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

Should you visit Heraklion or Kitzbuhel?

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 Kitzbuhel 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.

Kitzbuhel

Kitzbuhel is a adventure-filled, world-class, and breathtaking ski resort. You'll find plenty of local activities in this small town. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the skiing, nightlife, and food.

Heraklion and Kitzbuhel: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Heraklion or Kitzbuhel?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Heraklion than Kitzbuhel, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Heraklion is better known for its museums, beaches, and big city activities, while Kitzbuhel is more popular for its skiing, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, 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. Kitzbuhel is well known for its world renowned skiing, scenic natural beauty, and summer hiking opportunities.

How is Heraklion different from Kitzbuhel?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Heraklion or Kitzbuhel Better for Skiing?

Kitzbuhel is a world-class destination for skiing and snowboarding. However, Heraklion is not a skiing destination.

Visitors will find world class skiing in Kitzbuhel. There are four ski resorts near the village and 145 miles of slopes. Hahnenkamm Streif racecourse is world famous, but there are also 57 lifts that offer access to skiing for everyone from beginners to professionals. This is a world class ski area that is considered to be one of the best in the world. It attracts international skiers who come for the well maintained slopes and world class skiing.

Heraklion is not a skiing destination.

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

Heraklion is great for its historical sights. However, Kitzbuhel is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

Heraklion offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

Kitzbuhel offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Visitors come for the skiing and outdoor adventures, not the museums and historical sights. But you can visit the St. Andreas Parish Church, Museum Kitzbühel, or the Liebfrauenkirche while you're in town.

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

Foodies will find both Heraklion and Kitzbuhel 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 Kitzbuhel is an experience not to be missed. There's a diverse food scene with everything from rustic inns to award-winning fine dining experiences. You'll find both local dishes and international flavors around town as well.

Is Heraklion or Kitzbuhel Better for Nightlife?

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

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.

Kitzbuhel is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The nightlife scene offers everything from wine bars to high end cocktail bars or local pubs with beer on tap. There are also dance clubs and other party areas where visitors dance until the early morning hours.

Is Heraklion or Kitzbuhel Better for Beaches?

Heraklion is great for the beache. However, Kitzbuhel 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.

Kitzbuhel is not a beach destination.

Is Heraklion or Kitzbuhel Better for its Old Town?

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

Kitzbuhel is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The town center is compact and charming with restaurants, churches, and shopping. It's the perfect place to unwind after a day on the slopes.

Heraklion does not have a historic old town.

Is Heraklion or Kitzbuhel Better for Hiking?

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

Around Kitzbuhel visitors will find world-class hiking trails. During the summer months the area is filled with miles of stunning hikes. There's the famous Kitzbüheler Horn, as well as more relaxing mountain strolls. You'll enjoy breathtaking views and serene mountain pastures.

Heraklion is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Heraklion or Kitzbuhel?

Shoppers can find a variety of notable stores in both Heraklion and Kitzbuhel.

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 Kitzbuhel to go shopping. The village offers a mix of international and local brands. There's everything from fashion and jewelry to sporting goods and local foods.

Is Heraklion or Kitzbuhel Better for Families?

Kitzbuhel 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, Kitzbuhel is very family-friendly. This is a family-friendly ski area that has child care available in several places as well as kids slopes and other family friendly things to do. During the summer months there's hiking, biking, and other outdoor adventure activities.

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 Kitzbuhel Better for Couples?

Both Heraklion and Kitzbuhel 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 Kitzbuhel frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples who enjoy skiing, winter sports, and other outdoor adventures will truly appreciate a visit. It makes for an adrenaline filled holiday that is both romantic and fun.

Is Heraklion or Kitzbuhel Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Heraklion and Kitzbuhel are both excellent 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.

Kitzbuhel is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. There are several hostels near town that cater to the budget crowd. There's also a large number of skiing and sport enthusiasts so its not hard to meet other likeminded travelers.

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

Visitors will find notable public transit in both Heraklion and Kitzbuhel.

Heraklion has some public transit options. KTEL buses travel both within town and to nearby villages.

You'll find some public transit in Kitzbuhel, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are trains and buses that connect the town to other nearby villages. During the winter months are are ski buses that take skiers to the ski areas.

Is Heraklion or Kitzbuhel a more walkable city?

Heraklion and Kitzbuhel are excellent 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.

Kitzbuhel is a very walkable destination. The town is small and compact enough to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Kitzbuhel or Heraklion?

How long in Heraklion or Kitzbuhel?

Both Heraklion and Kitzbuhel have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Kitzbuhel than in Heraklion. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Heraklion, and 4-7 days is enough time in Kitzbuhel.

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

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

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

One day in Heraklion or Kitzbuhel?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Heraklion. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Heraklion has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Even though Kitzbuhel is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. 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 Kitzbuhel?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the accessible destination of Heraklion. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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.

Kitzbuhel is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and skiing. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This ski resort offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Heraklion or Kitzbuhel?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the accessible city of Heraklion. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Kitzbuhel is a small town with plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this ski resort makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this ski resort has to offer.

A week in Heraklion or Kitzbuhel?

Heraklion is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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.

Kitzbuhel is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Kitzbuhel, one week is sufficent for most. 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 Budget Tours to Austria, and The Best Luxury Tours to Austria.

When comparing the travel costs between Heraklion and Kitzbuhel, we can see that Kitzbuhel 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 Kitzbuhel Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Heraklion or Kitzbuhel?

Heraklion has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Kitzbuhel. When comparing the sizes of Heraklion and Kitzbuhel, 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.