A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Heraklion vs. Aix-en-Provence for Food, Attractions, Nightlife, and Couples

Should you visit Heraklion or Aix-en-Provence?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Heraklion and Aix-en-Provence can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Heraklion

Heraklion is a accessible, bustling, 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.

Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is a vibrant, laid-back, and relaxing town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and food.

Heraklion and Aix-en-Provence: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Heraklion or Aix-en-Provence?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Heraklion. Although Heraklion and Aix-en-Provence are both popular with visitors, Heraklion has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Heraklion is more popular for its museums, nightlife, beaches, and big city activities, while Aix-en-Provence is known for its food, shopping, and impressive beauty. Heraklion is more touristy than Aix-en-Provence and is popular for its archeological sights, local Cretan restaurants, and its vibrant nightlife scene. It is also home to The Palace of Knossos. Aix-en-Provence is popular for its Provençal cuisine made with local produce, its many art galleries, and its beautiful fountains and square.

How is Heraklion different from Aix-en-Provence?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Aix-en-Provence and Heraklion. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Heraklion or Aix-en-Provence?

Heraklion is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Aix-en-Provence is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Heraklion can be an interesting and educational experience. The city is filled with historical sights and archeological ruins. The impressive Palace of Knossos is a must-see, but also make sure you visit the Koules Fortress, the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, and the Natural History Museum of Crete.

Aix-en-Provence is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. In addition to its many squares and fountains, there is also Cathédrale Saint-Sauveur, Musée Granet, and Musée des Tapisseries.

Is the Food Better in Heraklion or Aix-en-Provence? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Aix-en-Provence is a world-class destination for its restaurants. Also, Heraklion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Many restaurants in Aix-en-Provence have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The range of restaurants includes everything from modern and trendy to traditional and casual. The town is surrounded by a region that is known for its local produce. There are also many markets worth checking out in town.

Dining out in Heraklion is an experience not to be missed. The city is home to countless Cretan restaurants that range in style and budget. There are fine dining restaurants as well as local dives with casual street food. The restaurants reflect the island's multi-cultural past with many styles and flavors available.

Is Heraklion or Aix-en-Provence Better for Nightlife?

Heraklion is well known for its evening party scene. However, Aix-en-Provence is not particularly known for nightlife.

Heraklion is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city has some of the best nightlife on the island of Crete. There are many all-night clubs as well as bars that stay open until 2 or 3 in the morning. In particular, there are many British tourists hanging out at the clubs and bars.

Aix-en-Provence doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. The nightlife scene that does exist is mostly influenced by the town's large student population.

Is Heraklion or Aix-en-Provence Better for Beaches?

Heraklion is well known for the beach. However, Aix-en-Provence is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Heraklion. You'll find world-class beaches just outside of town, if you're willing to explore a little. Agia Pelagia Beach is about half an hour away and Limanakia Beach is also not a bad day trip. If you want to stay closer to town, head to nearby Amnissos Beach.

Aix-en-Provence is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Heraklion or Aix-en-Provence?

Aix-en-Provence is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Heraklion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Aix-en-Provence draws large crowds to its stores. It has some of the best shopping in France outside of Paris. There are many shopping streets where you can pick up trendy fashions or boutique local finds. Head to Rue Marius Reynard, Les Allées Provençales, or Rue Clemenceau for some of the best shopping.

Many visitors go to Heraklion to go shopping. There are a number of unique shops around town that sell everything from traditional pottery to homemade jewelry.

Is Heraklion or Aix-en-Provence Better for Families?

Heraklion is a nice place to visit for its family-friendly activities. However, Aix-en-Provence is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Heraklion. In town you'll find many historical and educational sights such as the Palace of Knossos, the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, and the Koules Venetian fortress. Kids will also enjoy walking the Venetian Walls that are in town. If you're willing to head a bit outside of town, in about half an hour you can reach the Cretaquarium, Dinosauria Park, or Acqua Plus Water Park.

For families, Aix-en-Provence is not always the best place to visit. Many kids enjoy checking out the town's many fountains or taking a bike for a ride outside of town.

Is Heraklion or Aix-en-Provence Better for Couples?

Both Heraklion and Aix-en-Provence are high quality destinations for a couple's getaway.

Heraklion makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Most couples head outside of town to other parts of the island, but those who linger in town for a while will enjoy world-class museums and fascinating archeological sights.

Couples visit Aix-en-Provence frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It's among the most charming towns in southern France and couples will enjoy the romantic buildings, beautiful fountains, and relaxing countryside. Whether you're on a honeymoon or a couple's getaway, this is a great town.

Is Heraklion or Aix-en-Provence Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Heraklion is well known for backpackers. Also, Aix-en-Provence is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Heraklion is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. The city is filled with budget-friendly hostels that often have a social atmosphere and a fun vibe.

