A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Finale Ligure vs. Crete for Food, Resorts, Beaches, and Families

Should you visit Finale Ligure or Crete?

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

Should I visit Finale Ligure or Crete? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Finale Ligure

Finale Ligure is a beautiful, scenic, and historic area. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Crete

Crete is a world-renowned, scenic, and stunning island. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and museums.

Finale Ligure and Crete: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Not as many resort options
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Finale Ligure or Crete?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Crete than Finale Ligure, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Crete is more touristy than Finale Ligure and is known for its breathtaking beaches, wild nightlife, and impressive archeological ruins. Also, Crete is famous for the Palace of Knossos. Finale Ligure is well known for its sandy beaches and great food.

How is Finale Ligure different from Crete?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Crete and Finale Ligure. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Finale Ligure or Crete?

Finale Ligure
Crete

Crete is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Finale Ligure is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Crete offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The island is filled with archeological sites including the famous Palace of Knossos. While most people come to Crete for the natural beauty, in the cities you'll find some great museums and landmarks.

Finale Ligure offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The natural beauty is the main attraction to this part of Liguria, but there are also medieval towns such as Finalborgo and historic places such as Castel Gavone.


Is the Food Better in Finale Ligure or Crete? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Finale Ligure
Crete

Crete is terrific for its restaurant scene. Also, Finale Ligure is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, Crete is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Local cuisine is influenced by the island's fertile environment and excellent agriculture. You'll find olive oil in most dishes and seafood is a major staple. You'll also find a lot of stews and recipes that incorporate local ingredients.

Finale Ligure has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Seafood, local flavors, and even a couple of Michelin starred restaurants make this area a foodie's paradise. The dishes are rich in flavors and fine dining is common throughout the area.

Is Finale Ligure or Crete Better for Nightlife?

Finale Ligure
Crete

Crete is a great destination for nightlife. However, Finale Ligure is a area with minimal options for nightlife and partying.

The people in Crete know how to have a good time. The island has excellent nightlife with clubs and bars found in Chania, Malia and Stalis to Elounda. The area is popular with British tourists and you'll find many bars open until 2 or 3 in the morning.

Finale Ligure doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. This beautiful coastline is filled with fine dining restaurants and some nice wine and cocktail bars. It's not known for its party scene, but there are some nice places to spend the evening.

Is Finale Ligure or Crete Better for Resorts?

Finale Ligure
Crete

Crete is terrific for its resorts. Also, Finale Ligure is still popular, but not quite as popular for its luxury resorts.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Crete is a great choice. The island has world class resorts that include pools and buffet meals. There are many beachfront resorts that range in style from romantic to family-friendly.

With a selection of resorts, Finale Ligure makes a nice vacation spot. You'll find a mix of smaller local hotels, many with pools, along the coastline. There are also a number of apartments to choose from.


Is Finale Ligure or Crete Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Finale Ligure
Crete

Crete is a great destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Finale Ligure is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting Crete. The island is surrounded by clear waters that make for great snorkeling and diving. There's a number of beautiful fish and other sea life that you can see. Be on the lookout for crabs, sea stars, sponges, and even octopi.

Finale Ligure is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Finale Ligure or Crete Better for Beaches?

Finale Ligure
Crete

Crete is terrific for its beaches. Also, Finale Ligure is still popular, but not quite as popular for the beache.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Crete. There are some of the best beaches in the world on Crete. The areas around Chania have some of the island's best beaches, with one of the most beautiful being Balos. On the northern side of the island, be on the lookout for strong winds, particularly in August, which can make for larger waves. The island is large, so you'll find everything from secluded and quiet beaches to more active and lively places.

Finale Ligure is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. This stretch of coastline has the longest sandy beaches in Liguria. You'll also find dramatic cliffs and beautiful views.

Is Finale Ligure or Crete Better for Hiking?

Finale Ligure
Crete

If you're looking to go hiking, Finale Ligure and Crete both have high quality trails.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Finale Ligure. There are many walking and trekking trails along the coast and through the hills. You'll pass medieval towns and beautiful viewpoints that let you experience the Ligurian coastline in all of its beauty.

Many visitors go to Crete for the hiking trails. The island is filled with beautiful hikes that run along the shoreline or head inland through the island's beautiful landscapes. There are hikes for every ability level that offer spectacular views and an incredible experience.


