Eastern Crete is the driest, warmest corner of the island. May, June, September, and early October are the prime months — sunny, hot enough for the sea, but without the heat and crowds of midsummer. July and August push to 35°C and the resort beaches at Vai fill up.
The Sitia carnival in February is one of the livelier in eastern Crete. The Kornaria cultural festival runs through July and August, with concerts and theatre in the Kazarma fortress. November to March is quiet — many tavernas close, but the town goes back to being itself and the weather is mostly mild.