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

Should you visit Heraklion or Bamberg?

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 Bamberg 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 historic, vibrant, and accessible city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and food.

Bamberg

Bamberg is a beautiful, scenic, and storybook 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 Bamberg: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Heraklion or Bamberg?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Heraklion than Bamberg. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Heraklion is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, beaches, and big city activities, while Bamberg attracts visitors for its historical sights and impressive beauty. Heraklion is famous for its archeological sights, local Cretan restaurants, and its vibrant nightlife scene. It is also well known for The Palace of Knossos. Bamberg is famous for its medieval old town and its many beautiful bridges and buildings.

How is Heraklion different from Bamberg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Heraklion
Bamberg

Heraklion is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Bamberg is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

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.

Bamberg offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. At the heart of Bamberg is the old town, which is what attracts international tourists from around the world. Make sure you see the Cathedral & Diocesan Museum and the Historical Museum. There's also a brewery museum that is fascinating to wander through.


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

Heraklion
Bamberg

Heraklion is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Bamberg is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Heraklion makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Bamberg has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are a number of charming and traditional restaurants in the old town. They have a cozy atmosphere and a small and quaint feel. Many of the local dishes include pork and potatoes and they're often flavored with local beer. Make sure you try the Schäuferla (roasted pork shoulder), Hörnla (a local pastry available at bakeries), and Zwiebeln (stuffed onions).

Is Heraklion or Bamberg Better for Nightlife?

Heraklion
Bamberg

Heraklion is a well-known place for nightlife. However, Bamberg is not a good town for nightlife and partying.

Heraklion offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Bamberg. While the town isn't known for its nightlife, there are some relaxing bars and pubs around town.

Is Heraklion or Bamberg Better for Beaches?

Heraklion
Bamberg

Heraklion is a well-known place for its beaches. However, Bamberg 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.

Bamberg is not a beach destination.


Is Heraklion or Bamberg Better for its Old Town?

Heraklion
Bamberg

Bamberg is a world-class destination for its old town. However, Heraklion does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Bamberg is revered around the world. With its cobblestone streets, impressive architecture, and beautiful riverside setting, the town's old town is a favorite for many travelers. The buildings have ornate and detailed designs and the bridges are beautiful.

Heraklion does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Heraklion or Bamberg?

Heraklion
Bamberg

Shoppers can find a variety of nice stores in both Heraklion and Bamberg.

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 Bamberg to go shopping. Head to the Gardeners' District, where you'll find vendors selling local produce, crafts, and other items. In the old town there are charming German shops that sell Christmas items or other local handicrafts.

Is Heraklion or Bamberg Better for Families?

Heraklion
Bamberg

Both Heraklion and Bamberg are nice to visit with kids.

Heraklion is a family-friendly city. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Bamberg. The history comes to life with reenactments and historical museums. There are also water activities, playgrounds, and many places where kids can run around and stretch their legs.


Is Heraklion or Bamberg Better for Couples?

Heraklion
Bamberg

Bamberg is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Heraklion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Bamberg is a great town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Filled with scenic bridges, beautiful gardens, and historic architecture, this is a top destination for a couples getaway. You can enjoy gondola rides and fine dining on a romantic weekend away.

Couples visit Heraklion frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Is Heraklion or Bamberg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Heraklion
Bamberg

Heraklion is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Bamberg is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Heraklion. The city is filled with budget-friendly hostels that often have a social atmosphere and a fun vibe.

Bamberg is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are hostels and a great tourist scene that makes it easy to meet other travelers.

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

Heraklion
Bamberg

Visitors will find nice public transit in both Heraklion and Bamberg.

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

You'll find some public transit in Bamberg, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are 28 buses that leave from the Central Bus Station and travel through the region.


Is Heraklion or Bamberg a more walkable city?

Heraklion
Bamberg

Bamberg 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 Bamberg. The old town is compact enough to easily explore 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 Bamberg Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bamberg or Heraklion?

How long in Heraklion or Bamberg?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Heraklion and Bamberg. In our opinion, Heraklion has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Heraklion than Bamberg. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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


  • How many days in Heraklion or Bamberg? Ideal Length of Stay
    Heraklion 1-3 
    Bamberg 1-3

One day in Heraklion or Bamberg?

In Heraklion, you'll find nightlife and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

You'll find shopping and museums around the town of Bamberg. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bamberg has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Heraklion or Bamberg?

In Heraklion, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Heraklion has to offer.

