✈️ Why Visit Crete in May?
Crete in May feels like nature’s grand reveal — warm enough for beach days, cool enough for hiking, and still gloriously free of high-season crowds. 🌼 This is the month when the island truly comes alive. Flowers still blanket the hillsides, tavernas open their full menus, and locals begin to buzz with the energy of the coming summer.
May is the sweet spot: consistently sunny days, mild evenings, and plenty of things to do, without the peak-season pricing or packed tour buses. Prices are lower, beaches are blissfully uncrowded, and ancient sites like Knossos and Phaistos are a dream to explore with room to breathe. Local culture also takes center stage this month, with joyful Orthodox celebrations and village festivals.
🧠 Fun fact: In Greece, most people get two birthdays — their actual birth date and a “name day,” which is celebrated just as enthusiastically with family, cake, and gifts!
Whether you’re a beach bum, mountain hiker, mythology buff, or foodie, Crete in May offers a golden slice of Greek life before the summer rush.
Average Weather in April:
- ☀️ 7–9 hours of sunshine per day
- 🌧️ Around 1–2 rainy days per week
- 🌅 Sunrise: ~6:45 AM / Sunset: ~7:50 PM
✈️ How to Get to Crete
🛬 Chania Airport (CHQ)
Smaller and more relaxed, Chania Airport is ideal for exploring western Crete, including the stunning beaches of Elafonissi and Balos. ✅ Best for: Romantic coastal towns, hiking trails, and access to Crete’s wild western edge.
✈️ Flight Times to Chania:
- Frankfurt to CHQ: ~3 hrs
- London to CHQ: ~4 hrs
- NYC to CHQ (via Athens): ~11 hrs
📍 Approximate driving times from Chania Airport:
- Chania city: 20 mins
- Rethymno: 1 hr 10 mins
- Elafonissi Beach: 2 hrs
At Chania Airport, there’s a charming outdoor terrace café where you can enjoy a view of the runway with your frappe — a nice farewell touch!
🛬 Heraklion Airport (HER)
Located on the north coast, Heraklion Airport is the busiest and closest to the island’s capital, making it a great base for exploring central and eastern Crete.✅ Best for: Archaeological sites (like Knossos), access to east coast beaches, and city stays.
✈️ Flight Times to Heraklion:
- Frankfurt to HER: ~3 hrs
- London to HER: ~4 hrs
- NYC to HER (via Athens): ~11 hrs
📍 Approximate driving times from Heraklion Airport:
- Heraklion city: 10–15 mins
- Rethymno: 1 hr 15 mins
- Elounda: 1 hr 20 mins
At Heraklion Airport, the Everest café near the Arrivals hall is your best bet for a decent snack or coffee before security.
⛴️ Ferries:
Piraeus (Athens) → Heraklion
⏱️ 8–9 hours (overnight ferries are common)
✨ High-speed options: ~6.5–7 hours (fewer departures, more expensive)
Piraeus → Chania (Souda Port)
⏱️ 8–9 hours (mostly overnight)
🛏️ Book a cabin if traveling overnight — very common and comfortable.
Piraeus → Rethymno
⏱️ 9–10 hours
🔁 Not as frequent as the Heraklion or Chania routes.
SAVE on your next ferry trip in the Greek Islands with these Minoan Lines offers.
On sailings departing until the 31st of October 2025:
• You can get up to 20% OFF your return tickets
• And the 4th passenger can sail for FREE when travelling in the same 4-berth cabin.
🛬 Navigating the Airport
Whether you land at Heraklion Airport (HER) or Chania Airport (CHQ), getting out and on your way is smooth and straightforward — especially in May, before peak summer queues kick in.
🚗 Car Hire Options
Both airports have a wide range of car hire desks inside and just outside the terminal. You’ll find international names plus trusted local companies with more flexible terms and often better rates. A small car is ideal for narrow village streets and parking, but opt for a 4×4 if heading into the mountains. Top tip: Pre-book your car online for better prices and guaranteed availability.
