Which Greek island and part of the island has the mildest winter climate?

Hello, now that I'm retired, I'd like to go to Greece from January until the end of April. So I'd love to know which island and part of the island has the mildest climate (warmth and wind) for that period. I've done some research, and the islands that come up most often are Crete and Rhodes.

I'm looking forward to your suggestions.

Thanks!

Hi there

It’s true that Rhodes and Crete, being further south, get more sunshine. I’d lean toward Crete for a few reasons: it’s larger than Rhodes, the people are friendlier (okay, that’s subjective, but it’s my take), there’s more to do, more spots to see, and a greater variety of landscapes. Plus, there are hospitals and all the necessary medical infrastructure. We hope nothing happens, of course, but if there’s a medical issue, you’ll be glad to have a hospital nearby!

Thanks Elenitsa for your reply! Could you tell me what the average daytime and nighttime temperatures are in January and February in Crete? Does the wind blow strongly during these months, and from which direction?

Is it better to stay on the side of Ierapetra or Agios Nikolaos?

Thanks! !

It’s around 10 to 15 degrees. You can find tons of sites that give you the year’s average weather.

For accommodation, it depends. Why are you only talking about Ierapetra and Agios Nikolaos? Aren’t Heraklion or Chania of interest to you? Why did you focus only on the east of the island? It’s not a criticism, just curious—you already seem set on that area.

Hi! I’ve set my sights on Ierapetra because I read that it’s the warmest region in Crete. Now, though, I don’t have a strong preference—I’m just looking for the spot with the warmest weather and the least wind possible at this time of year.

I’m Canadian, and when it comes to the cold, let’s just say I’ve had enough—I can’t take it anymore. Since 1979, I’ve been to Greece six times. I love the country, and I just hope they find a vaccine so I can go back as soon as possible.

Thanks! !

The weather can be unpredictable—you probably already know that in Canada! 😎

If that winter happens to be colder or windier than usual, tough luck!!

It really depends on what you're looking for: a big city, whether you want activities or not, meeting French speakers. And also the type of accommodation you prefer.

Hi there, Cyprus also has very mild and sunny winters. It’s not Greece, obviously, but in the Mediterranean basin, it’s one of the best winter destinations. That said, English is more widely spoken than Greek there, and they drive on the left 😊

True, Cyprus has an even milder climate—it’s a great idea too, except for the left-hand driving! 🏴‍☠️

Good evening,

You're right—the weather can be unpredictable from year to year, especially lately—it keeps changing. For accommodation, I'm looking for either a place or a studio with one or more bedrooms and a fully equipped kitchen. I'd also like to meet French speakers and Greeks who speak French or English.

If you have any great tips for accommodation, I'm all ears. As for the town, I don't have a preference as long as all the services are available.

Thanks.

Thanks, I’ll check it out.

Interesting, but driving on the left—I'm not sure. 🏴‍☠️

Hi there, Don’t let left-hand driving put you off—it’s just a small hurdle you’ll get used to in a day. Cheers,

Marie Paule

PS - I really like Chania (La Canée) in Crete! !