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

Should you visit Heraklion or Kotor?

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 Kotor 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. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Kotor

Kotor is a historic, peaceful, and remote coastal town. You'll find plenty of local activities in this small town. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Heraklion and Kotor: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Heraklion or Kotor?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Heraklion. Although Heraklion and Kotor 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 Kotor attracts visitors for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Heraklion is more touristy than Kotor and is popular for its archeological sights, local Cretan restaurants, and its vibrant nightlife scene. It is also well known for The Palace of Knossos. Kotor is famous for its medieval old town and its dramatic setting on the coastline surrounded by limestone cliffs.

How is Heraklion different from Kotor?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Heraklion is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Kotor 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.

Kotor does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Kotor is a world-class destination for its restaurants. Also, Heraklion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Many restaurants in Kotor have been singled out for their culinary prowess. Food is fresh and hearty, with many dishes including meats, cheeses, and bread. Popular local dishes include börek, black risotto, and pasulj (a type of baked beans prepared with meats and spices). Seafood is an obvious choice around town as well. Ask for whatever is fresh and enjoy a delicious meal. There are also a number of dessert cafes where you can enjoy pastries at a very affordable price.

Dining out in Heraklion is an experience not to be missed. 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.

Is Heraklion or Kotor Better for Nightlife?

Heraklion is well known for nightlife. However, Kotor is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

Heraklion is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

Kotor doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. It has some of the best nightlife in Montenegro, but outside of the summer months you'll find things are very calm. Head to the old town for the highest concentration of bars and clubs.

Is Heraklion or Kotor Better for Resorts?

Kotor is a decent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Heraklion is not a resort destination.

Not known for its high-end resorts, Kotor offers a few options. The town has mostly boutique hotels and apartments, particularly if you want to stay in old town.

Heraklion is not a resort destination.

Is Heraklion or Kotor Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Kotor is a coastal town 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 Kotor. It's possible to book snorkeling trips with a local vendor, or you can pack your own mask and snorkel and venture into the water on your own.

Heraklion is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Heraklion or Kotor Better for Beaches?

Heraklion is well known for its beaches. Also, Kotor is still popular, but not quite as popular for the beache.

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.

Kotor has a beach worth visiting. Like many parts of the Mediterranean, the beaches are rocky and pebbly. Many of the beaches are small and quiet, giving them a personal and discovered vibe which many travelers appreciate.

Is Heraklion or Kotor Better for its Old Town?

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

The historic old town of Kotor is revered around the world. The city walls and compact historic area make the old town a unique place to explore.

Heraklion does not have a historic old town.

Is Heraklion or Kotor Better for Hiking?

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

Around Kotor visitors will find world-class hiking trails. The dramatic cliffs and sea views create some of the most beautiful coastal hikes that you'll find. Trails range from walking paths to more strenuous routes like the Ladder of Kotor Hike, which has many switchbacks and stunning views.

Heraklion is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Heraklion or Kotor?

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

Heraklion is a great destination for shopping. There are a number of unique shops around town that sell everything from traditional pottery to homemade jewelry.

Kotor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Heraklion or Kotor Better for Families?

Both Heraklion and Kotor are nice 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 Kotor. Kids will enjoy wandering the streets of old town, exploring the city's fortress, or making their way around the city walls. There are a few beaches to explore, but they are a bit rocky. It's also fun to get out on the water on a boat ride.

Is Heraklion or Kotor Better for Couples?

Both Heraklion and Kotor are superb 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 Kotor frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The charming old town, picturesque views, and quaint personality of the town make this a great couple's get away. Whether you want to lounge on the water's edge or soak up the unique culture, there are many hidden sides to the coastal town.

Is Heraklion or Kotor Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Heraklion and Kotor are both superb 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.

Kotor is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. The town is affordable and reasonably accessible, making it a great option for backpackers. It's not as touristy as some of the more popular coastal towns in the area, so you can enjoy a bit of authenticity without spending big bucks.

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

Heraklion is very good for its public transit. However, Kotor is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

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.

Public transit is mostly limited in Kotor. Cars aren't allowed in the old town, but you can travel to nearby town's by bus. Most leave from the town's main bus station with higher frequency during the summer months.

Is Heraklion or Kotor a more walkable city?

Kotor 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 Kotor. The old town is best explored 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 Kotor Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kotor or Heraklion?

How long in Heraklion or Kotor?

It's fun to spend time in either Heraklion or Kotor. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Kotor due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Heraklion, and 3-4 days is enough time in Kotor.

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

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

One day in Heraklion or Kotor?

In Heraklion, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this historic destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

Even though Kotor 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 Kotor?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Heraklion. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Kotor is a small town where visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and food. 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 coastal town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Heraklion or Kotor?

Heraklion is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Heraklion. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Kotor is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. 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 Kotor?

You'll find food and shopping around the historic destination of Heraklion. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Kotor 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 Luxury Tours to Montenegro, and The Best Budget Tours to Montenegro.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Heraklion or Kotor?

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

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 Kotor in the Summer?

Both Kotor and Heraklion during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Heraklion in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Kotor for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Heraklion is generally around the same temperature as Kotor. Daily temperatures in Heraklion average around 25°C (78°F), and Kotor fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

In Kotor, 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 Kotor. Heraklion gets 366 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kotor receives 341 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets less rain in July than Kotor. Heraklion gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 47 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heraklion or Kotor in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Heraklion and Kotor. Most visitors come to Heraklion for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Kotor because of the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

Heraklion is a little warmer than Kotor in the autumn. The daily temperature in Heraklion averages around 20°C (68°F) in October, and Kotor fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Kotor this time of the year. Heraklion usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Kotor during autumn. Heraklion gets 199 hours of sunny skies, while Kotor receives 203 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Kotor receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Heraklion usually receives less rain than Kotor. Heraklion gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 174 mm (6.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Heraklion or Kotor in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Heraklion as well as Kotor. The winter months attract visitors to Heraklion because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the cuisine are the main draw to Kotor this time of year.

In the winter, Heraklion is much warmer than Kotor. Typically, the winter temperatures in Heraklion in January average around 12°C (54°F), and Kotor averages at about 6°C (42°F).

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

It's quite rainy in Kotor. Heraklion usually gets less rain in January than Kotor. Heraklion gets 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 186 mm (7.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heraklion or Kotor in the Spring?

Both Kotor and Heraklion are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Heraklion this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Kotor for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In April, Heraklion is generally a little warmer than Kotor. Daily temperatures in Heraklion average around 16°C (61°F), and Kotor fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Heraklion. Heraklion usually receives more sunshine than Kotor during spring. Heraklion gets 224 hours of sunny skies, while Kotor receives 194 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Kotor. In April, Heraklion usually receives less rain than Kotor. Heraklion gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 154 mm (6.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Kotor and Heraklion