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

Should you visit Heraklion or Graz?

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 Graz 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 bustling, historic, and vibrant city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the beaches, shopping, and museums.

Graz

Graz is a historical, beautiful, and medieval city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Heraklion and Graz: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Heraklion or Graz?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Heraklion than Graz. While Graz is larger than Heraklion, Heraklion has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Heraklion is better known for its beaches and big city activities, while Graz is more popular for its historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty. Heraklion is well known for its archeological sights, local Cretan restaurants, and its vibrant nightlife scene. Also, Heraklion is famous for The Palace of Knossos. Graz is well known for its many cultural activities, its impressive old town, and its beautiful Baroque architecture.

How is Heraklion different from Graz?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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 Graz. The old town is among the largest in Europe and it's filled with sights and museums. The Schlossberg and the Clock Tower are among the most iconic sights but other highlights include the GrazMuseum, the Mohren Apotheke's Theriak Museum, a Gothic Franciscan Church, and the Robert Stolz Museum.

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

Foodies will find both Heraklion and Graz both to be excellent 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 Graz is an experience not to be missed. There's a huge focus on sustainable dining in town, so you'll find many restaurants that use a farm to table approach. Local ingredients are heavily valued and it's fun to sample the many local flavors. Backhendl is a classic fried chicken dish that you must try.

Is Heraklion or Graz Better for Nightlife?

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

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.

Graz is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The large student population means that there's an active nightlife scene that is diverse and fun. There's a wide variety of bars and pubs with almost any music genre you could want. There are also dance clubs for those who are looking for a party.

Is Heraklion or Graz Better for Beaches?

Heraklion is great for the beache. However, Graz 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.

Graz is not a beach destination.

Is Heraklion or Graz Better for its Old Town?

Graz is a world-class destination for its old town. However, Heraklion does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Graz is revered around the world. The medieval city center is very well preserved and one of the largest in Europe. The city has a lot of hidden charm and quaint streets to explore.

Heraklion does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Heraklion or Graz?

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

Graz is well-known for its shopping. You'll find a lot of shopping around both Jakominiplatz and Hauptplatz Squares. There are also a number of shopping streets in town including Herrengasse which is filled with shops, restaurants, and more.

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 Graz Better for Families?

Graz 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, Graz is very family-friendly. Kids will love the fairytale train and there's also a 4D cinema that is fun for the whole family. In Schlossberg Hill, families should check out The Slide, which is the largest underground slide in the world. Other highlights include a Children's Museum, a Folklife Museum, and a Natural History Museum.

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 Graz Better for Couples?

Both Heraklion and Graz are excellent 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 Graz frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It's filled with culture, history, and amazing food. Couples will appreciate the romantic old town and the many world class sights around town.

Is Heraklion or Graz Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Heraklion is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Graz is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Heraklion. The city is filled with budget-friendly hostels that often have a social atmosphere and a fun vibe.

Graz is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are hostels and budget-friendly hotels around town that make this a nice town to explore as a backpacker.

Is Heraklion or Graz Better for Students?

Graz 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 Graz. It's long been an education center in Austria and students make up a significant portion of the population. It's also a chill city with a relaxed and student-friendly vibe.

Heraklion is not popular with students.

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

Graz is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Heraklion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Graz has some very good public transit options. There are buses and trams that travel around the town.

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 Graz a more walkable city?

Graz 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 Graz. You'll find everything you'd want to see in the old town, which is large, but still compact enough to explore 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 Graz Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Graz or Heraklion?

How long in Heraklion or Graz?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Heraklion and Graz. In our opinion, Graz has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Graz than Heraklion. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Heraklion, and 2-3 days is enough time in Graz.

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

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

One day in Heraklion or Graz?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Heraklion. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Graz. 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 Graz?

Heraklion is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It's also a great beach destination, too. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the beautiful destination of Graz. 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 Graz?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historic destination of Heraklion. This city offers something for everyone. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historical city of Graz. 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 Graz?

The bustling city of Heraklion offers nightlife and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

Graz 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 Christmas Market Tours in Austria, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Austria.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Heraklion or Graz?

Graz has a larger population, and is about 62% larger than the population of Heraklion. When comparing the sizes of Heraklion and Graz, 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 Graz?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Heraklion or Graz in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Heraklion and Graz. Many travelers come to Heraklion for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Graz in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

Heraklion is a little warmer than Graz in the summer. The daily temperature in Heraklion averages around 25°C (78°F) in July, and Graz fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Graz this time of the year. In Heraklion, it's very sunny this time of the year. Heraklion usually receives more sunshine than Graz during summer. Heraklion gets 366 hours of sunny skies, while Graz receives 236 hours of full sun in the summer.

Graz receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Heraklion usually receives less rain than Graz. Heraklion gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Graz receives 126 mm (5 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Heraklion or Graz in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Heraklion as well as Graz. Many visitors come to Heraklion in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Graz for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Heraklion is much warmer than Graz. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Heraklion in October average around 20°C (68°F), and Graz averages at about 13°C (55°F).

In the autumn, Heraklion often gets more sunshine than Graz. Heraklion gets 199 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Graz receives 139 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets more rain in October than Graz. Heraklion gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Graz receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heraklion or Graz in the Winter?

Both Graz and Heraklion are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Heraklion for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Graz because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Graz can be very cold. In January, Heraklion is generally much warmer than Graz. Daily temperatures in Heraklion average around 12°C (54°F), and Graz fluctuates around 1°C (34°F).

Heraklion usually receives more sunshine than Graz during winter. Heraklion gets 121 hours of sunny skies, while Graz receives 95 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Heraklion usually receives more rain than Graz. Heraklion gets 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Graz receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Heraklion or Graz in the Spring?

Both Graz and Heraklion during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Heraklion because of the beaches and the activities around the city. Furthermore, the natural beauty are the main draw to Graz this time of year.

Heraklion is a little warmer than Graz in the spring. The daily temperature in Heraklion averages around 16°C (61°F) in April, and Graz fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

It's quite sunny in Heraklion. In the spring, Heraklion often gets more sunshine than Graz. Heraklion gets 224 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Graz receives 158 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets less rain in April than Graz. Heraklion gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Graz receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Graz and Heraklion