Is the Shopping Better in Finale Ligure or Crete?

Finale Ligure
Crete

Shopping is a popular activity in both Crete and Finale Ligure.

Finale Ligure is a great destination for shopping. You'll find clothing boutiques, food specialty stores, and places to pick up anything that you may have forgotten.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Crete. The island has many markets that sell local foods and handicrafts. There are also shops and boutiques where you can buy anything from souvenirs to homemade artwork.

Is Finale Ligure or Crete Better for Families?

Finale Ligure
Crete

Crete is terrific for its family-friendly activities. Also, Finale Ligure is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Crete is a very family-friendly destination. The island is large and filled with countless family-friendly activities. You can spend several days at the beach, explore Lake Kournas, visit a water park, or even take a pirate themed boat cruise. There's also the amusement park, ​​Labyrinth Park, aquariums and more.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Finale Ligure is very family-friendly. This section of the Italian Riviera has the longest sandy beach in Liguria. There are also places where kids can swim and just relax from sightseeing and travel.

Is Finale Ligure or Crete Better for Couples?

Finale Ligure
Crete

Crete is terrific for romance. Also, Finale Ligure is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Crete makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. It's stunning beaches, beautiful landscapes, world renowned restaurants, and amazing resorts make this a top honeymoon spot for international travelers and romance seekers.

Finale Ligure is a great area if you're traveling as a couple. With its sandy beaches and seaside cliffs, this area makes a great romantic getaway. Italian food on the Italian Riviera - what could be more romantic.


Is Finale Ligure or Crete Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Finale Ligure
Crete

Crete is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Finale Ligure is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Crete. It's a large island with a great social scene and no shortage of hostels for backpackers to choose from.

Finale Ligure is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. While there aren't a lot of hostels, there are a few reasonably priced guesthouses to choose from.

Is Finale Ligure or Crete Better for Students?

Finale Ligure
Crete

Crete is a great destination for students. However, Finale Ligure is not popular with students.

Crete is a very popular island for students and younger travelers. It's affordability and great coastal activities is a big draw for students in the area.

Finale Ligure is not popular with students.

Is Finale Ligure or Crete Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Finale Ligure
Crete

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Finale Ligure and Crete.

You'll find some public transit in Finale Ligure, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are both trains and buses through the area.

While Crete offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's a decent bus system that travels around the island and offers access to many areas.


Is Finale Ligure or Crete a more walkable city?

Finale Ligure
Crete

Finale Ligure is a popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Crete is not particularly known for its walkability.

Finale Ligure is a somewhat walkable area. There are many walking routes throughout this stretch of coastline.

Crete is generally not a very walkable area. The island is large and requires a vehicle to get around, but there are short strolls that let you enjoy the stunning landscapes.

For even more information, also check out Is Finale Ligure Worth Visiting? and Is Crete Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Crete or Finale Ligure?

How long in Finale Ligure or Crete?

Both Finale Ligure and Crete have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Crete than in Finale Ligure. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Finale Ligure, and 5-7 days is enough time in Crete.

Families should spend more time in Crete than Finale Ligure. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Crete, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Crete than Finale Ligure. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Crete that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Crete than Finale Ligure 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 Crete.


  • How many days in Finale Ligure or Crete? Ideal Length of Stay
    Finale Ligure 2-4 
    Crete 5-7

One day in Finale Ligure or Crete?

In Finale Ligure, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this relaxing destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. This area offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the world-renowned destination of Crete. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Finale Ligure or Crete?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Finale Ligure. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Crete. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.


Five days in Finale Ligure or Crete?

Finale Ligure is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Finale Ligure. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the world-renowned destination of Crete. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A week in Finale Ligure or Crete?

You'll find food and shopping around the relaxing destination of Finale Ligure. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the beautiful island of Crete. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling.So, one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to Italy, The Best Budget Tours to Italy, The Best Contiki Tours to Greece, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Greece.


