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

Should you visit Heraklion or Brussels?

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 Brussels 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 accessible, bustling, and historic city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for food, beaches, and shopping.

Brussels

Brussels is a multicultural, historic, and cosmopolitan city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Heraklion and Brussels: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Heraklion or Brussels?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Brussels than Heraklion. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Brussels is very popular for its historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Heraklion attracts visitors for its nightlife and beaches. Heraklion is more touristy than Brussels and is popular for its archeological sights, local Cretan restaurants, and its vibrant nightlife scene. Brussels is famous for its beautiful architecture, grand squares, diverse population, and delicious waffles. It is also well known for La Grand Place (Grote Markt).

La Grand Place (Grote Markt)

How is Heraklion different from Brussels?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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 Brussels. Popular sights include Saint-Michel Cathedral, Place Royale, and the Belgian Royal Museum of Fine Arts. The city is filled with impressive architecture, fascinating art museums, and innovative science and technology museums.

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

Foodies will find both Heraklion and Brussels 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 Brussels is an experience not to be missed. While the city is most known for its waffles and fries, the diversity of dishes and international restaurant selection continues to grow. There are Lebanese, Japanese, and Indian restaurants among others. Popular local dishes include moules-frites, waterzooi (a stew), and stoemp (made with mashed potatoes and vegetables).

Is Heraklion or Brussels Better for Nightlife?

Heraklion is well known for nightlife. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

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.

If you're looking for night time activities Brussels has a few options to choose from. The city's nightlife is quieter and more mellow than some other major cities around Europe. That doesn't mean there aren't plenty of dance clubs and bars where you can hang out. Keep your wits about you after the sun goes down as some areas are a bit rougher than others.

Is Heraklion or Brussels Better for Beaches?

Heraklion is well known for its beaches. However, Brussels 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.

Brussels is not a beach destination.

Is Heraklion or Brussels Better for its Old Town?

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

Brussels is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The old town in the city center is where you'll find the greatest concentration of historic sights. The area is surrounded by tree-lined boulevards and is easy to explore.

Heraklion does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Heraklion or Brussels?

Brussels is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Heraklion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Brussels draws large crowds to its stores. Although it's famous for diamonds, the city also has many shopping streets where you can find designer brands, vintage shops, and other unique boutiques that are fun to explore.

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 Brussels Better for Families?

Brussels 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, Brussels is very family-friendly. The city has a number of unique kid-friendly activities including a Mini-Europe Museum, a Comic Strip Museum, and Train World. The city is also a chocolate lover's dream with many factories and chocolate shops around 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 Brussels Better for Couples?

Both Heraklion and Brussels 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 Brussels frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. From beautiful buildings and museums to shopping, dining, and chocolate shops, there are plenty of romantic spots around town. There's a vibrant nightlife scene and many diverse restaurants that couples can enjoy exploring.

Is Heraklion or Brussels Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Heraklion and Brussels 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.

Brussels is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. The city has an active nightlife and a number of hostels that are great for backpackers, but do take note that some areas can get a bit rough at night, so make sure you understand where you are.

Is Heraklion or Brussels Better for Students?

Brussels 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 Brussels. The city has a number of universities that attract students from around the world. The multicultural setting is great for students of the world.

Heraklion is not popular with students.

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

Brussels is a world-class destination for times when you don't have a car. Also, Heraklion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

With a huge network, the transit system in Brussels can get you around easily. Transit options include train, tram, metro, bus, and waterbuses.

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 Brussels a more walkable city?

Heraklion and Brussels 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.

Brussels is a very walkable destination. If you stay in the historical area, it's easy to walk around and many boulevards are being converted to pedestrian areas.

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

Should I spend more time in Brussels or Heraklion?

How long in Heraklion or Brussels?

In either Heraklion or Brussels, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Brussels than Heraklion because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Heraklion, and 1-5 days is enough time in Brussels.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Brussels 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 Brussels.

One day in Heraklion or Brussels?

The city of Heraklion offers food and shopping. Most people come for the beaches. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

People visit Brussels because there is so much to do. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Brussels has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Heraklion or Brussels?

Heraklion is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Heraklion, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

People visit Brussels because there is so much to do. 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 Brussels?

Heraklion is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

People visit Brussels 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. Most people head to the area for the shopping. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Heraklion or Brussels?

Heraklion is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Brussels 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 comparing the travel costs between Heraklion and Brussels, 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 Brussels Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Heraklion or Brussels?

Brussels has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Heraklion. When comparing the sizes of Heraklion and Brussels, 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 Brussels?

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 Brussels in the Summer?

Both Brussels and Heraklion during the summer are popular places to visit. 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 Brussels for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Heraklion is generally a little warmer than Brussels. Daily temperatures in Heraklion average around 25°C (78°F), and Brussels fluctuates around 18°C (65°F).

It's quite sunny in Heraklion. In the summer, Heraklion often gets more sunshine than Brussels. Heraklion gets 366 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brussels receives 186 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets less rain in July than Brussels. Heraklion gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heraklion or Brussels in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Heraklion and Brussels. Many travelers come to Heraklion for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Brussels in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Heraklion is much warmer than Brussels in the autumn. The daily temperature in Heraklion averages around 20°C (68°F) in October, and Brussels fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Heraklion usually receives more sunshine than Brussels during autumn. Heraklion gets 199 hours of sunny skies, while Brussels receives 114 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Heraklion usually receives around the same amount of rain as Brussels. Heraklion gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Heraklion or Brussels in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Heraklion as well as Brussels. Many visitors come to Heraklion in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Brussels for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Brussels can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Heraklion is much warmer than Brussels. Typically, the winter temperatures in Heraklion in January average around 12°C (54°F), and Brussels averages at about 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Heraklion often gets more sunshine than Brussels. Heraklion gets 121 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brussels receives 49 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets more rain in January than Brussels. Heraklion gets 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heraklion or Brussels in the Spring?

Both Brussels and Heraklion are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Heraklion for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Brussels because of the activities around the city.

In April, Heraklion is generally much warmer than Brussels. Daily temperatures in Heraklion average around 16°C (61°F), and Brussels fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Heraklion. Heraklion usually receives more sunshine than Brussels during spring. Heraklion gets 224 hours of sunny skies, while Brussels receives 147 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Heraklion usually receives less rain than Brussels. Heraklion gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Brussels and Heraklion