A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Chania vs. Kiel for Food, Beaches, Attractions, and Families

Should you visit Chania or Kiel?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Chania or Kiel, 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 charming, picturesque, and historic city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Kiel

Kiel is a authentic, off-the-beaten-path, and waterfront 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 Kiel: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chania or Kiel?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Chania than Kiel. While Kiel is larger than Chania, Chania has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Chania is more touristy than Kiel and is known for its beautiful beaches, impressive historic sights, and diverse local cuisine. It is also home to The Venetian Harbor. Kiel is popular for its maritime history and its role as the host of the Schleswig-Holstein Music Festival.

How is Chania different from Kiel?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Chania is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Kiel is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Chania offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Kiel. You'll find museums and landmarks that focus on the city's maritime past. These include Submarine U-995, the Naval Memorial, Schifffahrtsmuseum Kiel, and Leuchtturm Bülk.

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

Chania is a must-visit destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Kiel is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, Chania is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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.

Kiel is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The local cuisine, Schleswig-Holstein cuisine, is similar to much of Germany in that the dishes are hearty and filling. There are many British and Scandenavian influences. Local dishes that you should try include Kieler Sprotte (herring-like fish), Schnüüsch (veggie stew), and Mehlbüdel (bread dumpling with pork belly)

Is Chania or Kiel Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Chania and Kiel.

Chania has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Kiel has a few options to choose from. The nightlife scene is low key and relaxing. You can sip a cocktail at a trendy bar or enjoy a beer on a floating beach bar.

Is Chania or Kiel Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Chania is a popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Kiel is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Chania has a few good snorkeling spots. There are snorkeling trips from town that take you to some of the better snorkeling sights in the area.

Kiel is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Chania or Kiel Better for Beaches?

Chania is a must-visit destination for the beache. Also, Kiel is still popular, but not quite as popular for the beach.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Chania. 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 head to Kiel to enjoy the beach. The city has several sandy beaches with coastal dunes and a family-friendly atmosphere.

Is Chania or Kiel Better for its Old Town?

Chania is well known for its old town. However, Kiel does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Chania. 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.

Kiel does not have a historic old town.

Is Chania or Kiel Better for Hiking?

Chania is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Kiel is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Chania. Outside of town there are many hikes that take you through beautiful gorges, along the scenic coastline, or through the unique countryside.

Kiel is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Chania or Kiel?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Kiel 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 Kiel. There's a mix of retail shopping centers and pedestrian shopping streets like Holstenstrasse and Dänische Strasse.

Is Chania or Kiel Better for Families?

Chania is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Kiel is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Chania is a very kid-friendly city. 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.

Kiel offers lots of family activities. The U-Boot U 995 is a museum on an actual submarine. Kids will love exploring this unique setting. The Kiel Botanical Gardens is another beautiful and fun place to explore. Also make sure you check out the city's aquarium, the Zoologisches Museum, and Computermuseum der Fachhochschule Kiel.

Is Chania or Kiel Better for Couples?

Chania is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Kiel is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

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.

Kiel is a good city for couples to visit. The old port city sits along Germany’s Baltic Sea and couples can enjoy learning about the city's maritime past and shopping along the shopping streets of Holstenstrasse and Dänische Strasse.

Is Chania or Kiel Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chania is well known for backpackers. However, Kiel is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Chania is a great city to visit for backpackers. There is no shortage of hostels around town that make this an affordable place to stay for backpackers.

Kiel is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While it's not on the main backpacker circuit, there is a hostel or two in town.

Is Chania or Kiel Better for Students?

Kiel is a nice place to visit for students. However, Chania is not popular with students.

Kiel is popular with students. Students can enjoy the city's beaches and lively nightlife scene.

Chania is not popular with students.

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

Chania is a popular place for its public transit. However, Kiel is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

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.

Public transit is mostly limited in Kiel. There is a bus system around town.

Is Chania or Kiel a more walkable city?

Chania is well known for its high level of walkability. Also, Kiel is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Chania is a very walkable city. 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.

Kiel is a somewhat walkable city. Some parts of Kiel are more walkable than others.

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

Should I spend more time in Kiel or Chania?

How long in Chania or Kiel?

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

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

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 museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Kiel. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Chania or Kiel?

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.

Kiel 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 Kiel?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the idyllic 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 Kiel. 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 Kiel?

The idyllic 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 shopping and museums when visiting the off-the-beaten-path destination of Kiel. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Berlin, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Berlin.

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

Which is Bigger, Chania or Kiel?

Kiel has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Chania. When comparing the sizes of Chania and Kiel, 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 Kiel?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Chania or Kiel in the Summer?

Both Kiel and Chania are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Chania in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Kiel for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Chania is generally much warmer than Kiel. Daily temperatures in Chania average around 26°C (80°F), and Kiel fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

It's quite sunny in Kiel. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Chania. Chania usually receives more sunshine than Kiel during summer. Chania gets 380 hours of sunny skies, while Kiel receives 219 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Chania usually receives less rain than Kiel. Chania gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Kiel receives 88 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Chania or Kiel in the Autumn?

Both Kiel and Chania during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Chania for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Kiel because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Chania is much warmer than Kiel in the autumn. The daily temperature in Chania averages around 20°C (68°F) in October, and Kiel fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

In the autumn, Chania often gets more sunshine than Kiel. Chania gets 198 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kiel receives 102 hours of full sun.

Chania usually gets more rain in October than Kiel. Chania gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Kiel receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Chania or Kiel in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Chania and Kiel. The winter months attract visitors to Chania because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Kiel this time of year.

It's quite cold in Kiel in the winter. In the winter, Chania is much warmer than Kiel. Typically, the winter temperatures in Chania in January average around 12°C (54°F), and Kiel averages at about 0°C (33°F).

Chania usually receives more sunshine than Kiel during winter. Chania gets 118 hours of sunny skies, while Kiel receives 39 hours of full sun in the winter.

Chania gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Chania usually receives more rain than Kiel. Chania gets 142 mm (5.6 in) of rain, while Kiel receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Chania or Kiel in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Chania as well as Kiel. The beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Chania this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Kiel for the beaches and the activities around the city.

In April, Chania is generally much warmer than Kiel. Daily temperatures in Chania average around 17°C (62°F), and Kiel fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Chania this time of the year. In the spring, Chania often gets more sunshine than Kiel. Chania gets 237 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kiel receives 171 hours of full sun.

Chania usually gets less rain in April than Kiel. Chania gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Kiel receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Kiel and Chania