Which place is cheaper, Crete or Finale Ligure?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Finale Ligure is €143, while the average daily cost in Crete is €102. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Finale Ligure and Crete in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Finale Ligure 74
    Crete 48
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Finale Ligure 148
    Crete 96
Compare Hotels in Finale Ligure and Crete

Looking for a hotel in Finale Ligure or Crete? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Finale Ligure


Hotels in Crete


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Finale Ligure Hotel Prices and Crete Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Finale Ligure 56
    Crete 23

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Crete

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Crete:

  • Acqua Plus Water Park Admission with Optional Transfer: $31
  • Acqua Plus Water Park Admission with Optional Transfer: $32
  • Beginner's SSI Intro dive w/2 Dives & transfer: $153
  • Crete Private Taxi Transfer from Heraklion Airport to Bali: $95
  • Crete Private Taxi and Transfer Georgioupoli to Heraklion Airport: $161
  • Crete Private Taxi and Transfer from Chania to Adelianos Kampos: $109
  • Crete Private Taxi and Transfer from Chania to Georgioupoli: $87
  • Crete Private Taxi and Transfer from Chania to Panormo: $125
  • Crete Private Taxi and Transfer from Heraklion to Agios Nikolaos: $122
  • Crete Private Taxi and Transfer from Kalyves to Heraklion Airport: $215
  • Crete Private Transfer to and from Heraklion Airport Port Town : $36
  • Acqua Plus Water Park Entrance Ticket with Transfer: $32

Is it cheaper to fly into Finale Ligure or Crete?

Prices for flights to both Crete and Finale Ligure change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Finale Ligure 34
    Crete 34

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Crete

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Crete.

  • Troy Dinner-Show: $33
  • Olive Oil Factory Tour, Dinner & Traditional Dancing: $59
  • Chania: Cretan Folklore Dance Show with Dinner and Pickup: $74
  • Cook with Locals | Cretan cooking Class at Archanes (transfer - lunch included): $86
  • The Delicious Chania PRIVATE Street Food Tour : $87
  • Sightseeing Day Trip with Cooking Lesson and Lunch: $95
  • Full-Day Jeep Safari Tour with Cooking Lesson: $97
  • Authentic and Traditional Cooking Class in Chania Crete: $100
  • Chania: Authentic Cooking Class in the White Mountains: $117
  • Heraklion: Cretan Cooking Lesson with Lunch in Arolithos: $117
  • E-bike Food Tour Tasting in Heraklion : $126
  • Sunset Craft Beer & Food Tour - Chania: $131

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Finale Ligure 28
    Crete 26

Tours and Activities in Crete

Here are a few actual costs in Crete for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Chania: Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and City Highlights Tour: $6.92
  • Heraklion Archaeological Museum Ticket & Audio Guide: $8.51
  • The Terra Creta Olive Oil Experience Tour: $11
  • Chania: Sunset Boat Cruise with Guide: $15
  • Heraklion: Palace of Knossos 3D Virtual Audio Tour by Tablet: $15
  • Heraklion: Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Bus Tour: $16
  • Heraklion: Hop-on Hop-off Open Top Bus Sightseeing Tour: $16
  • Chersonissos: Mini-Train City Highlights Tour: $17
  • Heraklion City Tour - Aquarium: $17
  • Gramvousa Island & Balos Bay Full-Day Tour from Rethymno English & German guide: $19
  • Chania: Semi-Submarine Boat Underwater Experience: $19
  • Palace of Knossos Entry Ticket & Optional Audio Guide: $19

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Finale Ligure 6.99
    Crete 20

Sample the Local Flavors in Crete

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Crete:

  • Chania: Off-Road Tour at Sunset with Wine Tasting: $95
  • Wine Tasting-Olive Oil Factory-Traditional Villages- Small Group : $134
  • The Gourmet Wine Tour of Heraklion area: $180
  • Knossos, Olive Mill, Winery - Distillery with Tastings & Lunch : $197
  • Heraklion SUV Private Guided Wine Tour with Lunch : $216
  • From Elounda Private Heraklion Wine Tour with Tastings and Lunch: $232
  • Heraklion: Private Knossos & Wine Tasting Tour with Lunch: $245
  • Ecobike Tour • All in One • Historical Tour-Food Tasting-Wine Tasting: $257


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Finale Ligure and Crete, we can see that Finale Ligure is more expensive. And not only is Crete much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Crete would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Crete 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 Finale Ligure would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Finale Ligure than you might in Crete.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Finale Ligure Expensive? and Is Crete Expensive?.


Which has a larger population, Finale Ligure or Crete?

Crete has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Finale Ligure. When comparing the sizes of Finale Ligure and Crete, 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.