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

Should you visit Chania or Pamplona?

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

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

Pamplona

Pamplona is a elegant, laid-back, 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 Pamplona: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chania or Pamplona?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Chania than Pamplona. While Pamplona is larger than Chania, Chania has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Chania is more popular for its museums, food, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and historical sights, while Pamplona 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. Pamplona is popular for being the home of the Running of the Bulls Festival.

How is Chania different from Pamplona?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Chania is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Pamplona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

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 Pamplona. Although most people visit in July for the Running of the Bulls, throughout the year there are some interesting museums and sights around town. You can check out the Cathedral of Pamplona, the Museo de Navarra, and the main plaza in town, Plaza del Castillo.

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

Chania is terrific for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Pamplona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

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.

Pamplona has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Local cuisine includes lots of fresh vegetables like mushrooms, artichokes, asparagus, and onion. You'll find many unique dishes in the area, and you shouldn't leave without trying the txistorra (sausage), revuelto de setas (eggs and mushrooms), and ajoarriero (cod).

Is Chania or Pamplona Better for Nightlife?

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

Pamplona is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. There's a good sized university population that keeps the nightlife active around town. The Old Quarter is likely where you'll find the most going on, particularly around Calle San Nicolás and Calle Estafeta. Earlier in the evening the crowd is pretty young, but as the evening passes you'll find the crowd matures a bit.

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 Pamplona Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Chania is a popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Pamplona 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.

Pamplona is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Chania or Pamplona Better for Beaches?

Chania is terrific for the beache. However, Pamplona is not a beach destination.

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.

Pamplona is not a beach destination.

Is Chania or Pamplona Better for its Old Town?

Chania is a well-known place for its old town. Also, Pamplona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its historic old town charm.

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.

Pamplona has an old town worth visiting. You'll find elegant buildings and grand plazas around the Old Quarter.

Is Chania or Pamplona Better for Hiking?

Chania and Pamplona are both places where visitors can find very good hiking trails.

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.

Many visitors go to Pamplona for the hiking trails. It's a stop off on the famed Camino de Santiago, so if you want to walk part of the route, this is a nice place to explore.

Is the Shopping Better in Chania or Pamplona?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Pamplona 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 Pamplona. You'll find some good markets around town. It's also fun to shop for local handicrafts or souvenirs to remember your trip by.

Is Chania or Pamplona Better for Families?

Chania is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Pamplona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Pamplona is a family-friendly city. The city is very green, with many parks and gardens where kids can stretch their legs. There's also the Pamplona Planetarium and several museums that relate to environmental education.

Is Chania or Pamplona Better for Couples?

Chania is a well-known place for its romantic activities. Also, Pamplona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Chania is a very popular place to visit for couples. The old town, waterfront harbor, and outstanding restaurants make this a great place to stop on any romantic trip.

Pamplona is a good city for couples to visit. Although it's most known for the Running of the Bulls in July, the city also has some interesting sights at other times of the year. Couples can walk around the city walls, or explore the many parks in town. There are also some interesting museums.

Is Chania or Pamplona Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chania and Pamplona are very good 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.

Pamplona is very popular with the backpacker crowd. Backpackers are drawn to this city during July for the Running of the Bulls festival. It's also a stop along the Camino de Santiago, which brings in a young, budget-oriented crowd.

Is Chania or Pamplona Better for Students?

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

Pamplona is popular with students. This is a quiet city, which appeals to some students. The laid back atmosphere makes it a nice place to relax and learn.

Chania is not popular with students.

Is Chania or Pamplona 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 Pamplona.

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 Pamplona offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's a comprehensive bus system around town.

Is Chania or Pamplona a more walkable city?

Chania and Pamplona both are very good 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.

Pamplona is very walkable. It's a stop off on the Camino de Santiago, so many people arrive on foot. It's also an easy city to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Pamplona or Chania?

How long in Chania or Pamplona?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Chania or Pamplona to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Chania than Pamplona because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-4 days is a good amount of time for Chania, and 1-2 days is enough time in Pamplona.

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

The city of Chania offers museums and nightlife. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Pamplona. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Chania or Pamplona?

Chania is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Pamplona 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 Pamplona?

Chania is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Pamplona. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Pamplona?

Chania is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historic destination of Pamplona. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in 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 3-Week Tours in Spain, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Spain.

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

Which is Bigger, Chania or Pamplona?

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

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 Pamplona in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Chania and Pamplona. Many visitors come to Chania in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Pamplona for the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Chania is generally a little warmer than Pamplona. Daily temperatures in Chania average around 26°C (80°F), and Pamplona fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Pamplona this time of the year. In Chania, it's very sunny this time of the year. Chania usually receives more sunshine than Pamplona during summer. Chania gets 380 hours of sunny skies, while Pamplona receives 209 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Chania usually receives less rain than Pamplona. Chania gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Pamplona receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Chania or Pamplona in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Chania as well as Pamplona. Most visitors come to Chania for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Pamplona because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene.

Chania is a little warmer than Pamplona in the autumn. The daily temperature in Chania averages around 20°C (68°F) in October, and Pamplona fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

In the autumn, Chania often gets more sunshine than Pamplona. Chania gets 198 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pamplona receives 144 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Pamplona. Chania usually gets less rain in October than Pamplona. Chania gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Pamplona receives 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Chania or Pamplona in the Winter?

Both Pamplona and Chania are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. 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 Pamplona this time of year.

In the winter, Chania is a little warmer than Pamplona. Typically, the winter temperatures in Chania in January average around 12°C (54°F), and Pamplona averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Chania usually receives more sunshine than Pamplona during winter. Chania gets 118 hours of sunny skies, while Pamplona receives 85 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Pamplona. It's quite rainy in Chania. In January, Chania usually receives less rain than Pamplona. Chania gets 142 mm (5.6 in) of rain, while Pamplona receives 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Chania or Pamplona in the Spring?

Both Pamplona and Chania during the spring are popular places to visit. The beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Chania this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Pamplona for the activities around the city.

In April, Chania is generally a little warmer than Pamplona. Daily temperatures in Chania average around 17°C (62°F), and Pamplona fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

It's quite sunny in Chania. In the spring, Chania often gets more sunshine than Pamplona. Chania gets 237 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pamplona receives 141 hours of full sun.

Pamplona gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Chania usually gets less rain in April than Pamplona. Chania gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Pamplona receives 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Pamplona and Chania