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

Should you visit Heraklion or Interlaken?

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 Interlaken 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 vibrant, accessible, and bustling city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Interlaken

Interlaken is a stunning, adventurous, and adrenaline-filled town. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. Visitors also love the food, hiking, and skiing.

Heraklion and Interlaken: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Heraklion or Interlaken?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Heraklion. Although Heraklion and Interlaken are popular destinations, Heraklion has more sights and attractions for tourists. Heraklion is very popular for its museums, nightlife, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Interlaken attracts visitors for its skiing, hiking, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Interlaken is more touristy than Heraklion and is known for its adventure sports, alpine setting, and beautiful lakes. Heraklion is famous for its archeological sights, local Cretan restaurants, and its vibrant nightlife scene. It is also well known for The Palace of Knossos.

How is Heraklion different from Interlaken?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Interlaken and Heraklion. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Heraklion or Interlaken Better for Skiing?

Interlaken is a town with good options for skiing and snowboarding. However, Heraklion is not a skiing destination.

For winter sports and skiing, Interlaken is a great destination to visit. While the city itself has no skiing, there is access to several ski areas in Jungfrau. There are several different resorts in the area near Grindelwald, Wengen, and Mürren. You'll need to take a train or ski bus to get most places.

Heraklion is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Heraklion or Interlaken?

Heraklion is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Interlaken does not have museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Heraklion specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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.

Interlaken does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Foodies will find both Heraklion and Interlaken both to be superb 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 Interlaken is an experience not to be missed. Restaurants in the area serve local classics like fondue, local meats, cheeses, and chocolate. You can finish your meal off with strudel or head to a local bakery and try their samplings. Meals are expensive but the quality is good. You should also out into the countryside and enjoy a meal looking out over the mountains.

Is Heraklion or Interlaken Better for Nightlife?

Heraklion is an excellent place to visit for nightlife. However, Interlaken is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Heraklion has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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.

Interlaken is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Heraklion or Interlaken Better for Beaches?

Heraklion is an excellent place to visit for its beaches. However, Interlaken is not a beach destination.

Heraklion is a very popular place to visit for its 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.

Interlaken is not a beach destination.

Is Heraklion or Interlaken Better for Hiking?

Interlaken is a world-class destination for its hiking trails. However, Heraklion is not a hiking destination.

Around Interlaken visitors will find world-class hiking trails. Hikes in the area range from easy to challenging with every option in between. You can experience beautiful waterfalls, breathtaking views, and dramatic ridge hikes. Several of the best hikes in the area include Schynige Platte Ridge Trail, Mt Niesen Panorama Trail, and Giessbach Waterfalls.

Heraklion is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Heraklion or Interlaken?

Heraklion is very good for shopping. However, Interlaken is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Heraklion. There are a number of unique shops around town that sell everything from traditional pottery to homemade jewelry.

Interlaken is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Heraklion or Interlaken Better for Families?

Interlaken is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Heraklion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Interlaken is an extremely popular town to visit for families. While the city is beautiful, it's really the surrounding areas that you and your family will enjoy. There are amazing hikes, stunning views, playgrounds, lakes, and more. There's also an impressive ropes course that adventurous kids will love, funiculars, gondolas, and so many water sports!

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 Interlaken Better for Couples?

Interlaken is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Heraklion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Interlaken is a great town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. The mountaintop views, breathtaking hikes, and beautiful lakes make this a top destination for couples. Make sure you head out of town and fully immerse yourself in everything that the area has to offer. Kayaking, canoeing, paragliding, and more will make this a trip of a lifetime.

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.

Is Heraklion or Interlaken Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Heraklion is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Interlaken is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Heraklion is very popular with the backpacker crowd. The city is filled with budget-friendly hostels that often have a social atmosphere and a fun vibe.

It's common for backpackers to visit Interlaken. It's a world class destination with so many activities that backpackers will love, but it's also one of the most expensive areas in one of the most expensive countries. There are hostels in town as well as a few in the nearby towns and countryside, but prices are steep. Cook when you can and enjoy all of the free activities that the area has to offer.

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

Interlaken 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.

Interlaken has some very good public transit options. Buses travel around town, but to get into the mountains there are trains, cog railways, funiculars, and gondolas.

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 Interlaken a more walkable city?

Heraklion is an excellent place to visit for its walkability. Also, Interlaken is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

Heraklion is very walkable. Many parts of the town are walkable and doing a walking tour is a great way to see many of the city's sights.

Interlaken is a somewhat walkable place. The old town is relatively walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Interlaken or Heraklion?

How long in Heraklion or Interlaken?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Heraklion than Interlaken 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 Interlaken?

With museums and nightlife around the historic 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 skiing and food around the town of Interlaken. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Interlaken?

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 food and skiing around the adrenaline-filled destination of Interlaken. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Interlaken?

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.

You'll find skiing and food around the stunning town of Interlaken. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this town makes for a great vacation. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Most people head to the area for the hiking. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer.

A week in Heraklion or Interlaken?

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.

Interlaken is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Geneva, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Zurich.

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

Which is Bigger, Heraklion or Interlaken?

Heraklion has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Interlaken. When comparing the sizes of Heraklion and Interlaken, 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 Interlaken?

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 Interlaken in the Summer?

Both Interlaken and Heraklion are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Heraklion in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Interlaken for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Heraklion is generally a little warmer than Interlaken. Daily temperatures in Heraklion average around 25°C (78°F), and Interlaken fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

It's quite sunny in Interlaken. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Heraklion. Heraklion usually receives more sunshine than Interlaken during summer. Heraklion gets 366 hours of sunny skies, while Interlaken receives 241 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Heraklion usually receives less rain than Interlaken. Heraklion gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Interlaken receives 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Heraklion or Interlaken in the Autumn?

Both Interlaken and Heraklion during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Heraklion for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Interlaken because of the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

Heraklion is much warmer than Interlaken in the autumn. The daily temperature in Heraklion averages around 20°C (68°F) in October, and Interlaken fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

In the autumn, Heraklion often gets more sunshine than Interlaken. Heraklion gets 199 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Interlaken receives 120 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Interlaken. Heraklion gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Interlaken receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heraklion or Interlaken in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Heraklion and Interlaken. The winter months attract visitors to Heraklion because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the skiing and the cuisine are the main draw to Interlaken this time of year.

It's quite cold in Interlaken in the winter. In the winter, Heraklion is much warmer than Interlaken. Typically, the winter temperatures in Heraklion in January average around 12°C (54°F), and Interlaken averages at about 3°C (37°F).

Heraklion usually receives more sunshine than Interlaken during winter. Heraklion gets 121 hours of sunny skies, while Interlaken receives 55 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Heraklion usually receives more rain than Interlaken. Heraklion gets 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Interlaken receives 77 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Heraklion or Interlaken in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Heraklion as well as Interlaken. The beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Heraklion this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Interlaken for the natural beauty.

In April, Heraklion is generally a little warmer than Interlaken. Daily temperatures in Heraklion average around 16°C (61°F), and Interlaken fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Heraklion this time of the year. In the spring, Heraklion often gets more sunshine than Interlaken. Heraklion gets 224 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Interlaken receives 150 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets less rain in April than Interlaken. Heraklion gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Interlaken receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Interlaken and Heraklion