Crete weather

January is a quiet month to visit Crete. The seas are cold and so the beaches are near-deserted, aside from brave local children. The citrus season is just starting, so take some time to enjoy oranges and lemons at their juicy best. We've looked at the most up-to-date weather data for Crete, covering the last 12 years up to 2022, plus we've asked our team of travel bloggers for their first-hand experiences in order to answer the most frequently asked questions about Crete weather in January.

What's the temperature like in Crete during January?

January is typically the coolest month in Crete. The temperature reaches around 14℃ during the daytime, falling away to 12℃ at night. The UV index will be moderate at this time of year, so not something to worry about for the average person. However, if you're going to be outside for long periods it's worth wearing a broad spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen and UV-blocking sunglasses. Remember that bright surfaces, such as water and sand increase UV exposure.

Does it rain in Crete during January?

On average, there will be 12 rainy days during the month, amounting to 33.8mm in total. That's much drier than we see in England during August, and therefore not something to be concerned about. There's a small chance that you'll catch a thunderstorm during your trip.

How warm is the sea in Crete during January?

The water around Crete is around 16℃ during January. It will feel a little on the cool when first entering, but you'll warm up quickly. Most kids will have no problem with this temperature, but those who feel the cold are unlikely to want to swim.