🚍 Public Transport into Town
- From Heraklion Airport:
Buses leave roughly every 15–30 minutes and take 20 minutes to reach the city center (€2). Look for the KTEL (green) buses near the Arrivals area. - From Chania Airport:
Public buses are less frequent — about one per hour to Chania city (€2.50–3), taking around 30 minutes. Timetables are posted at the stop just outside Arrivals.
🟡 Buses may be cash-only — keep coins or small notes handy!
🚕 Pre-booked Airport Transfers or Taxis
Taxis are readily available at both airports and are regulated with set rates to nearby towns. Expect to pay:
Heraklion to city centre: €15–20
Chania to city centre: €25–30
📲 For peace of mind, consider booking a private transfer. Book now!
🚗 Getting Around Crete
🧭 Should You Hire a Car?
Yes, if… you want to explore villages, hidden beaches, gorges, and scenic routes that buses don’t reach. Perfect for road trips, couples, families, or adventurous solo travellers.
Maybe not, if… you’re sticking to one town (like Chania or Heraklion) and taking guided day trips. Buses and tours work fine, especially for those who prefer a slower pace or aren’t comfortable driving abroad.
Definitely no, if… you’re planning a full-on beach holiday at an all-inclusive resort and don’t intend to travel far. A couple of taxis or transfers will be all you need.
🚍 Public Transport
KTEL buses are reliable and run frequently between major towns and some popular beaches. Great for budget travellers or those staying along the north coast. 🟡 Tip: Most routes are cash-only and have seasonal schedules that ramp up in summer.
🛵 Other Options
Rideshare apps aren’t common — traditional taxis still rule here.
Scooters and quad bikes are fun but best for short distances and confident riders. Crete is full of tours on quad bikes with basic training, why not go on an adventure with these before hiring your own? We recommend this one.
You typically need a valid car license for scooters and quads under 80cc, but a motorbike license (Category A or A2) is required for scooters and motorbikes over 80cc. For buggies, a full car license is usually needed. Some rental companies may have additional age and experience requirements, so it’s best to check with them.
🏨 Where to Stay in Crete
Top Areas to Stay:
Chania 💖
Colourful, romantic, full of history — great base for west coast beaches 🏖️Jump to things to do.
We recommend Porto Veneziano Hotel because of its stunning waterfront location overlooking the old Venetian harbour and its eco-friendly design with modern comforts 🌿🏨. You’ll love the fresh, locally-sourced breakfast, the stylish rooms with sea views, and the fact that it’s just a short walk to Chania’s charming old town 🏖️🍽️.
Rethymno: Balanced mix of beach and culture, ideal for couples. Jump to things to do.
One of our favourite beachside escapes is Nautilux in Rethymno 🌊✨. With direct access to a private beach and luxurious suites featuring hot tubs, it’s the ultimate place to relax and recharge. Just moments from the stunning Venetian Old Town, you can spend your days exploring, then unwind in total comfort by the sea 💙🛁.
Heraklion
Bustling capital with nightlife and museums. Be sure to do a bike tour of the city! Jump to things to do.
We love Pilot’s Villas Luxury Suites for their unbeatable location—right in the heart of Hersonissos, just steps from charming shops, local tavernas, and the beach 🏖️🍷. It’s the perfect place if you want to soak up the vibrant local vibe by day and come back to peaceful luxury by night 🌅✨.
Elounda & Agios Nikolaos: More upscale, relaxing, and perfect for a splurge. Jump to things to do.
When fun is top of your holiday wish list, Elounda Water Park Residence Hotel delivers in every way 🎉💦. Set in the hills above Elounda with gorgeous sea views, its on-site waterpark is a total winner—packed with slides, splash zones, and endless excitement for all ages 🌞🌊. It’s the kind of place where every day brings a new adventure, right on your doorstep!
