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

Should you visit Heraklion or Dresden?

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 Dresden 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.

Dresden

Dresden is a cultural, park-filled, and friendly city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Heraklion and Dresden: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Heraklion or Dresden?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Heraklion than Dresden. While Dresden is larger than Heraklion, Heraklion has more sights and attractions for tourists. Heraklion is more popular for its museums, food, and beaches, while Dresden is known for its historical sights. Heraklion is popular for its archeological sights, local Cretan restaurants, and its vibrant nightlife scene. It is also home to The Palace of Knossos. Dresden is popular for its beautiful palaces, castles, and many landmarks (such as the Baroque Zwinger Palace, Semperoper Opera House and the Church of Our Lady).

How is Heraklion different from Dresden?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Heraklion is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Dresden is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Heraklion offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

Dresden is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. It's rich in culture and baroque architecture. Some of the main sights around town include Dresden Frauenkirche, the Dresden Royal Palace and Museums, the Zwinger and Old Masters Picture Gallery, and the Semper Opera.

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

Heraklion is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Dresden is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Dresden. The food features a number of Saxon specialties, which are typically hearty and heavy on the meat. If you have a sweet tooth, you'll also appreciate the many sweets that you can find around town. You should make sure you try a Fettbemme (open faced sandwich), Eierschecke (a cake), and Sächsische Kartoffelsuppe (potato soup) while you're in town.

Is Heraklion or Dresden Better for Nightlife?

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

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.

Dresden is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. Head to Neustadt for the highest concentration of bars and clubs. There's a diversity of trendy clubs and casual bars. Bar hopping is easy as most places are accessible by public transit.

Is Heraklion or Dresden Better for Beaches?

Heraklion is a great destination for the beach. However, Dresden is not a beach destination.

Heraklion is considered a top beach destination. 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.

Dresden is not a beach destination.

Is Heraklion or Dresden Better for its Old Town?

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

Dresden is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. Much of the city's old town has been rebuilt, but that's not to say it isn't beautiful. The main square and surrounding area are where you'll find the majority of the city's main sights.

Heraklion does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Heraklion or Dresden?

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

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 Dresden to go shopping. Kunsthofpassage Dresden is a network of streets where you'll find crafts, art, and other eclectic items for sale. Prager Strasse is a popular shopping street near old town and Seestrasse is where you'll find all of the trendy brands that are popular throughout Europe. The city also has many shopping malls.

Is Heraklion or Dresden Better for Families?

Heraklion is a popular place for its family-friendly activities. However, Dresden is a city with minimal options for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

For families, Dresden is not always the best place to visit. It doesn't have quite the abundance of activities for kids that you may find in other Germany cities, but that doesn't mean that kids will be bored. There's the Dresden Zoo, the Dresdner Parkeisenbahn (a small steam rail), and the Saxon Folk Art Museum. Families can also take a guided to of the Transparent Factory, which is owned by Volkswagon and provided information on the manufacturing of automobiles.

Is Heraklion or Dresden Better for Couples?

Heraklion is a great destination for couples. Also, Dresden is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

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.

Dresden is a nice destination for couples. Couples can explore the old town or walk through one of the city's many parks. The city has many cultural activities. In the new town you'll find many great bars and fascinating restaurants.

Is Heraklion or Dresden Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Heraklion is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Dresden is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Heraklion is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. The city is filled with budget-friendly hostels that often have a social atmosphere and a fun vibe.

Dresden is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are plenty of hostels to choose from and the city itself is not particularly expensive.

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

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

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

You'll find some public transit in Dresden, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The city has two major train stations as well as tram and bus lines around town.

Is Heraklion or Dresden a more walkable city?

Heraklion and Dresden are excellent 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.

Dresden is a very walkable destination. Particularly in the compact city center you'll find Dresden to be very walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Dresden or Heraklion?

How long in Heraklion or Dresden?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Heraklion and Dresden. In our opinion, Heraklion has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Heraklion than Dresden. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

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

One day in Heraklion or Dresden?

In Heraklion, you'll find nightlife and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Dresden. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Dresden has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Heraklion or Dresden?

In Heraklion, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Heraklion has to offer.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the cultural destination of Dresden. 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 Dresden?

Heraklion is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the architectural city of Dresden. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Heraklion or Dresden?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Heraklion. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Heraklion. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Dresden 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Berlin, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Berlin.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Heraklion or Dresden?

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

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Heraklion or Dresden in the Summer?

Both Dresden and Heraklion during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Heraklion for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Dresden in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Heraklion is a little warmer than Dresden. Typically, the summer temperatures in Heraklion in July average around 25°C (78°F), and Dresden averages at about 20°C (68°F).

Heraklion usually gets less rain in July than Dresden. Heraklion gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Dresden receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heraklion or Dresden in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Heraklion and Dresden. Many visitors come to Heraklion in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Furthermore, most visitors come to Dresden for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

In October, Heraklion is generally much warmer than Dresden. Daily temperatures in Heraklion average around 20°C (68°F), and Dresden fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In October, Heraklion usually receives more rain than Dresden. Heraklion gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Dresden receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Heraklion or Dresden in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Heraklion as well as Dresden. Most visitors come to Heraklion for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Dresden because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Dresden can be very cold. Heraklion is much warmer than Dresden in the winter. The daily temperature in Heraklion averages around 12°C (54°F) in January, and Dresden fluctuates around 1°C (33°F).

Heraklion usually gets more rain in January than Dresden. Heraklion gets 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Dresden receives 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heraklion or Dresden in the Spring?

Both Dresden and Heraklion are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Heraklion because of the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, the activities around the city are the main draw to Dresden this time of year.

In the spring, Heraklion is much warmer than Dresden. Typically, the spring temperatures in Heraklion in April average around 16°C (61°F), and Dresden averages at about 10°C (50°F).

In April, Heraklion usually receives less rain than Dresden. Heraklion gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Dresden receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Dresden and Heraklion