Crete, the largest of the Greek islands, is a popular destination for tourists seeking sun, beaches, and Mediterranean atmosphere. While the island is known for its sunny weather, it does experience rain, particularly in the winter months. But even on a rainy day, Crete offers plenty of activities and attractions to enjoy.
Climate of Crete Crete’s climate is split into two distinct zones by high mountains, each with its own weather patterns. North Crete experiences wetter and colder winters, while the south has milder weather all year. The city of Ierapetra, in southern Crete, is known for having over 300 sunny days per year. Rainfall is heaviest in the fall and early spring, with the rainy season usually beginning in November and lasting until March.
Weather in Crete Crete is known for its moderate winters along the coast. Snowfall in the mountains is not uncommon, but the sun shines for at least a few hours nearly every day. The island’s weather can be unpredictable due to the craggy mountains that create different weather systems on opposite coasts. Rare rains hit the north while hot winds drift across the south.
- Heraklion Archaeological Museum: This museum is located in the capital of Crete, Heraklion, and is home to many of the greatest treasures unearthed at nearby Knossos. The museum contains 20 rooms filled with artefacts dating back more than 8,000 years, including the Phaistos Disc and the sculptures of snake goddesses.
- Natural History Museum of Crete: The Natural History Museum of Crete may not have a large number of exhibits, but it still offers a range of activities for visitors. The museum features an Earthquake Simulator, a dinosaur exhibit with animatronic dinosaurs, live reptiles, and an exhibit on the island’s natural history. It’s an excellent place for kids to enjoy on a rainy day.
- Minoan World 9D Experience: Experience Europe’s first civilization like never before at the Minoan World 9D Experience. This immersive experience combines 4D special effects such as rain, fog, snow, bubbles, and lighting with 3D art that comes to life through your camera. Perfect for families, this experience is like no other.
- Chania Old Venetian Harbour: This historic dock area in Chania offers great views and is a great place to grab a seat at one of the café-tavernas and sip a Greek coffee while overlooking the 16th-century Venetian Lighthouse.
- Sfendoni Cave: This cave complex is a great way to dodge the rainclouds in Crete by going underground. The cave is illuminated by multicoloured neon lights and offers visitors a glimpse into the unique geological history of the area, as well as tales of how the tunnels were utilized by both the Romans and those who took part in the Greek revolutions as a means of resistance.
- Askifou War Museum: This museum offers a window onto the darker days of Crete’s past, specifically the Nazi invasion in the early 1940s. The collection includes rusting machine guns, hunter’s rifles, cartridges filled with WWII bullets, helmets and even bombs recovered from all across Crete.
- Nautical Museum of Crete: This museum is located in the old Chania and offers visitors an immersive experience into the long nautical past of the island. The exhibits include models of ships, maps, nautical instruments, and other items related to the naval history of Crete.
- Savoring Cretan Cuisine at Local Tavernas: Experience the unique flavors of Cretan cuisine at one of the island’s many tavernas. Famous dishes include the traditional dakos bread topped with crumbled feta and juicy tomatoes, as well as the bitter highland greens and the flavorful Sfakia pies. For a truly authentic experience, try Tamam in Chania, located in a centuries-old building by the port, or Peskesi in Heraklion, which offers a romantic setting beneath old olive trees.
- Relax and Rejuvenate at Cretan Spas: Crete is known for its wellness centers and spas, offering a variety of treatments and services to help you relax and rejuvenate during your stay. Whether you’re looking for a yoga class or a luxurious spa day, you’ll find plenty of options to choose from on the island.
- Explore the Mediterranean Underwater World at the Cretaquarium: Located in the village of Gournes, just a short drive from Gouves resort town, the Cretaquarium, also known as Thalassokosmos, is a must-visit destination on a rainy day in Heraklion. This national aquarium is home to a diverse range of Mediterranean aquatic life, including octopus, jellyfish, seahorses and more. It’s a great option for families and visitors of all ages looking for an educational and entertaining experience.
- Discovering the Island’s Religious History at Monasteries: Crete is home to many beautiful and historic monasteries, offering a glimpse into the island’s rich religious heritage. Some popular options include the Monastery of Arkadi, located just inland from Rethymnon, which was built in the 16th century and played a role in the Greek War of Independence, and the Monastery of Preveli, located on Rethymno, which is still an active site with monks living and working there.
- Exploring the Cities and Towns on the North Coast:The main cities and towns on the North coast of Crete offer plenty of sightseeing opportunities, shopping, museums, as well as cafes and restaurants. They are a great alternative to lying on the beach when the weather is poor.
- Sipping Local Wines and Olive Oil: Crete is known for its wine and olive oil production, and many wineries and olive oil factories offer tours and tastings. Keep in mind that olive oil activities usually take place during harvest time, which is in winter.
- Wander the Markets: One of the best ways to spend a rainy day in Crete is by visiting the Public Market of Chania, also known as the Agora. This covered market offers a great opportunity to explore the island’s traditional produce such as local meat cuts, fish, seasonal vegetables, fruit, nuts, bread, and pies. Not only is it a great place to buy authentic souvenirs, but it also offers the chance to taste local cheese and olive oil. Additionally, there are small tavernas within the market that prepare fresh Cretan dishes for locals and tourists.
- Visiting Small Private Museums: Crete is home to many small museums that offer a unique glimpse into the island’s rich history and culture. These may include folk museums that present traditional life in Crete or private initiatives such as the War Museum of Askifou or the Wooden Sculptures Museum in Axos.
- Exploring Margarites, Crete’s Pottery Village: Margarites is a small but beautiful village located a few kilometers from Rethymnon, known for its many local artisans who produce and sell unique pottery crafts. It’s a great destination to visit when it’s raining in Crete, where you can buy souvenirs or join an informal pottery class.
- Seeking Better Weather: Crete is known for its diverse climate and weather patterns. With high mountains on the island, it’s not uncommon for the North coast to be experiencing rain while the South is sunny. If you’re looking for better weather, consider checking the forecast in other parts of the island and plan a day trip to where the sun is shining.
- Discovering the Anopolis Handicraft Park: Located above Kokkini Chani, a tranquil village in the Municipality of Chersonissos, the Anopolis Handicraft Park is a great place to experience the traditional crafts of the island. Visitors can try their hand at the pottery wheel and learn about the crafts that have shaped the traditions of Crete.
- Discovering the Island by Car Renting a car and driving around: Crete can be a great way to explore the island’s stunning landscapes, even when the weather is not ideal. Consider taking a trip to inland villages or up into the hills for a unique perspective on the island
- Drive Around Forgotten Villages: Another way to spend a rainy day in Crete is by taking a road trip to explore some of the island’s forgotten villages. These small hamlets offer a glimpse into the local way of life and the opportunity to discover traditional stone houses and alleys in a different light. Visitors can stop for a cup of Greek coffee in a kafenio, or take advantage of the stunning light for photography. Exploring these hidden villages on a rainy day can be a unique and memorable experience.
Bonus tip!
Swim in the Rain: Don’t let a little rain dampen your beach plans. There is something truly special about going for a swim in the ocean on a rainy day. The water temperature in Crete remains warm, even when the weather above the surface is cooler. Plus, you’ll likely have the beach all to yourself, so make the most of the unique experience.
Crete’s weather may be unpredictable, but there’s always something to do and see, whether it’s soaking up the sun on the beach or exploring the island’s rich culture and history. Plan your trip with this information in mind and you’re guaranteed a great time.
