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

Should you visit Heraklion or Cannes?

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 Cannes 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.

Cannes

Cannes is a lavish, glitzy, and opulent resort city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the live music, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Heraklion and Cannes: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Heraklion or Cannes?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Cannes than Heraklion. While Heraklion is larger than Cannes, Cannes has more sights and attractions for tourists. Cannes is more popular for its food, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Heraklion is known for its museums and big city activities. Cannes is more touristy than Heraklion and is popular for its popularity with celebrities and its role as host for the international film festival. It is also home to Boulevard de la Croisette. Heraklion is popular for its archeological sights, local Cretan restaurants, and its vibrant nightlife scene.

How is Heraklion different from Cannes?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Heraklion is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Cannes does not have museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Heraklion specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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.

Cannes does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Cannes 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 Cannes have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The city is known for its fresh seafood and produce, local markets, and innovative chefs. There are also a number of traditional dishes that you should try in town including bouillabaisse, daube, and farcis niçois.

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 Cannes Better for Nightlife?

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

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.

Cannes is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The nightlife scene is all about the glamour and prestige that this city is known for. There are exclusive nightclubs and luxury cocktail bars where the goal is to see and be seen. Parties last late into the night and the glitz and glamour fill the streets.

Is Heraklion or Cannes Better for Music?

Cannes is a world-class destination for its live music scene. However, Heraklion is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Cannes. The city is famous for its music festivals, but there are also many bands, DJs, and performers who visit year round.

Heraklion is not a live music destination.

Is Heraklion or Cannes Better for Resorts?

Cannes is a world-class destination for its luxury resorts. However, Heraklion is not a resort destination.

Cannes is a world class resort vacation destination. The city is filled with luxury resorts and elegant hotels. Among the best are Hôtel Martinez, Hôtel Barrière Le Majestic, and Five Seas Hotel.

Heraklion is not a resort destination.

Is Heraklion or Cannes Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Cannes is a resort city with good options for its diving and snorkeling. However, Heraklion is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Cannes. You can arrange scuba diving and snorkeling trips from a few vendors in town. You might see sponges, sea slugs octopus, cuttlefish, lobsters and even stingrays.

Heraklion is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Heraklion or Cannes Better for Beaches?

Both Heraklion and Cannes are considered to be superb beach destinations.

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.

Many people visit Cannes for it's beautiful beaches. You can choose from both public and private beaches in the area. You'll find more amenities and convenience at the private beaches which are closer to La Croisette (the main promenade in town). These beaches also come with a price tag attached. The public beaches have a more relaxed and natural vibe but are a little less convenient to get to.

Is Heraklion or Cannes Better for its Old Town?

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

Cannes is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. Known as Le Suquet, the old town has many historic landmarks including the the Château de la Castre. There are also cobblestone streets and many great restaurants around town.

Heraklion does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Heraklion or Cannes?

Cannes 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, Cannes draws large crowds to its stores. With its many affluent visitors, the shopping scene in town is filled with luxury brands and posh boutiques. Perfume and porcelain are both popular things to buy in the area.

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 Cannes Better for Families?

Both Heraklion and Cannes 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 Cannes. Most people associate the city with the film festival and late night partying, but there are also kid-friendly restaurants, fun beach activities, and plenty of kid-friendly entertainment along La Croisette Boulevard. Make sure you check out the Grand Carousel and the many playgrounds around town.

Is Heraklion or Cannes Better for Couples?

Cannes is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Heraklion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Cannes is a great resort city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. It's grand hotels and luxury beach clubs make this a perfect romantic destination. There are world class restaurants, a vibrant nightlife scene, and many romantic spots around town that make for a memorable honeymoon or couple's getaway.

Couples visit Heraklion frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Is Heraklion or Cannes Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Heraklion is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Cannes is not a good resort city 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.

Cannes is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's more famous for it's celebrity jetsetters than young budget travelers, but there are still several hostels and budget accommodation options tucked away in town.

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

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

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

You'll find some public transit in Cannes, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses that travel around the city.

Is Heraklion or Cannes a more walkable city?

Heraklion and Cannes are superb 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.

Cannes is a very walkable destination. Many areas are easily explored on foot including the historic areas and the coastline.

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

Should I spend more time in Cannes or Heraklion?

How long in Heraklion or Cannes?

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

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

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

One day in Heraklion or Cannes?

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 nightlife and live music around the resort city of Cannes. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Cannes?

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 live music and food around the lavish destination of Cannes. 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 resort city has to offer. This resort city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Heraklion or Cannes?

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 food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the opulent resort city of Cannes. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Heraklion or Cannes?

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.

Cannes is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Bicycle Tours in France, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in France.

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

Which is Bigger, Heraklion or Cannes?

Heraklion has a larger population, and is about 96% larger than the population of Cannes. When comparing the sizes of Heraklion and Cannes, 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 Cannes?

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 Cannes in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Heraklion is a little warmer than Cannes. Typically, the summer temperatures in Heraklion in July average around 25°C (78°F), and Cannes averages at about 23°C (73°F).

Heraklion usually gets less rain in July than Cannes. Heraklion gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Cannes receives 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heraklion or Cannes in the Autumn?

Both Cannes 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 Cannes because of the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Heraklion is generally a little warmer than Cannes. Daily temperatures in Heraklion average around 20°C (68°F), and Cannes fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Cannes. In October, Heraklion usually receives less rain than Cannes. Heraklion gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Cannes receives 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Heraklion or Cannes in the Winter?

Both Cannes 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. Also, the shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Cannes this time of year.

Heraklion is a little warmer than Cannes in the winter. The daily temperature in Heraklion averages around 12°C (54°F) in January, and Cannes fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

Heraklion usually gets more rain in January than Cannes. Heraklion gets 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Cannes receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heraklion or Cannes in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Heraklion is a little warmer than Cannes. Typically, the spring temperatures in Heraklion in April average around 16°C (61°F), and Cannes averages at about 13°C (56°F).

In April, Heraklion usually receives less rain than Cannes. Heraklion gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Cannes receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Cannes and Heraklion