💸 Budget: Hostels or guesthouses in Rethymno and Heraklion such as
💰 Mid-range: Charming B&Bs and local hotel’s in Chania
💎 Luxury: 5-star resorts in Agios Nikolaos or boutique escapes in the mountains such as
Villas and self-catered stays are popular, especially for families or longer visits such as
💡 Quick Tips for Visiting
- 💶 You’ll find ATMs easily, but bring some cash for remote tavernas or beach stalls.
- 🙏 Dress modestly at religious sites. Shoulders covered, no short shorts.
- 🗣️ Learn these simple Greek phrases:
| English | Greek | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Hello | Γειά σας (Yah-sas) | Friendly greeting |
| Thank you | Ευχαριστώ (Ef-har-ee-STO) | Grateful thanks |
| Where is…? | Πού είναι; (Poo EE-neh?) | Asking directions |
📍 Must-See Sights
📍 Heraklion Area – Culture, History & Family Fun
🚴♀️ Heraklion Ecobike Tour
Explore Heraklion on two wheels with an expert local guide, uncovering ancient streets, hidden corners, and lively squares.
🕌 Glide past the Venetian Walls and soak in the views of the historic harbour — all with the ease of an electric bike.
💡 A fun and effortless way to dive into the city’s history and culture.
🎟️ Book your ride: Heraklion Ecobike Tour tickets
Step into Minoan mythology at Europe’s oldest city. Just a 15-minute drive from Heraklion, Knossos is quieter in May, and the grounds are bursting with spring flowers 🌸. Explore the ancient throne room, vivid frescoes, and labyrinthine ruins that inspired the legend of the Minotaur.
One of Greece’s top museums and a must after Knossos. You’ll find treasures like the Phaistos Disc, gold jewellery, and intricate pottery from 4,000+ years ago. Grab a ticket with the Digital Hellenic Heritage Guide included for the full experience!
💦 Acqua Plus Waterpark
Crete’s biggest and most popular waterpark — and it opens 12th May! Perfect for families or anyone looking to cool down and enjoy a day of fun in the sun.
🌀 With over 50 slides and attractions, including lazy rivers and wave pools, it’s great for all ages.
🍔 On-site restaurants, shaded areas, and free sunbeds make it easy to spend the whole day.
🎟️ Entry: Around €27 for adults, €17 for kids.
🚌 Shuttle buses available from major resorts.
🎟️ Combo Day Option:
Book a Knossos + Acqua Plus combo ticket for the ultimate mix of culture and water fun! Perfect for families or cooling off after a morning in the sun around Knossos. Combo tickets saves an average of £8 when compared to buying separately.
📍 Chania Region – Picture-Perfect & Coastal Cool
🎨 Chania Old Town
A photographer’s dream 🎞️ — pastel shutters, flower-strewn balconies, and waterfront tavernas. Stroll Venetian alleys, shop at the market, and don’t miss sunset by the lighthouse.
🛍️ Ideal for local crafts, leather goods, and artisan jewellery.
✨ Take it easy and get to know the real Chania with our PRIVATE walking tour! 🌿 With a local guide by your side, you’ll explore the heart of the Old Town — a perfect intro for your first day in this beautiful town 💙 A relaxed 3-hour adventure full of food, history, and gorgeous views — the perfect start to your Chania memories! 🌸✨
🌅 Gramvousa and Balos 🏴☠️
Discover two of Crete’s most breath taking treasures with the Gramvousa and Balos Tour — an adventure you simply can’t miss while visiting Chania! 🌟 Marvel at the stunning Balos Lagoon, famous for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and ranked among the top 10 beaches in Europe. Explore the legendary pirate castle on Gramvousa Island, swim near the famous shipwreck, and light a candle at the historic church of St. George by the shore. This unforgettable journey combines incredible landscapes, rich history, and magical moments — the perfect day of adventure and beauty in Crete! 🌊🏝️✨
Ride Wild, Relax Hard: Jeep Tour to Balos & Falassarna
Kickstart your adventure with the Balos & Falassarna Beach Jeep Tour! 🚙 Conquer the rugged 18 km off-road trail from Kaliviani village and soak in breath taking views of Balos Lagoon from above — a sight few get to experience. 📸 After the thrill, unwind with 3 blissful hours at Falassarna Beach, swimming in crystal-clear waters and relaxing on your reserved first-row sunbeds with cosy pillows. 🏖️☀️ Adventure, beauty, and pure relaxation all in one unforgettable day! 🌊✨
🕶️Something unusual
Step into the magical world of the Minoans like never before! 🌟 With the Minoans World 3D Museum & 9D Cinema: Skip the Line ticket, you’ll experience ancient history brought to life in mind-blowing 3D and thrilling 9D effects! 🎥🏛️✨ Book now!
