A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Almeria vs. Crete for Food, Resorts, Beaches, and Families

Should you visit Almeria or Crete?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Almeria and Crete. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Almeria

Almeria is a historic, natural, and breathtaking region. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include beaches, hiking, and nightlife.

Crete

Crete is a world-renowned, scenic, and stunning island. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Almeria and Crete: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Almeria or Crete?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Crete than Almeria. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Crete is very popular for its museums, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, and shopping, while Almeria attracts visitors for its historical sights and impressive beauty. Crete is more touristy than Almeria and is known for its breathtaking beaches, wild nightlife, and impressive archeological ruins. It is also well known for the Palace of Knossos. Almeria is famous for its stunning beaches that feel pristine despite their popularity.

How is Almeria different from Crete?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Crete and Almeria. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Almeria or Crete?

Crete is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Almeria does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Crete. The island is filled with archeological sites including the famous Palace of Knossos. While most people come to Crete for the natural beauty, in the cities you'll find some great museums and landmarks.

Almeria does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Almeria or Crete? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Almeria and Crete offer a number of amazing restaurants to choose from.

Eat your way through Almeria, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The food is focused on local, fresh ingredients with many traditional recipes that have been passed down for centuries. Popular dishes change with the seasons because they rely so heavily on local produce. Particularly during the winter months you'll find hearty stews like patatas en ajopollo and gurullos con conejo, which is prepared with rabbit. Sardines are also popular year round.

For foodies, Crete is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Local cuisine is influenced by the island's fertile environment and excellent agriculture. You'll find olive oil in most dishes and seafood is a major staple. You'll also find a lot of stews and recipes that incorporate local ingredients.

Is Almeria or Crete Better for Nightlife?

Crete is a great destination for its evening party scene. Also, Almeria is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

The people in Crete know how to have a good time. The island has excellent nightlife with clubs and bars found in Chania, Malia and Stalis to Elounda. The area is popular with British tourists and you'll find many bars open until 2 or 3 in the morning.

If you're looking for night time activities Almeria has a few options to choose from. The city's nightlife vibe is about enjoying a cold beer on a terrace with friends. The city has a laid back Mediterranean atmosphere and plenty of terraced bars along the main streets, particularly in old town. With mild temperatures year around, you'll find yourself spending time outside most evenings while you enjoy tapas and drinks with friends. Flamenco and bullfighting are also popular in the evenings.

Is Almeria or Crete Better for Resorts?

There are amazing resorts to choose from in both Almeria and Crete.

Vacationers flock to Almeria for its luxury resorts. Stretched along the coastline you'll find many high end resorts with pools and nice atmospheres. There are all inclusive resorts as well as family-friendly and romantic options to choose from.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Crete is a great choice. The island has world class resorts that include pools and buffet meals. There are many beachfront resorts that range in style from romantic to family-friendly.

Is Almeria or Crete Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Crete is a great destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Almeria is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near Crete. The island is surrounded by clear waters that make for great snorkeling and diving. There's a number of beautiful fish and other sea life that you can see. Be on the lookout for crabs, sea stars, sponges, and even octopi.

Almeria is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Almeria or Crete Better for Beaches?

Almeria and Crete both offer amazing beaches.

Almeria offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. Outside of town you'll find kilometers of stunning coastline and beaches. There are pristine natural beaches that still feel undiscovered with beautiful long stretches of sand. One of the biggest resort areas is Roquetas de Mar.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Crete. There are some of the best beaches in the world on Crete. The areas around Chania have some of the island's best beaches, with one of the most beautiful being Balos. On the northern side of the island, be on the lookout for strong winds, particularly in August, which can make for larger waves. The island is large, so you'll find everything from secluded and quiet beaches to more active and lively places.

Is Almeria or Crete Better for its Old Town?

Almeria is well known for its historic old town charm. However, Crete does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Almeria. The old town is at the cultural heart of the city. It has the most energy during the evenings, as well as many museums and sights worth visiting.

Crete does not have a historic old town.

Is Almeria or Crete Better for Hiking?

