Temperatures in Crete remain perfect for a fall sun getaway, remaining warm enough for most people to be able to enjoy pleasant days by the pool and at the beach. Of course, for serious sun-worshippers this might not be the right fit but those looking to enjoy seaside days and a dreamy vacation before the winter descends will find that a villa in Crete at this time of the year has plenty to recommend it.
We have been saying this for years now and it may be your last chance to get an autumnal getaway in Crete before everyone else cottons on to its charms as tourism numbers are up already from previous years. More and more travellers are deciding to come and enjoy this gorgeous island in Greece while the weather is mild and the tourism crowds have thinned – but this may not be the case for much longer. Increasingly, the peace and quiet of autumn in Crete may be a trend that catches on.
Crete boasts a landscape that is almost perfectly designed for off-season getaways in both autumn and spring. The gorgeous beaches of the island, famous for their rugged beauty, soft sands, and perfectly blue waters, are in high demand during the summer months but for most of spring and autumn, these stunning strands can be enjoyed without the crowds.
In addition to the dreamy coastline, Crete has a mountainous landscape that offers plenty of different routes and trails for hikers, bikers, climbers, and those looking to explore stunning scenery by car or horseback – the options for adventure are endless. The milder temperatures of spring and autumn make for a more pleasant experience when it comes to getting out and taking in the incredible beauty of Crete and the lush landscapes are all the lovelier with spring blooms or autumn foliage.
Similarly, the famed archaeological sites of Crete such as Knossos, in addition to the less well-known ruins and attractions around the island are best explored and enjoyed without the sun beaming down on you all day and in the smaller tourist crowds of autumn or spring. And, if you happen to have a rainy or cooler day, you can always head to Heraklion’s Archaeological Museum to absorb the wonders of Crete's long and fascinating past under a roof and in regulated temperatures.
Of course, one is sure to work up an appetite when exploring the island and taking in her beauty – both natural and man-made – and autumn is an especially good time of year to enjoy the culinary riches on offer from outstanding wines to harvest delights.
This year, Crete has welcomed more guests than the previous year, with a noticeable increase in those arriving after the summer, throughout September and October, particularly from Germany, the Netherlands, and the UK. In fact, many establishments that used to shutter earlier in the year after the major tourism season are now looking at extending services going forward, such is the demand for autumn breaks on the island.
The trend seems to be, therefore, that fall will see greater numbers of visitors who have discovered the delights of the island at this time of the year and book villas in Crete to make the most of it. So, whether you manage to snap up a last-minute vacation rental in Crete for this autumn, you decide to try an off-season break in spring, or you are primed and ready to snap up a holiday next autumn, we recommend doing so soon before absolutely everyone else starts to catch on as well!