Take advantage of the late Autumn colours to see Crete's more soulful, quieter side in November, a time to experience a different sort of Crete off the beaten track. If you are willing to swap the sandals for hiking boots, you will discover places hidden like gems, totally insulated from the rush and chaos of the modern world. At the most southern point of Greece, Crete, the sunny days of November are still plentiful, the sea temperatures are still warm enough to enjoy a swim and the beaches are almost deserted, allowing low season visitors to discover the island without the scorching heat.
Crete's wet season could be said to start in November when rain can occur on up to 10 days of the month on average. However, remember that daytime temperatures can be pleasant, but it gets chilly at night (averages range between 12 and 20°C). Late autumn’s changing colours make trekking a joyful activity to meet quaint picturesque villages and towns with individual character. The month offers dramatic contrasts between sky and changing foliage, fewer crowds and cheaper luxury villas to rent as the prices may be over fifty percent cheaper than during the busy season.
November can be a great entry point to Crete’s mountainous wonderlands and glorious natural landscapes, while the island's cities breath a collective sigh of relief from the summer hustle. November can be particularly exciting for travellers interested in the Minoan culture who wish to visit some of the excavated sites like Knossos near Heraklion, Aptera close to Chania, Eleftherna close to Rethymno or the Minoan Palace at Malia, as well as museums etc. without queuing for tickets. November holidays can turn to adventure holidays or special interest holidays.
Alternative holiday makers and dedicated fans of this beautiful Greek island realize there has never been a better time to discover the uncrowded Crete in total off-season month and visit sites like Spinalonga, Kournas Lake or Lassithi Plateau in the off season, meet local people and experience hospitality that is offered so genuinely. The "good value for money" November is also a good month to give cities like Chania, Rethymnon, Heraklion and Agios Nikolaos the attention they deserve now that the stifling summer heat has abated and there are far fewer visitors. Autumn harvest in the island promises interesting farm tours, wine dinners and plenty of outdoor fun for guests who seek something deeper than a suntan and return home fully revived and energised.
recommended by
Airbnb superhost since 2014
Hellenic Association
of Travel & Tourist Agencies
