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

Should you visit Heraklion or Bruges?

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 Bruges 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.

Bruges

Bruges is a charming, historic, and cultural city. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Heraklion and Bruges: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Heraklion or Bruges?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Heraklion. Although Heraklion and Bruges are about the same size, Heraklion has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Heraklion is more popular for its nightlife, beaches, and big city activities, while Bruges is known for its historical sights, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Bruges is more touristy than Heraklion and is known for its scenic old town, charming streets, local chocolate, and unique Christmas market. Heraklion is popular for its archeological sights, local Cretan restaurants, and its vibrant nightlife scene. It is also home to The Palace of Knossos.

How is Heraklion different from Bruges?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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 Bruges. The city is filled with charming hidden corners as well as notable landmarks. The main square is Bruges' Markt which is where you'll find the the Belfry Tower. Other must-see sights include the Historium, Groeninge Museum, the Town Hall, and Brugse Vrije Museum.

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

Foodies will find both Heraklion and Bruges both to be very good destinations.

Heraklion has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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.

Dining out in Bruges is an experience not to be missed. From its world class breweries to its famous chocolate shops, there is plenty to eat and drink around town. In the old town prices can be a bit high, but the dishes and atmosphere are great. Popular local dishes include Belgian waffles, fries, mussels, and beef stew.

Is Heraklion or Bruges Better for Nightlife?

Heraklion is great for its evening party scene. Also, Bruges is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife.

Many people head to Heraklion for the nightlife scene. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Bruges. It's famous for its beer and breweries, so you'll find a number of places to gather in the evening. There is a lack of nightclubs, so if dancing and partying hard is your style, then this may not be your place. The vibes are generally chill and relaxed at night. Most places are concentrated around old town or near Kuipersstraat or Zilverstraat.

Is Heraklion or Bruges Better for Beaches?

Heraklion is great for the beach. However, Bruges 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.

Bruges is not a beach destination.

Is Heraklion or Bruges Better for its Old Town?

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

The historic old town of Bruges is revered around the world. The old town is the main attraction, with its quaint cobblestone streets and beautiful brick architecture.

Heraklion does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Heraklion or Bruges?

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

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 Bruges to go shopping. The city offers plenty of shopping, whether you're looking for souvenirs, trendy European brands, or local items. It's more geared towards tourists than locals, and you want find the same diversity that you get in some of the larger nearby cities, but you'll find unique lace items and other local goods in the old town. The streets around Markt Square, Steenstraat, Geld Monstraat, and Jakobstraat are the main shopping areas.

Is Heraklion or Bruges Better for Families?

Both Heraklion and Bruges are good 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 Bruges. Kids will enjoy sampling the unique chocolate around town, eating their fill of waffles, and getting their energy out in the park or at a local playground. There are also canal boat tours and horse drawn carriage rides that are fun for the whole family.

Is Heraklion or Bruges Better for Couples?

Both Heraklion and Bruges are very good 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 Bruges frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. This romantic city has amazing restaurants, charming streets, and impressive architecture. Couples will enjoy exploring the canals by boat or taking a horse drawn carriage ride through the old town. There are also a number of cute bed and breakfasts where you can stay.

Is Heraklion or Bruges Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Heraklion and Bruges 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.

Bruges is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. There are a few good hostels around town. The city sees its share of tourists, but many arrive as part of tours or river boat cruises. If you stay in a hostel, you shouldn't have trouble meeting other young travelers though. There are also plenty of well known breweries where you can gather with friends.

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

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

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

You'll find some public transit in Bruges, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a bus system that connects the train station to the old town. Otherwise, the city is best explored on foot.

Is Heraklion or Bruges a more walkable city?

Bruges 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 Bruges. The train station is a short walk from the old town but the city is very walkable and 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 Bruges Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bruges or Heraklion?

How long in Heraklion or Bruges?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Heraklion and Bruges. You can spend similar amounts of time exploring each one. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

One day in Heraklion or Bruges?

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 quaint city of Bruges. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bruges has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Heraklion or Bruges?

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 charming destination of Bruges. 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 Bruges?

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 charming city of Bruges. 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 Bruges?

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.

Bruges 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 Cultural Tours in Belgium, and The Best Luxury Tours to Belgium.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Heraklion or Bruges?

Heraklion has a larger population, and is about 18% larger than the population of Bruges. When comparing the sizes of Heraklion and Bruges, 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 Bruges?

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 Bruges in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Heraklion and Bruges. 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 Bruges for the family-friendly experiences.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bruges this time of the year. In Heraklion, it's very sunny this time of the year. Heraklion usually receives more sunshine than Bruges during summer. Heraklion gets 366 hours of sunny skies, while Bruges receives 202 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Heraklion usually receives less rain than Bruges. Heraklion gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Bruges receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Heraklion or Bruges in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Heraklion as well as Bruges. Many travelers come to Heraklion for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Bruges in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Heraklion is generally much warmer than Bruges. Daily temperatures in Heraklion average around 20°C (68°F), and Bruges fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In the autumn, Heraklion often gets more sunshine than Bruges. Heraklion gets 199 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bruges receives 105 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets less rain in October than Bruges. Heraklion gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Bruges receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heraklion or Bruges in the Winter?

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

Bruges can be very cold during winter. Heraklion is much warmer than Bruges in the winter. The daily temperature in Heraklion averages around 12°C (54°F) in January, and Bruges fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

Heraklion usually receives more sunshine than Bruges during winter. Heraklion gets 121 hours of sunny skies, while Bruges receives 47 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Heraklion usually receives more rain than Bruges. Heraklion gets 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Bruges receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Heraklion or Bruges in the Spring?

Both Bruges 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 Bruges because of the natural beauty.

In the spring, Heraklion is much warmer than Bruges. Typically, the spring temperatures in Heraklion in April average around 16°C (61°F), and Bruges averages at about 8°C (47°F).

It's quite sunny in Heraklion. In the spring, Heraklion often gets more sunshine than Bruges. Heraklion gets 224 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bruges receives 158 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets less rain in April than Bruges. Heraklion gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Bruges receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Bruges and Heraklion