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

Should you visit Chania or Palma de Mallorca?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Chania or Palma de Mallorca, 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. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Palma de Mallorca

Palma de Mallorca is a cultural, historic, and beautiful island. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include live music, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Chania and Palma de Mallorca: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chania or Palma de Mallorca?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Chania than Palma de Mallorca. While Palma de Mallorca is larger than Chania, Chania has more sights and attractions for tourists. Chania is better known for its museums, food, historical sights, hiking, and big city activities, while Palma de Mallorca is more popular for its nightlife, music, resorts, and impressive beauty. Palma de Mallorca is more touristy than Chania and is popular for its strikingly blue waters, sandy beaches, all-inclusive resorts, and vibrant towns. Chania is well known for its beautiful beaches, impressive historic sights, and diverse local cuisine. Also, Chania is famous for The Venetian Harbor.

How is Chania different from Palma de Mallorca?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Palma de Mallorca 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 Palma de Mallorca?

Chania is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Palma de Mallorca 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.

Palma de Mallorca does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Chania or Palma de Mallorca? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Chania is a must-visit destination for its restaurants. Also, Palma de Mallorca is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Palma de Mallorca. Food here is centered around pork, fish, and vegetables. It is flavored with garlic and olive oil and it offers that feeling of comfort that comes with home cooking.

Is Chania or Palma de Mallorca Better for Nightlife?

Palma de Mallorca is a world-class destination for its evening party scene. Also, Chania is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

People head to Palma de Mallorca just to party. Head to Magaluf and Palma for the most popular places.

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 Palma de Mallorca Better for Music?

Palma de Mallorca is well known for its music scene. However, Chania is not a live music destination.

Music is a popular form of entertainment in Palma de Mallorca. Live concerts, international DJs, and a diverse range of styles have put the island's music scene on the map.

Chania is not a live music destination.

Is Chania or Palma de Mallorca Better for Resorts?

Palma de Mallorca is well known for its resorts. However, Chania is not a resort destination.

Palma de Mallorca is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. Top resorts on the island include The St Regis Mardavall, Viva Cala Mesquida Resort and Spa, and Nixe Palace Hotel.

Chania is not a resort destination.

Is Chania or Palma de Mallorca Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

You'll find notable snorkeling or scuba diving in both Chania and Palma de Mallorca.

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 Palma de Mallorca. Head to Cala Santanyi on the south side of the island for the best snorkeling. For scuba diving, National Park of Cabrera is one of the most popular spots.

Is Chania or Palma de Mallorca Better for Beaches?

Both Chania and Palma de Mallorca have amazing beaches worth visiting.

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.

Palma de Mallorca is considered to be a world-class beach destination. The island is lined with sandy beaches and rocky coves, which have contributed to it becoming one of Europe's most popular beach destinations.

Is Chania or Palma de Mallorca Better for its Old Town?

Chania is an excellent place to visit for its historic old town. Also, Palma de Mallorca is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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 Palma de Mallorca to see the old town. Alcudia is the best old town on the island. It has cobblestone streets and historic walls that give it charm and history.

Is Chania or Palma de Mallorca Better for Hiking?

Chania is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. Also, Palma de Mallorca is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

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.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Palma de Mallorca. There are many beautiful hikes along the water and through the countryside that offer beautiful views and pass by quaint towns.

Is the Shopping Better in Chania or Palma de Mallorca?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Palma de Mallorca 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 Palma de Mallorca. Head to Palma for some of the areas best shopping.

Is Chania or Palma de Mallorca Better for Families?

Chania and Palma de Mallorca are both superb destinations for the whole family.

Chania is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Palma de Mallorca is a very family-friendly destination. The beaches are large and sandy with beautiful blue waters. There's also many activities that both adults and kids can enjoy around the island including waterparks, aquariums, and amusement areas.

Is Chania or Palma de Mallorca Better for Couples?

Chania is an excellent place to visit for romance. Also, Palma de Mallorca is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Chania makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The old town, waterfront harbor, and outstanding restaurants make this a great place to stop on any romantic trip.

Palma de Mallorca makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With beautiful beaches and a fun Spanish flare, Mallorca makes for a memorable honeymoon.

Is Chania or Palma de Mallorca Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chania and Palma de Mallorca are superb 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.

