A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Chania vs. Faro for Food, Beaches, Nightlife, and Old Town

Should you visit Chania or Faro?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Chania or Faro, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Chania

Chania is a picturesque, historic, and idyllic city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Faro

Faro is a active, popular, and busy resort town. Other popular activities here include beaches, shopping, and nightlife.

Chania and Faro: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chania or Faro?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Chania than Faro, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Chania is better known for its museums, food, beaches, historical sights, hiking, and big city activities, while Faro is more popular for its nightlife and resorts. Chania is well known for its beautiful beaches, impressive historic sights, and diverse local cuisine. Also, Chania is famous for The Venetian Harbor. Faro is well known for its historical sights and rich culture.

How is Chania different from Faro?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Chania or Faro?

Chania is great for its historical sights. However, Faro does not have museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Chania can be an interesting and educational experience. The city is filled with historic sights such as the Venetian Lighthouse, the Castle of Gramvoussa, the Ottoman Baths, and the Clock Tower. There's also the Archeological Museum, where you can learn about the history of the area.

Faro does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Chania or Faro? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Chania is a must-visit destination for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Faro is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Chania is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The city is filled with traditional and modern restaurants that serve fresh and delicious dishes. The local cuisine is heavily influenced by the many invaders of the island. You'll note culinary influences from the Venetians, Egyptians, and Ottomans. The island also traded with the Jewish, Arab, and European populations, so they have also influenced the cuisine.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Faro. It has become a major tourist town, so you have to get a bit creative to find a more traditional restaurant. Look for fresh seafood like cod, monkfish, or shellfish if you want some local flavors.

Is Chania or Faro Better for Nightlife?

Faro is well known for its evening party scene. Also, Chania is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

Faro is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city's bustling party scene thrives along Rua de São Pedro, Rua Conselheiro Bívar, and Rua do Prior.

If you're looking for night time activities Chania has a few options to choose from. The town is more known for its relaxed vibe in the evening than its all-night parties. Many visitors enjoy a laid back night in one of the town's many local pubs. You'll find the most charming places tucked away down side alleys in the old town.

Is Chania or Faro Better for Resorts?

Faro is a world-class destination for its resorts. However, Chania is not a resort destination.

Faro offers an unforgettable resort vacation. Popular resorts include Vila Vita Parc Resort and Spa, Conrad Algarve, and Tivoli Carvoeiro.

Chania is not a resort destination.

Is Chania or Faro Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

You'll find notable snorkeling or scuba diving in both Chania and Faro.

Chania has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. There are snorkeling trips from town that take you to some of the better snorkeling sights in the area.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Faro. There are both snorkeling and scuba diving opportunities in the area. It's possible to snorkel off of several beaches or arrange a scuba diving excursion with a local dive shop.

Is Chania or Faro Better for Beaches?

Chania is a must-visit destination for its beaches. Also, Faro is not as popular, but is still a nice resort town for the beache.

The beaches in Chania are among the best in the world. You'll find picturesque beaches near town that have white sand or colored pebbles. The beaches range from urban and crowded to hidden gems, but each has striking blue water and the atmosphere of paradise. Favorite beaches in the area include Balos, Falassarna, and Elafonissi.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Faro. The most popular beach in the area is Faro Beach. It can get crowded during the summer months but if you walk a bit you can often get away from the crowds. To reach the beach you'll need a car or you can take the bus as the beach is about 10 km away.

Is Chania or Faro Better for its Old Town?

Chania is great for its historic old town. Also, Faro is not as popular, but is still a nice resort town for its old town.

Many visitors go to Chania to see the historical old town. Surrounding the Venetian Harbor is the town's old town. It's filled with restaurants, shops, and cafes that offer a quaint atmosphere for visitors.

Many people head to Faro to see the old town. You'll find historic buildings and cobblestone streets in the old town. It's a nice place to explore, grab a bite to eat, and do a little shopping.

Is Chania or Faro Better for Hiking?

Chania is great for hiking. However, Faro is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Chania for the hiking trails. Outside of town there are many hikes that take you through beautiful gorges, along the scenic coastline, or through the unique countryside.

Faro is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Chania or Faro?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Faro and Chania.

Many visitors go to Chania to go shopping. Head to the old town to browse shops selling local favorites such as traditional island knives and locally made ceramics. There are also jewelry boutiques and other clothing shops around town.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Faro. The town isn't as big as some others, so it's shopping scene isn't as comprehensive, but you will find the major brands as well as souvenir shops to peruse when you need a break from the beach.

Is Chania or Faro Better for Families?

Chania is great for its kid-friendly activities. However, Faro is not a good destination for its family-friendly activities.