Aix-en-Provence is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are a couple of hostels and cheap hotels that are good options for backpackers.

Is Heraklion or Aix-en-Provence Better for Students?

Aix-en-Provence is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Heraklion is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Aix-en-Provence. It's a university town with a lively but laid-back atmosphere. It's also a popular study abroad destination for American university students.

Heraklion is not popular with students.

Is Heraklion or Aix-en-Provence Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Visitors will find good public transit in both Heraklion and Aix-en-Provence.

Heraklion has some public transit options. KTEL buses travel both within town and to nearby villages.

You'll find some public transit in Aix-en-Provence, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. For the places you can't reach on foot, there is a bus network.

Is Heraklion or Aix-en-Provence a more walkable city?

Heraklion and Aix-en-Provence are high quality when it comes to walkability.

Heraklion is a very walkable city. Many parts of the town are walkable and doing a walking tour is a great way to see many of the city's sights.

Aix-en-Provence is a very walkable destination. It's walkable, particularly in the heart of the city, so it's fun to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Heraklion Worth Visiting? and Is Aix-en-Provence Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Aix-en-Provence or Heraklion?

How long in Heraklion or Aix-en-Provence?

It's fun to spend time in either Heraklion or Aix-en-Provence. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Aix-en-Provence due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Heraklion, and 2-4 days is enough time in Aix-en-Provence.

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

Couples should spend more time in Heraklion than Aix-en-Provence. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Heraklion that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Heraklion than Aix-en-Provence 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 Heraklion.

One day in Heraklion or Aix-en-Provence?

The bustling destination of Heraklion offers nightlife and food. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

You'll find shopping and museums around the town of Aix-en-Provence. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Heraklion or Aix-en-Provence?

The city of Heraklion offers food and shopping. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

You'll find museums and food around the laid-back destination of Aix-en-Provence. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Heraklion or Aix-en-Provence?

Heraklion is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. This city offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the vibrant town of Aix-en-Provence. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Heraklion or Aix-en-Provence?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Heraklion. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Aix-en-Provence is a popular choice for travelers. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in Greece, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Greece, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in France, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in France.

When comparing the travel costs between Heraklion and Aix-en-Provence, we can see that Heraklion is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Heraklion Expensive? and Is Aix-en-Provence Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Heraklion or Aix-en-Provence?

Aix-en-Provence has a larger population, and is about 7% larger than the population of Heraklion. When comparing the sizes of Heraklion and Aix-en-Provence, 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 Heraklion or Aix-en-Provence?

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 Heraklion or Aix-en-Provence in the Summer?

Both Aix-en-Provence and Heraklion during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Heraklion for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Aix-en-Provence because of the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Heraklion is around the same temperature as Aix-en-Provence. Typically, the summer temperatures in Heraklion in July average around 25°C (78°F), and Aix-en-Provence averages at about 24°C (75°F).

In Aix-en-Provence, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Heraklion. In the summer, Heraklion often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Aix-en-Provence. Heraklion gets 366 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Aix-en-Provence receives 366 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets less rain in July than Aix-en-Provence. Heraklion gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heraklion or Aix-en-Provence in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Heraklion and Aix-en-Provence. The autumn months attract visitors to Heraklion because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Aix-en-Provence this time of year.

In October, Heraklion is generally a little warmer than Aix-en-Provence. Daily temperatures in Heraklion average around 20°C (68°F), and Aix-en-Provence fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Aix-en-Provence this time of the year. Heraklion usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Aix-en-Provence during autumn. Heraklion gets 199 hours of sunny skies, while Aix-en-Provence receives 205 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Heraklion usually receives less rain than Aix-en-Provence. Heraklion gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Heraklion or Aix-en-Provence in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Heraklion as well as Aix-en-Provence. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Heraklion this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Aix-en-Provence for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Heraklion is much warmer than Aix-en-Provence in the winter. The daily temperature in Heraklion averages around 12°C (54°F) in January, and Aix-en-Provence fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

In the winter, Heraklion often gets less sunshine than Aix-en-Provence. Heraklion gets 121 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Aix-en-Provence receives 150 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets more rain in January than Aix-en-Provence. Heraklion gets 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heraklion or Aix-en-Provence in the Spring?

Both Aix-en-Provence and Heraklion are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Heraklion for the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Aix-en-Provence in the spring for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Heraklion is a little warmer than Aix-en-Provence. Typically, the spring temperatures in Heraklion in April average around 16°C (61°F), and Aix-en-Provence averages at about 13°C (56°F).

It's quite sunny in Aix-en-Provence. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Heraklion. Heraklion usually receives less sunshine than Aix-en-Provence during spring. Heraklion gets 224 hours of sunny skies, while Aix-en-Provence receives 245 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Heraklion usually receives less rain than Aix-en-Provence. Heraklion gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Aix-en-Provence and Heraklion