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

Should you visit Heraklion or Korcula?

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 Korcula 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 accessible, bustling, and historic city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and beaches.

Korcula

Korcula is a scenic, laid back, and historic island. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Heraklion and Korcula: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Heraklion or Korcula?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Heraklion than Korcula, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Heraklion is better known for its museums, nightlife, and big city activities, while Korcula is more popular for its scuba diving & snorkeling, historical sights, hiking, 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. Korcula is well known for its small old town and its beautiful natural setting.

How is Heraklion different from Korcula?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Heraklion is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Korcula is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Korcula. Most of the sights are concentrated in Korcula Town, which has a charming old town that is filled with stone houses. In the center of the old town is St Mark's Cathedral. Other points of interest include Abbey Treasury and Marco Polo's House.

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

Foodies will find both Heraklion and Korcula both to be great 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 Korcula is an experience not to be missed. Food is a way of life on the island, and you'll likely enjoy bread, salad, soup, and grilled meat or seafood at most meals. The ingredients are locally produced and fresh.

Is Heraklion or Korcula Better for Nightlife?

Heraklion is a great destination for nightlife and partying. However, Korcula is a island with minimal options for its evening party scene.

The people in Heraklion know how to have a good time. 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.

Korcula doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. The party scene is lacking in the old town, so this isn't the place to visit for nightlife. Many of the restaurants become cocktail bars at night, and there is a club or two that has opened in recent years.

Is Heraklion or Korcula Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Korcula is a island with good options for its diving and snorkeling. However, Heraklion is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Korcula. There are a few snorkeling tours that leave from the island.

Heraklion is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Heraklion or Korcula Better for Beaches?

Both Heraklion and Korcula are considered to be great beach destinations.

The beaches at Heraklion attract visitors from all over. 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.

Many people visit Korcula for it's beautiful beaches. There are a number of beautiful beaches around the island. Head south for the sandier beaches and north for the pebbly, shallower beaches. Many people think that Lumbarda has the best beaches on the island.

Is Heraklion or Korcula Better for its Old Town?

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

Korcula is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The charming old town is filled with interesting buildings and historic streets that you can explore.

Heraklion does not have a historic old town.

Is Heraklion or Korcula Better for Hiking?

Korcula is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Heraklion is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Korcula. There are many natural and hiking areas on the island so you can enjoy a full day hike or a shorter stroll through the area.

Heraklion is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Heraklion or Korcula?

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

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 Korcula to go shopping. You'll find boutiques, small retail shops, or stores selling knick knacks around town.

Is Heraklion or Korcula Better for Families?

Korcula 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, Korcula is very family-friendly. The island has many great hikes that are appropriate for all ages. There are also pebbly beaches where the kids can play in the water and explore.

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 Korcula Better for Couples?

Both Heraklion and Korcula are great 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 Korcula frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The beautiful old town, striking coastline, and wonderful natural beauty make for a great honeymoon or romantic escape. There are many nice hikes in the area and the beaches are nice for cooling off.

Is Heraklion or Korcula Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Heraklion is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Korcula is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Plenty of backpackers visit Korcula. You'll find enough hostels around the island to choose from and there are usually plenty of backpackers hanging out.

Is Heraklion or Korcula Better for Students?

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

Plenty of students visit Korcula. More students have been moving to the island, and you'll find a growing student population.

Heraklion is not popular with students.

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

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

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

You'll find some public transit in Korcula, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses around the island but not all routes are very frequent.

Is Heraklion or Korcula a more walkable city?

Heraklion is a great destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Korcula is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

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.

Korcula is a somewhat walkable city. There are foot paths and trails all over the island but you'll want to rent a bike if you're going long distances.

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

Should I spend more time in Korcula or Heraklion?

How long in Heraklion or Korcula?

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

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

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

In Heraklion, you'll find nightlife and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

You'll find shopping and museums around the island of Korcula. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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 Korcula?

In Heraklion, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Heraklion has to offer.

You'll find museums and food around the historic destination of Korcula. 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 island has to offer. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Heraklion or Korcula?

Heraklion is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the historic island of Korcula. 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.

A week in Heraklion or Korcula?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Heraklion. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Heraklion. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Korcula 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.

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 2-Week Tours from Dubrovnik, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Split.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Heraklion or Korcula?

Heraklion has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Korcula. When comparing the sizes of Heraklion and Korcula, 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 Korcula?

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 Korcula in the Summer?

Both Korcula and Heraklion during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Heraklion because of the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Korcula this time of year.

Heraklion is around the same temperature as Korcula in the summer. The daily temperature in Heraklion averages around 25°C (78°F) in July, and Korcula fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

In Korcula, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Heraklion. In the summer, Heraklion often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Korcula. Heraklion gets 366 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Korcula receives 345 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets less rain in July than Korcula. Heraklion gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Korcula receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heraklion or Korcula in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Heraklion and Korcula. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Heraklion this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Korcula for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Heraklion is a little warmer than Korcula. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Heraklion in October average around 20°C (68°F), and Korcula averages at about 18°C (64°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Korcula this time of the year. Heraklion usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Korcula during autumn. Heraklion gets 199 hours of sunny skies, while Korcula receives 200 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Heraklion usually receives less rain than Korcula. Heraklion gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Korcula receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Heraklion or Korcula in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Heraklion as well as Korcula. Many travelers come to Heraklion for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Korcula in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Heraklion is generally a little warmer than Korcula. Daily temperatures in Heraklion average around 12°C (54°F), and Korcula fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Heraklion often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Korcula. Heraklion gets 121 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Korcula receives 128 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets more rain in January than Korcula. Heraklion gets 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Korcula receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heraklion or Korcula in the Spring?

Both Korcula and Heraklion are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Heraklion in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Korcula for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

Heraklion is around the same temperature as Korcula in the spring. The daily temperature in Heraklion averages around 16°C (61°F) in April, and Korcula fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

It's quite sunny in Korcula. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Heraklion. Heraklion usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Korcula during spring. Heraklion gets 224 hours of sunny skies, while Korcula receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Heraklion usually receives less rain than Korcula. Heraklion gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Korcula receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Korcula and Heraklion