in Rethymno in March
25 March is Independence Day, a national holiday with school and military parades, and it's traditional to eat fried salt cod with garlic sauce. If Clean Monday falls in March, expect kite flying on hillsides and beaches, and meatless picnics. In Rethymno, as across Greece, these traditions are very much alive. Outside these dates, it's a good time to experience ordinary Greek life, from the weekly market to the evening stroll.
Is March a Good Time to Visit Rethymno?
March is a good time for Rethymno if you're coming for walks, sightseeing and exploring the Fortezza, not the beach. Expect highs of around 17°C / 62°F, lows near 9°C / 48°F and rain on around 8 days. The countryside is green, it's quiet and prices are low, but the sea is too cold for most people and the season is only just starting. For swimming, wait until June, September, October or November.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does the sun set in Rethymno in March?
In early March, the sun sets in Rethymno at around 6:15 pm. Clocks go forward an hour on the last Sunday of March, so by the end of the month sunset is around 7:40 pm. All times are Greek local time. The walls of the Fortezza make a great viewpoint.
Is it warm in Rethymno in March?
Mild rather than warm. Spring is well underway in Crete, with wildflowers and longer days, but evenings are still cool and the high mountains often keep their snow. A few rainy days are normal, and warm southerly winds from Africa occasionally bring hazy, dusty skies.
Can I visit the Fortezza in Rethymno in March?
Yes. The Fortezza in Rethymno is open all year on shorter winter hours, and in March 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 March?
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 March or April better for visiting Rethymno?
April is the better bet for weather, with warmer, sunnier days and spring in full bloom. It often includes Greek Easter, a highlight of the year but a busy time. March is quieter and cheaper, but still cool and changeable.
Rethymno Weather by Month
