What to wear on a beach holiday in Crete
Short answer: Crete has hot, dry summers with 28 to 35 degrees and strong sun. Pack light tops and T-shirts, a pair of night shorts for warm nights, swimwear, something to cover your shoulders in monasteries and a thin jumper for the evening breeze.
Sun, heat and wind
From June to September there is almost no rain on Crete, and the midday temperature is often above 30 degrees. The sun is strong, and the meltemi wind can blow hard from the north, especially in July and August. The wind makes the heat easier to bear, but it can also trick you into forgetting the sun cream. Light fabrics in pale colours and a wide brimmed hat are the best protection during the day, along with shade around midday.
Tops and T-shirts for the day
For the beach and the town, a light top or T-shirt over your swimwear is the most practical option. Choose breathable fabrics that feel cool, such as viscose from bamboo, linen or thin cotton. Loose cuts leave room for air between skin and fabric. Take a look at bamboo tops for women for light styles on hot days. Keep an extra top in your beach bag so you have something dry to change into after swimming.
Monasteries and villages
Crete has many monasteries and churches, such as Arkadi and Preveli. Visitors are expected to cover shoulders and knees. Some places lend you a scarf at the entrance, but it is easier to bring a T-shirt and a light skirt or trousers. In small villages it is also good manners not to walk around in swimwear away from the beach. See bamboo T-shirt for women for a simple top that covers the shoulders.
Walking the Samaria Gorge
Many visitors walk the Samaria Gorge, which is around 16 kilometres long and runs downhill most of the way. The walk takes five to seven hours. Good shoes with grip, seamless socks, a sun hat, water and a light T-shirt that wicks sweat are all important. Start early, before the heat becomes too strong. If you have knee or heart problems, talk to your doctor before you set off on the walk.
Warm nights
Even at night the summer temperature rarely drops below 20 degrees. Many rooms have air conditioning, but plenty of people sleep better with the window open and some fresh air. Light nightwear makes it easier to fall asleep. Short night shorts and a top in a soft fabric are enough on most nights. See bamboo Night Shorts for Women for styles that pack small in a suitcase.
Packing list for one week
For a week on Crete you can manage with four tops, three T-shirts, a pair of shorts, a light skirt or trousers, a dress for the evening, two swimsuits, sandals, walking shoes, socks, underwear, nightwear, a thin jumper for the evening breeze and a sun hat. Add high factor sun cream, sunglasses and a water bottle. Rinse your swimwear in fresh water after the sea and it will last longer.
Frequently asked questions
What should you wear in a monastery on Crete
Shoulders and knees must be covered. A T-shirt and a long skirt or long trousers are enough.
Does it get cold in the evening on Crete
Rarely in summer, but the wind can feel cool. A thin jumper is welcome at dinner.
How long is the Samaria Gorge
About 16 kilometres. The walk usually takes five to seven hours.
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