Which place is cheaper, Athens or Heraklion?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.
Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Heraklion and Athens 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 is a bustling, historic, and vibrant city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the food, beaches, and shopping.
Athens is a ancient, vibrant, and energetic city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.
Travelers will usually find more to do in Athens than Heraklion, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Athens is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Heraklion is known for its beaches. Heraklion is popular for its archeological sights, local Cretan restaurants, and its vibrant nightlife scene. Athens is popular for its ancient temples and landmarks as well as its influence as the birthplace of democracy. It is also home to The Acropolis.
Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Athens and Heraklion. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.
Athens is a world-class destination for its museums and history. Also, Heraklion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.
The museums and tourist attractions in Athens are world-renowned. As a historical capital of the world, this city has countless museums and archeological sites including the famous Acropolis, the National Archaeology Museum, and the Ancient Agora.
Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around 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.
Athens 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 Athens have been singled out for their culinary prowess. Make sure you try the souvlaki, moussaka, and dolmades at any of the many local restaurants throughout the city.
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.
Athens 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 Athens just to party. There are all-night dance clubs as well as local bars and chill live music venues.
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.
Heraklion is great for the beach. However, Athens is not a beach destination.
Many people visit Heraklion for it's beautiful beaches. 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.
Athens is not a beach destination.
Athens is a world-class destination for its old town. However, Heraklion does not have a historic old town.
The historic old town of Athens is revered around the world. The city's "historic triangle" is between Syntagma, Omonia, and Monastiraki Squares. This area is also at the political and financial heart of the city.
Heraklion does not have a historic old town.
Shoppers can find a variety of good stores in both Heraklion and Athens.
Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Heraklion. There are a number of unique shops around town that sell everything from traditional pottery to homemade jewelry.
Many visitors go to Athens to go shopping. Most neighborhoods have a shopping street but head to Ermou Street for some of the city's best shopping.
Athens is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Heraklion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.
Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Athens is very family-friendly. With its rich history, beautiful outdoor activities, and kid-friendly food, Athens is a fun place to explore with the whole family.
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.
Heraklion is great for couples. Also, Athens is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.
Heraklion is a great city if you're traveling as 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.
Athens is a nice destination for couples. The city is historical, fascinating, and romantic, making it a beautiful place to explore as a couple.
Athens 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, Athens is extremely popular for backpackers. The city has long been established as a backpackers destination with budget friendly food and plenty of hostels around town.
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.
Athens 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 Athens. International students will appreciate the rich history, archaeological ruins, and unique opportunities that are available here.
Heraklion is not popular with students.
Athens is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Heraklion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.
Athens has some very good public transit options. The city's metro system has 3 lines that connect to bus, tram and commuter rail lines.
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.
Heraklion and Athens are very good 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.
Athens is a very walkable destination. You'll find the city's most walkable area's in the historical heart, where there are many pedestrian only streets and shopping areas.
For even more information, also check out Is Heraklion Worth Visiting? and Is Athens Worth Visiting?.
Both Heraklion and Athens have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Athens than in Heraklion. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Heraklion, and 3-7 days is enough time in Athens.
Families should spend more time in Athens than Heraklion. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Athens, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.
Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Athens 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 Athens.
Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Heraklion. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. One day is often enough time to do most activities.
People visit Athens 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.
Heraklion 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.
People visit Athens because there is so much to do. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.
It's hard to know how much time to spend in Heraklion. Most people come for the beaches. 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.
People visit Athens 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.
Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the bustling destination of Heraklion. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.
Athens 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 Athens, 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 3-Day Tours in Greece, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Greece.
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.
The average daily cost (per person) in Heraklion is €158, while the average daily cost in Athens is €127. 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 Heraklion and Athens in more detail.
Looking for a hotel in Heraklion or Athens? 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.
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.
Also for Heraklion, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:
Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Athens:
Also for Athens, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:
Prices for flights to both Athens and Heraklion 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.
For Heraklion, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:
Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Athens:
For Athens, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:
For Heraklion, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:
Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Athens.
