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

Should you visit Heraklion or Ghent?

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

Ghent

Ghent is a historic, under-rated, and youthful city. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Heraklion and Ghent: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Heraklion or Ghent?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Heraklion than Ghent. While Ghent is larger than Heraklion, Heraklion has more sights and attractions for tourists. Heraklion is very popular for its beaches and big city activities, while Ghent attracts visitors for its nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty. Heraklion is more touristy than Ghent and is popular for its archeological sights, local Cretan restaurants, and its vibrant nightlife scene. It is also well known for The Palace of Knossos. Ghent is famous for its medieval buildings, large squares, and weekly markets

How is Heraklion different from Ghent?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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 Ghent. The city has many different sights that are concentrated in a compact area. Make sure you check out the Cathedral of St. Bavo, The Fortress of Gravensteen, and The Belfry. The audio tour at Gravensteen really brings the history to life and makes for an enjoyable activity.

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

Foodies will find both Heraklion and Ghent 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 Ghent is an experience not to be missed. The food scene is diverse and international, but there are also many local dishes and flavors that you should try. Pas de Rouge is a local cheese and mastel is a local bread. Ganda ham is also a popular meat that is dried and salted. In additional to traditional restaurants, you'll find almost any international cuisine that you could want.

Is Heraklion or Ghent Better for Nightlife?

Ghent 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 Ghent just to party. With its young student population, you'll find plenty of lively bars and clubs around town. There are many places where you can party or dance into the early hours of the morning and some of the best places are around Oude Beestenmarkt, De Overpoort, and De Vlasmarkt. There's also the famous Ghent Festival every July.

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 Ghent Better for Beaches?

Heraklion is a well-known place for its beaches. However, Ghent 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.

Ghent is not a beach destination.

Is Heraklion or Ghent Better for its Old Town?

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

Ghent is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The medieval old town follows along the canal and offers great architecture and a unique atmosphere.

Heraklion does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Heraklion or Ghent?

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

Ghent is well-known for its shopping. The city has the largest pedestrian shopping area in Belgium, making it a great place to explore on foot. The city has several different shopping areas which each have their own style and personality. You'll find everything from major European brands to local boutiques and street markets.

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 Ghent Better for Families?

Both Heraklion and Ghent 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 Ghent. The city has a fun atmosphere with kid-friendly restaurants and a number of attractions that appeal to all ages. Kids and adults alike will enjoy exploring Gravensteen, which is the "Castle of Counts". You can also take a boat tour, rent bikes, or head to one of the town's playgrounds so the kids can burn off some energy.

Is Heraklion or Ghent Better for Couples?

Both Heraklion and Ghent are very good 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 Ghent frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It makes a great weekend getaway with a diverse restaurant scene, nice hotels, and plenty of historic attractions that you can explore.

Is Heraklion or Ghent Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Heraklion is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Ghent is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Ghent. The city has a number of hostels to choose from as well as a young vibe with a large student population. Many people overlook Ghent, but it feels more genuine than nearby Bruges, which attracts the larger tourist crowds.

Is Heraklion or Ghent Better for Students?

Ghent is a world-class destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Heraklion is not popular with students.

Ghent is a very popular city for students. The city is very popular with international students so it has a young and energetic vibe with plenty to do throughout the year.

Heraklion is not popular with students.

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

Ghent 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 Ghent can get you around easily. Buses and trams travel to most parts of the city and are convenient and efficient.

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 Ghent a more walkable city?

Heraklion and Ghent 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.

Ghent is a very walkable destination. The area's with the most tourist attractions are generally walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Ghent or Heraklion?

How long in Heraklion or Ghent?

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

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

One day in Heraklion or Ghent?

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

A weekend in Heraklion or Ghent?

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 museums and nightlife around the historic destination of Ghent. 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 Ghent?

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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the under-rated city of Ghent. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Most people head to the area for the nightlife. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Heraklion or Ghent?

You'll find food and shopping around the vibrant 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.

Ghent 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 Cultural Tours in Belgium, and The Best Luxury Tours to Belgium.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Heraklion or Ghent?

Ghent has a larger population, and is about 69% larger than the population of Heraklion. When comparing the sizes of Heraklion and Ghent, 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 Ghent?

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 Ghent in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Heraklion as well as Ghent. The beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Heraklion this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Ghent for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Heraklion is generally a little warmer than Ghent. Daily temperatures in Heraklion average around 25°C (78°F), and Ghent fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Ghent. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Heraklion this time of the year. In the summer, Heraklion often gets more sunshine than Ghent. Heraklion gets 366 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ghent receives 202 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets less rain in July than Ghent. Heraklion gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Ghent receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heraklion or Ghent in the Autumn?

Both Ghent and Heraklion are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Heraklion for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Ghent in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Heraklion is much warmer than Ghent in the autumn. The daily temperature in Heraklion averages around 20°C (68°F) in October, and Ghent fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Heraklion usually receives more sunshine than Ghent during autumn. Heraklion gets 199 hours of sunny skies, while Ghent receives 105 hours of full sun in the autumn.

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

Should I visit Heraklion or Ghent in the Winter?

Both Ghent and Heraklion during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Heraklion in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Ghent for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Ghent can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Heraklion is much warmer than Ghent. Typically, the winter temperatures in Heraklion in January average around 12°C (54°F), and Ghent averages at about 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Heraklion often gets more sunshine than Ghent. Heraklion gets 121 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ghent receives 47 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets more rain in January than Ghent. Heraklion gets 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Ghent receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heraklion or Ghent in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Heraklion and Ghent. Most visitors come to Heraklion for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Ghent because of the natural beauty.

In April, Heraklion is generally much warmer than Ghent. Daily temperatures in Heraklion average around 16°C (61°F), and Ghent fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In Heraklion, it's very sunny this time of the year. Heraklion usually receives more sunshine than Ghent during spring. Heraklion gets 224 hours of sunny skies, while Ghent receives 158 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Heraklion usually receives less rain than Ghent. Heraklion gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Ghent receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Ghent and Heraklion