A Travel Price Comparison for Greece Heraklion vs. Corfu for Food, Beaches, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Heraklion or Corfu?

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 Corfu 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 bustling, historic, and vibrant city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food. See Heraklion travel costs.

Corfu

Corfu is a stunning, natural, and breathtaking island. Corfu is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Corfu travel costs.

Heraklion and Corfu: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Heraklion or Corfu?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Heraklion than Corfu, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Heraklion is better known for its museums and attractions and big city activities, while Corfu is more popular for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, 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. Corfu is well known for its charming villages, gorgeous beaches, and pristine landscape.

How is Heraklion different from Corfu?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Heraklion
Corfu

Heraklion is a great city for its historical sights. However, Corfu does not have 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.

Corfu does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Heraklion
Corfu

Corfu 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 Corfu have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The island's local dishes are heavily influenced by the surrounding areas. You'll find similarities to Greek and Venetian dishes as well France and Mediterranean flavors. Common ingredients include wine, garlic, cloves, cinnamon, and allspice and several traditional dishes that you should try include pastitsado (red wine stew), sofrito (garlic seasoned beef), and veal fricando (roasted veal).

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 Corfu Better for Nightlife?

Heraklion
Corfu

The high quality nightlife scene is relatively similar in Heraklion and Corfu.

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.

Corfu is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. It's a large island that attracts a number of students, so you can expect a party during the summer months. The most popular areas for nightlife are Kavos, Ipsos, Kontokali, and Sidari. You'll also find clubs in many of the resorts and there are often all night parties even during the off seasons.

Is Heraklion or Corfu Better for Resorts?

Heraklion
Corfu

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

Corfu is a world class resort vacation destination. The diversity of resorts, from family-friendly to romantic or all-inclusive, means there really is something for everyone. There are also a number of villages so you can find a location that perfectly lines up with your needs.

Heraklion is not a resort destination.


Is Heraklion or Corfu Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Heraklion
Corfu

Corfu is a very popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Heraklion is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Corfu is an extremely popular place to visit for scuba diving and snorkeling. The island is large enough that it has a number of spots to choose from. One of the most beautiful is Afionas, in Port Timone. It's only accessible by boat or a 45 minute hike. Paleokastritsa is a more accessible snorkeling and dive area with facilities and luxury villas where you can stay. For scuba diving, you can also head to Agni, but the busy boat traffic means it's not the best place for snorkeling.

Heraklion is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Heraklion or Corfu Better for Beaches?

Heraklion
Corfu

Corfu is a world-class destination for the beach. Also, Heraklion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for the beach.

Corfu is considered to be a world-class beach destination. The island is known for its stunning beaches which offer a diversity of settings ranging from family-friendly to natural or party-focused. The most famous beach resort area is Paleokastritsa but other nice places include Pelekas, Agios Gordis, and Glyfada. On the western side of the island you'll find mostly long sandy beaches and on the eastern side you'll find more pebble beaches.

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.

Is Heraklion or Corfu Better for Hiking?

Heraklion
Corfu

Corfu is a world-class destination for its hiking trails. However, Heraklion is not a hiking destination.

Around Corfu visitors will find world-class hiking trails. The stunning natural beauty of the island means you'll find some of the most breathtaking hikes in the Greek Isles. From the lush green rolling hills to the striking blue waters, there are many places to soak up this island's idyllic setting. The island is also rich in plant life and you'll find more than 30 species of orchids here. Popular hiking trails include Vlacherna Trail (good for beginners and families), Mount Pantokrator Trail (the most challenging on the island), and Old Town Hiking Trail which takes you through the history of the area.

Heraklion is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Heraklion or Corfu?

Heraklion
Corfu

Corfu is a very popular place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Heraklion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Corfu is well-known for its shopping. You'll find most of the shops concentrated in Corfu Town. Popular items to purchase include leather goods, jewelry, ceramics, and items made from olive wood.

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 Corfu More Beautiful?

Heraklion
Corfu

Corfu is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Heraklion is not a destination known for its beauty.

Corfu is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. The island is known for its natural beauty. There are idyllic rolling green hills on the southern side and dramatic limestone rocks towards the north.

Heraklion is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Heraklion or Corfu Better for Families?

Heraklion
Corfu

Corfu 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.

