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

Should you visit Heraklion or Carcassonne?

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 Carcassonne 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 vibrant, accessible, and bustling city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include food, beaches, and shopping.

Carcassonne

Carcassonne is a historical, fairytale, and medieval town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food and museums.

Heraklion and Carcassonne: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Heraklion or Carcassonne?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Heraklion. Although Heraklion and Carcassonne are popular destinations, Heraklion has more sights and attractions for tourists. Heraklion is very popular for its nightlife, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Carcassonne attracts visitors for its historical sights, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Heraklion is famous for its archeological sights, local Cretan restaurants, and its vibrant nightlife scene. It is also well known for The Palace of Knossos. Carcassonne is famous for its medieval history, walled fortifications, and well-known castle.

How is Heraklion different from Carcassonne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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 Carcassonne. The town is filled with medieval sights including the Château Comtal, the Basilica of Saints Nazarius and Celsus, and the Carcassonne Cathedral.

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

Foodies will find both Heraklion and Carcassonne 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 Carcassonne is an experience not to be missed. There are a number of local restaurants that serve regional specialties such as cassoulet. You can spend a few hours exploring the castle and then grab a delicious bite to eat.

Is Heraklion or Carcassonne Better for Nightlife?

Heraklion is a very popular place for nightlife. However, Carcassonne is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

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.

Carcassonne is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Heraklion or Carcassonne Better for Beaches?

Heraklion is a very popular place for its beaches. However, Carcassonne 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.

Carcassonne is not a beach destination.

Is Heraklion or Carcassonne Better for its Old Town?

Carcassonne is a town with good options for its old town. However, Heraklion does not have a historic old town.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Carcassonne. The medieval walled city is seeped in history and filled with atmosphere. Cars are not allowed in town.

Heraklion does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Heraklion or Carcassonne?

Heraklion is a good destination for shopping. However, Carcassonne is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Heraklion. There are a number of unique shops around town that sell everything from traditional pottery to homemade jewelry.

Carcassonne is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Heraklion or Carcassonne Better for Families?

Both Heraklion and Carcassonne 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 Carcassonne. Kids who love castles will enjoy wandering the maze of rooms and getting lost in the medieval atmosphere.

Is Heraklion or Carcassonne Better for Couples?

Heraklion is a very popular place for romance. Also, Carcassonne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

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.

Carcassonne makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's a medieval city with an impressive castle and walled fortifications. It's a uniquely European sight that is great for couples who enjoy history.

Is Heraklion or Carcassonne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Heraklion and Carcassonne 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.

Carcassonne is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. There are interesting hostels in the area including a converted 17th century convent.

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

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

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

You'll find some public transit in Carcassonne, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. You can reach the town by train from Dijon, Lyon, Marseille, Toulouse, or Bordeaux and many people visit the town as a day trip.

Is Heraklion or Carcassonne a more walkable city?

Carcassonne 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 Carcassonne. Cars aren't allowed in the medieval city so it's best to explore 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 Carcassonne Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Carcassonne or Heraklion?

How long in Heraklion or Carcassonne?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Heraklion or Carcassonne to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Heraklion than Carcassonne 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 Carcassonne.

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

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

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the bustling city of Heraklion. It's also a great beach destination, too. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find food and museums around the town of Carcassonne. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Carcassonne has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Heraklion or Carcassonne?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the historic destination of Heraklion. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

You'll find museums and food around the historical destination of Carcassonne. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Heraklion or Carcassonne?

The accessible city of Heraklion offers shopping and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the historical town of Carcassonne. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Heraklion or Carcassonne?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Heraklion. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people come for the beaches. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Carcassonne is a popular choice for travelers. 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 Hiking & Trekking Tours in France, and The Best Historical Tours in France.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Heraklion or Carcassonne?

Heraklion has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Carcassonne. When comparing the sizes of Heraklion and Carcassonne, 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 Carcassonne?

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 Carcassonne in the Summer?

Both Carcassonne and Heraklion are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. 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 Carcassonne for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Heraklion is generally around the same temperature as Carcassonne. Daily temperatures in Heraklion average around 25°C (78°F), and Carcassonne fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

It's quite sunny in Carcassonne. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Heraklion. Heraklion usually receives more sunshine than Carcassonne during summer. Heraklion gets 366 hours of sunny skies, while Carcassonne receives 275 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Heraklion usually receives less rain than Carcassonne. Heraklion gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Carcassonne receives 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Heraklion or Carcassonne in the Autumn?

Both Carcassonne and Heraklion during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Heraklion for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Carcassonne in the autumn for the small town atmosphere and the natural beauty of the area.

Heraklion is a little warmer than Carcassonne in the autumn. The daily temperature in Heraklion averages around 20°C (68°F) in October, and Carcassonne fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

In the autumn, Heraklion often gets more sunshine than Carcassonne. Heraklion gets 199 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Carcassonne receives 161 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets less rain in October than Carcassonne. Heraklion gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Carcassonne receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heraklion or Carcassonne in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Heraklion and Carcassonne. Many visitors come to Heraklion in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Carcassonne for the museums and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Heraklion is a little warmer than Carcassonne. Typically, the winter temperatures in Heraklion in January average around 12°C (54°F), and Carcassonne averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Heraklion usually receives more sunshine than Carcassonne during winter. Heraklion gets 121 hours of sunny skies, while Carcassonne receives 88 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Heraklion usually receives more rain than Carcassonne. Heraklion gets 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Carcassonne receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Heraklion or Carcassonne in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Heraklion as well as Carcassonne. Most visitors come to Heraklion for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Carcassonne because of the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In April, Heraklion is generally a little warmer than Carcassonne. Daily temperatures in Heraklion average around 16°C (61°F), and Carcassonne fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Heraklion this time of the year. In the spring, Heraklion often gets more sunshine than Carcassonne. Heraklion gets 224 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Carcassonne receives 178 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets less rain in April than Carcassonne. Heraklion gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Carcassonne receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Carcassonne and Heraklion