A Complete Guide for Your Trip to Crete in November

Are you still looking for a destination for a little break before winter? A holiday in Crete in November offers you the perfect combination of mild weather, fewer tourists and authentic experiences. You can discover picturesque villages, hike through impressive gorges and enjoy the tranquillity of secluded beaches while the temperatures are still pleasant. This time of year is ideal for discovering the cultural treasures and breathtaking nature of Greece's largest island without melting in the summer heat. Here you will find all the important tips on activities, the most beautiful places, the best hotels and beaches as well as answers to frequently asked questions about Crete in November. Get inspired and plan an unforgettable fall vacation on this fascinating island!

Our Crete travel guide at a glance

• Crete's most interesting places
• The most beautiful beaches of Crete
• Activities in Crete that you can't miss
• Temperatures in Crete in November
• The best hotels in Crete
• Flights to Crete
• Gift a vacation to Crete
• FAQ: Frequently asked questions about Crete

All tips for your vacation on Crete in November 2024

Where is the most beautiful place on Crete?

Crete not only impresses with its beautiful beaches, but also with a multitude of enchanting places that are rich in history, culture and natural beauty. Every place on Crete has its own charm and offers unique experiences to be discovered. But which place on Crete is the most beautiful? From historic towns and picturesque villages to impressive natural landscapes - we present the most beautiful places on Crete that you shouldn't miss on your trip.

1. Chania
   Chania, with its Venetian harbor, narrow streets and historic buildings, is one of the most picturesque towns in Crete. The old town and the lighthouse are particularly popular with visitors.
2. Rethymnon
   Rethymnon impresses with its well-preserved old town with Venetian and Ottoman influences, the Fortezza and the charming harbor. The atmosphere is relaxed and ideal for leisurely strolls.
3. Heraklion
   Heraklion, the capital of Crete, is rich in history and culture. The archaeological site of Knossos and the Archaeological Museum are highlights not to be missed.
4. Agios Nikolaos
   This town is located on the picturesque Mirabello Gulf and is known for its beautiful Voulismeni Lake, which is shrouded in legend. The promenade and relaxed cafés invite you to linger.
5. Elounda
   Elounda, a luxurious resort, offers breathtaking views of the sea and the island of Spinalonga. The ideal place for a relaxing and exclusive vacation.
6. Archanes
   This charming village near Heraklion is known for its wineries, traditional houses and the warm hospitality of the locals. A perfect place to experience authentic Cretan life.
7. Paleochora
   Paleochora on the southwest coast is a popular destination for nature lovers and offers beautiful beaches, hiking trails and a relaxed atmosphere. Ideal for those who want to travel off the beaten track.
8. Spili
   The picturesque mountain village of Spili is known for its natural springs and lion's head fountains. It offers tranquil surroundings and beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.
9. Sitia
   Sitia on the east coast of Crete is less touristy but still offers beautiful beaches, a charming town center and interesting archaeological sites. A great place to experience authentic Crete.
10. Matala
    Matala is famous for its caves in the cliffs and its hippie history from the 1960s. The beach and relaxed atmosphere make it a unique destination.

Where are the most beautiful beaches in Crete?

Crete has a lot of stunning beaches that are known for their beauty, clear waters and stunning nature. Here are our favorite beaches on the island:

