What's the Weather Like in Heraklion in December
Rainfall
December is a winter month is Heraklion, seeing dropping temperatures, a cooler sea and less sunshine. It is also the wettest month of the year with monthly average rainfall increases to 100mm falling over an average of 14 days. Of course, this is not as much as some European destinations receive, but you'd be advised to check the weather forecast before planning any days out.
Temperature
This month has an average temperature of 14°C which is 3°C lower than in November but 2°C higher than in January, which is the coldest month of the year. With the average temperature being fairly cool, you can still enjoy plenty of indoor activities such as visiting the incredible monasteries, the stunning cathedral and the cultural museums. During this winter month there are highs of 16°C which is fairly mild, although night-time lows reach 11°C which is fairly cool so make sure to pack a jacket for the evenings and some days.
Sunshine
A lack of sunshine hours, with just 4 per day, explains the drop in temperatures, but when the sun is out you're likely to get some lovely, crisp winter days.
Sea Temperature
With the average sea temperature being a relatively cool 18°C, it isn't the best time to hit the beach. At this temperature most people will find the sea too cold to swim in and consequently the resort is much more quiet and peaceful than at other times of the year.
Wind
The chance of there being a windy day in December is 44% which is slightly lower than in January when it is 45% but higher than in November when it is 39%. The weather is fairly similar to other locations in Crete, however it does have slightly warmer temperatures and sea temperatures than Chania which has an average temperature of 13°C and average sea temperature of 17°C during the same month.
Hotels in Heraklion in December
Life Boutique Hotel
If you're on a tight budget and looking for somewhere cheap and cheerful to stay then try the Life Boutique Hotel which is a 2 star hotel located close to the Heraklion Port. It has 16 rooms in total with a range of standard double rooms, triple rooms, suites and family suites which all have air conditioning, flat screen TV, free Wi-Fi and modern décor. The facilities at the hotel include free parking, a bar, breakfast room and a snack bar. It is a popular choice for couples and is a reasonably priced hotel in a great location.
Hotel Lena
If you want to treat yourself to a luxury hotel then we recommend the Hotel Lena which is a 2 star hotel located in the Heraklion city centre. It has a total of 16 rooms including double rooms, triple rooms, quadruple rooms and single rooms which all have air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, TV and tea/coffee making facilities. Amenities at the hotel include parking, free toiletries, safety deposit boxes and family rooms. It is a popular choice for couples and comes highly recommended by holidaymakers who have stayed her before.
Iraklion Hotel
One of the most popular places to stay when visiting Heraklion is the Iraklion Hotel which is a 2 star hotel located in the centre of Heraklion. It has 41 rooms in total with a mix of double rooms, triple rooms, two bedroom suites and single rooms which all have a balcony, flat screen TV, air conditioning and free Wi-Fi. You will find amenities at this hotel such as parking, a bar, snack bar and massages. It is mostly popular among couples and is a very pleasant hotel to stay at.
Bars and Restaurants
Gusto All Day
If you are travelling in a family where everyone likes different foods then head to Gusto All Day which is a restaurant with Mediterranean, Greek and Italian food on the menu. It really is a must-eat restaurant with fast service and tasty food. They also offer a choice of extremely yummy milkshakes for the whole family to enjoy and it has a great unique décor. The bacon and cheese burger is one of the things off the menu that comes highly recommended and with a big portion; you definitely get value for money.
Paralia Seaside Restaurant
If you love seafood then a great place for you to eat is at the Paralia Seaside Restaurant which offers the finest fresh fish as well as boasting stunning views. This is certainly an all-rounder with the food being great, the service being great and the prices being low.
Things to Do in Heraklion in December
Venetian Walls and Tomb of Nikos Kazantzakis
Heraklion is great for visiting historic sites and one that you should certainly visit is the Venetian Walls and Tomb of Nikos Kazantzakis which you will need good walking shoes for. The walls are truly amazing and give you an idea of such incredible fortification in the Mediterranean. You will be in awe of this place, not only from the historic features but by the scenery too. The place is surrounded by beautiful greenery and flowers to give it such a pleasant and relaxing atmosphere.
Skotino Cave
If you get a mild day during your visit then a great place to visit is the Skotino Cave which we would recommend visiting with an expert guide. You will enjoy a pleasant drive to the cave with beautiful scenery and once you arrive at the cave, will be greeted by an atmospheric entrance. It is quite dark inside but the guide will provide headlights and all the necessary equipment to safely explore deep into this cave. There are no places to eat nearby so if you plan on staying a while, pack some lunch before heading out.
