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

Should you visit Heraklion or Como?

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 Como 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. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Como

Como is a trendy, fun, and vibrant lake area. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the nightlife, food, and beaches.

Heraklion and Como: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Heraklion or Como?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Heraklion than Como, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Heraklion is more popular for its museums, nightlife, beaches, and big city activities, while Como is known for its food, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty. Como is more touristy than Heraklion and is known for its long-running history as a resort retreat for upscale travelers. Heraklion is popular for its archeological sights, local Cretan restaurants, and its vibrant nightlife scene. It is also home to The Palace of Knossos.

How is Heraklion different from Como?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Heraklion is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Como is lacking in options for its museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Heraklion can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

Como offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most people visit for the lakeside setting, but there's history throughout, with notable buildings including the Duomo, Museo Civico, and Basilica di Sant'Abbondio.

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

Como 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 Como have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The area has its own style of Italian food. Polenta is one of the most popular dishes and it's usually served with meat, fish, or cheese. You can also enjoy several different types of fish such as misultitt (dried fish), salmon trout, pike, bleak, lavarello, and perch.

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 Como Better for Nightlife?

Heraklion is an excellent place to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Como is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Heraklion has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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.

Como has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. It is more known for its glamour and sophistication than its raging party scene. There are fine dining restaurants where you can sip wine and enjoy the view. There are also theaters and jazz clubs that offer a relaxing vibe and a nice night out.

Is Heraklion or Como Better for Beaches?

Heraklion is an excellent place to visit for the beach. Also, Como is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Heraklion. 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Como. You'll find lakeside beaches where you can relax, sunbath, or swim. Many are affiliated with clubs and the atmosphere is often trendy and upscale. Don't expect a secluded and natural setting, but there are often nice restaurants nearby.

Is Heraklion or Como Better for Hiking?

Como is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Heraklion is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Como. There's a wide variety of hiking trails in the area that take you through the mountains or along the water's edge. One of the most popular trails is the Greenway del Lago di Como.

Heraklion is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Heraklion or Como?

Como 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, Como draws large crowds to its stores. The shopping is comparable to major cities, with everything from high end boutiques to outlets and local markets. There are clothing shops, jewelry stores, and places to pick up local souvenirs. Shopping is a favorite activity for many visitors to Lake Como.

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 Como Better for Families?

Como 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, Como is very family-friendly. It has parks and gardens to explore, as well as Vezio Castle and many nice walking trails. A highlight for many kids is a visit to Lake Como Adventure Park.

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 Como Better for Couples?

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

Como is a great lake area for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Its beautiful walks, charming towns, and surrounding natural setting make this a great honeymoon and couple's getaway destination. Dine on Italian cuisine as you sip wine and look out on the pristine waters of Lake Como.

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 Como Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Heraklion and Como are both high quality 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.

Como is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. It's a popular destination with all types of travelers, so you'll find a decent selection of hostels to choose from, and a number of other backpackers around to hang out with.

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

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

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

You'll find some public transit in Como, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses, ferries, and a funicular that travel to different towns around the lake.

Is Heraklion or Como a more walkable city?

Heraklion and Como are high quality 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.

Como is a very walkable destination. The entire area is very walkable and you'll enjoy many great views during your stroll.

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

Should I spend more time in Como or Heraklion?

How long in Heraklion or Como?

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

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

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

One day in Heraklion or Como?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Heraklion. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

You'll find food and shopping around the lake area of Como. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Como?

Heraklion is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It's also a great beach destination, too. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the vibrant destination of Como. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this lake area has to offer. This lake area offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Heraklion or Como?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the bustling destination of Heraklion. This city offers something for everyone. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the scenic lake area of Como. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Heraklion or Como?

The historic city of Heraklion offers nightlife and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

Como is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Rome, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Rome.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Heraklion and Como, we can see that Como 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 Como would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Como 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 Como Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Heraklion or Como?

Heraklion has a larger population, and is about 74% larger than the population of Como. When comparing the sizes of Heraklion and Como, 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 Como?

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 Como in the Summer?

Both Como and Heraklion are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Heraklion for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Como because of the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Heraklion is around the same temperature as Como. Typically, the summer temperatures in Heraklion in July average around 25°C (78°F), and Como averages at about 23°C (73°F).

It's quite sunny in Como. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Heraklion. Heraklion usually receives more sunshine than Como during summer. Heraklion gets 366 hours of sunny skies, while Como receives 250 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Heraklion usually receives less rain than Como. Heraklion gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Como receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Heraklion or Como in the Autumn?

Both Como and Heraklion during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Heraklion because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Furthermore, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Como this time of year.

In October, Heraklion is generally a little warmer than Como. Daily temperatures in Heraklion average around 20°C (68°F), and Como fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

In the autumn, Heraklion often gets more sunshine than Como. Heraklion gets 199 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Como receives 152 hours of full sun.

Como gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Heraklion usually gets less rain in October than Como. Heraklion gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Como receives 103 mm (4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heraklion or Como in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Heraklion and Como. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Heraklion this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Como for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Como. Heraklion is much warmer than Como in the winter. The daily temperature in Heraklion averages around 12°C (54°F) in January, and Como fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Heraklion usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Como during winter. Heraklion gets 121 hours of sunny skies, while Como receives 119 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Heraklion usually receives more rain than Como. Heraklion gets 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Como receives 68 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Heraklion or Como in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Heraklion as well as Como. Many travelers come to Heraklion for the beaches and the activities around the city. Additionally, many visitors come to Como in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Heraklion is a little warmer than Como. Typically, the spring temperatures in Heraklion in April average around 16°C (61°F), and Como averages at about 13°C (55°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 Como. Heraklion gets 224 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Como receives 176 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets less rain in April than Como. Heraklion gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Como receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Como and Heraklion