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

Should you visit Heraklion or Crete?

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 Crete 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 accessible, bustling, and historic city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include beaches, shopping, and museums.

Crete

Crete is a breathtaking, world-renowned, and scenic island. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Heraklion and Crete: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Heraklion or Crete?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Crete than Heraklion, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Crete is more popular for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Heraklion is known for its big city activities. Crete is more touristy than Heraklion and is popular for its breathtaking beaches, wild nightlife, and impressive archeological ruins. It is also home to the Palace of Knossos. Heraklion is popular for its archeological sights, local Cretan restaurants, and its vibrant nightlife scene.

How is Heraklion different from Crete?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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 Crete. The island is filled with archeological sites including the famous Palace of Knossos. While most people come to Crete for the natural beauty, in the cities you'll find some great museums and landmarks.

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

Crete 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 Crete have been singled out for their culinary prowess. Local cuisine is influenced by the island's fertile environment and excellent agriculture. You'll find olive oil in most dishes and seafood is a major staple. You'll also find a lot of stews and recipes that incorporate local ingredients.

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 Crete Better for Nightlife?

The excellent nightlife scene is relatively similar in Heraklion and Crete.

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.

Crete is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The island has excellent nightlife with clubs and bars found in Chania, Malia and Stalis to Elounda. The area is popular with British tourists and you'll find many bars open until 2 or 3 in the morning.

Is Heraklion or Crete Better for Resorts?

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

Crete is a world class resort vacation destination. The island has world class resorts that include pools and buffet meals. There are many beachfront resorts that range in style from romantic to family-friendly.

Heraklion is not a resort destination.

Is Heraklion or Crete Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

Crete is an extremely popular place to visit for scuba diving and snorkeling. The island is surrounded by clear waters that make for great snorkeling and diving. There's a number of beautiful fish and other sea life that you can see. Be on the lookout for crabs, sea stars, sponges, and even octopi.

Heraklion is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Heraklion or Crete Better for Beaches?

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

Crete is considered to be a world-class beach destination. There are some of the best beaches in the world on Crete. The areas around Chania have some of the island's best beaches, with one of the most beautiful being Balos. On the northern side of the island, be on the lookout for strong winds, particularly in August, which can make for larger waves. The island is large, so you'll find everything from secluded and quiet beaches to more active and lively places.

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 Crete Better for Hiking?

Crete 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 Crete. The island is filled with beautiful hikes that run along the shoreline or head inland through the island's beautiful landscapes. There are hikes for every ability level that offer spectacular views and an incredible experience.

Heraklion is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Heraklion or Crete?

Shoppers can find a variety of good stores in both Heraklion and Crete.

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.

Many visitors go to Crete to go shopping. The island has many markets that sell local foods and handicrafts. There are also shops and boutiques where you can buy anything from souvenirs to homemade artwork.

Is Heraklion or Crete Better for Families?

Crete 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.

Crete is an extremely popular island to visit for families. The island is large and filled with countless family-friendly activities. You can spend several days at the beach, explore Lake Kournas, visit a water park, or even take a pirate themed boat cruise. There's also the amusement park, ​​Labyrinth Park, aquariums and more.

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 Crete Better for Couples?

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

Crete is a great island for couples, as it has plenty to offer. It's stunning beaches, beautiful landscapes, world renowned restaurants, and amazing resorts make this a top honeymoon spot for international travelers and romance 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 Crete Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Heraklion and Crete are both excellent 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.

Crete is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. It's a large island with a great social scene and no shortage of hostels for backpackers to choose from.

Is Heraklion or Crete Better for Students?

Crete 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 Crete. It's affordability and great coastal activities is a big draw for students in the area.

Heraklion is not popular with students.

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

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

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

You'll find some public transit in Crete, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There's a decent bus system that travels around the island and offers access to many areas.

Is Heraklion or Crete a more walkable city?

Heraklion is well known for its ease of walking around. However, Crete is not particularly known for its walkability.

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.

Crete is generally not a very walkable city. The island is large and requires a vehicle to get around, but there are short strolls that let you enjoy the stunning landscapes.

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

Should I spend more time in Crete or Heraklion?

How long in Heraklion or Crete?

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

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

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

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

One day in Heraklion or Crete?

In Heraklion, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this historic 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 nightlife and food around the island of Crete. 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 Crete?

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 food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the scenic destination of Crete. 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 Crete?

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 scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the stunning island of Crete. 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 Crete?

You'll find food and shopping around the historic 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.

Crete 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 Crete, 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 3-Day Tours in Greece, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Greece.

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

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

Which has a larger population, Heraklion or Crete?

Crete has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Heraklion. When comparing the sizes of Heraklion and Crete, 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.