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Contents
- The climate of Heraklion
- The best time to visit Heraklion
- The worst time to visit Heraklion
- Spring weather in Heraklion
- Summer weather in Heraklion
- Autumn weather in Heraklion
- Winter weather in Heraklion
- Weather in January
- Weather in February
- Weather in March
- Weather in April
- Weather in May
- Weather in June
- Weather in July
- Weather in August
- Weather in September
- Weather in October
- Weather in November
- Weather in December
- Frequently asked questions
- Average temperature
- Average rainfall
- Average rainfall days
- Average sea temperature
- Average daylight
- Average sunshine
- Average UV index
The Venetian walls and the Castle of Koule in the shipyards at Heraklion, Greece
The climate of Heraklion
Nestled in Greece, the city of Heraklion experiences a Mediterranean hot summer climate, as classified by the Köppen climate classification (Csa). This positioning, surrounded by the Aegean Sea and the warmth of Southern Europe, concludes in pleasant temperatures all year round due to the buffering effect of the seawaters.
From monitoring the climatological readings, it becomes apparent that Heraklion's temperatures see a noticeable variation. High temperatures range from 15.2°C in the cooler months to 28.6°C during the height of summer, with the corresponding low temperatures swinging from a mild 10°C to a warmer 22.7°C. It is worth noting the rainfall's sharp decrease during the summer months, with June, July, and August averaging around 2mm of precipitation in total. In contrast, the winter months see more substantial showers, with December recording an average of 77mm of rainfall.
The hours of daylight vary significantly over the year, with a minimum of 9.8 hours in December to a maximum of 14.5 hours in June. The city receives its highest sunshine hours in summer, with July experiencing 12 hours of sunshine daily. However, in the UV index, July shows to be the riskiest month, carrying a UV index of 11. Sea temperatures offer a refreshing retreat throughout the year and gradually increase from 17.1°C in the starting months to a balmy 26.1°C in August.
From monitoring the climatological readings, it becomes apparent that Heraklion's temperatures see a noticeable variation. High temperatures range from 15.2°C in the cooler months to 28.6°C during the height of summer, with the corresponding low temperatures swinging from a mild 10°C to a warmer 22.7°C. It is worth noting the rainfall's sharp decrease during the summer months, with June, July, and August averaging around 2mm of precipitation in total. In contrast, the winter months see more substantial showers, with December recording an average of 77mm of rainfall.
The hours of daylight vary significantly over the year, with a minimum of 9.8 hours in December to a maximum of 14.5 hours in June. The city receives its highest sunshine hours in summer, with July experiencing 12 hours of sunshine daily. However, in the UV index, July shows to be the riskiest month, carrying a UV index of 11. Sea temperatures offer a refreshing retreat throughout the year and gradually increase from 17.1°C in the starting months to a balmy 26.1°C in August.
The best time to visit Heraklion
The ideal time for visitors to flock to Heraklion is during the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn, particularly from April to June and from September to November. During these periods, the weather is balmy, but not extremely hot, with high temperatures oscillating from 16.8°C to 23.1°C. Besides, there is less rainfall, more manageable sunshine hours and daylight, and a moderate UV index that promotes safer outdoor activities.
The worst time to visit Heraklion
The least favorable time to experience Heraklion is typically in the heart of winter from December to February. Although temperatures remain relatively mild, ranging between 15.2°C and 17°C, the city experiences more substantial precipitation. On average, December has around 77mm of rainfall with 8.9 rainy days, any of which might coincide with a visitor's stay.
Spring weather in Heraklion
Springtime ushers in balmy weather in Heraklion, with high temperatures gradually rising from 15.5°C in February to 20.2°C in April. In contrast, the low temperatures range from 10°C to 13°C. The city witnesses a significant decrease in precipitation during this period, with rainfall dropping from 77mm in February to 30mm in April.
Summer weather in Heraklion
Summer in Heraklion is characterized by high temperatures that escalate from 23.5°C in May to a peak of 28.6°C in July, while the low temperatures fluctuate between 15.9°C and 22.7°C. The city enters its driest season, with June, July, and August witnessing a minimal average rainfall that does not exceed 1mm. The abundance of sunshine hours and long daylight hours provide ample opportunity for outdoor activities.
