Chania, Crete weather by month
A monthly table of air and sea temperatures and rainy days in Chania, with what to know about each season.
- Summer brings about 31°C by day, almost no rain, and a 24–25°C sea.
- September suits many travellers best: hot, a warm sea and only about two rainy days.
- April and October each have about a week of rain, and winter is cool and wet.
For a beach holiday, aim for June or September. Spring and autumn are lovely for the city and countryside, but allow for a few rainy days.
What is Chania's weather like through the year?
Chania is in north-west Crete and has a Mediterranean climate: hot, dry summers and mild, rainy winters. Crete lies further south than most of Greece, so its season starts early and ends late. The table uses Greeka's averages for April–October.
| Month | Temperature (min–max) | Sea temperature | Rainy days |
|---|---|---|---|
| April | 12–20°C | 16°C | 7 |
| May | 16–24.5°C | 19°C | 4 |
| June | 20–28.5°C | 22°C | 1 |
| July | 22.5–31°C | 24°C | 0 |
| August | 22.5–31°C | 25°C | 1 |
| September | 20–28°C | 24°C | 2 |
| October | 17–24°C | 22°C | 6 |
The source has no table for November–March, the cooler and wetter months.
Chania weather in April and May
April still has about a week of rain, cool evenings and a sea that most Israelis find cold (about 16°C). By May it reaches 24°C by day, the peaks of the White Mountains (Lefka Ori) are sometimes still snowy, and the countryside is green. It's a good time for hiking, the old town and quiet beaches.
Chania weather in July and August
About 31°C by day, almost no rain, and a sea of 24–25°C. Famous beaches such as Balos and Falassarna get crowded, so arrive early. When the north wind blows, the north coast gets wavy and the south-coast beaches are calmer.
Chania weather in September and October
September is often called the perfect month: still hot (about 28°C), a sea of about 24°C and only about two rainy days. October still has a warm sea (about 22°C) and pleasant days, but about six rainy days. Most businesses in the city stay open year-round, but some resort businesses close at the end of October.
Chania in winter
From November to March there is more rain, and snow can fall in the mountains. The city itself is lively all year, with its market, restaurants and cafés. It's a good season for the old town and the Etz Hayyim synagogue, less so for a beach holiday.
What to pack for Chania
- Summer: a hat, sunscreen and water shoes.
- Spring and autumn: a light jacket for the evening, and hiking shoes if you plan mountain walks or the Samaria Gorge (usually open from spring to autumn; check dates).
- Winter: a coat, umbrella and layers.
More on the area: Chania attractions, Chania beaches, flights to Chania from Israel and Crete month by month. Greece's weather by month is on our weather page.
FAQ
When is the sea warmest in Chania? In August, at about 25°C on average, and in September at about 24°C.
What is Chania's weather like in October? Pleasant: about 17–24°C and a sea of about 22°C, but about six rainy days on average.
Is April a good time to visit Chania? Yes for walking and the city, but the sea is still cold (about 16°C) and there are about seven rainy days.
Is Chania too hot in August? About 31°C by day, similar to an Israeli summer but less humid. Plan beach time for the morning and evening.
