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

Should you visit Chania or Zaragoza?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Chania or Zaragoza, 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. 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.

Zaragoza

Zaragoza is a compact, authentic, and cultural city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Chania and Zaragoza: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chania or Zaragoza?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Chania than Zaragoza. While Zaragoza is larger than Chania, Chania has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Chania is very popular for its food, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and big city activities, while Zaragoza attracts visitors for its shopping and impressive beauty. Chania is more touristy than Zaragoza and is known for its beautiful beaches, impressive historic sights, and diverse local cuisine. It is also well known for The Venetian Harbor. Zaragoza is famous for its grand landmarks, local cuisine, and rich cultural scene.

How is Chania different from Zaragoza?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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 Zaragoza. For such a small city, it really has a large number of cultural and historical attractions. The Basilica of Our Lady of Pilar is the most recognizable sight, but there's also the Museum of the Roman Forum of Caesaraugusta, the cathedral of Zaragoza, and the Aljafería Palace, among others.

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

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

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Zaragoza. There are authentic restaurants that cater to locals and tourists alike. You'll also find some interesting food tours around town. Tapas are popular, as is chocolate and fresh, traditional recipes.

Is Chania or Zaragoza Better for Nightlife?

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

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 Zaragoza has a few options to choose from. The nightlife is at its best on weekends, when students and young locals head out on the town. Many evenings start with tapas and wine, but there are nightclubs and dancing as well.

Is Chania or Zaragoza Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Chania is a nice place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Zaragoza is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

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.

Zaragoza is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Chania or Zaragoza Better for Beaches?

Chania is an amazing city to visit for the beach. However, Zaragoza is not a beach destination.

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.

Zaragoza is not a beach destination.

Is Chania or Zaragoza Better for its Old Town?

Chania and Zaragoza both have superb historical old towns that attract visitors.

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.

Zaragoza is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The old town is small but filled with monumental buildings and an authentic atmosphere.

Is Chania or Zaragoza Better for Hiking?

Chania is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Zaragoza is not a hiking destination.

Chania is a popular spot for hiking. Outside of town there are many hikes that take you through beautiful gorges, along the scenic coastline, or through the unique countryside.

Zaragoza is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Chania or Zaragoza?

Zaragoza is well known for its shopping areas. Also, Chania is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Zaragoza. The city has many local shops selling locally produced items and interesting souvenirs. There are also boutiques, markets, and vintage shops that are fun to browse though.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Chania. 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.

Is Chania or Zaragoza Better for Families?

Chania is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Zaragoza is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

Zaragoza is a family-friendly city. When your kids get their fill of architecture and history, you can head to the Zaragoza Aquarium. Also worth a visit is the Emoz Museum, which is an origami museum. And if you need a break from sightseeing, take a kayak out on the Ebro River.

Is Chania or Zaragoza Better for Couples?

Chania and Zaragoza are both superb 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.

Zaragoza is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Filled with culture, beauty, and monumental buildings, this is a small and romantic city. It's particularly romantic at night when the streets are quiet and many of the buildings are lit up.

Is Chania or Zaragoza Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chania is notable for backpackers. Also, Zaragoza is not as famous, but is still a good city 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.

Zaragoza is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are enough hostels around town to choose from, and while it's not the backpacker haven that some Spanish cities are, it still sees a good number of young travelers.

Is Chania or Zaragoza Better for Students?

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

Zaragoza is popular with students. International students enjoy this small city because it has a local vibe where they can practice their Spanish and enjoy an authentic experience.

Chania is not popular with students.

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

Zaragoza is well known for its public transit. Also, Chania is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Zaragoza. There are buses and trams around the city.

While Chania offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. KTEL bus service operates routes both within town and to nearby localities.

Is Chania or Zaragoza a more walkable city?

Chania and Zaragoza both are superb 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.

Zaragoza is very walkable. The city center is very walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Zaragoza or Chania?

How long in Chania or Zaragoza?

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

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

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 Zaragoza. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Chania or Zaragoza?

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.

Zaragoza 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 Zaragoza?

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 Zaragoza. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Zaragoza?

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 historical destination of Zaragoza. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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 2-Week Tours from Barcelona, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Spain.

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

Which is Bigger, Chania or Zaragoza?

Zaragoza has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Chania. When comparing the sizes of Chania and Zaragoza, 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 Zaragoza?

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 Zaragoza in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Chania and Zaragoza. The summer months attract visitors to Chania because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Zaragoza this time of year.

Chania is around the same temperature as Zaragoza in the summer. The daily temperature in Chania averages around 26°C (80°F) in July, and Zaragoza fluctuates around 26°C (79°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Zaragoza this time of the year. In Chania, it's very sunny this time of the year. Chania usually receives more sunshine than Zaragoza during summer. Chania gets 380 hours of sunny skies, while Zaragoza receives 344 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Chania usually receives less rain than Zaragoza. Chania gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Zaragoza receives 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Chania or Zaragoza in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Chania as well as Zaragoza. 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 Zaragoza for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Chania is a little warmer than Zaragoza. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Chania in October average around 20°C (68°F), and Zaragoza averages at about 17°C (63°F).

In the autumn, Chania often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Zaragoza. Chania gets 198 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zaragoza receives 196 hours of full sun.

Chania usually gets more rain in October than Zaragoza. Chania gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Zaragoza receives 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Chania or Zaragoza in the Winter?

Both Zaragoza and Chania are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Chania for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Zaragoza in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Chania is generally a little warmer than Zaragoza. Daily temperatures in Chania average around 12°C (54°F), and Zaragoza fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

Chania usually receives less sunshine than Zaragoza during winter. Chania gets 118 hours of sunny skies, while Zaragoza receives 131 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Chania. In January, Chania usually receives more rain than Zaragoza. Chania gets 142 mm (5.6 in) of rain, while Zaragoza receives 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Chania or Zaragoza in the Spring?

Both Zaragoza and Chania during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Chania in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city. Furthermore, most visitors come to Zaragoza for the natural beauty during these months.

Chania is a little warmer than Zaragoza in the spring. The daily temperature in Chania averages around 17°C (62°F) in April, and Zaragoza fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

In Zaragoza, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Chania. In the spring, Chania often gets more sunshine than Zaragoza. Chania gets 237 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zaragoza receives 217 hours of full sun.

Chania usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Zaragoza. Chania gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Zaragoza receives 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Zaragoza and Chania