Chania is a very family-friendly destination. Kids will enjoy exploring the old town, with its many markets and shops. Wandering around the harbor is also a highlight for many families. There are also several kid-friendly museums such as the Minoan's World 3D Museum and 9D Cinema, the Maritime Museum, and the Archaeological Museum of Chania. There are also kid-friendly activities just outside of town like a visit to Lake Kournas or any of the nearby archeological sites.

Faro is not the most family-friendly destination. There are some nice nature reserves in the area so kids who love wildlife will enjoy a visit.

Is Chania or Faro Better for Couples?

Chania is great for romance. Also, Faro is not as popular, but is still a nice resort town for its romantic activities.

Chania is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. The old town, waterfront harbor, and outstanding restaurants make this a great place to stop on any romantic trip.

Faro makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With the beautiful natural areas and historic old town, this seaport makes a nice couples vacation.

Is Chania or Faro Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chania is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Faro is not as popular, but is still a nice resort town for backpackers.

Chania is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There is no shortage of hostels around town that make this an affordable place to stay for backpackers.

Faro is a good city to visit for backpackers. The are some good hostels in the area, but it's a bit tricky to get around without a car.

Is Chania or Faro Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Chania and Faro.

You'll find some public transit in Chania, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. KTEL bus service operates routes both within town and to nearby localities.

While Faro offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses that connect the city to the beach, the airport, and other outlying areas.

Is Chania or Faro a more walkable city?

Chania is great for its walkability. Also, Faro is not as popular, but is still a nice resort town for its high level of walkability.

Chania is very walkable. The historic center and harbor areas are compact and walkable. There are some beaches outside of town that can be walked to as well if necessary.

Faro is a somewhat walkable place. The city's old town is particularly walkable.

For even more information, also check out Is Chania Worth Visiting? and Is Faro Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Faro or Chania?

How long in Chania or Faro?

In either Chania or Faro, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Faro than Chania because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-4 days is a good amount of time for Chania, and 2-5 days is enough time in Faro.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Chania than Faro 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 Chania.

One day in Chania or Faro?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Chania. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Faro. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Chania or Faro?

Chania is a fun place to experience. It's also a great beach destination, too. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Faro is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Chania or Faro?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the historic destination of Chania. This city offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Faro. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Chania or Faro?

The historic city of Chania offers shopping and museums. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

Travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the active destination of Faro. This resort town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to Greece, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in Greece, The Best 2-Week Tours in Portugal, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Portugal.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Chania and Faro, we can see that Faro is more expensive. And not only is Chania much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Chania would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Chania 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 Faro would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Faro than you might in Chania.

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

Which is Bigger, Chania or Faro?

Chania has a larger population, and is about 32% larger than the population of Faro. When comparing the sizes of Chania and Faro, 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.

When is the best time to visit Chania or Faro?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Chania or Faro in the Summer?

Both Faro and Chania during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Chania because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Faro this time of year.

In the summer, Chania is around the same temperature as Faro. Typically, the summer temperatures in Chania in July average around 26°C (80°F), and Faro averages at about 25°C (78°F).

In Faro, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Chania. In the summer, Chania often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Faro. Chania gets 380 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Faro receives 374 hours of full sun.

Chania usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Faro. Chania gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Faro receives 1 mm (0 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Chania or Faro in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Chania and Faro. The hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene are the main draw to Chania this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Faro for the shopping scene.

In October, Chania is generally around the same temperature as Faro. Daily temperatures in Chania average around 20°C (68°F), and Faro fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Faro this time of the year. Chania usually receives less sunshine than Faro during autumn. Chania gets 198 hours of sunny skies, while Faro receives 222 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Chania usually receives more rain than Faro. Chania gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Faro receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Chania or Faro in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Chania as well as Faro. Many travelers come to Chania for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Faro in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

Chania is around the same temperature as Faro in the winter. The daily temperature in Chania averages around 12°C (54°F) in January, and Faro fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In the winter, Chania often gets less sunshine than Faro. Chania gets 118 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Faro receives 161 hours of full sun.

Chania receives a lot of rain in the winter. Chania usually gets more rain in January than Faro. Chania gets 142 mm (5.6 in) of rain, while Faro receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Chania or Faro in the Spring?

Both Faro and Chania are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Chania in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Faro for the beaches during these months.

In the spring, Chania is around the same temperature as Faro. Typically, the spring temperatures in Chania in April average around 17°C (62°F), and Faro averages at about 17°C (62°F).

It's quite sunny in Faro. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Chania. Chania usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Faro during spring. Chania gets 237 hours of sunny skies, while Faro receives 248 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Chania usually receives less rain than Faro. Chania gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Faro receives 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Faro and Chania