May · Greece
Best time to visit Heraklion in May Weather, crowds & prices
Weather in Heraklion in May
Average temperature 20°C, 19 mm of rain, about 31 days with 6+ hours of sunshine and 71% humidity — based on the five most recent complete years of ERA5 data (2021–2025).
May score
9.8/10
Ranked #1 of 12 months
- Avg temp
- 20°C
- Rainfall
- 19 mm
- Humidity
- 71%
- Days with 6h+ sun
- 31
- Crowd Density
- Moderate Crowds
- Average Expenses
- $$$ · Peak Season Rates ($$$)
May in Heraklion scores 9.8/10 for sightseeing and cultural travel - the single best month of the year. Expect around 20°C, 19 mm of rain, and roughly 31 days with 6+ hours of sunshine this month.
Heraklion pairs the Minoan palace of Knossos with a Venetian harbour and Crete's best museum.
May in Heraklion — the year's strongest window
At 20°C (67°F) this is comfortable city weather in May, with sightseeing easiest before lunch and after the afternoon peak.
With around 19 mm of rain, any showers tend to pass through rather than settle in; about 31 days with 6+ hours of sunshine and 13.9 hours of daylight fill the rest.
On our climate-comfort scale this is the top-ranked month of the year for Heraklion at 9.8/10 — the reference point every other month on this page is measured against.
Pack light clothing, a hat and real sun protection.
Budget for peak pricing, and crowds are moderate. You are paying the year's highest rates for the year's best conditions — book early or shift a few weeks either side.
Frequently asked
- What is the weather like in Heraklion in May?
- In May, Heraklion averages 20°C, 19 mm of rain, and about 31 days with 6+ hours of sunshine. Its climate-comfort score is 9.8/10.
- Is May a good time to visit Heraklion?
- May earns a 9.8/10 climate-comfort score. Use the year-round chart to weigh the weather against your budget and crowd preferences.
- How much does it rain in Heraklion in May?
- Expect about 19 mm of rain in May. Average humidity is 71% and there are about 31 days with 6+ hours of sunshine.
Curated in Heraklion
Tickets & experiences
Things to do in Heraklion
Heraklion, Greece. Live activities and tours from GetYourGuide, matched to this destination.