Autumn weather in Heraklion
Autumn season in Heraklion brings a gradual dip in temperatures, with high temperatures dropping from 26.4°C in September to 20.1°C in November, and low temperatures ranging from 20.3°C to 14.7°C. Although the city experiences a slight increase in rainfall during this period, with 20mm in September rising to 59mm in November, the weather remains suitably warmer for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Winter weather in Heraklion
Winter in Heraklion remains relatively mild, with high temperatures averaging between 20.1°C in November and 15.2°C in January and low temperatures wavering between 14.7°C in November and 10°C in January. December witnesses the highest rainfall with 77mm spread over 8.9 days, making it the wettest month. Despite these facts, the climate remains tolerable for those who prefer mild winter temperatures.
Weather in January
In Heraklion, Greece, the start of the year is typified by mild to moderately cold temperatures, with an abundance of rainfall. In this Mediterranean city, January is characterized by its shorter daylight hours and increased opportunity for precipitation. Weather in January »
Weather in February
Throughout February, the weather in Heraklion undergoes a gentle transition. Although rainfall decreases from January's highs, it still constitutes a significant part of the month's character. With 77mm of rain, it's advised to keep an umbrella on hand. Weather in February »
Weather in March
In Heraklion, the arrival of spring in March announces longer daylight hours and warmer temperatures. Compared to February, the amount of rain greatly reduces, signifying the typical end of the dominant winter precipitation. The sea temperature remains somewhat chilly with 16.6°C, making beach activities less common. Weather in March »
Weather in April
Enveloping Heraklion in a warm embrace, April marks a significant shift from the preceding months. Sustaining only 30mm rainfall, dryness starts to define the weather conditions, setting a distinct departure from March. April is a herald of the upcoming summer, as days grow longer, sunshine hours increase, and sea temperature starts to become inviting. Weather in April »
Weather in May
May brings a pronounced increase in both daylight hours and heat, demonstrating a true spring atmosphere. Sunshine duration extends to 9.7 hours, and combined with a sea temperature of 19.5°C, it makes for an ideal climate for outdoor activities. Weather in May »
Weather in June
In Heraklion, June establishes the advent of summer with soaring temperatures and an abundance of sunshine. It is the first month when the temperatures go notably high, reaching an average high of 27.3°C. Compared to May, rainfall becomes rare, with June being one of the driest months. Weather in June »
Weather in July
July in Heraklion stands as the epitome of summer, with maximum temperatures, extended daylight hours, and minimal rainfall. The average high peaks at 28.6°C, crowning it as the hottest month. The sea temperature also climbs to its maximum, reaching 25.4°C, which invites locals and tourists alike to enjoy numerous water activities. Weather in July »
Weather in August
In August, Heraklion remains in the throes of summer, characterized by high temperatures, abundant sunshine, and minimal rainfall. Heat conditions stay close to July's frame, with the average high barely decreasing to 28.4°C. The number of sunshine hours remains consistent with the preceding months, providing an ample amount of time for outdoor explorations. Weather in August »
Weather in September
September in Heraklion signals the onset of autumn with gradually dipping temperatures. A relatively dry month, rainfall remains minimal at 20mm, slightly higher than August's record. The sea stays warm enough for swimming and other activities while the sun shines generously, though less than August. Weather in September »
Weather in October
The arrival of October introduces a significant shift in the weather pattern of Heraklion. Transitioning from the dry, hot summer, the month sees rain levels rise to 69mm, indicating a return of regular rainfall. Despite the increasing rain, sunshine hours still maintain a comfortable balance, creating a pleasant autumnal atmosphere. Weather in October »
Weather in November
In Heraklion, November ushers in a marked decrease in temperatures, a reduction in daylight hours, and more frequent rainfall. Compared to October, the rainfall slightly lowers to 59mm, but continues to be a substantial weather trait. Weather in November »
Weather in December
December marks the end of the year in Heraklion with a definite winter feel, characterized by shorter days, lower temperatures, and rainfall. Compared to November, rainy days increase to 8.9 days with a total rainfall of 77mm. Weather in December »
[Resources]FAQ
What part of the year is the coldest in Heraklion?
Heraklion's coldest month, January, registers temperatures that range from a high of 15.2°C to a low of 10°C.
What is the wettest month in Heraklion?
The month with the most rainfall in Heraklion, Greece, is January, when the rain falls for 10.1 days and typically aggregates up to 92mm of precipitation.
How many days does it rain in Heraklion?
In Heraklion, Greece, during the entire year, the rain falls for 53.2 days and collects up to 501mm of precipitation.
What is the month with the least sunshine in Heraklion?
With an average of 3.8h of sunshine, January has the least sunshine of the year in Heraklion.
What is the month with the coldest sea water in Heraklion?