Palma de Mallorca is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There is no shortage of hostels in Mallorca so it's easy to find an affordable place to stay and a young crowd to hang out with.

Is Chania or Palma de Mallorca 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 Palma de Mallorca.

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 Palma de Mallorca offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is an efficient bus system that can get you around the island, but trips are less frequent on weekends. Pick up the Intermodal Card which can get you from town to town.

Is Chania or Palma de Mallorca a more walkable city?

Chania is an excellent place to visit for its walkability. Also, Palma de Mallorca is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Palma de Mallorca is a somewhat walkable place. It is a larger island that is not walkable, but Palma is generally a walkable area. If you stay in the central area you should be fine to explore on foot but if you want to get out into more rural areas, you'll need access to some type of transportation.

For even more information, also check out Is Chania Worth Visiting? and Is Palma de Mallorca Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Palma de Mallorca or Chania?

How long in Chania or Palma de Mallorca?

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

Families should spend more time in Chania than Palma de Mallorca. 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 Palma de Mallorca. 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 Palma de Mallorca 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 Palma de Mallorca?

With shopping and museums around the destination of Chania, there's plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It offers something for everyone.

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the destination of Palma de Mallorca. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Chania or Palma de Mallorca?

With museums and nightlife around the picturesque city of Chania, there's plenty to do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Palma de Mallorca is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Chania or Palma de Mallorca?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the charming destination of Chania. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Palma de Mallorca. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Most people come for the beaches. 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 Palma de Mallorca?

Chania is a popular choice for travelers. Most people come for the beaches. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the cultural destination of Palma de Mallorca. This island 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 2-Week Tours in Spain, and The Best 3-Week Tours in Spain.

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

Which is Bigger, Chania or Palma de Mallorca?

Palma de Mallorca has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Chania. When comparing the sizes of Chania and Palma de Mallorca, 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 Palma de Mallorca?

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 Palma de Mallorca in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Chania as well as Palma de Mallorca. 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, the hiking, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Palma de Mallorca this time of year.

In the summer, Chania is around the same temperature as Palma de Mallorca. Typically, the summer temperatures in Chania in July average around 26°C (80°F), and Palma de Mallorca averages at about 24°C (76°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Palma de Mallorca. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Chania this time of the year. In the summer, Chania often gets more sunshine than Palma de Mallorca. Chania gets 380 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Palma de Mallorca receives 334 hours of full sun.

Chania usually gets less rain in July than Palma de Mallorca. Chania gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Palma de Mallorca receives 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Chania or Palma de Mallorca in the Autumn?

Both Palma de Mallorca and Chania are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. 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 Palma de Mallorca for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Chania is generally around the same temperature as Palma de Mallorca. Daily temperatures in Chania average around 20°C (68°F), and Palma de Mallorca fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

It's quite sunny in Palma de Mallorca. Chania usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Palma de Mallorca during autumn. Chania gets 198 hours of sunny skies, while Palma de Mallorca receives 204 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Chania usually receives more rain than Palma de Mallorca. Chania gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Palma de Mallorca receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Chania or Palma de Mallorca in the Winter?

Both Palma de Mallorca and Chania during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Chania for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Palma de Mallorca in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

Chania is around the same temperature as Palma de Mallorca in the winter. The daily temperature in Chania averages around 12°C (54°F) in January, and Palma de Mallorca fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In the winter, Chania often gets less sunshine than Palma de Mallorca. Chania gets 118 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Palma de Mallorca receives 164 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Chania. Chania usually gets more rain in January than Palma de Mallorca. Chania gets 142 mm (5.6 in) of rain, while Palma de Mallorca receives 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Chania or Palma de Mallorca in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Chania and Palma de Mallorca. Many visitors come to Chania in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city. Furthermore, most visitors come to Palma de Mallorca for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Chania is a little warmer than Palma de Mallorca. Typically, the spring temperatures in Chania in April average around 17°C (62°F), and Palma de Mallorca averages at about 14°C (57°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Palma de Mallorca this time of the year. In Chania, it's very sunny this time of the year. Chania usually receives more sunshine than Palma de Mallorca during spring. Chania gets 237 hours of sunny skies, while Palma de Mallorca receives 210 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Chania usually receives less rain than Palma de Mallorca. Chania gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Palma de Mallorca receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Palma de Mallorca and Chania