Weather Lowdown
At the beginning of the year, the weather in Agios Nikolaos, a resort part of the island of Crete, is chilly but still better than the temperatures in the UK. January is the coldest month in the year, with an average daily temperature of 5°C (about 41°F). You probably won't be sitting on the beach this month, but you can at least have decent weather to explore the resort and some of the indoor activities.
The average low drops to a chilly 1°C (about 34°F), almost near freezing and even colder than December. The highs get up to 9°C (around 48°F) and during the day you'll want a coat or jacket, as well as long-sleeved shirts, pants, and maybe even a hat and gloves. If you'll be heading inland to the mountains, be sure to pack your snow gear like boots, snow pants, extra-warm gloves, and hat because those areas can get snow in the winter months.
The average number of sunshine hours is 5 during each day of the month. Don't let the relative lack of sunshine during the day dissuade you either; the resort has plenty of indoor activities, as well as bars and restaurants to visit, during the evening hours after the sun goes down.
The rainfall this month averages 37 mm and falls over 8 days in the month, so you can expect more drier days than rainy days. The Meltemi winds that blew through in the summer and autumn have died down and the chance of a windy day is about 20 percent.
You're probably not going to spend much time in the water this month, with an average ocean temperature of 14°C (around 57°F), similar to nearby Istron and Kalo Chorio. If you're feeling extra brave, you could rent the proper wet or dry suit and still try your hand at watersports, but you're most likely better off sticking to inland and indoor activities.
Where to Stay
The Ariadne Beach Hotel has an amazing setting right on the coast, set just above a private, pebbled beach and down the way from the Sandy Almyros Beach. With 139 bungalows scattered around the resort, you're guaranteed a quiet and private holiday away. The bungalows all have balconies or terraces and open, airy spaces. Resort amenities include on-site restaurant, swimming pool, play room for kids, and laundry services.
Only 3 km from the town of Agios Nikolaos, the Faedra Beach Resort offers suites, studios, and apartments for your January stay. Room amenities include balconies with a garden or sea view, air conditioning, television, free Wi-Fi, kitchenette with fridge, and updated interiors. You'll also enjoy a swimming pool with lounge chairs, beach area, common room with television, bus service to get to and from town, and airport transfers.
For comfortable rooms at an affordable price, check out the Mirsini Hotel. All guests get to enjoy the two lounges with ocean views, a cocktail bar, and breakfast each morning. You can choose a one, two, or three-bed room with private bathroom, refrigerator, air conditioning, television, and telephone. The hotel is within walking distance of the center of Agios Nikolaos, as well as the beach.
Things to Do
The weather's pretty chilly in January in Agios Nikolaos, but don't let that dissuade you. Instead, head inside to the Archaeological Museum of Agios Nikolaos. The museum explores the history, people, and culture of the island of Crete. While there, you'll see displays of clothing, embroidery, farm tools, and other items found in different archeological digs.
Another great museum in Agios Nikolaos is the Folk Art Museum, full of artwork and artifacts that explain the history of the city and the island. The museum includes artwork, embroidered pieces, costumes, household items, crafts, and books. You can visit every day except Saturday, with hours from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Take in some Cretan woodworking and art at the Art on Olive Wood store in the center of town. The family-owned business has three generations of woodworkers who create art and practical items out of olive wood. While there, you can get everything from household goods, kitchen items, decorations, and small trinkets to take home as souvenirs.
Eating and Drinking Out
Part of the Sensimar Minos Palace, the Amalthea Restaurant is a favorite for those looking for traditional Greek food and international cuisine. The restaurant has buffets at breakfast and dinner, or you can choose from the menu for a sit-down dinner. Depending on the night, you could be treated to a special theme night with a variety of foods.
Chrisofyllis serves up its meals family-style so that diners can enjoy good conversation across the table as well as good food. The menu includes Cretan, Greek, and Mediterranean dishes, served up with modern twists. With both indoor and outdoor seating, as well as amazing views of the bay, it's a great choice for a date night or fun dinner out with friends.
With large portions and affordable prices, To Pareaki is a popular choice with budget travelers or those just looking for a good meal. Dessert is complementary, adding even more value to your dining experience. Everything on the menu is homemade with fresh ingredients whenever possible. You can also enjoy a great view, as the restaurant is across the street from the bay.