Corfu is an extremely popular island to visit for families. Because it is so beautiful with amazing beaches, it makes an ideal destination for kids and adults. There are many places where kids can swim as well as a number of great activities for everyone. The whole family will enjoy glass bottom boat rides, horseback riding, and even a visit to the popular Hydropolis Waterpark. There are also a huge number of kid-friendly resorts around the island.

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 Corfu Better for Couples?

Heraklion
Corfu

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

Corfu is a great island for couples, as it has plenty to offer. It's idyllic natural setting and stunning beaches make this a truly romantic island. It's a favorite honeymoon destination for newlyweds from around the world. There are luxury hotels and resorts that have spas, pools, and fine dining options. Whether you're looking for a place to relax or a more adventurous experience, you'll find it all here.

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 Corfu Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Heraklion
Corfu

Heraklion and Corfu 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.

Corfu is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. The island is a favorite, particularly during the crowded summer months. There are a number of hostels where backpackers can stay and an active nightlife if that's your style. There are also quiet and more peaceful settings if you want to escape the crowds.

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

Heraklion
Corfu

Corfu is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Heraklion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Corfu has some very good public transit options. There's a decent public bus system on the island. The blue buses stay near Corfu Town while the green buses go further around the island.

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 Corfu a more walkable city?

Heraklion
Corfu

Heraklion and Corfu 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.

Corfu is a very walkable destination. It's easy to walk around Corfu Town, and if you plan to spend most of your time at the beach there's really no need for a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Corfu or Heraklion?

How long in Heraklion or Corfu?

Both Heraklion and Corfu have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Corfu than in Heraklion. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Heraklion, and 5-7 days is enough time in Corfu.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Corfu 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 Corfu.


  • How many days in Heraklion or Corfu? Ideal Length of Stay
    Heraklion 1-3 
    Corfu 5-7

One day in Heraklion or Corfu?

In Heraklion, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this vibrant destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the island of Corfu. 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 Corfu?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Heraklion. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the stunning destination of Corfu. 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 island offers a variety of activities to choose from.


Five days in Heraklion or Corfu?

Heraklion is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Heraklion. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

You'll find nightlife and food around the stunning island of Corfu. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this island makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer.

A week in Heraklion or Corfu?

You'll find food and shopping around the bustling destination of Heraklion. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Corfu 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 Corfu, 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 G Adventures Tours to Greece, The Best 3-Day Tours from Athens, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Athens, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Athens.


Which place is cheaper, Corfu or Heraklion?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

The average daily cost (per person) in Heraklion is €158, while the average daily cost in Corfu is €135. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Heraklion and Corfu in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Heraklion 81
    Corfu 49
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Heraklion 162
    Corfu 98
Compare Hotels in Heraklion and Corfu

Looking for a hotel in Heraklion or Corfu? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Heraklion


Hotels in Corfu


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Heraklion Hotel Prices and Corfu Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Heraklion 31
    Corfu 55

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Heraklion

Also for Heraklion, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • From Private Helicopter Transfer to Greek Islands: $4,087
  • Heraklion Airport & Port Transfer to / from Chania City: $272
  • Knossos palace & the Archaeological museum of Heraklion (with Transfer): $259
  • Transfer from Corfu Airport or Port to Lefkimi,up to 16 customers: $256
  • Transfer Heraklion Airport to IERAPETRA area up to 7 customers: $187
  • Private transfer from Heraklion airport to Chania: $177
  • Heraklion Airport & Port Transfer to / from Rethymno: $174
  • Luxury Yacht Escape from Ierapetra with Transfer & Meals Included: $166
  • Semi Private Wine and Olive Oil tour (Transfer & Lunch Incl.): $165
  • Transfer Heraklion Airport to RETHIMNO CITY area up to 7 : $159
  • Transfer Heraklion Airport to AGIA GALINI area up to 7 customers: $159
  • Beginner's SSI Intro dive w/2 Dives & transfer: $155

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Corfu

Also for Corfu, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Transfer service in Corfu : $22
  • Transfer service from Corfu to Meteora: $276
  • Transfer from Corfu Airport or Port to Sidari, up to 7 customers: $202
  • Transfer from Corfu Airport or Port to Sidari, up to 16 customers: $248
  • Transfer from Corfu Airport or Port to Roda, up to 7 customers: $202
  • Transfer from Corfu Airport or Port to Perama, up to 16 customers: $135
  • Transfer from Corfu Airport or Port to Nissaki, up to 7 customers: $158
  • Transfer from Corfu Airport or Port to Moraitika, up to 7 customers: $152
  • Transfer from Corfu Airport or Port to Moraitika, up to 16 customers: $152
  • Transfer from Corfu Airport or Port to Messonghi, up to 7 customers: $158
  • Transfer from Corfu Airport or Port to Messonghi, up to 16 customers: $168
  • Transfer from Corfu Airport or Port to Lefkimi,up to 7 customers: $219

Is it cheaper to fly into Heraklion or Corfu?