Make it an unforgettable day by combining it with a visit to the legendary Knossos Palace! 🏰 Book your combo ticket today!
Unmissable Things to Do in Rethymno, Crete 🌸
Nestled between the mountains and the sea, Rethymno feels like a beautiful step back in time. 🕰️ With its mix of Venetian harbour views, winding cobbled lanes, and long stretches of sandy beach, this charming town captures the heart of everyone who visits. 💙🌍
Tip: Rethymno is super walkable, so bring comfy shoes and a good camera — you’ll want to capture every colorful street corner and sunset over the harbor. 📸✨
Wander the Magical Old Town 🏛️
Lose yourself in Rethymno’s enchanting Old Town, where every corner hides a piece of history. 🌿 You’ll pass by beautifully preserved Venetian mansions, bustling little cafes, and the iconic Rimondi Fountain. Take a guided walking tour to uncover hidden gems and hear the fascinating stories behind the architecture and culture. 📖
There is also a fascinating audio guide to listen to at your own pace. Easy to follow directions with lots of interesting facts.
🍷 Sip and Savour Crete’s Best Wines and Olives!
🌿 No trip to Crete is complete without tasting its legendary wines and olive oils! 🥂 Choose between our two favourite unforgettable experiences:
Venture into the secluded Zourida Gorge for a unique wine tasting among breath taking natural scenery, where you’ll sample local varieties surrounded by stunning landscapes.
Or dive deeper into Crete’s traditions with a full-day tour exploring vineyards, olive groves, and monasteries, complete with a delicious, authentic Cretan lunch.
🌞 Either way, you’ll experience Crete’s rich flavour’s and warm hospitality — an absolute highlight of your trip!
Go Off-Road to Discover Crete’s Wild Side 🚙🌴
Ready for an adventure? 🌞 Hop aboard an off-road vehicle and journey through Crete’s most breathtaking landscapes — from the shimmering waters of Lake Kournas to hidden waterfalls, dramatic gorges, and lush palm forests. 🌿 This action-packed day offers the perfect blend of adrenaline and nature, ideal for those who want to explore beyond the usual tourist spots!
✨ Explore Elounda & Agios Nikolaos: Crete’s Coastal Gems
Tucked along Crete’s glittering north-eastern coast, Elounda and Agios Nikolaos are a dream for sea lovers and adventurers alike. 🌊⛵ Think charming harbours, breathtaking bays, and historic islands just waiting to be explored. Whether you’re cruising across Mirabello Bay, swimming in secret coves, or hiking through lush gorges, this region offers a perfect mix of relaxation, tradition, and natural beauty. 🌴💙Make the most of the local knowledge of the area and it’s history with this tour – Cultural Tour in Remote Villages at Agios Nikolaos
🏝️ Speedboat Adventure Across Mirabello Bay 🚤🌞
Feel the thrill of skimming across crystal-clear waters on a speedboat tour around Mirabello Bay! 🐠🌊 This fun-packed experience includes snorkelling stops in secluded spots, breathtaking coastal views, and a chance to swim in some of Crete’s most beautiful hidden coves. It’s the perfect way to combine adventure and relaxation in one unforgettable day!
