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

Should you visit Heraklion or Lake Garda?

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 Lake Garda 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. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the beaches, shopping, and museums.

Lake Garda

Lake Garda is a playful, fun, and energetic lake. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and hiking.

Heraklion and Lake Garda: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Heraklion or Lake Garda?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Heraklion than Lake Garda, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Heraklion is better known for its museums and big city activities, while Lake Garda is more popular for its 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. Lake Garda is well known for its beautiful setting, charming towns, and fun amusement parks.

How is Heraklion different from Lake Garda?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Heraklion is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. Also, Lake Garda is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Lake Garda. While most people come for the natural beauty, there are also great castles that you can explore. Castello Scaligeri, Grotte di Catullo, and Castello Scaligero.

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

Foodies will find both Heraklion and Lake Garda 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 Lake Garda is an experience not to be missed. You'll find many great local restaurants in the area. Most make use of local ingredients such as olive oil, lemons, wine, and fish. Pasta and risotto are both popular throughout the area as well.

Is Heraklion or Lake Garda Better for Nightlife?

The excellent nightlife scene is relatively similar in Heraklion and Lake Garda.

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.

Lake Garda is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. You'll find clubs and bars in various towns that make for a great nightlife scene. You'll even find beach parties and fireworks shows during the most popular times of the year.

Is Heraklion or Lake Garda Better for Beaches?

Both Heraklion and Lake Garda are considered to be excellent 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 Lake Garda for it's beautiful beaches. Despite there being no ocean, there are many great swimming beaches in the area. Many have sand and great places to relax. There's also plenty of watersports to choose from.

Is Heraklion or Lake Garda Better for Hiking?

Lake Garda 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 Lake Garda. There are many great walking and hiking trails in the area that take you through the natural beauty, connect the charming towns, and offer spectacular viewpoints.

Heraklion is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Heraklion or Lake Garda?

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

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 Lake Garda to go shopping. Many villages around the lake are great for shopping. You'll find clothing stores, jewelry shops, and souvenir vendors with something for everyone.

Is Heraklion or Lake Garda Better for Families?

Lake Garda 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.

Lake Garda is an extremely popular lake to visit for families. The nearby amusement parks, including Gardaland, make this a popular destination for families. The area also has many places to swim, trails to explore, and castles to experience. Kids and adults alike will love this amazing kid-friendly area.

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 Lake Garda Better for Couples?

Both Heraklion and Lake Garda 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 Lake Garda frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. You'll find a lot of families in the area because of the amusement parks, but that doesn't mean that this isn't a romantic and beautiful spot for couples. There are many charming towns to explore and scenic viewpoints to check out. There are also excellent romantic restaurants that you should try.

Is Heraklion or Lake Garda Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

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

Lake Garda is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a few good hostels around the lake that are affordable and fun. The area also see enough backpackers to keep the atmosphere fun and social.

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

Lake Garda 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.

Lake Garda has some very good public transit options. There are ferries, buses, and trains in the area.

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 Lake Garda a more walkable city?

Heraklion and Lake Garda 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.

Lake Garda is a very walkable destination. There are walking trails that connect the villages around the lake and this how many people choose to get around.

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

Should I spend more time in Lake Garda or Heraklion?

How long in Heraklion or Lake Garda?

It's fun to spend time in either Heraklion or Lake Garda. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Lake Garda due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Heraklion, and 2-4 days is enough time in Lake Garda.

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

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

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

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 shopping and museums around the lake of Lake Garda. 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 Lake Garda?

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 museums and nightlife around the fun destination of Lake Garda. 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 lake has to offer. This lake offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Heraklion or Lake Garda?

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 playful lake of Lake Garda. 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 Lake Garda?

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.

Lake Garda 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 Tours for Seniors to Italy, and The Best Contiki Tours to Italy.

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

When is the best time to visit Heraklion or Lake Garda?

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 Lake Garda in the Summer?

Both Lake Garda and Heraklion are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Heraklion for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Lake Garda in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

Heraklion is around the same temperature as Lake Garda in the summer. The daily temperature in Heraklion averages around 25°C (78°F) in July, and Lake Garda fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

It's quite sunny in Lake Garda. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Heraklion. Heraklion usually receives more sunshine than Lake Garda during summer. Heraklion gets 366 hours of sunny skies, while Lake Garda receives 286 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Heraklion usually receives less rain than Lake Garda. Heraklion gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Lake Garda receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Heraklion or Lake Garda in the Autumn?

Both Lake Garda and Heraklion during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Heraklion in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Furthermore, most visitors come to Lake Garda for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Heraklion is a little warmer than Lake Garda. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Heraklion in October average around 20°C (68°F), and Lake Garda averages at about 14°C (57°F).

In the autumn, Heraklion often gets more sunshine than Lake Garda. Heraklion gets 199 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lake Garda receives 137 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets less rain in October than Lake Garda. Heraklion gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Lake Garda receives 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heraklion or Lake Garda in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Heraklion and Lake Garda. Most visitors come to Heraklion for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Lake Garda because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Lake Garda can be very cold. In January, Heraklion is generally much warmer than Lake Garda. Daily temperatures in Heraklion average around 12°C (54°F), and Lake Garda fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

Heraklion usually receives more sunshine than Lake Garda during winter. Heraklion gets 121 hours of sunny skies, while Lake Garda receives 98 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Heraklion usually receives more rain than Lake Garda. Heraklion gets 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Lake Garda receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Heraklion or Lake Garda in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Heraklion as well as Lake Garda. The spring months attract visitors to Heraklion because of the beaches and the activities around the city. Additionally, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Lake Garda this time of year.

Heraklion is a little warmer than Lake Garda in the spring. The daily temperature in Heraklion averages around 16°C (61°F) in April, and Lake Garda fluctuates around 13°C (55°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 Lake Garda. Heraklion gets 224 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lake Garda receives 169 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets less rain in April than Lake Garda. Heraklion gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Lake Garda receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Lake Garda and Heraklion