A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Heraklion vs. Chamonix-Mont-Blanc for Couples, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Heraklion or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

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 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 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.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a spectacular, awe-inspiring, and epic mountain town. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the nightlife, food, and hiking.

Heraklion and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Heraklion or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc than Heraklion, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is better known for its skiing, resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Heraklion is more popular for its museums, beaches, shopping, and big city activities. Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is more touristy than Heraklion and is known for its world famous skiing, stunning natural beauty, and access to Mont Blanc. Also, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is famous for Mont Blanc. Heraklion is well known for its archeological sights, local Cretan restaurants, and its vibrant nightlife scene.

Mont Blanc

How is Heraklion different from Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Chamonix-Mont-Blanc and Heraklion. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Heraklion or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Skiing?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a world-class destination for skiing and snowboarding. However, Heraklion is not a skiing destination.

Visitors will find world class skiing in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc. It is one of the most famous and best ski areas in the world. There are 5 ski resorts in the area (Grands Montets, Les Houches, Le Tour/Balme, La Flegere and Le Brevent) and many options for expert skiers. You can take the Aiguille du Midi cable car from the middle of town to the top of the 3840 meter peak.

Heraklion is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Heraklion or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

Heraklion is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc does not have 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.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Heraklion or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Heraklion and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 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 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is an experience not to be missed. Regional food is wonderful and hearty, making for a great energy boost for all of your hiking or skiing. Dishes often include a lot of cream and cheese as well as local meats and potatoes. Local specialties include Crozets (buckwheat pasta), Fondue, and Galette des Rois (cake).

Is Heraklion or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Nightlife?

The very good nightlife scene is relatively similar in Heraklion and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc.

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.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The town offers a great après-ski scene with many places to grab a drink or listen to live music. It's a tourist area with many young and adventurous vacationers who are out to have a good time.

Is Heraklion or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Resorts?

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

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a world class resort vacation destination. The region has 5 ski resorts (Grands Montets, Les Houches, Le Tour/Balme, La Flegere and Le Brevent), making it an excellent ski destination.

Heraklion is not a resort destination.

Is Heraklion or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Beaches?

Heraklion is an excellent place to visit for the beache. However, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 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.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is not a beach destination.

Is Heraklion or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Hiking?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a world-class destination for its hiking trails. However, Heraklion is not a hiking destination.

Around Chamonix-Mont-Blanc visitors will find world-class hiking trails. Filled with panoramic views and breathtaking natural scenes, the hiking is among the best in the world. Some of the best hikes in the area include Plan de l'Aiguille - Montenvers Train Mer de Glace, Aiguilles Rouges Nature Reserve Hiking, and any of the "Glacier Views" Hikes.

Heraklion is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Heraklion or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

Heraklion is a good destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Heraklion or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Families?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 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, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is very family-friendly. The mountains are the perfect playground for families. Kids will love the gondolas, chairlifts, and kid-friendly hikes that take them over rocks and to spectacular viewpoints. This is the perfect addition to a European family vacation.

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 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Couples?

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

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a great mountain town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Nature-lovers, skiers, and outdoor enthusiasts will love a couples vacation to Chamonix. The setting is romantic and filled with adventures for thrill-seekers.

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 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Heraklion and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 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.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. You'll find a nice selection of hostels with affordable dorms and fun atmospheres.

Is Heraklion or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 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 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc can get you around easily. It's easy to explore the region by public transport. There are buses and trains available, most of which are free with a local transport card.

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 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc a more walkable city?

Heraklion and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 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.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a very walkable destination. It's generally walkable and there are plenty of walking trails outside of town.

For even more information, also check out Is Heraklion Worth Visiting? and Is Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Heraklion?

How long in Heraklion or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

Both Heraklion and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc than in Heraklion. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Heraklion, and 4-7 days is enough time in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc.

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

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

One day in Heraklion or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

In Heraklion, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

You'll find nightlife and food around the mountain town of Chamonix-Mont-Blanc. 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 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

Many people visit Heraklion for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. Most people come for the beaches. 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.

You'll find food and skiing around the epic destination of Chamonix-Mont-Blanc. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This mountain town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Heraklion or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

The destination of Heraklion offers shopping and museums. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

You'll find skiing and nightlife around the world-class mountain town of Chamonix-Mont-Blanc. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this mountain town makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this mountain town has to offer.

A week in Heraklion or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Heraklion. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. This city offers something for everyone. 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.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, one week is sufficent for most. 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 France, and The Best G Adventures Tours to France.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Heraklion and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, we can see that Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is more expensive. And not only is Heraklion much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Heraklion would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Heraklion 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 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc than you might in Heraklion.

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

Which is Bigger, Heraklion or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

Heraklion has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Chamonix-Mont-Blanc. When comparing the sizes of Heraklion and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, 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.