• Elafonissi Beach
  This beach on the southwest coast is famous for its pink sand and turquoise waters. Elafonissi is a protected nature reserve, and the shallow lagoons are perfect for families and swimmers of all ages.
• Balos Lagoon
  Balos is located in the northwest of Crete and is known for its exotic beauty and emerald green waters. The lagoon is surrounded by a picturesque mountain backdrop and can be reached by boat or after a hike.
• Palm beach of Vai
  Vai Beach is located in the east of Crete and is unique for its palm grove, the largest natural palm forest in Europe. The golden sand and crystal-clear water make this beach a special experience.
• Palm beach of Preveli
  This beach on the south coast is located at the mouth of a river and is surrounded by a lush palm forest. Preveli offers a mix of fresh and salt water and a picturesque setting that is ideal for nature lovers.
• Falassarna Beach
  Falassarna, on the west coast, is known for its wide, white sandy beach and crystal clear waters. It is a popular place for swimming, sunbathing and water sports.
• Matala Beach
  Matala, on the south coast, is known for its caves in the cliffs and hippie history. The beach itself is beautiful and the clear water is perfect for swimming. There are many tavernas and cafés in the area.
• Seitan Limania, the "harbor of the devil"
  This small, secluded beach on the northwest coast is known for its dramatic landscape with steep cliffs and deep blue water. Access is via a steep path, but the effort is rewarded with breathtaking scenery.
• Agios Pavlos
  Agios Pavlos on the south coast is a quiet and less frequented beach with impressive sand dunes and crystal clear waters. It is a perfect place to relax and enjoy nature
• Glyka Nera
  Glyka Nera, located on the south coast between Chora Sfakion and Loutro, is a secluded beach with crystal clear fresh water. The beach is only accessible on foot or by boat and offers a quiet and unspoiled environment.
• Chrissi Island
  The small island of Chrissi, around 12 kilometers south of Ierapetra, is a real insider tip. Chrissi is known for its exotic beaches with white sand and turquoise water, surrounded by a natural cedar forest. The island can only be reached by boat and is a paradise for snorkelers and nature lovers.

What is a must-see on Crete?
The best activities and sights on the Greek island

Even in November, there are many activities and sights on Crete that you should not miss. The mild temperatures and fewer tourists make this month ideal for exploring and outdoor adventures. Visit the Palace of Knossos to immerse yourself in the history of the Minoan civilization or hike through the Samaria Gorge, which may be officially closed in November, but similar shorter hikes such as the Imbros Gorge offer a good alternative. Enjoy the tranquillity of the picturesque beaches of Elafonissi and Balos or stroll through the charming old towns of Chania and Rethymnon, with their Venetian flair and cozy tavernas, which are also enchanting in autumn.

• Excursion to the Richtis Gorge of Agios Nikolaos
  Explore the impressive Richtis Gorge with its picturesque waterfalls and lush plants, an ideal destination for nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts. The excursion starts in Agios Nikolaos and takes you through the breathtaking landscape of Crete. On your way, you will pass many villages and ruins and can see the oldest olive tree in the world.
• Tour to the Cave of Zeus and the Palace of Knossos
  Visit the legendary Zeus Cave, where the father of the gods Zeus is said to have been born, and then discover the fascinating remains of the Palace of Knossos, the center of Minoan civilization.
• Catamaran trip from Chania
  Enjoy a relaxing catamaran cruise along the coast of Chania and towards Agioi Theodoroi, where you can experience crystal clear waters and breathtaking coastal landscapes. Enjoy a freshly prepared Greek lunch and have fun with paddleboards, snorkeling and air mattresses.
• Hot air balloon ride at sunrise on Crete
  This activity is something very special, experience the beauty of Crete from a bird's eye view on a sunrise hot air balloon ride. During the 40-minute ride, you will float over the picturesque landscapes of the Lasithi plateau and enjoy the tranquillity and breathtaking views.
• Cooking course "From farm to table"
  Learn the secrets of Cretan cuisine in this interactive cooking course using fresh ingredients straight from the farm. Prepare traditional dishes and enjoy your culinary creations at the end.
• Day trip to Santorini
  Discover the fascinating island of Santorini, which is only about 1 hour 50 minutes away from Crete by ferry or boat. Explore the iconic white houses, picturesque villages and breathtaking views of the caldera. You can get a ticket for the ferry from Crete to Santorini from just €59.

How's the weather in Crete in November?

The temperatures in Crete in November are mild and pleasant, but it can be more changeable than in the summer months. Temperatures average between 17°C and 20°C during the day, while they can cool down to around 12°C to 15°C at night.

Where is it warmest in Crete in November?

