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

Should you visit Heraklion or Bremen?

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 Bremen 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. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Bremen

Bremen is a beautiful, colorful, and lively city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Heraklion and Bremen: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Heraklion or Bremen?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Heraklion than Bremen. While Bremen is larger than Heraklion, Heraklion has more sights and attractions for tourists. Heraklion is more popular for its food, beaches, and big city activities, while Bremen is known for its historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty. Heraklion is more touristy than Bremen and is popular for its archeological sights, local Cretan restaurants, and its vibrant nightlife scene. It is also home to The Palace of Knossos. Bremen is popular for its beautiful historic center and its role as a cultural hub in Germany.

How is Heraklion different from Bremen?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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 Bremen. Many of the city's landmarks are located around the famous Marktplatz. You can tour the Bremen Town Hall or wander around the Medieval Schnoor Quarter. Also make sure you check out the Cathedral of St. Peter.

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

Heraklion is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Bremen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Bremen. The food is hearty and filling with many meat heavy dishes. Vegetarians may struggle to find local options. Traditional regional dishes include Kohl und Pinkel (kale and sausage), Labskaus (meat and stew), and fried smelt.

Is Heraklion or Bremen Better for Nightlife?

The superb nightlife scene is relatively similar in Heraklion and Bremen.

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.

Bremen is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. There's a variety of evening activities including cocktail bars, trendy clubs, and fine dining restaurants. Head to the Viertel District for some of the most lively clubs.

Is Heraklion or Bremen Better for Beaches?

Heraklion is notable for the beach. However, Bremen is not a beach destination.

Heraklion is a very popular place to visit for its 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.

Bremen is not a beach destination.

Is Heraklion or Bremen Better for its Old Town?

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

The historic old town of Bremen is revered around the world. The old town is beautiful with its charming streets and beautiful buildings. There's a main market square which is filled with many landmarks and tourist sights.

Heraklion does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Heraklion or Bremen?

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

Bremen is well-known for its shopping. The city offers a mix of historic shopping areas and large shopping malls. Some of the biggest shopping malls include Karstadt Bremen, Lloyd Passage, and Weserpark.

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 Bremen Better for Families?

Bremen 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, Bremen is very family-friendly. Kids will appreciate a Sunday visit to the Bremen Town Musicians play which performs popular fairy tales. If the season isn't right, there are many other kid-friendly activities around town including Bürgerpark, the puppet theater, or visiting the beach at Café Sand. Popular museums in town for kids include Universum and Bremer Geschichtenhaus.

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 Bremen Better for Couples?

Heraklion is notable for couples. Also, Bremen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

Heraklion is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Bremen is a nice destination for couples. From its beautiful old town to its many great restaurants and shopping streets, couples will enjoy a romantic trip away in this beautiful city.

Is Heraklion or Bremen Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Heraklion is notable for backpackers. Also, Bremen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Bremen. Backpackers love the old town and lively atmosphere. There are enough tourists around that you'll find a decent social scene and the atmosphere makes for a great visit.

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

Bremen 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.

Bremen has some very good public transit options. The city has both trams and buses that offer easy accessibility to most of the tourist areas.

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 Bremen a more walkable city?

Bremen 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 Bremen. It's one of the most walkable cities in Europe.

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 Bremen Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bremen or Heraklion?

How long in Heraklion or Bremen?

It's fun to spend time in either Heraklion or Bremen. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Bremen 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 Bremen.

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

Couples should spend more time in Heraklion than Bremen. 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 Bremen 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 Bremen?

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.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Bremen. 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 Bremen?

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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the colorful destination of Bremen. 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 Bremen?

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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historic city of Bremen. 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 Bremen?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the vibrant 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.

Bremen 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 Music Tours in Germany, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Germany.

When comparing the travel costs between Heraklion and Bremen, 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 Bremen Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Heraklion or Bremen?

Bremen has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Heraklion. When comparing the sizes of Heraklion and Bremen, 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 Bremen?

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 Bremen in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Heraklion as well as Bremen. Many visitors come to Heraklion in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Bremen for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Heraklion is a little warmer than Bremen. Typically, the summer temperatures in Heraklion in July average around 25°C (78°F), and Bremen averages at about 17°C (63°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Heraklion this time of the year. In the summer, Heraklion often gets more sunshine than Bremen. Heraklion gets 366 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bremen receives 191 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets less rain in July than Bremen. Heraklion gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Bremen receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heraklion or Bremen in the Autumn?

Both Bremen and Heraklion are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Heraklion for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Bremen because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Heraklion is generally much warmer than Bremen. Daily temperatures in Heraklion average around 20°C (68°F), and Bremen fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

Heraklion usually receives more sunshine than Bremen during autumn. Heraklion gets 199 hours of sunny skies, while Bremen receives 100 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Heraklion usually receives more rain than Bremen. Heraklion gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Bremen receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Heraklion or Bremen in the Winter?

Both Bremen and Heraklion during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Heraklion because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Bremen this time of year.

It's quite cold in Bremen in the winter. Heraklion is much warmer than Bremen in the winter. The daily temperature in Heraklion averages around 12°C (54°F) in January, and Bremen fluctuates around 1°C (33°F).

In the winter, Heraklion often gets more sunshine than Bremen. Heraklion gets 121 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bremen receives 41 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets more rain in January than Bremen. Heraklion gets 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Bremen receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heraklion or Bremen in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Heraklion and Bremen. The beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Heraklion this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Bremen for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Heraklion is much warmer than Bremen. Typically, the spring temperatures in Heraklion in April average around 16°C (61°F), and Bremen averages at about 8°C (46°F).

In Heraklion, it's very sunny this time of the year. Heraklion usually receives more sunshine than Bremen during spring. Heraklion gets 224 hours of sunny skies, while Bremen receives 153 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Heraklion usually receives less rain than Bremen. Heraklion gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Bremen receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Bremen and Heraklion