Crete in May: weather and travel tips

If you’re seeking a pre-summer trip with stacks of opportunity to soak up sun, culture and stunning scenery, consider travelling to the idyllic island of Crete in May. Read on to discover everything you need to know about the weather in Crete in May, along with intel on what to expect in terms of costs and crowds, and some inspiring Greek itinerary suggestions.

What’s the weather like in Crete in May?

Located in the lovely Aegean Sea between the Greek mainland and North Africa, Crete boasts Greece’s warmest climate. 

Even in May you’ll get to enjoy warm days in the mid-20s as the island starts to shift from spring to summer, with the sun shining for around ten hours a day.

Just bear in mind that the nights are cool, and the sea is only just about warm enough for a pleasant swim. 

Considering visiting Crete in May? Dive into our inspirational Greece itineraries to start planning your perfect trip.

Air and sea temperatures in Crete in May

The average high temperature in Crete in May is 24ºC, but note that it drops down to an average of 14ºC at night. 

As for the sea, the temperature averages 19ºC in May — just about warm enough to swim in, but not exactly balmy.

For context, Crete’s average high temperature in June is 28ºC, while the average June low is 18ºC. Come July, you’re looking at an average daily maximum of 32 ºC, and the sea will be around 25 ºC.

Average rainfall in Crete in May

Crete sees an average of 13mm of rainfall through May, Generally, showers are pretty brief and give way to sunshine.

For comparison, in June Crete sees just 1mm of rain. Meanwhile, December — Crete’s rainiest month — experiences an average of 89mm.

Not sure when to travel? Arm yourself with info on when to go to Greece around the year.

Is May a good time to visit Crete?

If you fancy feeling the sun on your skin while stretched out on the island’s beautiful beaches before the busy peak summer season strikes, May is a great time to visit Crete.

During this month, as Crete moves from spring to summer mode, you might still see spring blooms while walking trails on the island’s wilder side. 

And, given the warm, mild nature of the weather in Crete in May, it’s also a good month to take your time exploring the island’s cultural attractions (hello, Knossos!)

Undecided about where to travel? Read up on some of the best places to visit in May.

What about the crowds and cost?

In view of the fact that May is shoulder season in Crete, the crowds and costs won’t be as high as they are during the peak season. 

As an aside, high season in Crete principally means July and August, with visitor numbers and the cost of accommodation, ferries and fights starting to rise in June.

Budget a big consideration? Prefer smaller crowds? Read up on reasons to visit Greece in winter.

Ready for your dream trip to Crete?

Before taking the plunge and booking your dream trip to Crete, take a look out our Greece itineraries. Here are a few ideas to consider:

• Coast of Crete — a stunning self-drive experience (10 days): if you’re longing for awe-inspiring scenery, ancient culture, and a sense of freedom, this self-drive trip along Crete’s coast has your name all over it.
• Milos — an exclusive island idyll (9 days): for an alternate Greek Island experience, why not get to know the Aegean’s most exotic island while staying in a private luxury villa by the sea?
• Epirus and Athens — the Ancient Sites (8 days): shrouded in myths and legends of Greek gods and Roman and Byzantine warriors, sites in the Epirus region of Greece have fascinating tales to tell. Add to that exploring Athens, and this amounts to a diversely exhilarating experience.

Like all Rough Guides’ trips, these itineraries can be personalised to your needs and interests, with a local expert on hand to take the hassle out of planning and booking. 

Festivals and events in Crete in May

In exciting news for culture vultures, May sees Crete host a couple of unforgettable festivals. 

Protomagia

1^st May sees Crete — and Greece as a whole — mark International Labor Day, but with a difference.

In Greece, it’s known as Protomagi (literally meaning the first day of May), and it sees people flock to the countryside for picnics, kite flying, and to pick wildflowers to brighten their homes. 

Battle of Crete commemorations

Throughout the week around 21^st May, Crete commemorates the historic WWII battle that took place in Chania. 

Expect ceremonial activities, folk dancing and sporting contests.

Ready to explore Greece? Get started with our expert travel planning tips.

Tips for travelling to Crete in May

Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your May trip to Crete.

What to wear in Crete in May

Given the average daily temperatures, you’ll want to put cool summer wear at the top of your packing list. By which we mean the likes of shorts, t-shirts, light dresses, sandals, flip-flops and swimwear.

Just bear in mind the possibility of rain, and the fact that the temperatures drop off in the evening and nights — you’d be wise to bring a light raincoat and pullover. 

Walkers and hikers, be sure to bring footwear that’s suitable for exploring Crete’s walking trails.

Be aware of shoulder-season limitations

While the warm weather in Crete in May draws rising visitor numbers, you’ll find that airlines and ferry companies aren’t yet operating their full schedule.

At the same time, not all resorts and hotels will be fully open. 

For the fullest range of transport and accommodation options, it’s better to travel later in the month. That said, if you book early enough, you shouldn't have a problem getting to Crete, or finding a lovely place to stay at a lower price than you'd pay in June, July and August.

Be sun savvy

Don’t be fooled by the fact that the weather in Crete in May feels warm rather than scorching hot. Be sure to wear plenty of sun screen, along with a hat and sunglasses.

In case you're still looking for options for your spring trip, also explore our list of the best holiday destinations in May.

Planning your May trip to Crete

Considering taking a trip to Crete? Read The Rough Guide to Crete. With in-depth region-by-region coverage, and insider intel on where to stay, eat, drink and shop, it’s the ideal companion for pre-trip planning and on-the-road exploration.

Or, if you’re not a fan of planning, browse our customisable Greece itineraries to save yourself the hassle of researching and booking.

As with all Rough Guides’ itineraries, your trip will be curated with support from a local expert.