You'll find museums and food around the scenic destination of Bamberg. 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 town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.


Five days in Heraklion or Bamberg?

Heraklion is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the beautiful town of Bamberg. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Heraklion or Bamberg?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Heraklion. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Heraklion. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Bamberg is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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, The Best Adventure Tours to Germany, and The Best Cultural Tours in Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Bamberg or Heraklion?

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 Bamberg 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 Bamberg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Heraklion 81
    Bamberg 75
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Heraklion 162
    Bamberg 150
Compare Hotels in Heraklion and Bamberg

Looking for a hotel in Heraklion or Bamberg? 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 Heraklion


Hotels in Bamberg


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: Heraklion Hotel Prices and Bamberg Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Heraklion 31
    Bamberg 14

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Heraklion

Also for Heraklion, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • One-Way Shared Transfer From or To Heraklion Air - Hersonissos: $16
  • Acqua Plus Water Park Admission with Optional Transfer: $32
  • Private Transfer in Crete: $33
  • Transfer Heraklion Airport to KOKKINI HANI area up to 7 customers: $44
  • Transfer Heraklion Airport to AMMOUDARA HERAKLION area up to 7: $47
  • Crete Private Transfer from Heraklion to Hersonissos: $51
  • Transfer Heraklion Airport to ANISSARAS area up to 7 customers: $61
  • VIP Private Transfer: Heraklion - Analipsi Hotels & Villas: $62
  • Transfer Heraklion Airport to HERSONISSOS area up to 7 customers: $62
  • Transfer Heraklion Airport to KOUTOULOUFARI area up to 7 : $62
  • Transfer Heraklion Airport to AGIA PELAGIA area up to 7 customers: $62
  • Transfer Heraklio Airport to ANALIPSI area up to 7 customers: $62

Is it cheaper to fly into Heraklion or Bamberg?

Prices for flights to both Bamberg 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.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Heraklion 52
    Bamberg 41

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Heraklion

For Heraklion, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Troy Dinner-Show: $33
  • Spectacular Dinner-Show: $44
  • From Village Cretan Night, Live Dancers & dinner: $48
  • Cretan Night with Dinner & Live Show: $49
  • Crete: Olive Oil Festival, Farm Dinner, Live Show & Pickup: $59
  • Cretan Farm with scenic view: Olive Mill Festival & dinner: $64
  • Amazing Sunset Safari Route with Dinner: $84
  • Cook with Locals | Cretan cooking Class at Archanes (transfer - lunch included): $86
  • Crete: Land Rover Safari with Sunset Viewing, Dinner, & Wine: $90
  • Full-Day Jeep Safari Tour with Cooking Lesson: $97
  • Food tour tasting walking tour: $123
  • E-bike Food Tour Tasting in Heraklion : $125

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Heraklion 38
    Bamberg 17

Tours and Activities in Heraklion

For Heraklion, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Heraklion Area: CRETAquarium Admission Ticket: $8.56
  • CRETAquarium Entrance Ticket in Crete: $8.73
  • Mobile Self-Guided Audio Sightseeing Tour: $11
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Crete: Palace of Knossos E-Ticket and Optional Audio Guide: $11
  • Herakleion: City Self-Guided Game & Tour: $12
  • Heraklion Market & CretAquarium *Skip the line: $16
  • Heraklion City Tour - Aquarium: $17
  • Knossos Palace: E-ticket with Audio and Heraklion City Tour: $18
  • Party Bike 1 hour Experience in Malia : $19
  • Knossos Self-Guided Treasure Hunt & Tour KIDS: $21
  • Minoan Day Experience: $22

Tours and Activities in Bamberg

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Bamberg are as follows:

  • Bamberg Countryside Breweries Beer Hike Food Experience (departs Bamberg): $281
  • Bamberg Crime-Trail: self-guided crime tour: $42
  • Bamberg Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide: $240
  • 1-Hour Theatrical Humor Tour with Costumed Guide: $19
  • Altenburg Burg Tour: $14
  • Bar & Club Tour with free drinks & VIP entry: $31
  • City Highlights Walking Tour: $13
  • Guided Beer History Tour with Optional Tasting: $16
  • Guided Historical Culinary Tour: $27
  • Guided Tour of the Gardeners' District: $17
  • Guided Walking Tour: $14
  • Historical Museum Entry Ticket: $8.56

