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

Should you visit Heraklion or Copenhagen?

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 Copenhagen 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 nightlife, food, and beaches.

Copenhagen

Copenhagen is a happy, welcoming, and relaxed city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Heraklion and Copenhagen: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Heraklion or Copenhagen?

You'll generally find more things to do in Copenhagen than Heraklion. Copenhagen is bigger than Heraklion, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Copenhagen is better known for its food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Heraklion is more popular for its beaches. Heraklion is more touristy than Copenhagen and is known for its archeological sights, local Cretan restaurants, and its vibrant nightlife scene. Copenhagen is well known for its colorful buildings, beautiful canals, progressive policies, and happy population. Also, Copenhagen is famous for Tivoli Gardens.

How is Heraklion different from Copenhagen?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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 Copenhagen. There are many sights and landmarks around town including Tivoli Gardens, Christiansborg Palace, Nyhavn Harbor, and The Round Tower. Some of the most popular museums are the National Museum of Denmark and the National Gallery of Denmark.

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

Copenhagen 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 Copenhagen have been singled out for their culinary prowess. In recent years the celebrity food scene has put this city on the map. There are many Michelin star restaurants around town including the world famous Noma. But there's also a diversity of restaurants to choose from, ranging from elegant, award-winning options to cozy local eateries. Danish food includes a lot of pastries and sandwiches. Make sure you try a rød pølse, or local hot dog from one of the many stands around town.

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 Copenhagen Better for Nightlife?

Copenhagen is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Heraklion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

People head to Copenhagen just to party. The nightlife scene stays active until the early morning hours with many bars and clubs staying open until 5 or 6 in the morning. Some of the most popular areas for nightlife include Istedgade and EnghavePlads in Vesterbro, Sankt Hans Torv in Nørrebro and some areas around Frederiksberg.

Heraklion is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

Is Heraklion or Copenhagen Better for Beaches?

Heraklion is a very popular place for the beache. However, Copenhagen is not a beach destination.

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.

Copenhagen is not a beach destination.

Is Heraklion or Copenhagen Better for its Old Town?

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

Copenhagen is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. Indre By is the oldest part of the city and where you'll find most of the sights and attractions. This is where most visitors stay and you'll find many great restaurants and activities to enjoy.

Heraklion does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Heraklion or Copenhagen?

Copenhagen 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, Copenhagen draws large crowds to its stores. Design and style is notorious with Danish culture. You'll find many great local boutique or fashion design shops in town. Købmagergade is one of the busiest and most famous shopping streets in town, but you should also visit the street parallel to it, Pilestræde.

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 Copenhagen Better for Families?

Copenhagen is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Heraklion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Copenhagen is an extremely popular city to visit for families. The city almost feels like it was designed with kids in mind. There are countless playgrounds, beaches, and other kid-friendly places to explore. Also make sure you stop by Tivoli Gardens, which has rides and rollercoasters that everyone can enjoy. The city also has an aquarium, zoo, and even a deer park. The Little Mermaid statue may fascinate Disney lovers, and if you want to get out on the water there are boat tours through the canals.

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 Copenhagen Better for Couples?

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

Copenhagen is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. The city is filled with a positive energy that will rejuvenate any couple. You can hire a bike or hop on a boat to explore town, or simply wander through the cobblestone streets. There are many parks and gardens to explore and culture lovers will appreciate the many museums.

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 Copenhagen Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Heraklion and Copenhagen are both great 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.

Copenhagen is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. While the city is expensive, there are still plenty of free things to do like simply wandering the neighborhoods. The city has a relaxed and friendly vibe that will almost make you forget all of the money you're spending.

Is Heraklion or Copenhagen Better for Students?

Copenhagen is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Heraklion is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Copenhagen. The city has a reputation as the happiest in the world, and students are no exception. There are plenty of activities for students as well as a relaxed, yet productive, atmosphere. It's easy to explore the town on foot or by bike as well.

Heraklion is not popular with students.

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

Copenhagen 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 Copenhagen can get you around easily. There are metros, s-trains, waterbuses, and regular buses available.

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 Copenhagen a more walkable city?

Copenhagen 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 Copenhagen. It is compact enough to explore on foot, but there are also plenty of bikes available as well.

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 Copenhagen Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Copenhagen or Heraklion?

How long in Heraklion or Copenhagen?

In either Heraklion or Copenhagen, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Copenhagen than Heraklion because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Heraklion, and 2-5 days is enough time in Copenhagen.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Copenhagen than Heraklion 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 Copenhagen.

One day in Heraklion or Copenhagen?

With museums and nightlife around the bustling city of Heraklion, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Heraklion, one day is sufficent for most.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Copenhagen. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 Copenhagen?

With nightlife and food around the destination of Heraklion, there's plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the relaxed destination of Copenhagen. 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 city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Heraklion or Copenhagen?

Heraklion, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

You'll find nightlife and food around the laid-back city of Copenhagen. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Heraklion or Copenhagen?

Heraklion is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Copenhagen is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Denmark, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Denmark.

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

Which is Bigger, Heraklion or Copenhagen?

Copenhagen has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Heraklion. When comparing the sizes of Heraklion and Copenhagen, 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 Copenhagen?

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 Copenhagen in the Summer?

Both Copenhagen and Heraklion are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Heraklion because of the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Copenhagen this time of year.

Heraklion is a little warmer than Copenhagen in the summer. The daily temperature in Heraklion averages around 25°C (78°F) in July, and Copenhagen fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In July, Heraklion usually receives less rain than Copenhagen. Heraklion gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Copenhagen receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Heraklion or Copenhagen in the Autumn?

Both Copenhagen and Heraklion during the autumn are popular places to visit. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Heraklion this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Copenhagen for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Heraklion is much warmer than Copenhagen. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Heraklion in October average around 20°C (68°F), and Copenhagen averages at about 10°C (50°F).

Heraklion usually gets more rain in October than Copenhagen. Heraklion gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Copenhagen receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heraklion or Copenhagen in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Heraklion and Copenhagen. Many travelers come to Heraklion for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Copenhagen in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Copenhagen can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Heraklion is generally much warmer than Copenhagen. Daily temperatures in Heraklion average around 12°C (54°F), and Copenhagen fluctuates around 1°C (33°F).

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

Should I visit Heraklion or Copenhagen in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Heraklion as well as Copenhagen. Many visitors come to Heraklion in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Copenhagen for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

Heraklion is much warmer than Copenhagen in the spring. The daily temperature in Heraklion averages around 16°C (61°F) in April, and Copenhagen fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

Heraklion usually gets less rain in April than Copenhagen. Heraklion gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Copenhagen receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Copenhagen and Heraklion