In November, it tends to be warmest on the south coast of Crete. The regions in the south and south-east of the island in particular benefit from a milder and somewhat more stable climate. Here are some of the warmest places on Crete in November:

1. Ierapetra: This city is located on the south-east coast and is known for its mild climate. Ierapetra often has the highest average temperatures on Crete and is therefore particularly pleasant in November.
2. Matala: This small village on the south coast, known for its caves and hippie spirit, also enjoys milder weather. Temperatures are often slightly higher than in the north of the island.
3. Paleochora: This town on the southwest coast also has a milder climate. Paleochora is well protected by the surrounding mountains and benefits from warm, sunny days in late fall.

The south coast is closer to Africa and therefore benefits from the warmer air currents from the south. In addition, the high mountains in the middle of the island, such as the Ida Mountains (Psiloritis) and the White Mountains (Lefka Ori), protect the south coast from the colder northern winds.

Can you still swim in Crete in November?

November in Crete is perfect for enjoying the last swimming sessions before winter. Water temperatures are typically around 66-70°F during this month, which is still pleasant enough for swimming, especially on sunny days. If you get cold quickly, we recommend swimming on the beaches in the south of the island or in bays sheltered from the wind.

The best hotels on Crete for your vacation

Many of the best hotels are offering great prices and excellent service this low season, so you can enjoy your stay to the fullest. Here are our 4 favorite hotels in Crete that will guarantee you an unforgettable vacation:

1. Crete Golf Club Hotel, Hersonissos (★★★★★)
   This luxurious hotel offers first-class golf facilities and impressive views of the surrounding landscape. Perfect for golf lovers who appreciate tranquillity and elegance.
2. SanSal Boutique Hotel, Chania (★★★★)
   The SanSal Boutique Hotel impresses with its modern design and proximity to the old town of Chania. Enjoy the fantastic sea view from the rooftop terrace.
3. Casa Vitae, Rethymno (★★★★)
   A charming boutique hotel in a historic Venetian building, offering a unique blend of history and modern comfort. Ideally located in the old town of Rethymno.
4. Anthos Apartments, Agios Vasileios (★★★)
   These cozy apartments offer a homely atmosphere and breathtaking views of the Libyan Sea. Perfect for a relaxing and affordable stay in the countryside.

Give your loved ones a vacation to Crete for a break in winter

Surprise your loved ones this winter with an unforgettable vacation in Crete! With a flight voucher from Flightgift, the recipient can book flights to Crete flexibly and easily. These vouchers allow your loved ones to plan their trip according to their wishes, as they decide when and where they want to travel. The voucher is valid for two years, giving them enough time to plan their dream trip. You can also personalize the voucher with a photo and a personal message. A gift that not only brings joy, but also creates lasting memories.

FAQs: Our answers to the most frequently asked questions about Crete

To help you plan your vacation even better or if you simply want to learn more about Crete, we have listed some of the most frequently asked questions and answered them for you here.

Where is Crete?

Crete is located in the eastern Mediterranean and is part of Greece. The island is located south of the Aegean Sea (Aegean Sea), between the Greek mainland and North Africa, and forms the border between the Aegean Sea and the Libyan Sea.

How big is Crete?

Crete is the largest Greek island and measures around 8,336 square kilometers. With a length of around 260 kilometers and a width of 60 kilometers, it offers a diverse landscape and numerous sights.

How many inhabitants does Crete have?

The Greek island has around 630,000 inhabitants. The population is spread across the four districts of Heraklion, Chania, Rethymnon and Lasithi. Around 40,000, or 6.3%, of them are emigrants from different countries. Many Germans have also taken the plunge and emigrated to the sunny island. An estimated 10,000 Germans live on Crete, including permanent residents, seasonal residents and pensioners who have emigrated for retirement.

Where do most Germans live on Crete?

Most Germans in Crete live in and around the cities of Chania and Heraklion. These regions offer a good infrastructure and many opportunities for a pleasant life abroad.

What time is it in Crete?

Crete is in the Eastern European time zone (EET) and is one hour ahead of Central European Time (CET) in winter. In summer, the time is changed to Eastern European Summer Time (OESZ), which means that Crete is then two hours ahead of Germany.

