Weather in Crete in September

Not sure what to expect of the weather in Crete in September? Read on to find out everything you need to know about average temperatures, costs and crowds. In addition, we share info on September events and festivals, and Greek itinerary suggestions that might just spark more travel ideas. 

What is the weather like in Crete in September?

In good news for travellers who are looking for sun beyond the peak summer season, the weather in Crete in September remains wonderfully warm.

Located between the Greek mainland and North Africa, this glorious Greek island has the warmest climate in Greece, especially on its southern coast. 

Set on taking a blissful break in September? For more ideas, read up on the best places to visit in September. 

Temperatures in Crete in September

In terms of temperatures, September sees Crete enjoy an average daily high of 27ºC.  With the average daily minimum coming out at 20ºC, visiting Crete in September remains an excellent time to stretch out on the island’s beautiful beaches. 

While the air temperatures are pleasantly hot, so too is the sea, which averages an alluring 24ºC. 

Average rainfall in Crete in September

In more good news for devoted beach lovers — and explorers of the great outdoors — September sees Crete experience an average of just two rainy days. This amounts to an average of 10mm of rain.

For context, December — the rainiest month in Crete — sees an average 89mm.

For more detail on the weather in Greece around the year, read up on when to go to Greece. 

Is September a good time to visit Crete?

In our experience — and the experience of devoted repeat visitors — the shoulder-season of September is one of the best months to visit Crete. 

At this time, the big crowds of peak summer season have departed, while the weather remains as glorious as it was through summer. In fact, Crete — Greece’s most southerly island — sees some of Europe’s warmest weather through the entirety of autumn and winter.

In addition, sitting just outside summer, visitors to Crete in September will find that most attractions and amenities are still available and open — from beach bars and sun lounger rental operators, to resorts and trip providers.

Beyond the beach, September is also a top time to visit Crete to explore the mountains and make the most of its hiking trails. 

While the weather in Crete in September remains warm and dry, the sizzling heat of summer has lost its most intense edge — all the better for longer walks on the wild side.

Top tip: don’t miss exploring Samaria Gorge, one of Europe’s most epic canyons. 

Considering visiting Crete in September? Browse our inspirational Greece itineraries to kickstart your perfect trip.

What about the crowds and cost?

As touched on above, Crete sees fewer crowds in September than it does through July and August.

That said, the island remains vibrant. As autumn and winter wear on, many resorts, bars, restaurants and clubs close their doors. In September, you’ll have the same options as you would during peak summer season. 

The same goes for exploring the island’s museums and archeological sites. These remain open. 

For even smaller crowds than you’ll see in September, consider visiting Crete later in the year — there are plenty of reasons to visit Greece in winter.

As for the costs of visiting Crete in September, if you book ahead, you can bag yourself a bit of a bargain on flights and accommodation, especially in the latter weeks of the month.

Not set on taking a trip in September? Be inspired by scorching-hot winter sun destinations.

Ready for your dream trip to Crete?

If you’re looking to enjoy an early autumn break that serves stacks of natural beauty and ancient history, you’ll find inspiration in our Greece itineraries — here we highlight just a few of them.

• 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 the magic of mortuaries Zagori, and this amounts to a diversely exhilarating experience.

All these suggestions can be customised to your exact needs, with a local expert on hand to offer insider tips, and take the hassle out of planning and booking. 

Festivals and events in Crete in September

While September doesn’t see as many big parties and festivals at the peak summer season months, there’s still plenty going on.

Wine festivals

Grapes are harvested in September, which means one thing — wine festivals are held in villages and towns across Crete. 

Check local listings for details of what’s going on in your area, and look into taking a wine-tasting tour of vineyards.

Nea Chora Sardine Festival

Usually held in the first week of September, the Nea Chora Beach Sardine Festival sees folk come together to enjoy tasty grilled sardines and glorious wine accompanied by music and dancing.

Festival of St Stavros 

Mid-September sees the villages of Aptera and Maza celebrate the Festival of St Stavros AKA the Feast of the Holy Cross — an event that honours the cross that crucified Jesus.

Expect to see village squares transformed into communal party areas, with food, wine, and a jubilant vibe.

Tips for travelling to Crete in September

Whle you won't find it hard to enjoy your time in Crete in September, here are a couple of tips that'll enhance your trip a little more. 

What to wear in Crete in September

Given the average daily temperatures detailed above, it’ll come as no surprise that if you visit Crete in September you’ll mainly be wearing full-on summer garb — shorts, t-shirts, light dresses, flips flops and sandals. And, of course, swimsuits.

September being a great month to enjoy Crete’s captivating mountains and hiking trails, you might also want to pack suitable walking shoes or hiking boots.

It’s also worth noting that the north of Crete is milder than the south, so if you’re basing yourself there, pack some layers for the evening. 

Consider renting a car

While Crete’s reliable transport network remains at full capacity in September, this is a great month to get off the beaten track to experience the island in more authentic ways, with smaller crowds.

To do that in your own time — and to reach remoter places that lie beyond the local bus service — it’s best to rent a car. 

This being shoulder season, you could well find yourself paying a lower daily rate than you would in July or August. 

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

Planning your September trip to Crete

If you’re thinking of taking a trip to Crete, get yourself The Rough Guide to Crete. With in-depth region-by-region coverage, it’s the perfect planning companion for independent travellers who want to get to the heart of the island. 

For more island inspiration, read up on the best Greek Islands. 

Alternatively, if you’re not keen on the hassle of researching, planning and booking everything for yourself, browse our customisable Greece itineraries.  

As with all Rough Guides’ itineraries, your perfect trip will be curated with support from a local expert who really knows their stuff.