Also in Heraklion, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:
Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Athens:
When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Heraklion and Athens, we can see that Heraklion is more expensive. And not only is Athens much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Athens would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Athens 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 Heraklion would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Heraklion than you might in Athens.
If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Heraklion Expensive? and Is Athens Expensive?.
Athens has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Heraklion. When comparing the sizes of Heraklion and Athens, 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.
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.
The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Heraklion and Athens. The beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Heraklion this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Athens for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.
In the summer, Heraklion is around the same temperature as Athens. Typically, the summer temperatures in Heraklion in July average around 25°C (78°F), and Athens averages at about 27°C (81°F).
People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Athens this time of the year. In Heraklion, it's very sunny this time of the year. Heraklion usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Athens during summer. Heraklion gets 366 hours of sunny skies, while Athens receives 357 hours of full sun in the summer.
In July, Heraklion usually receives less rain than Athens. Heraklion gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Athens receives 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.
The autumn brings many poeple to Heraklion as well as Athens. Many travelers come to Heraklion for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Athens in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.
In October, Heraklion is generally around the same temperature as Athens. Daily temperatures in Heraklion average around 20°C (68°F), and Athens fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).
The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Athens. In the autumn, Heraklion often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Athens. Heraklion gets 199 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Athens receives 206 hours of full sun.
Heraklion usually gets more rain in October than Athens. Heraklion gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Athens receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.
Both Athens and Heraklion are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Heraklion in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Athens for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.
Heraklion is a little warmer than Athens in the winter. The daily temperature in Heraklion averages around 12°C (54°F) in January, and Athens fluctuates around 10°C (51°F).
Heraklion usually receives less sunshine than Athens during winter. Heraklion gets 121 hours of sunny skies, while Athens receives 143 hours of full sun in the winter.
In January, Heraklion usually receives more rain than Athens. Heraklion gets 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Athens receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.
Both Athens and Heraklion during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Heraklion for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Athens because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.
In the spring, Heraklion is around the same temperature as Athens. Typically, the spring temperatures in Heraklion in April average around 16°C (61°F), and Athens averages at about 16°C (60°F).
In Athens, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Heraklion. In the spring, Heraklion often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Athens. Heraklion gets 224 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Athens receives 226 hours of full sun.
Heraklion usually gets more rain in April than Athens. Heraklion gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Athens receives 25 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.
Heraklion | Athens | |||
---|---|---|---|---|
Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | |
Jan | 12°C (54°F) | 92 mm (3.6 in) | 10°C (51°F) | 45 mm (1.8 in) |
Feb | 12°C (54°F) | 77 mm (3 in) | 11°C (51°F) | 48 mm (1.9 in) |
Mar | 14°C (56°F) | 57 mm (2.2 in) | 12°C (54°F) | 44 mm (1.7 in) |
Apr | 16°C (61°F) | 30 mm (1.2 in) | 16°C (60°F) | 25 mm (1 in) |
May | 19°C (67°F) | 15 mm (0.6 in) | 20°C (68°F) | 14 mm (0.6 in) |
Jun | 23°C (74°F) | 3 mm (0.1 in) | 24°C (76°F) | 6 mm (0.2 in) |
Jul | 25°C (78°F) | 1 mm (0 in) | 27°C (81°F) | 6 mm (0.2 in) |
Aug | 25°C (77°F) | 1 mm (0 in) | 27°C (81°F) | 8 mm (0.3 in) |
Sep | 23°C (73°F) | 20 mm (0.8 in) | 24°C (76°F) | 10 mm (0.4 in) |
Oct | 20°C (68°F) | 69 mm (2.7 in) | 19°C (67°F) | 48 mm (1.9 in) |
Nov | 17°C (63°F) | 59 mm (2.3 in) | 16°C (60°F) | 51 mm (2 in) |
Dec | 14°C (58°F) | 77 mm (3 in) | 12°C (54°F) | 66 mm (2.6 in) |