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Heraklion 26
    Bamberg 19

Sample the Local Flavors in Heraklion

Also in Heraklion, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Wine Tasting E-Bike Tour: $95
  • Ecobike Wine Tasting Tour in Heraklion: $115
  • Ecobike Tour with Wine Tasting: $118
  • Luxury Private Wine Tasting Experience in Haralabakis Winery: $119
  • Half Day Small Group Wine Tour with wine Tastings: $125
  • Half Day Semi Private Wine Tour with Tastings: $134
  • Semi Private Heraklion Valley Wine Tour with Lunch: $159
  • The Gourmet Wine Tour of Heraklion area: $180
  • Private SUV Wine Tour with Lunch: $183
  • Full Day Private Crete Wine Tour Experience from Heraklion : $190
  • Full day Knossos Palace, Local Distillery, Lunch @ Archanes: $192
  • Knossos, Olive Mill, Winery - Distillery with Tastings & Lunch : $196

Sample the Local Flavors in Bamberg

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Bamberg:

  • Historical City Tour in German with Brewery Visit: $17
  • Beer & Brewery Tour - 2 Hour: $37


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Heraklion and Bamberg, we can see that Heraklion is more expensive. And not only is Bamberg much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Bamberg would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Bamberg 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 Bamberg.

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


Which is Bigger, Heraklion or Bamberg?

Heraklion has a larger population, and is about 96% larger than the population of Bamberg. When comparing the sizes of Heraklion and Bamberg, 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 Bamberg?

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 Bamberg in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Heraklion as well as Bamberg. Most visitors come to Heraklion for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Bamberg because of the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Heraklion is generally a little warmer than Bamberg. Daily temperatures in Heraklion average around 25°C (78°F), and Bamberg fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Bamberg. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Heraklion this time of the year. In the summer, Heraklion often gets more sunshine than Bamberg. Heraklion gets 366 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bamberg receives 217 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets less rain in July than Bamberg. Heraklion gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Heraklion 25°C (78°F) 
    Bamberg 19°C (67°F)

Should I visit Heraklion or Bamberg in the Autumn?

Both Bamberg and Heraklion are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. 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 Bamberg this time of year.

Heraklion is much warmer than Bamberg in the autumn. The daily temperature in Heraklion averages around 20°C (68°F) in October, and Bamberg fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Heraklion usually receives more sunshine than Bamberg during autumn. Heraklion gets 199 hours of sunny skies, while Bamberg receives 107 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Heraklion usually receives more rain than Bamberg. Heraklion gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Heraklion 20°C (68°F) 
    Bamberg 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Heraklion or Bamberg in the Winter?

Both Bamberg and Heraklion during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Heraklion this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bamberg for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Bamberg. In the winter, Heraklion is much warmer than Bamberg. Typically, the winter temperatures in Heraklion in January average around 12°C (54°F), and Bamberg averages at about 0°C (33°F).

In the winter, Heraklion often gets more sunshine than Bamberg. Heraklion gets 121 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bamberg receives 42 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets more rain in January than Bamberg. Heraklion gets 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Heraklion 12°C (54°F) 
    Bamberg 0°C (33°F)

Should I visit Heraklion or Bamberg in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Heraklion and Bamberg. Many travelers come to Heraklion for the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Bamberg in the spring for the natural beauty.

In April, Heraklion is generally much warmer than Bamberg. Daily temperatures in Heraklion average around 16°C (61°F), and Bamberg fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

In Heraklion, it's very sunny this time of the year. Heraklion usually receives more sunshine than Bamberg during spring. Heraklion gets 224 hours of sunny skies, while Bamberg receives 156 hours of full sun in the spring.

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


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Heraklion 16°C (61°F) 
    Bamberg 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Bamberg and Heraklion

Heraklion Bamberg
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 12°C (54°F) 92 mm (3.6 in) 0°C (33°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Feb 12°C (54°F) 77 mm (3 in) 2°C (36°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 14°C (56°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 6°C (42°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 16°C (61°F) 30 mm (1.2 in) 10°C (50°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
May 19°C (67°F) 15 mm (0.6 in) 15°C (58°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Jun 23°C (74°F) 3 mm (0.1 in) 18°C (64°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Jul 25°C (78°F) 1 mm (0 in) 19°C (67°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 25°C (77°F) 1 mm (0 in) 19°C (66°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Sep 23°C (73°F) 20 mm (0.8 in) 16°C (60°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 20°C (68°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 11°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Nov 17°C (63°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 5°C (42°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Dec 14°C (58°F) 77 mm (3 in) 2°C (35°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)


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