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

Should you visit Heraklion or Cadiz?

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 Cadiz 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 nightlife, food, and beaches.

Cadiz

Cadiz is a undiscovered, historic, and authentic port city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Heraklion and Cadiz: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Heraklion or Cadiz?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Heraklion. Although Heraklion and Cadiz are roughly the same size, Heraklion has more sights and attractions for tourists. Heraklion is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, beaches, and big city activities, while Cadiz attracts visitors for its historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty. Heraklion is more touristy than Cadiz and is popular for its archeological sights, local Cretan restaurants, and its vibrant nightlife scene. It is also well known for The Palace of Knossos. Cadiz is famous for its long-running maritime history and its charming old town.

How is Heraklion different from Cadiz?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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.

Cadiz offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. As the oldest city in Europe, there are countless historic sights and monuments to see. Some of the most interesting historic sights include Catedral Nueva, the Arcos de los Blancos, Torre Tavira, and Museo de Cádiz.

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

Heraklion is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Cadiz is not as famous, but is still a good port city 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.

Cadiz has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The restaurants are good, but if you don't have reservations you're out of luck. Many restaurants fill up during the peak summer months. If you do have reservations then you can expect fresh seafood including everything from oysters to prawns and even fresh caught fish like Bluefin tuna. Make sure you try the shrimp fritters and papas con choco (cuttlefish and potato stew). Tapas are a great way to sample a number of small local dishes. Also finish your meal off with some churros.

Is Heraklion or Cadiz Better for Nightlife?

Heraklion is a well-known place for nightlife. Also, Cadiz is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Cadiz. The nightlife scene is diverse, with both cultural activities and dance clubs to choose from. Whether you're looking for a late night party or a more mellow evening on the town, there are a number of options available.

Is Heraklion or Cadiz Better for Beaches?

Heraklion is a well-known place for its beaches. However, Cadiz is not a good port city for the beache.

The beaches at Heraklion attract visitors from all over. 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.

You can check out the beach in Cadiz. The beaches remain relatively undiscovered on the international level, so you won't have to deal with the crowds that you find at many Spanish beaches. They are urban beaches that make a good place to cool off, but aren't particularly scenic. The beaches are popular with nearby locals, and the atmosphere remains chill and relaxed. While there are many beaches to choose from outside of town, the closest in town beach is La Caleta. It's even been featured in a few Hollywood films such as Die Another Day.

Is Heraklion or Cadiz Better for its Old Town?

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

Cadiz is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The old town offers a patchwork network of cobblestone streets that intertwine plazas, churches, and historic buildings.

Heraklion does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Heraklion or Cadiz?

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

Cadiz is well-known for its shopping. There's a diverse mix of local boutiques, food markets, shopping centers, and street markets where you can pick up everything from local items to European fashion. If you happen to be in town on a weekend, keep in mind that many shops are only open in the morning on Saturdays and closed all day Sundays.

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 Cadiz Better for Families?

Both Heraklion and Cadiz 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 Cadiz. The city has beaches where everyone can splash around, as well as some parks and playgrounds where kids can get their energy out. Outside of town you'll find waterparks and other fun activities as well.

Is Heraklion or Cadiz Better for Couples?

Heraklion is a well-known place for romance. Also, Cadiz is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its romantic activities.

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.

Cadiz makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With its history and beaches, there are many romantic activities that couples can enjoy. Wander around old town and enjoy local cuisine. Visit the historic ruins and take a hike outside of the city.

Is Heraklion or Cadiz Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Heraklion is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Cadiz is not as famous, but is still a good port city 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Cadiz. One of the biggest draws to the city is there huge Carnival festival every February. This is a popular time to visit and backpackers will appreciate the lively atmosphere.

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

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

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

You'll find some public transit in Cadiz, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are five bus lines around town. The buses are comfortable and air conditioned.

Is Heraklion or Cadiz a more walkable city?

Heraklion and Cadiz are great 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.

Cadiz is a very walkable destination. It is a walkable city that is historic and compact enough to explore on foot. It can be a bit of a walk to get from the old town to the beach though.

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

Should I spend more time in Cadiz or Heraklion?

How long in Heraklion or Cadiz?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Heraklion or Cadiz to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Heraklion than Cadiz because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Heraklion, and 1-2 days is enough time in Cadiz.

Families should spend more time in Heraklion than Cadiz. 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 Heraklion than Cadiz. 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 Cadiz 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 Cadiz?

In Heraklion, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this bustling destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

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

A weekend in Heraklion or Cadiz?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Heraklion. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historic destination of Cadiz. 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 Cadiz?

Heraklion is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Heraklion. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the authentic port city of Cadiz. 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 Cadiz?

You'll find food and shopping around the vibrant destination of Heraklion. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Cadiz 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 Contiki Tours to Spain, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Spain.

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

Which is Bigger, Heraklion or Cadiz?

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

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 Cadiz in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Heraklion as well as Cadiz. The summer months attract visitors to Heraklion because of the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Cadiz this time of year.

In July, Heraklion is generally around the same temperature as Cadiz. Daily temperatures in Heraklion average around 25°C (78°F), and Cadiz fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cadiz. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Heraklion this time of the year. In the summer, Heraklion often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Cadiz. Heraklion gets 366 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cadiz receives 356 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets more rain in July than Cadiz. Heraklion gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Cadiz receives 0 mm (0 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heraklion or Cadiz in the Autumn?

Both Cadiz and Heraklion are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Heraklion this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Cadiz for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Heraklion is around the same temperature as Cadiz in the autumn. The daily temperature in Heraklion averages around 20°C (68°F) in October, and Cadiz fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

It's quite sunny in Cadiz. Heraklion usually receives less sunshine than Cadiz during autumn. Heraklion gets 199 hours of sunny skies, while Cadiz receives 235 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Heraklion usually receives around the same amount of rain as Cadiz. Heraklion gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Cadiz receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Heraklion or Cadiz in the Winter?

Both Cadiz and Heraklion during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Heraklion for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Cadiz in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Heraklion is around the same temperature as Cadiz. Typically, the winter temperatures in Heraklion in January average around 12°C (54°F), and Cadiz averages at about 13°C (55°F).

In the winter, Heraklion often gets less sunshine than Cadiz. Heraklion gets 121 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cadiz receives 174 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets more rain in January than Cadiz. Heraklion gets 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Cadiz receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heraklion or Cadiz in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Heraklion and Cadiz. Many visitors come to Heraklion in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Cadiz for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Heraklion is generally around the same temperature as Cadiz. Daily temperatures in Heraklion average around 16°C (61°F), and Cadiz fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cadiz this time of the year. In Heraklion, it's very sunny this time of the year. Heraklion usually receives less sunshine than Cadiz during spring. Heraklion gets 224 hours of sunny skies, while Cadiz receives 253 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Heraklion usually receives less rain than Cadiz. Heraklion gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Cadiz receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Cadiz and Heraklion