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

Should you visit Heraklion or Bari?

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 Bari 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 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.

Bari

Bari is a local, cultural, and authentic port city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the nightlife, food, and beaches.

Heraklion and Bari: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Heraklion or Bari?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Bari than Heraklion, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Bari is more popular for its food and historical sights, while Heraklion is known for its beaches. Heraklion is more touristy than Bari and is known for its archeological sights, local Cretan restaurants, and its vibrant nightlife scene. Bari is popular for its authentic old town and its role as a ferry port for travelers headed across the Adriatic. It is also home to San Nicola.

How is Heraklion different from Bari?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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 Bari. The city is filled with historical sights and archeological ruins. San Nicola is the main basilica in town and a popular tourist sight. The Castello is also a highlight, as is San Sabino.

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

Bari 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 Bari have been singled out for their culinary prowess. It's off-the-beaten-path vibe means that you won't find the overpriced tourist restaurants that have taken over more touristy cities. Instead you'll find locally owned pasta shops that cater to the town's residents. You can taste authentic Pugliese cuisine, which is centered around wheat and olive oil. Orecchiette is the local pasta and seafood is one of the most common staples.

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 Bari Better for Nightlife?

The very good nightlife scene is relatively similar in Heraklion and Bari.

Heraklion has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Bari is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city really comes to life at night with many dance clubs, bars, and other fun venues. There's plenty of live music as well as jazz clubs and other local bars.

Is Heraklion or Bari Better for Beaches?

Heraklion is a great city for the beach. Also, Bari is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its beaches.

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.

Bari is a good option for a beach vacation. There's a sandy beach that you can reach by bus outside of the city center. There are also many great beaches around Puglia if you're willing to take a day trip or travel a bit farther.

Is Heraklion or Bari Better for its Old Town?

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

Bari is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The old town is filled with historic sights, mazelike streets, and great food. It's pedestrian-only and, because Bari is not as popular with tourists, it holds on to its authentic charm.

Heraklion does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Heraklion or Bari?

Shoppers can find a variety of good stores in both Heraklion and Bari.

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 Bari to go shopping. You won't find the souvenir shops that you find in more touristy cities, so if you take the time to do some shopping while you're in town, you can enjoy a truly authentic and cultural experience.

Is Heraklion or Bari Better for Families?

Bari 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, Bari is very family-friendly. There are historical sites and castles to explore as well as the fun-filled Miragica amusement park. There's also an impressive underground city that will spark the kid's imagination. Other fun activities include visiting the nearby beaches, taking a kayak tour, or wandering around the old town.

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.

Is Heraklion or Bari Better for Couples?

Heraklion is a great city for couples. Also, Bari is not as popular, but is still a nice port 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.

Bari is a nice destination for couples. The old town is filled with mazelike streets and the city has many unique activities that appeal to history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Is Heraklion or Bari Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Heraklion and Bari are both very good destinations for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Heraklion. The city is filled with budget-friendly hostels that often have a social atmosphere and a fun vibe.

Bari is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. There's plenty of hostels around town and the prices are usually very reasonable. Many backpackers pass through this port city on their way to Greece or other Adriatic destinations.

Is Heraklion or Bari Better for Students?

Bari 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 Bari. It's a great student city that offers access to many nearby Mediterranean destinations. There are also a number of historical sights within town that students can visit.

Heraklion is not popular with students.

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

Visitors will find good public transit in both Heraklion and Bari.

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

You'll find some public transit in Bari, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses around town that are operated by the AMTAB.

Is Heraklion or Bari a more walkable city?

Heraklion and Bari 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.

Bari is a very walkable destination. The old town is pedestrian-only and best explored on foot. It's also about a 20 minute walk from the central train station.

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

Should I spend more time in Bari or Heraklion?

How long in Heraklion or Bari?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Heraklion than Bari. 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 Bari 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 Bari.

One day in Heraklion or Bari?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Heraklion. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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 port city of Bari. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bari has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Heraklion or Bari?

Heraklion is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It's also a great beach destination, too. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the cultural destination of Bari. 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 port city has to offer. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Heraklion or Bari?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the vibrant destination of Heraklion. This city offers something for everyone. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the authentic port city of Bari. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Most people head to the area for the food. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Heraklion or Bari?

The vibrant city of Heraklion offers nightlife and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

Bari 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 Historical Tours in Italy, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Italy.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Heraklion or Bari?

Bari has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Heraklion. When comparing the sizes of Heraklion and Bari, 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 Bari?

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.

Should I visit Heraklion or Bari in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Heraklion and Bari. The beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Heraklion this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Bari for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Heraklion is around the same temperature as Bari. Typically, the summer temperatures in Heraklion in July average around 25°C (78°F), and Bari averages at about 25°C (76°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bari this time of the year. In Heraklion, it's very sunny this time of the year. Heraklion usually receives more sunshine than Bari during summer. Heraklion gets 366 hours of sunny skies, while Bari receives 336 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Heraklion usually receives less rain than Bari. Heraklion gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Bari receives 9 mm (0.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Heraklion or Bari in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Heraklion as well as Bari. Many travelers come to Heraklion for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Additionally, many visitors come to Bari in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In October, Heraklion is generally around the same temperature as Bari. Daily temperatures in Heraklion average around 20°C (68°F), and Bari fluctuates around 18°C (65°F).

In the autumn, Heraklion often gets more sunshine than Bari. Heraklion gets 199 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bari receives 178 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Bari. Heraklion gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Bari receives 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heraklion or Bari in the Winter?

Both Bari 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 Bari for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Heraklion is a little warmer than Bari in the winter. The daily temperature in Heraklion averages around 12°C (54°F) in January, and Bari fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

Heraklion usually receives more sunshine than Bari during winter. Heraklion gets 121 hours of sunny skies, while Bari receives 110 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Heraklion usually receives more rain than Bari. Heraklion gets 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Bari receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Heraklion or Bari in the Spring?

Both Bari 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. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Bari because of the beaches and the activities around the city.

In the spring, Heraklion is a little warmer than Bari. Typically, the spring temperatures in Heraklion in April average around 16°C (61°F), and Bari averages at about 14°C (58°F).

In Bari, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Heraklion. In the spring, Heraklion often gets more sunshine than Bari. Heraklion gets 224 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bari receives 203 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Bari. Heraklion gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Bari receives 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Bari and Heraklion