A Travel Price Comparison for Greece Chania vs. Heraklion for Food, Beaches, Attractions, and Nightlife

Should you visit Chania or Heraklion?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Chania or Heraklion, 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 idyllic, charming, and picturesque city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Heraklion

Heraklion is a accessible, bustling, and historic city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and food.

Chania and Heraklion: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chania or Heraklion?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Chania than Heraklion. While Heraklion is larger than Chania, Chania has more sights and attractions for tourists. Chania is more popular for its food, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, and hiking, while Heraklion is known for its nightlife. Chania is popular for its beautiful beaches, impressive historic sights, and diverse local cuisine. It is also home to The Venetian Harbor. Heraklion is popular for its archeological sights, local Cretan restaurants, and its vibrant nightlife scene.

How is Chania different from Heraklion?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Heraklion 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 Heraklion?

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Chania or Heraklion.

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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Heraklion. The city is filled with historical sights and archeological ruins. The impressive Palace of Knossos is a must-see, but also make sure you visit the Koules Fortress, the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, and the Natural History Museum of Crete.

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

Chania is a world-class destination for its restaurants. Also, Heraklion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Many restaurants in Chania have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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.

Dining out in Heraklion is an experience not to be missed. The city is home to countless Cretan restaurants that range in style and budget. There are fine dining restaurants as well as local dives with casual street food. The restaurants reflect the island's multi-cultural past with many styles and flavors available.

Is Chania or Heraklion Better for Nightlife?

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

Heraklion is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city has some of the best nightlife on the island of Crete. There are many all-night clubs as well as bars that stay open until 2 or 3 in the morning. In particular, there are many British tourists hanging out at the clubs and bars.

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 Heraklion Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Chania is a city with good options for its diving and snorkeling. However, Heraklion is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Chania. There are snorkeling trips from town that take you to some of the better snorkeling sights in the area.

Heraklion is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Chania or Heraklion Better for Beaches?

Chania is a world-class destination for the beache. Also, Heraklion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for the beach.

Chania is considered to be a world-class beach destination. 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.

Many people visit Heraklion for it's beautiful beaches. You'll find world-class beaches just outside of town, if you're willing to explore a little. Agia Pelagia Beach is about half an hour away and Limanakia Beach is also not a bad day trip. If you want to stay closer to town, head to nearby Amnissos Beach.

Is Chania or Heraklion Better for its Old Town?

Chania is a very popular place for its old town. However, Heraklion does not have a historic old town.

Chania is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. 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.

Heraklion does not have a historic old town.

Is Chania or Heraklion Better for Hiking?

Chania is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Heraklion is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Chania. Outside of town there are many hikes that take you through beautiful gorges, along the scenic coastline, or through the unique countryside.

Heraklion is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Chania or Heraklion?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Heraklion 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 Heraklion. There are a number of unique shops around town that sell everything from traditional pottery to homemade jewelry.

Is Chania or Heraklion Better for Families?

Chania is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Heraklion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Chania is very family-friendly. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Heraklion. In town you'll find many historical and educational sights such as the Palace of Knossos, the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, and the Koules Venetian fortress. Kids will also enjoy walking the Venetian Walls that are in town. If you're willing to head a bit outside of town, in about half an hour you can reach the Cretaquarium, Dinosauria Park, or Acqua Plus Water Park.

Is Chania or Heraklion Better for Couples?

Chania and Heraklion are both high quality to visit as a couple.

Couples visit Chania frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The old town, waterfront harbor, and outstanding restaurants make this a great place to stop on any romantic trip.

Heraklion is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Most couples head outside of town to other parts of the island, but those who linger in town for a while will enjoy world-class museums and fascinating archeological sights.

Is Chania or Heraklion Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chania and Heraklion are high quality places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Chania is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. There is no shortage of hostels around town that make this an affordable place to stay for backpackers.

Heraklion is very popular with the backpacker crowd. The city is filled with budget-friendly hostels that often have a social atmosphere and a fun vibe.

Is Chania or Heraklion 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 Heraklion.

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 Heraklion offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. KTEL buses travel both within town and to nearby villages.

Is Chania or Heraklion a more walkable city?

Chania and Heraklion both are high quality when exploring on foot.

Chania is a very walkable destination. 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.

Heraklion is very walkable. Many parts of the town are walkable and doing a walking tour is a great way to see many of the city's sights.

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

Should I spend more time in Heraklion or Chania?

How long in Chania or Heraklion?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Chania and Heraklion. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Chania than in Heraklion. Usually, 3-4 days is a good amount of time for Chania, and 1-3 days is enough time in Heraklion.

Families should spend more time in Chania than Heraklion. 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 Heraklion. 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 Heraklion 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 Heraklion?

You'll find nightlife and food around the city of Chania. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Heraklion. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Chania or Heraklion?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the picturesque destination of Chania. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Heraklion 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 Heraklion?

Travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the picturesque city of Chania. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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 Heraklion. Most people come for the beaches. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Chania or Heraklion?

Chania is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the bustling destination of Heraklion. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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 Sightseeing Tours in Greece, and The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Greece.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Chania and Heraklion, we can see that Heraklion 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 Heraklion would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Heraklion 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 Heraklion Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Chania or Heraklion?

Heraklion has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Chania. When comparing the sizes of Chania and Heraklion, 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 Heraklion?

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 Heraklion in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Chania as well as Heraklion. The beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Chania this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Heraklion for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Chania is generally around the same temperature as Heraklion. Daily temperatures in Chania average around 26°C (80°F), and Heraklion fluctuates around 25°C (78°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Heraklion. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Chania this time of the year. In the summer, Chania often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Heraklion. Chania gets 380 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Heraklion receives 366 hours of full sun.

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

Should I visit Chania or Heraklion in the Autumn?

Both Heraklion and Chania are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Chania for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Heraklion in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Chania is around the same temperature as Heraklion in the autumn. The daily temperature in Chania averages around 20°C (68°F) in October, and Heraklion fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

Chania usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Heraklion during autumn. Chania gets 198 hours of sunny skies, while Heraklion receives 199 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Chania usually receives more rain than Heraklion. Chania gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Heraklion receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Chania or Heraklion in the Winter?

Both Heraklion and Chania during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Chania in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Heraklion for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Chania is around the same temperature as Heraklion. Typically, the winter temperatures in Chania in January average around 12°C (54°F), and Heraklion averages at about 12°C (54°F).

In the winter, Chania often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Heraklion. Chania gets 118 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Heraklion receives 121 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Chania. Chania usually gets more rain in January than Heraklion. Chania gets 142 mm (5.6 in) of rain, while Heraklion receives 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Chania or Heraklion in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Chania and Heraklion. Most visitors come to Chania for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Heraklion because of the beaches and the activities around the city.

In April, Chania is generally around the same temperature as Heraklion. Daily temperatures in Chania average around 17°C (62°F), and Heraklion fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Heraklion this time of the year. In Chania, it's very sunny this time of the year. Chania usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Heraklion during spring. Chania gets 237 hours of sunny skies, while Heraklion receives 224 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Chania usually receives around the same amount of rain as Heraklion. Chania gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Heraklion receives 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Heraklion and Chania