Prices for flights to both Corfu and Heraklion change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Heraklion 52
    Corfu 53

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Heraklion

For Heraklion, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Crete : Cooking Lessons In Lasithi Plateau: $41
  • Hersonissos: Alar Spectacular Dinner Show: $43
  • Olive Oil Festival in Cretan Farm with Traditional Dinner: $61
  • Amazing Sunset Safari Route with Dinner: $92
  • Alar Spectacular Dinner Show with transfer: $92
  • Cretan Cooking Class at Archanes Village with transfer & Lunch: $98
  • Food tour tasting walking tour: $125
  • E-bike Food Tour Tasting in Heraklion : $127
  • Sunset Catamaran Tour to Dia, Dinner, & Drinks: $136
  • Heraklion Area: Cooking lessons with Dinner and Wine Tasting: $196
  • Knossos Visit, Cooking Class & Cretan Lunch (Transfer Included): $210
  • Cretan Flavors - Cooking Lessons and Wine Tasting - Small Group : $215

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Corfu

For Corfu, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Private Traditional Albanian Lakror Cooking Class in Ksamil: $76
  • Cooking Classes and olive oil tasting.The real taste of Greece!: $99

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Heraklion 38
    Corfu 15

Tours and Activities in Heraklion

For Heraklion, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 4x4 Safari tour Southern Crete Tripitis Gorge: $109
  • Ηeraklion Walking Tour with Archaeological Museum: $84
  • 3 Hour Fishing and Swimming Boat Experience in Schisma Eloundas: $133
  • 4-Hour Giouchtas Trekking Hiking Experience from Heraklion: $91
  • 4x4 self drive adventure_Cretan mainland: $88
  • 5Hour Safari Tour in Crete(Heraklion)with Quad,ATV Jeep,Buggy, Monster and Lunch: $94
  • Adventure Jeep Safari Amazing sunset : $86
  • All Year Tour to Knossos Palace & Heraklion: $628
  • All-Day Knossos Palace Tour & Olive Mill Visit: $707
  • Aquaplus Admission Ticket: $35
  • Archaeological Museum of Guided Walking Tour: $87
  • Buggy Safari Tours In Crete Heraklion: $489

Tours and Activities in Corfu

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Corfu.

  • Corfu City Highlights tour and old Town visit: $39
  • 2024 Top Rated Private Custom Corfu Tour: $166
  • 2024 Top-Rated Private Custom Corfu Tour: $326
  • 4-hours Small Group Tour - Palaiokastritsa & Corfu Town: $133
  • 8-day/7-night Corfu cruise 2025: $738
  • A Cultural tour in the Historical centrer of Corfu Old Town: $217
  • ATV Quad Guided Sightseeing/ Exploring Tour@The Pink Palace Corfu: $76
  • Above & Beyond Palaiokastritsa Corfu Vespa Scooter Tour: $127
  • Achilleion Palace, Kanoni & Corfu Old Town Private Tour: $379
  • Achillion Palace and Corfu town, Half day private tour: $166
  • Albania Cruise from Corfu : $49
  • Albanian Adventure Day Trip from Corfu: $41

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Heraklion 26
    Corfu 8.57

Sample the Local Flavors in Heraklion

Also in Heraklion, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Ecobike Tour with Wine Tasting: $92
  • Wine Tasting E-Bike Tour: $97
  • Jeep Safari Wine Tour and South sea swimming: $98
  • Walking city tour & Wine tasting: $103
  • Private Tour-Knossos Palace Zeus Cave Olive Mill&Wine Tasting : $116
  • Small Group Olive Oil and Wine Tour with Light Lunch: $138
  • Wine Tasting-Olive Oil Factory-Old Traditional Villages .: $141
  • Semi Private Heraklion Valley Wine Tour with Lunch: $162
  • E-bike-Full Day- Olive oil Factory & Wine Tasting: $163
  • Private Wine Tour Olive Oil Tasting and Pottery from Heraklion: $190
  • Full Day Private Crete Wine Tour Experience from Heraklion : $192
  • E-bike-Olive oil tasting & Wine tasting-old villages: $204

Sample the Local Flavors in Corfu

Also in Corfu, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Private Shore Excursion: Corfu's Highlights & Wine Tasting: $467


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

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


Which is Bigger, Heraklion or Corfu?

