Alexandre RobertTheisland of Crete is always a destination of choice for a change of scenery from the usual vacation spots. It is appreciated for the authenticity of its architecture (think of those famous immaculate white Greek houses, a treat for the eyes!) and its rich historical and cultural heritage. However, having a pleasant winter vacation requires information about the climate, travel costs and events.
What does Crete have in store for you in December? Here are our answers!
Going to Crete in December: tickets at what price?
How about tickets for around 300€ round trip in the middle of winter to Greece?
The prices of air tickets from France to Crete vary according to several criteria.
The purchase period has a considerable impact on the rates offered, of course. Therefore, we strongly recommend that you wait until the last few days or weeks to buy your tickets to Heraklion (capital of the Greek island).
During the low season, air tickets are more affordable than during the high season. It should also be noted that these prices also depend on the city of departure:
- If the flight leaves Paris for the island of Crete for example, the cost of the ticket can be between 328 and 499 €.
- Whereas for a departure from Bordeaux, the flights are more expensive, between 495 and 686 €. It all depends on the speed of the flight you have booked.
Keep in mind that on average, these tickets cost 304 €.
Ideally, you should use an online flight comparison tool like Skyscanner. Thanks to this type of application, it will be easy to know the budget you need to plan for the purchase of your tickets according to the period, the destination and your preferences. Generally, the fewer the number of stops on a route, the higher the cost of travel.
Hotel in Crete: where to sleep in December?
You type “
Crete hotel
“on your search engine but can’t find what you’re looking for? Crete Autrement comes to your rescue and invites you to book your stay thanks to the many luxury hotels, villas and very affordable establishments to be found on this map:
Booking.com
Weather Crete December : what to expect ?
How about a trip to the port of Chania in December?
The climate of Crete is pleasant in December in many of the cities of the archipelago:
- In Heraklion, temperatures vary between 1°C and 23°C, with average values of 13°C to 18°C.
- In the city of Chania, the minimum is 6 °C and the maximum 24 °C. Average temperatures are between 11°C and 16°C. In addition, the cool sea breezes soften the climate, even when there is a lot of sunshine.
Some rainfall is also expected on the island during this period. They are around 90 mm and extend over 12 days out of 31. So, to fully admire your destination without being bothered by the feeling of freshness, you will have to bring something to cover yourself. The less chilly ones will be able to dress up to enjoy the activities of Crete. The climatic discomfort in the island is quite low at this time of the year.
What to do in Crete in December?
1. Elafonisi
Elafonisi is one of the most beautiful beaches of Crete
. A multicolored lagoon and an island that you can walk to with the water up to your knees. An exceptional place to take beautiful pictures. You can get there in several ways, like here :
2. Chania
Chania is the other big city to see in Crete
. Its 100% Cretan charm is incredible and a must-see. Please note that there are many great excursions to be made from Chania:
3. Agios Nikolaos
The Cretan St. Tropez awaits you on the eastern side of the island of the Gods. With its lot of beautiful beaches, restaurants, small streets, shops and other local sights. Like these few excursions that we recommend in and around Agios Nikolaos:
4. Heraklion
If you are passing through
Heraklion
Heraklion, landing or visiting, there are many attractions and sights to do to really visit Crete, such as Knossos, Cretaquarium or a 4×4 Safari:
Crete in December: what events?
A stay in Crete also means enjoying the shows and events it offers. Many occasions are celebrated every year in this archipelago of Greece. These are often activities:
- cultural,
- nuns,
- culinary
- or historical.
Christmas in Greece
In December, you will have the chance to celebrate Christmas in a different way, in the customs of Greece. Even if some “western” traditions are adopted by the Greeks, some traditions are still preserved.
The role of Santa Claus falls to the Holy Basil.
In addition, delicious pastries (kourabiedes, melomakarona, etc.) are distributed on occasion. During this month the festival of St. Nicholas is also organized.
New Year’s Day in Crete ?
New Year’s Day in France and with your family: it’s déjà vu!
What if you opt for sunshine and a little change this year? Crete is waiting for you to spend a wonderful evening on December 31. Whether it’s with your family in a beautiful house to rent or in the streets of Agios Nikolaos, Heraklion or Chania, party!
Epiphany
If you are planning to extend your vacation into January, it will also be possible to enjoy Epiphany. This event is one of the most important ceremonies in the country. It is the commemoration of the birth of Christ and the celebration of his baptism by Saint John the Baptist. On this occasion, a crucifix is immersed in water and the faithful must dive to recover the sacred cross. The goal is to be among the believers who will be blessed throughout the year.
