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

Should you visit Heraklion or Heidelberg?

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 Heidelberg 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. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the food, beaches, and shopping.

Heidelberg

Heidelberg is a scenic, character-filled, and historic town. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Because of its quaint atmosphere, it draws plenty of visitors, too. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and nightlife.

Heraklion and Heidelberg: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Heraklion or Heidelberg?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Heraklion. Although Heraklion and Heidelberg are both popular with visitors, Heraklion has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Heraklion is more popular for its museums, beaches, and big city activities, while Heidelberg is known for its historical sights, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Heraklion is popular for its archeological sights, local Cretan restaurants, and its vibrant nightlife scene. It is also home to The Palace of Knossos. Heidelberg is popular for its picturesque beauty, romantic atmosphere, and its classic old town.

How is Heraklion different from Heidelberg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Heraklion is a great city for its historical sights. However, Heidelberg does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around 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.

Heidelberg does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Foodies will find both Heraklion and Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg is an experience not to be missed. The old town is filled with local restaurants that offer an assortment of traditional dishes. The restaurants offer a mix of outdoor and indoor seating and classic dishes include saumagen, lewwerkneedl, and dampfnudeln.

Is Heraklion or Heidelberg Better for Nightlife?

The very good nightlife scene is relatively similar in Heraklion and Heidelberg.

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.

Heidelberg is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. As a university town, you'll find a very young population and many bars, pubs, and nightclubs where you can hang out.

Is Heraklion or Heidelberg Better for Beaches?

Heraklion is a great city for the beach. However, Heidelberg 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.

Heidelberg is not a beach destination.

Is Heraklion or Heidelberg Better for its Old Town?

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

The historic old town of Heidelberg is revered around the world. The charming old town, or Altstadt, is lined with cafes that spill out onto the street and churches with bells that chime hourly. The area is filled with activity and there are many shops, ice cream vendors, and restaurants to choose from.

Heraklion does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Heraklion or Heidelberg?

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

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 Heidelberg to go shopping. The pedestrian area is the best place to pass your time shopping. There are name brand stores mixed in with local independent shops which you'll mostly find on the side streets. Popular items to buy include wooden toys, Christmas decorations, and candy.

Is Heraklion or Heidelberg Better for Families?

Both Heraklion and Heidelberg are good 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 Heidelberg. With its many ice cream shops, playgrounds, and impressive castle, this city makes a nice stop for families with kids. The restaurants usually have a kid's menu and there are a number of kid-friendly museums and activities.

Is Heraklion or Heidelberg Better for Couples?

Both Heraklion and Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. This beautiful city offers an impressive backdrop for a couple's getaway. The view from the castle looks out beautifully over the city and the old town has many excellent restaurants and activities that are great for couples.

Is Heraklion or Heidelberg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Heraklion and Heidelberg are both very good 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.

Heidelberg is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. Prices are reasonable and there are a handful of hostels around town. As a university town, you can be assured there are plenty of fun activities and cheap places to eat.

Is Heraklion or Heidelberg Better for Students?

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

Plenty of students visit Heidelberg. It is a beautiful student town with a lot of activities for young visitors. This is not the most popular study abroad destination, but it does have a lot to offer for those who visit.

Heraklion is not popular with students.

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

Heidelberg 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.

Heidelberg has some very good public transit options. There are trams and buses that connect the old town to the train station.

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 Heidelberg a more walkable city?

Heraklion and Heidelberg 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.

Heidelberg is a very walkable destination. The old town is particularly walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Heidelberg or Heraklion?

How long in Heraklion or Heidelberg?

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

Families should spend more time in Heraklion than Heidelberg. 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.

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

One day in Heraklion or Heidelberg?

With museums and nightlife around the vibrant city of Heraklion, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Heraklion, one day is sufficent for most.

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

A weekend in Heraklion or Heidelberg?

With nightlife and food around the destination of Heraklion, there's plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the lively destination of Heidelberg. 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 town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Heraklion or Heidelberg?

Heraklion, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historic town of Heidelberg. 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 Heidelberg?

Heraklion is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Heidelberg 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 Vineyard & Wine Tours in Germany, and The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Germany.

When comparing the travel costs between Heraklion and Heidelberg, 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 Heidelberg Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Heraklion or Heidelberg?

Heidelberg has a larger population, and is about 5% larger than the population of Heraklion. When comparing the sizes of Heraklion and Heidelberg, 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 Heidelberg?

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 Heidelberg in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Heraklion and Heidelberg. 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 Heidelberg for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Heraklion is a little warmer than Heidelberg. Typically, the summer temperatures in Heraklion in July average around 25°C (78°F), and Heidelberg averages at about 21°C (69°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Heidelberg this time of the year. In Heraklion, it's very sunny this time of the year. Heraklion usually receives more sunshine than Heidelberg during summer. Heraklion gets 366 hours of sunny skies, while Heidelberg receives 224 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Heraklion usually receives less rain than Heidelberg. Heraklion gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Heidelberg receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Heraklion or Heidelberg in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Heraklion as well as Heidelberg. Many travelers come to Heraklion for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Additionally, many visitors come to Heidelberg in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Heraklion is generally much warmer than Heidelberg. Daily temperatures in Heraklion average around 20°C (68°F), and Heidelberg fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In the autumn, Heraklion often gets more sunshine than Heidelberg. Heraklion gets 199 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Heidelberg receives 102 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets more rain in October than Heidelberg. Heraklion gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Heidelberg receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heraklion or Heidelberg in the Winter?

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

Heidelberg can be very cold during winter. Heraklion is much warmer than Heidelberg in the winter. The daily temperature in Heraklion averages around 12°C (54°F) in January, and Heidelberg fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Heraklion usually receives more sunshine than Heidelberg during winter. Heraklion gets 121 hours of sunny skies, while Heidelberg receives 38 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Heraklion usually receives more rain than Heidelberg. Heraklion gets 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Heidelberg receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Heraklion or Heidelberg in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Heraklion is a little warmer than Heidelberg. Typically, the spring temperatures in Heraklion in April average around 16°C (61°F), and Heidelberg averages at about 11°C (52°F).

It's quite sunny in Heraklion. In the spring, Heraklion often gets more sunshine than Heidelberg. Heraklion gets 224 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Heidelberg receives 155 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets less rain in April than Heidelberg. Heraklion gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Heidelberg receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Heidelberg and Heraklion