Heraklion has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Corfu. When comparing the sizes of Heraklion and Corfu, 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 Corfu?

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 Corfu in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Heraklion and Corfu. Most visitors come to Heraklion for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Corfu because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

Heraklion is around the same temperature as Corfu in the summer. The daily temperature in Heraklion averages around 25°C (78°F) in July, and Corfu fluctuates around 25°C (76°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Corfu this time of the year. In Heraklion, it's very sunny this time of the year. Heraklion usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Corfu during summer. Heraklion gets 366 hours of sunny skies, while Corfu receives 358 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Heraklion usually receives less rain than Corfu. Heraklion gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Corfu receives 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Heraklion 25°C (78°F) 
    Corfu 25°C (76°F)

Should I visit Heraklion or Corfu in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Heraklion as well as Corfu. The autumn months attract visitors to Heraklion because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Additionally, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Corfu this time of year.

In the autumn, Heraklion is around the same temperature as Corfu. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Heraklion in October average around 20°C (68°F), and Corfu averages at about 18°C (65°F).

In the autumn, Heraklion often gets more sunshine than Corfu. Heraklion gets 199 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Corfu receives 178 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Corfu. Heraklion usually gets less rain in October than Corfu. Heraklion gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Corfu receives 148 mm (5.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Heraklion 20°C (68°F) 
    Corfu 18°C (65°F)

Should I visit Heraklion or Corfu in the Winter?

Both Corfu and Heraklion are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Heraklion this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Corfu for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

In January, Heraklion is generally a little warmer than Corfu. Daily temperatures in Heraklion average around 12°C (54°F), and Corfu fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

Heraklion usually receives more sunshine than Corfu during winter. Heraklion gets 121 hours of sunny skies, while Corfu receives 112 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Corfu. In January, Heraklion usually receives less rain than Corfu. Heraklion gets 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Corfu receives 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Heraklion 12°C (54°F) 
    Corfu 10°C (49°F)

Should I visit Heraklion or Corfu in the Spring?

Both Corfu and Heraklion during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Heraklion for the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Corfu in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Heraklion is a little warmer than Corfu in the spring. The daily temperature in Heraklion averages around 16°C (61°F) in April, and Corfu fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

It's quite sunny in Heraklion. In the spring, Heraklion often gets more sunshine than Corfu. Heraklion gets 224 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Corfu receives 195 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets less rain in April than Corfu. Heraklion gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Corfu receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Heraklion 16°C (61°F) 
    Corfu 14°C (58°F)

Typical Weather for Corfu and Heraklion

Heraklion Corfu
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 12°C (54°F) 92 mm (3.6 in) 10°C (49°F) 132 mm (5.2 in)
Feb 12°C (54°F) 77 mm (3 in) 10°C (50°F) 136 mm (5.4 in)
Mar 14°C (56°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 12°C (53°F) 98 mm (3.9 in)
Apr 16°C (61°F) 30 mm (1.2 in) 14°C (58°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
May 19°C (67°F) 15 mm (0.6 in) 18°C (65°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Jun 23°C (74°F) 3 mm (0.1 in) 22°C (72°F) 14 mm (0.6 in)
Jul 25°C (78°F) 1 mm (0 in) 25°C (76°F) 7 mm (0.3 in)
Aug 25°C (77°F) 1 mm (0 in) 25°C (77°F) 18 mm (0.7 in)
Sep 23°C (73°F) 20 mm (0.8 in) 22°C (72°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Oct 20°C (68°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 18°C (65°F) 148 mm (5.8 in)
Nov 17°C (63°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 14°C (58°F) 181 mm (7.1 in)
Dec 14°C (58°F) 77 mm (3 in) 11°C (52°F) 180 mm (7.1 in)