Which is the best olive oil from Crete?

Crete is known for its high-quality olive oil, especially from the regions of Sitia and Kolymvari. These olive oils have received international awards and are characterized by their fruity taste and low acidity.

Crete by car

It's great to have a car at your disposal on Crete, as you can discover so much more. However, traveling to Crete by car is an adventure as you have to take a ferry from Italy and the journey alone can be very long, depending on where you are leaving from. However, the ferry connections are regular and offer beautiful views of the Mediterranean. Here is an example from Munich:

1. Journey from Munich to Venice, Italy:
   This route is about 550 kilometers and would take about 6 to 7 hours. From other German cities, you should of course expect an even longer journey time.
2. Ferry from Venice to Heraklion, Crete:
   The ferry crossing takes about 30 hours, depending on the ferry connection and weather conditions.

How much does a rental car cost on Crete?

If you don't necessarily want to take a 40-hour drive but still want to have a car on site, you can simply rent a car directly there. This allows you to explore the island at your own pace and makes it easier to get to hidden places on the island. Prices vary depending on the season and type of vehicle, but we have put together the average prices for November:

• Small cars: In November, you can rent a small car from around €15-20 per day. These vehicles are ideal for short journeys and narrow roads in the towns and villages of Crete.
• Mid-size car: You will pay around €20-30 per day for a mid-size car this month. These cars offer more comfort and space, which is particularly pleasant for longer journeys.
• SUVs and SUVs: These vehicles cost around €25-50 per day in November. An SUV is a good choice if you want to explore the mountainous regions and remote beaches of Crete.
• Luxury cars and special models: For a luxury car, prices start at around €60 per day in November and can increase depending on the model and provider.

Crete car rental tips

1. Pay attention to insurance offers and excess. Fully comprehensive insurance without an excess offers additional protection and security.
2. Check whether the rental car includes unlimited mileage, especially if you plan to drive a lot
3. Remember to bring your driver's license and a credit card for the deposit.
4. On collection, inspect the car and take photos of any scratches or similar so you have proof that they were there before.

How much does a cab cost in Crete?

If you are not traveling by car and do not want to hire a car, perhaps simply because you would like to stay at the hotel, then you can easily book a cab for short distances. Cab costs on Crete are moderate; a trip within the city usually costs around €5-10. For longer distances, for example from the airport to the city center, you should expect to pay around €20-40.

Which Greek island is the warmest in November?

Crete is often one of the warmest Greek islands in November. Temperatures average a pleasant 62-68°C, making it ideal for an autumn vacation.

How do we rate Crete compared to other destinations in November?

Crete or Mallorca in November?

In November, Crete is warmer than Mallorca, with milder temperatures and more sunshine. So if you're looking for sun and mild weather, Crete is the better choice.

Cyprus or Crete in November?

Cyprus and Crete both have pleasant temperatures in November, but Cyprus tends to be slightly warmer. If you prefer warmer weather, Cyprus is the best option.

Crete or Turkey in November?

The south coast of Turkey can be slightly warmer than Crete in November, especially in regions such as Antalya.

Crete or Rhodes in November?

Both Crete and Rhodes are mild in November, but Crete tends to have slightly more sunshine and less rain. Both islands are great for an autumn vacation, but Crete might offer you a little better weather.

Which month is best for Crete?

The best months for a vacation on Crete are May or September, as the weather is pleasantly warm and the island is less crowded. But for a few last rays of sunshine and a quieter vacation on Crete, November is perfect.

Conclusion: Is it worth traveling to Crete in November?

A Crete vacation in November is definitely worth it, especially if you appreciate mild weather, fewer tourists and authentic experiences. The temperatures are pleasant, ideal for hiking and sightseeing, and the beaches offer tranquillity without the summer crowds. Historical sites such as the Palace of Knossos, charming towns such as Chania and Rethymnon and impressive natural scenery such as the Imbros Gorge will make your stay unforgettable. With a wide range of activities, including cooking classes, Crete in November offers a varied and relaxing vacation experience.