Traditional Boat Trip from Elounda ⚓🌅
Step aboard a traditional wooden boat and set sail across Elounda’s sparkling bay! 🛶 Cruise past the picturesque village of Plaka and circle the historic island of Spinalonga, once a leper colony and now a hauntingly beautiful landmark. 🏝️ Along the way, you’ll stop at Barbarossa’s Cave, once a pirate’s hideout, and relax at the stunning Kolokytha Beach, famous for its natural beauty. 🌿 While you swim and sunbathe, the crew serves up hot dogs, fresh fruits, local raki, and music for a real taste of Cretan hospitality. 🎶 To finish, dive into the crystal-clear waters at the secluded Skistra Beach — a hidden gem few tourists ever reach! 🌊
3. 🌿 Hike the Richtis Gorge
For nature enthusiasts, the Richtis Gorge offers a scenic hike through lush landscapes, leading to a stunning waterfall and secluded beach. It’s a perfect blend of adventure and tranquillity.
Air-Holiday’s recommended tour of Richtis Gorge offers a captivating journey through one of Crete’s most lush and serene landscapes. The 4 km trail meanders alongside a gentle stream, leading hikers past small wooden bridges, remnants of old water mills, and diverse endemic flora and fauna, culminating at the impressive 20-meter Richtis Waterfall. As part of the Sitia UNESCO Global Geopark, this excursion combines natural beauty with cultural heritage, providing an enriching experience for nature enthusiasts.
🍽️ What to try when eating & drinking
Must-try Cretan dishes:
💡Travel Tip : Try a bakery in any small village — you’ll find amazing kalitsounia (sweet cheese pies) 🥧
🍽️ Savour the Flavours of Crete: Culinary Experiences
Immerse yourself in Crete’s rich gastronomic traditions through these handpicked culinary adventures:
- Olive, Wine, and Raki Tour: Embark on a flavourful journey exploring Crete’s renowned olive groves, vineyards, and raki distilleries, tasting the island’s signature products. Book Now!
- Heraklion Cooking Lesson: Join a hands-on cooking class in Heraklion, mastering traditional Cretan dishes and enjoying a delightful lunch with fellow food enthusiasts. Book Now!
- Chania Authentic Cooking Class: Experience authentic Cretan cooking in Chania, learning family recipes passed down through generations in a warm, welcoming environment. Book Now!
- Chania Wine and Sunset Tour: Savour local wines and a gourmet three-course dinner while witnessing a breathtaking Cretan sunset on this unforgettable tour. Book Now!
- Rethymno Home Cooking Experience: Delight in an evening of cooking and dining in a Rethymno home, experiencing genuine Cretan hospitality and traditional flavour’s. Book Now!
- Greek Food Tasting Experience: Indulge in a curated selection of Greek and Cretan dishes at a beachfront restaurant, offering a true taste of the island’s culinary heritage. Book Now!
- Traditional Dance Show and Buffet Dinner: Enjoy a lively evening of traditional Cretan music and dance, accompanied by a sumptuous buffet dinner featuring local specialties. Book Now!
Each of these experiences offers a unique insight into Crete’s culinary landscape, providing memorable moments and delectable tastes that will linger long after your journey ends.
🧳 What to Pack for Crete in May
☀️ Sunscreen, sunglasses & a wide-brim hat
👟 Walking shoes for ruins and hikes
🩴 Flip-flops and swimwear for the beach
🧥 Light jacket for cool evenings
⚡ EU plug adapter
No need for heavy waterproofs — just one light layer will do!
💼 Extra Travel Hacks & Local Secrets
- 🍽️ Eat lunch later than usual — many tavernas don’t open until 1pm.
- 🛍️ Avoid touristy souvenir shops; visit local workshops instead.
- 🛍️ Shop local: try farmers markets or village co-ops for olive oil, herbs, and handmade textiles.
- 🛥️ Take an early morning boat trip to Balos or Elafonissi to beat crowds and heat.
- 🎶 Nightlife is just starting to heat up — find rooftop bars in Heraklion or tavernas with live music in Rethymno.
- 🤯 Don’t over-plan: Crete rewards spontaneity. Turn down a random road, find a tiny beach, and have the place to yourself.
- 🚙Hire yourself a car from the airport or a local location – we have lots of options.
