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

Should you visit Heraklion or Cefalu?

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 Cefalu 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. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and shopping.

Cefalu

Cefalu is a coastal, historic, and touristy fishing village. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the beaches, hiking, and food.

Heraklion and Cefalu: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Heraklion or Cefalu?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Heraklion than Cefalu, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Heraklion is better known for its museums, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Cefalu is more popular for its resorts, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Heraklion is well known for its archeological sights, local Cretan restaurants, and its vibrant nightlife scene. Also, Heraklion is famous for The Palace of Knossos. Cefalu is well known for its beautiful blue waters, relaxing atmosphere, and great local food.

How is Heraklion different from Cefalu?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Heraklion is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Cefalu is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around 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.

Cefalu offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most visitors spend their time on the beach or getting lost in the town's charm, but if you're looking for specific sights and museums you can check out the Cathedral, Museo Mandralisca, or Tempio di Diana.

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

Foodies will find both Heraklion and Cefalu 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 Cefalu is an experience not to be missed. Despite being a popular tourist hot spot, there are still charming restaurants around town that serve up local dishes made with local ingredients. Many seaside restaurants have a charming atmosphere and a unique Sicilian flare.

Is Heraklion or Cefalu Better for Nightlife?

Heraklion is a very popular place for nightlife and partying. However, Cefalu is lacking in good options for its evening party scene.

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.

Cefalu is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. The town is small and mellow without a huge party scene. There are some beach resorts with bars and clubs attached where you can enjoy a drink by the water.

Is Heraklion or Cefalu Better for Resorts?

Cefalu is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Heraklion is not a resort destination.

In Cefalu, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. There's a wide range of resorts to choose from including Club Med and even a nature hotel.

Heraklion is not a resort destination.

Is Heraklion or Cefalu Better for Beaches?

Both Heraklion and Cefalu are considered to be very good 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 Cefalu for it's beautiful beaches. The town has nice beaches with good swimming and kayaking opportunities. Some of the beaches can get quite crowded but the water is blue and the views are nice. Some of the best beaches near town include Cefalu Beach, Kalura Beach, and Lido Angeli Del Mare.

Is Heraklion or Cefalu Better for its Old Town?

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

Cefalu is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The town is charming and small, making it a nice place to explore.

Heraklion does not have a historic old town.

Is Heraklion or Cefalu Better for Hiking?

Cefalu is a fishing village with good options for its hiking trails. However, Heraklion is not a hiking destination.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Cefalu. There are a few walking trails outside of town but the most popular is hiking to the top of La Rocca. It's at least an hours walk to the top but from there you can enjoy one of the best views of the harbor.

Heraklion is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Heraklion or Cefalu?

Heraklion is a good destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Cefalu is lacking in good options for its shopping areas.

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.

Cefalu has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. It's a small, touristy town, so shopping isn't the main attraction. There are some interesting shops that are fun to pop into though.

Is Heraklion or Cefalu Better for Families?

Both Heraklion and Cefalu are notable 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 Cefalu. Kids will enjoy beach time or wandering down the promenade, Lungomare. You can swim or simply relax by the water. Another fun activity is to climb the nearby mountain of La Rocca. The kids might even spot a local animal.

Is Heraklion or Cefalu Better for Couples?

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

Cefalu is a great fishing village for couples, as it has plenty to offer. It's natural beauty and Italian atmosphere make this a perfect couples destination. There are water activities for the adventurous as well as beautiful beaches and great restaurants.

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 Cefalu Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Heraklion is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Cefalu is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Heraklion. The city is filled with budget-friendly hostels that often have a social atmosphere and a fun vibe.

Cefalu is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There's not a big backpacker vibe to the town, and you won't find tons of hostels, but there are affordable places that budget travelers can stay.

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

Heraklion is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Cefalu is lacking in good options for its public transit.

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

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Cefalu. Public transit is limited but taxis are a good alternative for getting out of town and into the surrounding areas.

Is Heraklion or Cefalu a more walkable city?

Heraklion and Cefalu 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.

Cefalu is a very walkable destination. The town is small enough to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Cefalu or Heraklion?

How long in Heraklion or Cefalu?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Heraklion and Cefalu. In our opinion, Heraklion has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Heraklion than Cefalu. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Heraklion than Cefalu 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 Cefalu?

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.

Even though Cefalu is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cefalu has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Heraklion or Cefalu?

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.

Cefalu is a small town where visitors enjoy the food. 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 fishing village has to offer. This fishing village offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Heraklion or Cefalu?

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.

Cefalu is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. 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 Cefalu?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the accessible 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.

Cefalu 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 Adventure Tours to Italy, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Italy.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Heraklion or Cefalu?

Heraklion has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Cefalu. When comparing the sizes of Heraklion and Cefalu, 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 Cefalu?

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 Cefalu in the Summer?

Both Cefalu 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 Cefalu for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Heraklion is around the same temperature as Cefalu in the summer. The daily temperature in Heraklion averages around 25°C (78°F) in July, and Cefalu fluctuates around 26°C (79°F).

It's quite sunny in Cefalu. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Heraklion. Heraklion usually receives more sunshine than Cefalu during summer. Heraklion gets 366 hours of sunny skies, while Cefalu receives 325 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Heraklion usually receives less rain than Cefalu. Heraklion gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Cefalu receives 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Heraklion or Cefalu in the Autumn?

Both Cefalu 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 Cefalu in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Heraklion is around the same temperature as Cefalu. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Heraklion in October average around 20°C (68°F), and Cefalu averages at about 19°C (67°F).

In the autumn, Heraklion often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Cefalu. Heraklion gets 199 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cefalu receives 189 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets less rain in October than Cefalu. Heraklion gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Cefalu receives 75 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heraklion or Cefalu in the Winter?

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

In January, Heraklion is generally a little warmer than Cefalu. Daily temperatures in Heraklion average around 12°C (54°F), and Cefalu fluctuates around 10°C (51°F).

Heraklion usually receives less sunshine than Cefalu during winter. Heraklion gets 121 hours of sunny skies, while Cefalu receives 153 hours of full sun in the winter.

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

Should I visit Heraklion or Cefalu in the Spring?

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

Heraklion is a little warmer than Cefalu in the spring. The daily temperature in Heraklion averages around 16°C (61°F) in April, and Cefalu fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cefalu. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Heraklion this time of the year. In the spring, Heraklion often gets more sunshine than Cefalu. Heraklion gets 224 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cefalu receives 204 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets less rain in April than Cefalu. Heraklion gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Cefalu receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Cefalu and Heraklion