In the north of Crete the climate is typically Mediterranean; in the south it's almost subtropical. Spring comes early with average temperatures of 15C/61F in March and 20C/68F in April.

Summers are baking hot and dry but with strong sea breezes. July and August are the hottest (and windiest) months - temperatures average 25.9C/85F and can reach 40C/104F.

From November to March the weather is cooler and damper, although even in January the average temperature is 12C. During this period, many attractions close, and it can be very cold indeed in the mountains, where snow falls regularly.