A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Heraklion vs. Amsterdam for Nightlife, Backpackers, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Heraklion or Amsterdam?

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 Amsterdam 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. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the museums, nightlife, and food. See Heraklion travel costs.

Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a party-oriented, laid-back, and scenic city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. Amsterdam is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the live music, shopping, and museums. See Amsterdam travel costs.

Heraklion and Amsterdam: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Heraklion or Amsterdam?

You'll generally find more things to do in Amsterdam than Heraklion. Amsterdam is bigger than Heraklion, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Amsterdam is better known for its nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Heraklion is more popular for its food and beaches. Amsterdam is more touristy than Heraklion and is popular for its scenic canals, huge biking culture, and its wild nightlife scene. Also, Amsterdam is famous for The Rijksmuseum. Heraklion is well known for its archeological sights, local Cretan restaurants, and its vibrant nightlife scene.

How is Heraklion different from Amsterdam?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Heraklion and Amsterdam.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Heraklion. 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.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Amsterdam. The city has a number of sights and museums including the Anne Frank House, the Van Gogh Museum, and the Royal Palace. The world renowned Rijksmuseum is a must see for any art enthusiast. There are also many smaller, lesser known museums that are well worth a visit.

Is the Food Better in Heraklion or Amsterdam? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Heraklion is well known for its restaurant scene. However, Amsterdam is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Heraklion. 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.

Amsterdam may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Food is expensive in this city, particularly in the touristy areas. There are some markets that sell great local items and the dessert cafes are awesome!

Is Heraklion or Amsterdam Better for Nightlife?

Amsterdam is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Heraklion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

People head to Amsterdam just to party. The city has some of the best nightlife in Europe. There are plenty of bars, dance clubs, and other activities that you can enjoy throughout the night.

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.

Is Heraklion or Amsterdam Better for Music?

Amsterdam is a world-class destination for its live music scene. However, Heraklion is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Amsterdam. The city attracts its share of world renowned DJs and musicians. Popular music venues include Paradiso, De Melkweg, and Chicago Social Club.

Heraklion is not a live music destination.

Is Heraklion or Amsterdam Better for Beaches?

Heraklion is well known for the beach. However, Amsterdam 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.

Amsterdam is not a beach destination.

Is Heraklion or Amsterdam Better for its Old Town?

Amsterdam is a very popular place for its old town. However, Heraklion does not have a historic old town.

Amsterdam is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The old city center is one of the best preserved in Europe. It's enclosed by canals and has many historic churches, plazas, and buildings.

Heraklion does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Heraklion or Amsterdam?

Amsterdam is a very popular place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Heraklion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Amsterdam is well-known for its shopping. For the best shopping in town, head to the Nine Streets area in the historic district and the two main shopping streets of The Kalverstraat and Leidsestraat.

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 Amsterdam More Beautiful?

Amsterdam is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Heraklion is not a destination known for its beauty.

Amsterdam is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. With its beautiful canals, historic churches, and relaxing parks, this is a beautiful city.

Heraklion is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Heraklion or Amsterdam Better for Families?

Heraklion is a nice place to visit for its family-friendly activities. However, Amsterdam 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, Amsterdam is not always the best place to visit. The city does it's share of partying, and there are some areas, like the red light district, that aren't exactly kid-friendly, but there are some nice parks, playgrounds, and the impressive NEMO Science Museum that you can explore.

Is Heraklion or Amsterdam Better for Couples?

Both Heraklion and Amsterdam 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 Amsterdam frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. For many, a visit to this city is all about the party, but for couples who enjoy history, architecture, or boat rides along the scenic canals, the city also makes a great getaway. It's also fun to stay in a houseboat and have a unique experience.

Is Heraklion or Amsterdam Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Amsterdam is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Heraklion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Amsterdam is extremely popular for backpackers. With it's party-hard personality and countless low price hostels, this city attracts its share of backpackers. Do note that many of the hostels aren't focused on quality, so make sure you understand what you're paying for. It may be worth booking a slightly more expensive room in a hotel.

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.

Is Heraklion or Amsterdam Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Amsterdam is a world-class destination for times when you don't have a car. Also, Heraklion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

With a huge network, the transit system in Amsterdam can get you around easily. The city has metros, trams, buses, and ferries that help you get around. Since this is the Netherlands, getting around by bike is very popular.

You'll find some public transit in Heraklion, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. KTEL buses travel both within town and to nearby villages.

Is Heraklion or Amsterdam a more walkable city?

Amsterdam is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Heraklion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Amsterdam. The historic parts of the city are very walkable and much of the city is best explored on foot.

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

For even more information, also check out Is Heraklion Worth Visiting? and Is Amsterdam Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Amsterdam or Heraklion?

How long in Heraklion or Amsterdam?

Both Heraklion and Amsterdam have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Amsterdam than in Heraklion. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Heraklion, and 2-7 days is enough time in Amsterdam.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Amsterdam than Heraklion 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 Amsterdam.

One day in Heraklion or Amsterdam?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Heraklion. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Heraklion has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

People visit Amsterdam because there is so much to do. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 Amsterdam?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the bustling destination of Heraklion. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

People visit Amsterdam because there is so much to do. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Heraklion or Amsterdam?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the accessible city of Heraklion. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

People visit Amsterdam because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Heraklion or Amsterdam?

Heraklion is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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.

Amsterdam is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Amsterdam, one week is sufficent for most. 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, The Best 10-Day Tours from Amsterdam, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Amsterdam.

When comparing the travel costs between Heraklion and Amsterdam, we can see that Amsterdam 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 Amsterdam Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Heraklion or Amsterdam?

Amsterdam has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Heraklion. When comparing the sizes of Heraklion and Amsterdam, 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 Amsterdam?

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 Amsterdam in the Summer?

Both Amsterdam 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 Amsterdam because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Heraklion is much warmer than Amsterdam in the summer. The daily temperature in Heraklion averages around 25°C (78°F) in July, and Amsterdam fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

In Amsterdam, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Heraklion. In the summer, Heraklion often gets more sunshine than Amsterdam. Heraklion gets 366 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Amsterdam receives 204 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets less rain in July than Amsterdam. Heraklion gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Amsterdam receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heraklion or Amsterdam in the Autumn?

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

In the autumn, Heraklion is much warmer than Amsterdam. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Heraklion in October average around 20°C (68°F), and Amsterdam averages at about 11°C (51°F).

Heraklion usually receives more sunshine than Amsterdam during autumn. Heraklion gets 199 hours of sunny skies, while Amsterdam receives 99 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Heraklion usually receives around the same amount of rain as Amsterdam. Heraklion gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Amsterdam receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Heraklion or Amsterdam in the Winter?

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

Be prepared for some very cold days in Amsterdam. In January, Heraklion is generally much warmer than Amsterdam. Daily temperatures in Heraklion average around 12°C (54°F), and Amsterdam fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

In the winter, Heraklion often gets more sunshine than Amsterdam. Heraklion gets 121 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Amsterdam receives 46 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets more rain in January than Amsterdam. Heraklion gets 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Amsterdam receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heraklion or Amsterdam in the Spring?

Both Amsterdam 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 Amsterdam in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Heraklion is much warmer than Amsterdam in the spring. The daily temperature in Heraklion averages around 16°C (61°F) in April, and Amsterdam fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Heraklion. Heraklion usually receives more sunshine than Amsterdam during spring. Heraklion gets 224 hours of sunny skies, while Amsterdam receives 166 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Heraklion usually receives less rain than Amsterdam. Heraklion gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Amsterdam receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Amsterdam and Heraklion