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

Should you visit Heraklion or Dublin?

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 Dublin 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. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the museums, nightlife, and food.

Dublin

Dublin is a welcoming, fun, and laid-back city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the nightlife, live music, and food.

Heraklion and Dublin: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Heraklion or Dublin?

You'll generally find more things to do in Dublin than Heraklion. Dublin is bigger than Heraklion, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Dublin is better known for its nightlife, music, historical sights, and shopping, while Heraklion is more popular for its food and beaches. Heraklion is well known for its archeological sights, local Cretan restaurants, and its vibrant nightlife scene. Dublin is well known for its friendly and social nightlife, its local pubs, and its role as the birthplace of Guinness. Also, Dublin is famous for The Guinness Storehouse.

How is Heraklion different from Dublin?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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 Dublin. There are a number of museums around town including the National Museum of Ireland, the Little Museum of Dublin, and the National Gallery of Ireland.

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

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

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Heraklion. 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.

Dublin is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Seafood has become popular around town, but you can also try traditional favorites like stew, pancakes, or coddle.

Is Heraklion or Dublin Better for Nightlife?

Dublin 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 Dublin just to party. Temple Bar is where you'll find the greatest concentration of pubs and nightlife. The city is among the friendliest and most welcoming, and this is seen even in the vibe around town at night.

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 Dublin Better for Music?

Dublin is a very popular place for its live music scene. However, Heraklion is not a live music destination.

It's worth checking out the music scene in Dublin while you're in town. The best places to hear live music around town are the back street pubs that feature local groups.

Heraklion is not a live music destination.

Is Heraklion or Dublin Better for Beaches?

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

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.

Dublin is not a beach destination.

Is Heraklion or Dublin Better for its Old Town?

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

Dublin is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. On the south side of the River Liffey are three different historic parts to the city. The Medieval Quarter is the oldest. To the east is Temple Bar, and further east is the Georgian Quarter.

Heraklion does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Heraklion or Dublin?

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

Dublin is well-known for its shopping. Head to Grafton Street to see a number of brand name and local shops. It's a pedestrian street that is fun to wander around.

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 Dublin Better for Families?

Dublin 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, Dublin is very family-friendly. Explore the waterways with the viking splash, learn about the vikings at the museum Dublina, or visit any of the other kid-friendly museums around town, or see a show at The Gaiety.

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 Dublin Better for Couples?

Both Heraklion and Dublin are high quality destinations for a couple's getaway.

Heraklion makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Couples visit Dublin frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It's laid-back vibe and countless pubs make it a fun weekend getaway for couples.

Is Heraklion or Dublin Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Heraklion and Dublin 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.

Dublin is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. There are a number of popular backpacker hostels around town. The pub scene is also popular with the young crowd.

Is Heraklion or Dublin Better for Students?

Dublin is a city with good options for its student-friendly activities. However, Heraklion is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Dublin. While student accommodation can be a bit expensive in town, the nightlife and social aspect of living in the city center makes it well worth it.

Heraklion is not popular with students.

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

Visitors will find notable public transit in both Heraklion and Dublin.

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

You'll find some public transit in Dublin, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a comprehensive bus system around town.

Is Heraklion or Dublin a more walkable city?

Dublin 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 Dublin. Because it is so compact and flat, it is easy to explore the city center on foot.

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 Dublin Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Dublin or Heraklion?

How long in Heraklion or Dublin?

In either Heraklion or Dublin, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Dublin 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 Dublin.

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

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

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

One day in Heraklion or Dublin?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Heraklion. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

You'll find nightlife and live music around the city of Dublin. 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 Dublin?

Heraklion is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

You'll find live music and food around the fun destination of Dublin. 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 Dublin?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Heraklion. Most people come for the beaches. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find food and shopping around the fun city of Dublin. 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. Most people head to the area for the nightlife. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Heraklion or Dublin?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historic destination of Heraklion. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Dublin 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 Walking Tours in Ireland, and The Best Luxury Tours to Ireland.

When comparing the travel costs between Heraklion and Dublin, we can see that Heraklion is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Heraklion or Dublin?

Dublin has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Heraklion. When comparing the sizes of Heraklion and Dublin, 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 Dublin?

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 Dublin in the Summer?

Both Dublin and Heraklion during the summer are popular places to visit. 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 Dublin because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Heraklion is much warmer than Dublin in the summer. The daily temperature in Heraklion averages around 25°C (78°F) in July, and Dublin fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

It's quite sunny in Heraklion. In the summer, Heraklion often gets more sunshine than Dublin. Heraklion gets 366 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dublin receives 166 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets less rain in July than Dublin. Heraklion gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Dublin receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heraklion or Dublin in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Heraklion and Dublin. The autumn months attract visitors to Heraklion because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Furthermore, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene are the main draw to Dublin this time of year.

In the autumn, Heraklion is much warmer than Dublin. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Heraklion in October average around 20°C (68°F), and Dublin averages at about 11°C (52°F).

Heraklion usually receives more sunshine than Dublin during autumn. Heraklion gets 199 hours of sunny skies, while Dublin receives 97 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Heraklion usually receives around the same amount of rain as Dublin. Heraklion gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Dublin receives 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Heraklion or Dublin in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Heraklion as well as Dublin. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Heraklion this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Dublin for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Heraklion is generally much warmer than Dublin. Daily temperatures in Heraklion average around 12°C (54°F), and Dublin fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

In the winter, Heraklion often gets more sunshine than Dublin. Heraklion gets 121 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dublin receives 56 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets more rain in January than Dublin. Heraklion gets 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Dublin receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heraklion or Dublin in the Spring?

Both Dublin and Heraklion are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Heraklion for the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Dublin in the spring for the activities around the city.

Heraklion is much warmer than Dublin in the spring. The daily temperature in Heraklion averages around 16°C (61°F) in April, and Dublin fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Heraklion. Heraklion usually receives more sunshine than Dublin during spring. Heraklion gets 224 hours of sunny skies, while Dublin receives 157 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Heraklion usually receives less rain than Dublin. Heraklion gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Dublin receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Dublin and Heraklion