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

Should you visit Heraklion or Geneva?

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 Geneva 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. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for food, beaches, and shopping.

Geneva

Geneva is a international, professional, and classy city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Heraklion and Geneva: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Heraklion or Geneva?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Geneva than Heraklion. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Geneva is very popular for its historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Heraklion attracts visitors for its nightlife and beaches. Heraklion is more touristy than Geneva and is popular for its archeological sights, local Cretan restaurants, and its vibrant nightlife scene. Geneva is famous for its role as a global hub for the United Nations, the Red Cross, and the World Health Organization. It is also well known for The Geneva Water Fountain (The Jet d'Eau).

How is Heraklion different from Geneva?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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 Geneva. Famous sights and landmarks include the spectacular Water Jet, St Pierre Cathedral, and the Palais des Nations. There are also impressive art and history museums in the city.

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

Foodies will find both Heraklion and Geneva both to be very good destinations.

Heraklion has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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.

Dining out in Geneva is an experience not to be missed. The city has an amazing mix of traditional Swiss restaurants as well as diverse ethnic options. Traditional dishes include fondue and raclette, both of which involve the decadent Swiss cheese.

Is Heraklion or Geneva Better for Nightlife?

Heraklion is a great destination for nightlife. Also, Geneva is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

The people in Heraklion know how to have a good time. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Geneva has a few options to choose from. During the day the city is all business, but at night the professionals, interns, students, and NGO workers all come together to enjoy a drink at a bar or dance at one of the city's diverse clubs.

Is Heraklion or Geneva Better for Beaches?

Heraklion is a great destination for its beaches. However, Geneva is not a beach destination.

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.

Geneva is not a beach destination.

Is Heraklion or Geneva Better for its Old Town?

Geneva is a city with good options for its old town. However, Heraklion does not have a historic old town.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Geneva. The Old Town offers a number of charming streets where you can wander as well as historical buildings including St. Pierre Cathedral.

Heraklion does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Heraklion or Geneva?

Geneva 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, Geneva draws large crowds to its stores. Famous for its posh shops and luxury brands, this city is a popular shopping destination. From chic boutiques to deluxe toy stores, you'll find something for everyone. In particular, the city is known for its Swiss watches, Swiss Army knives, chocolate, and wine.

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 Geneva Better for Families?

Both Heraklion and Geneva are nice to visit with kids.

Heraklion is a family-friendly city. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Geneva. This diverse city has a number of chocolate shops, toy stores, and parks where kids can play. They'll be impressed by the Water Jet and there are few places where you can swim in the lake when the weather is warm.

Is Heraklion or Geneva Better for Couples?

Heraklion is a great destination for romance. Also, Geneva is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

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.

Geneva makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Wandering Old Town, sampling Swiss chocolate, and enjoying one of the many ethnic restaurants around town all make for great date activities. Fondue in a traditional restaurant is also a not to be missed experience.

Is Heraklion or Geneva Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Heraklion is a great destination for backpackers. However, Geneva is a city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Heraklion. The city is filled with budget-friendly hostels that often have a social atmosphere and a fun vibe.

Geneva is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. The city is often overlooked by backpackers as it is pretty expensive. Many hotels cater to the business traveler crowd, but there are a few hostels to choose from.

Is Heraklion or Geneva Better for Students?

Geneva 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 Geneva. The University of Geneva attracts many international students and the city is quite diverse. It feels like a mixing bowl of cultures, so students will feel very welcomed and comfortable here.

Heraklion is not popular with students.

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

Geneva 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 Geneva can get you around easily. The very comprehensive system includes trams, buses, and boats.

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 Geneva a more walkable city?

Heraklion and Geneva are very good 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.

Geneva is a very walkable destination. Most areas where visitors spend their time can be easily explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Geneva or Heraklion?

How long in Heraklion or Geneva?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Heraklion and Geneva. You can spend similar amounts of time exploring each one. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Couples should spend more time in Heraklion than Geneva. 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 Geneva 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 Geneva?

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.

People visit Geneva because there is so much to do. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Geneva has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Heraklion or Geneva?

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.

People visit Geneva because there is so much to do. 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 Geneva?

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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the classy city of Geneva. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the shopping. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Heraklion or Geneva?

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.

Geneva is a popular choice for travelers. 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, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Switzerland, and The Best Adventure Tours to Switzerland.

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

Which is Bigger, Heraklion or Geneva?

Geneva has a larger population, and is about 34% larger than the population of Heraklion. When comparing the sizes of Heraklion and Geneva, 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 Geneva?

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 Geneva in the Summer?

Both Geneva and Heraklion during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Heraklion this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Geneva for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Heraklion is generally a little warmer than Geneva. Daily temperatures in Heraklion average around 25°C (78°F), and Geneva fluctuates around 22°C (71°F).

In Geneva, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Heraklion. In the summer, Heraklion often gets more sunshine than Geneva. Heraklion gets 366 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Geneva receives 285 hours of full sun.

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

Should I visit Heraklion or Geneva in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Heraklion and Geneva. Many travelers come to Heraklion for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Furthermore, many visitors come to Geneva in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Heraklion is a little warmer than Geneva in the autumn. The daily temperature in Heraklion averages around 20°C (68°F) in October, and Geneva fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

Heraklion usually receives more sunshine than Geneva during autumn. Heraklion gets 199 hours of sunny skies, while Geneva receives 127 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Heraklion usually receives less rain than Geneva. Heraklion gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Geneva receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Heraklion or Geneva in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Heraklion as well as Geneva. Many visitors come to Heraklion in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Geneva for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Geneva can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Heraklion is much warmer than Geneva. Typically, the winter temperatures in Heraklion in January average around 12°C (54°F), and Geneva averages at about 4°C (39°F).

In the winter, Heraklion often gets more sunshine than Geneva. Heraklion gets 121 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Geneva receives 62 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets more rain in January than Geneva. Heraklion gets 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Geneva receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heraklion or Geneva in the Spring?

Both Geneva and Heraklion are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Heraklion for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Geneva because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Heraklion is generally a little warmer than Geneva. Daily temperatures in Heraklion average around 16°C (61°F), and Geneva fluctuates around 11°C (53°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Heraklion. Heraklion usually receives more sunshine than Geneva during spring. Heraklion gets 224 hours of sunny skies, while Geneva receives 174 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Heraklion usually receives less rain than Geneva. Heraklion gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Geneva receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Geneva and Heraklion