Heraklion

What’s the weather like in Heraklion in April?

The Northern coast of Crete has a Mediterranean climate, so you can expect the weather in Heraklion in April to be pleasantly warm and more settled than in the winter months. Spring has well and truly sprung in Crete by the start of April, with warmer days and longer sunshine hours. Many people choose springtime to visit Crete just for the wildflowers, which are vibrant and abundant at this time, with April being right in the middle of orchid season.

Geographical influences

Heraklion is located on the drier Eastern side of the island of Crete, which has a positive effect on temperatures. You’ll find the evenings warmer and sea temperatures less chilly than Chania, for instance. Thank the city’s warming effect and Chania’s proximity to the White Mountains in the West. April’s a great time to take in the historical and archaeological sites of this fascinating city, being pleasantly warm but not too hot. Climb to the monastery on the hill or walk the 2km promenade to the old sea fortress of Castello del Molo, before it gets too busy.

Averages

The weather in Heraklion in April is pleasantly warm, with average daytime temperatures around 16°C, but they can reach as high as 20°C. In the evenings, temperatures drop to around 12°C, so a jacket or sweater to cover up after dark is a good idea. At 17°C, the sea’s a little cold for swimming at this time of year, although some people like the challenge. Average rainfall for the month is 40mm, while you can expect eight hours of sunshine per day, and there’s a 36% chance of a windy day in April.