Crete Weather in September

Weather September
'Crete September 22' - Crete
'Crete September 22' - Attribution: Chris Combe

September in Crete is a month of transition, blending the warmth of summer with the first subtle signs of autumn – an ideal time in many travellers' eyes. Early September often still feels quite summer-like with temperatures in the 30–32 °C (mid-80s to 90 °F) range. As the month progresses, especially by late September, the heat eases. On average, September highs are around 27 °C (81 °F) and lows about 20 °C (68 °F), although occasional days can still reach 30 °C.

The Meltemi winds calm down in September – bringing gentle breezes or sometimes no wind at all, which makes the seas smoother for swimming and boating. The sea temperature is excellent, typically about 24 °C (75 °F) early in the month, cooling very slightly toward the end. Rainfall is still relatively scarce in the first half of September, with only a few scattered days of rain overall. By late September, days become shorter with approximately 8–9 hours of sunshine per day. The landscape starts to show autumn hues with dry, sun-bleached lowlands and the first appearance of autumn flowers in forested areas.

Practical tips: September is fantastic for all activities: swimming, sunbathing, hiking, and sightseeing. Continue to wear summer attire with sun protection, and consider a light jacket or cardigan for cooler evenings. Many visitors appreciate September due to thinner crowds and more relaxed attractions, allowing a more intimate experience at popular sites. This is also a great time to take a dip or engage in water sports when the water is still warm and inviting.