Hiking trails can be found around both Almeria and Crete, and they are superb.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Almeria. The area has stunning hikes that run along the coastline or into the beautiful interior countryside. For some of the area's best hikes head into Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park.

Many visitors go to Crete for the hiking trails. The island is filled with beautiful hikes that run along the shoreline or head inland through the island's beautiful landscapes. There are hikes for every ability level that offer spectacular views and an incredible experience.

Is the Shopping Better in Almeria or Crete?

Crete is a good destination for its shopping areas. However, Almeria is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors go to Crete to go shopping. The island has many markets that sell local foods and handicrafts. There are also shops and boutiques where you can buy anything from souvenirs to homemade artwork.

Almeria is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Almeria or Crete Better for Families?

Crete is a must-visit destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Almeria is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Crete is very family-friendly. The island is large and filled with countless family-friendly activities. You can spend several days at the beach, explore Lake Kournas, visit a water park, or even take a pirate themed boat cruise. There's also the amusement park, ​​Labyrinth Park, aquariums and more.

Almeria is a very family-friendly destination. The area has many beautiful beaches as well as waterparks, amusement parks, and fun activities like sailing and water sports. There's also a very impressive fort that the kids will enjoy exploring.

Is Almeria or Crete Better for Couples?

Crete is a must-visit destination for couples. Also, Almeria is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Crete is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. It's stunning beaches, beautiful landscapes, world renowned restaurants, and amazing resorts make this a top honeymoon spot for international travelers and romance seekers.

Almeria is a great region if you're traveling as a couple. Nature lovers and beach enthusiasts will find this to be the perfect romantic getaway. There are many outdoor activities and places to immerse yourself in nature. A highlight of a trip is a visit to Crystal Cave.

Is Almeria or Crete Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Almeria and Crete are superb places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Almeria is a very popular region for backpackers and budget travelers. There's plenty of affordable accommodation to choose from as well as all kinds of activities that backpackers will enjoy. If you like nature and enjoy spending time outside, then this is your place.

Crete is very popular with the backpacker crowd. It's a large island with a great social scene and no shortage of hostels for backpackers to choose from.

Is Almeria or Crete Better for Students?

Crete is a great destination for students. However, Almeria is not popular with students.

Many students visit Crete. It's affordability and great coastal activities is a big draw for students in the area.

Almeria is not popular with students.

Is Almeria or Crete Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Almeria and Crete.

You'll find some public transit in Almeria, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are a number of bus lines that run through Almeria city and to Cabo de Gata.

While Crete offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's a decent bus system that travels around the island and offers access to many areas.

Is Almeria or Crete a more walkable city?

Almeria and Crete both are reasonable when exploring on foot.

Almeria is generally not very walkable. While there are many beautiful walks in the area, if you want to truly explore, you'll likely want to have access to a car.

Crete is generally not a very walkable region. The island is large and requires a vehicle to get around, but there are short strolls that let you enjoy the stunning landscapes.

For even more information, also check out Is Almeria Worth Visiting? and Is Crete Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Crete or Almeria?

How long in Almeria or Crete?

Both Almeria and Crete have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Crete than in Almeria. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Almeria, and 5-7 days is enough time in Crete.

Families should spend more time in Crete than Almeria. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Crete, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Crete than Almeria. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Crete that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Crete than Almeria if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Crete.

One day in Almeria or Crete?

In Almeria, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this pristine destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This region offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

In Crete, you'll find shopping and museums. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This island offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Almeria or Crete?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Almeria. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

In Crete, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Almeria or Crete?

Almeria is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Almeria. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Crete is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Crete has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Almeria or Crete?

You'll find food and nightlife around the historic destination of Almeria. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Crete. In Crete, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in Spain, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Spain, The Best Historical Tours in Greece, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Greece.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Almeria and Crete, we can see that Crete is more expensive. And not only is Almeria much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Almeria would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Almeria and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Crete would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Crete than you might in Almeria.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Almeria Expensive? and Is Crete Expensive?.

Which has a larger population, Almeria or Crete?

Crete has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Almeria. When comparing the sizes of Almeria and Crete, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.