'Old Lighthouse in Chania in stormy weather' - Attribution: December is the heart of Cretan winter, though it's much milder than northern European winters. The weather is cool and wet with interspersed sunny days. Average highs are around 17 °C (63 °F) and lows around 11 °C (52 °F). On sunny days, temperatures can feel pleasant, reaching up to 18–19 °C, but on cloudy or windy days it feels cooler. Evenings are definitely jacket weather, with temperatures sometimes dipping into single digits inland. Snow is common in the high mountains by late December – the peaks of Psiloritis and the White Mountains get their winter coat. While snow on the coast is very rare, occasional cold outbreaks can bring a dusting of snow or even hail during a strong winter shower.
December is one of the wettest months of the year with about 95 mm of rain over more than 10 days. You can expect frequent rain – sometimes as short bursts, other times as extended periods of steady downpour. Fortunately, there are also many bright, clear intervals when the sun breaks through, offering crisp views of snow-capped mountains and deep blue seas, although sunshine averages only about 3.5–4 hours a day. The sea temperature drops to about 18 °C (64 °F), meaning that swimming is generally only for the truly hardy.
Practical tips: If you visit in December, pack as if you're travelling in early spring or fall in a temperate country. Bring warm clothes – a fleece or sweater, a coat or a warm rainproof jacket, socks, and closed shoes. Layering is important since indoor heating is modest. Waterproof gear is a must, as many days will be rainy. An umbrella or hooded raincoat is recommended, and waterproof hiking boots are ideal for exploring wet trails. December in Crete is a quiet month with an authentic local atmosphere, as towns buzz with pre-holiday festive decor and local celebrations. This is a great opportunity to try hearty Cretan dishes such as stews, snails with rosemary, or oven-baked lamb with potatoes.
In summary, December's weather in Crete is cool and capricious. One day you might be sipping coffee in the sun wearing light clothes, and the next you're watching rain streak the window while enjoying a raki by the fire. It's a side of Crete that few tourists experience, but it has its own charm – green hills, flowing seasonal rivers, and snow on the mountains remind you that even this sun-kissed island has a winter.