February is the month with the coldest seawater in Heraklion, with an average sea temperature of 16.4°C.
When is Daylight Saving Time (DST) in Heraklion?
On Sunday, 26. March 2023, at 03:00, Daylight Saving Time starts in Heraklion, Greece, and the time zone changes from EET to EEST. Daylight Saving Time ends on Sunday, 29. October 2023, at 04:00, and the time zone reverts from EEST to EET.
When are the longest days in Heraklion?
June has the longest days of the year in Heraklion, with an average of 14h and 30min of daylight.
What time of the year is the hottest in Heraklion?
In Heraklion, July is identified by the average highest temperatures, reaching a peak of 28.6°C and a low of 22.7°C.
What month has the most sunshine in Heraklion?
July has the most sunshine of the year in Heraklion, with an average of 12h of sunshine.
When is the highest UV index in Heraklion?
With an average maximum UV index of 11, July is the month with the highest UV index.
What is the driest month in Heraklion?
The month with the least rainfall is August, when the rain falls for 0.1 days and typically collects 1mm of precipitation.
What is the month with the warmest sea water in Heraklion?
August is the month with the warmest seawater in Heraklion, with an average sea temperature of 26.1°C.
What is the month with the shortest days in Heraklion?
With an average of 9h and 48min of daylight, December has the shortest days of the year in Heraklion.
What is the month with the lowest UV index in Heraklion?
December is the month with the lowest UV index, with an average maximum UV index of 2.
Average temperature
Heraklion, Greece
The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is July (28.6°C).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is January (15.2°C).
The months with the highest average low temperature are July and August (22.7°C).
The coldest months (with the lowest average low temperature) are January and February (10°C).
Average rainfall
Heraklion, Greece
- Average rainfall in January:
91.5mm - Average rainfall in February:
77.4mm - Average rainfall in March:
57.4mm - Average rainfall in April:
30mm - Average rainfall in May:
15.2mm - Average rainfall in June:
3.2mm
- Average rainfall in July:
1mm - Average rainfall in August:
0.7mm - Average rainfall in September:
19.5mm - Average rainfall in October:
68.8mm - Average rainfall in November:
58.8mm - Average rainfall in December:
77.1mm
The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is January (91.5mm).
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is August (0.7mm).
Average rainfall days
Heraklion, Greece
- Average rainfall days in January:
10.1 days - Average rainfall days in February:
9.1 days - Average rainfall days in March:
6.9 days - Average rainfall days in April:
3.4 days - Average rainfall days in May:
1.9 days - Average rainfall days in June:
0.5 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
0.1 days - Average rainfall days in August:
0.1 days - Average rainfall days in September:
1.3 days - Average rainfall days in October:
4.9 days - Average rainfall days in November:
6 days - Average rainfall days in December:
8.9 days
The month with the highest number of rainy days is January (10.1 days).
The months with the least rainy days are July and August (0.1 days).
Average sea temperature
Heraklion, Greece
The best month for swimming (with the highest average sea temperature) is August (26.1°C).
The coldest month (with the lowest average sea temperature) is February (16.4°C).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
Heraklion, Greece
- Average daylight in January:
10h and 1min - Average daylight in February:
10h and 5min - Average daylight in March:
12h and 0min - Average daylight in April:
13h and 1min - Average daylight in May:
14h and 0min - Average daylight in June:
14h and 3min
- Average daylight in July:
14h and 2min - Average daylight in August:
13h and 3min - Average daylight in September:
12h and 2min - Average daylight in October:
11h and 2min - Average daylight in November:
10h and 2min - Average daylight in December:
9h and 5min
The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 14h and 30min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 9h and 48min).
- Average sunshine in January:
3h and 5min - Average sunshine in February:
4h and 3min - Average sunshine in March:
5h and 4min - Average sunshine in April:
7h and 4min - Average sunshine in May:
9h and 4min - Average sunshine in June:
11h and 4min
- Average sunshine in July:
12h and 0min - Average sunshine in August:
11h and 1min - Average sunshine in September:
9h and 2min - Average sunshine in October:
6h and 2min - Average sunshine in November:
5h and 0min - Average sunshine in December:
3h and 5min
The month with the most sunshine is July (Average sunshine: 12h and 0min).
The month with the least sunshine is January (Average sunshine: 3h and 48min).
Average UV index
Heraklion, Greece
The month with the highest UV index is July (UV index 11).
The month with the lowest UV index is December (UV index 2).
Heraklion, Greece
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