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

Should you visit Heraklion or Lindau?

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 Lindau 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.

Lindau

Lindau is a alpine, picturesque, and fun-filled town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food.

Heraklion and Lindau: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Heraklion or Lindau?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Heraklion than Lindau, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Heraklion is better known for its museums, nightlife, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Lindau is more popular for its historical sights, 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. Lindau is well known for its lakefront location and quaint old town.

How is Heraklion different from Lindau?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Heraklion
Lindau

Heraklion is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Lindau is a town with minimal options 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.

While most people don't head to Lindau specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. The town is more about it's beautiful setting than landmarks and museums, but there are some interesting sights including the harbor and lighthouse.


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

Heraklion
Lindau

Foodies will find both Heraklion and Lindau 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 Lindau is an experience not to be missed. Head to the waterfront for the best seafood restaurants. Many restaurants use seasonal ingredients and serve local fish. The local whitefish is particularly popular. Dishes are influenced by the town's proximity to Switzerland and Austria, so you'll enjoy a hybrid of flavors and recipes.

Is Heraklion or Lindau Better for Nightlife?

Heraklion
Lindau

Heraklion is a great destination for nightlife and partying. However, Lindau is a town 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.

Lindau doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. It's not known for its nightlife scene but there are bars where you can enjoy a relaxing night out.

Is Heraklion or Lindau Better for Beaches?

Heraklion
Lindau

Heraklion is a great destination for the beache. However, Lindau is not a beach destination.

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.

Lindau is not a beach destination.


Is Heraklion or Lindau Better for its Old Town?

Heraklion
Lindau

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

Lindau is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The old town is located on Lindau island in Lake Constance. It has quaint buildings and many waterfront restaurants.

Heraklion does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Heraklion or Lindau?

Heraklion
Lindau

Heraklion is a city with good options for its shopping opportunities. However, Lindau is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Heraklion offers some nice shopping areas. There are a number of unique shops around town that sell everything from traditional pottery to homemade jewelry.

Lindau is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Heraklion or Lindau Better for Families?

Heraklion
Lindau

Lindau 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, Lindau is very family-friendly. Head to the waterfront where there's a playground, stand up paddleboarding, paddleboats, and more. Kids will also enjoy climbing to the top of the Old Lighthouse or exploring the Museum of Local History.

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 Lindau Better for Couples?

Heraklion
Lindau

Both Heraklion and Lindau 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 Lindau frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. With its charming old town, beautiful waterfront, great seafood restaurants, and nice hotels, couples will really enjoy a few days away at this lakefront town. It's the perfect place to have a romantic weekend.

Is Heraklion or Lindau Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Heraklion
Lindau

Heraklion is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Lindau 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 Lindau. The town has a couple of hostels and affordable hotels that make this waterfront town accessible to backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Heraklion
Lindau

Heraklion is a city with good options for its public transit. However, Lindau is a town with minimal options 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 Lindau. It's possible to reach town by bus or train and once you're in town you can walk many places.


Is Heraklion or Lindau a more walkable city?

Heraklion
Lindau

Heraklion and Lindau are great 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.

Lindau is a very walkable destination. The town is very walkable and there are also many walks into the countryside.

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

Should I spend more time in Lindau or Heraklion?

How long in Heraklion or Lindau?

It's fun to spend time in either Heraklion or Lindau. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Lindau 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 Lindau.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Heraklion than Lindau 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.


  • How many days in Heraklion or Lindau? Ideal Length of Stay
    Heraklion 1-3 
    Lindau 2-4

One day in Heraklion or Lindau?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Heraklion. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

Even though Lindau 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 Lindau?

Heraklion is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Lindau is a small town where visitors enjoy the food. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Lindau?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Heraklion. Most people come for the beaches. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Lindau 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 Lindau?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the bustling destination of Heraklion. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Lindau 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Germany, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Lindau or Heraklion?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Heraklion is €158, while the average daily cost in Lindau is €163. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Heraklion and Lindau in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Heraklion 81
    Lindau 91
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Heraklion 162
    Lindau 182
Compare Hotels in Heraklion and Lindau

Looking for a hotel in Heraklion or Lindau? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Heraklion


Hotels in Lindau


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Heraklion Hotel Prices and Lindau Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Heraklion 31
    Lindau 40

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Heraklion

Also for Heraklion, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Acqua Plus Water Park Admission with Optional Transfer: $32
  • Crete Private Taxi Transfer from Heraklion Airport to Bali: $95
  • Crete Private Taxi and Transfer from Heraklion Airport to Malia: $81
  • Crete Private Taxi and Transfer from Heraklion Airport to Panormo: $103
  • Crete Private Taxi and Transfer from Heraklion to Agios Nikolaos: $122
  • Crete Private Transfer from Heraklion to Hersonissos: $51
  • Day Cruise from Heraklion with Catamaran & Transfer service: $123
  • From Airport to Elounda Private Transfer: $107
  • From Private Helicopter Transfer to Greek Islands: $4,021
  • Heraklion Airport (HER): Private Transfer to Heraklion Port: $105
  • Heraklion Cruise Port: Private Transfer to Heraklion city: $137
  • Heraklion Int Airport (HER): Transfer to Heraklion hotels: $137

Is it cheaper to fly into Heraklion or Lindau?

Prices for flights to both Lindau and Heraklion change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Heraklion 52
    Lindau 45

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Heraklion

For Heraklion, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Troy Dinner-Show: $33
  • Spectacular Dinner-Show: $44
  • From Village Cretan Night, Live Dancers & dinner: $48
  • Cretan Night with Dinner & Live Show: $49
  • Crete: Olive Oil Festival, Farm Dinner, Live Show & Pickup: $59
  • Cretan Farm with scenic view: Olive Mill Festival & dinner: $64
  • Amazing Sunset Safari Route with Dinner: $84
  • Cook with Locals | Cretan cooking Class at Archanes (transfer - lunch included): $86
  • Crete: Land Rover Safari with Sunset Viewing, Dinner, & Wine: $90
  • Full-Day Jeep Safari Tour with Cooking Lesson: $97
  • Food tour tasting walking tour: $123
  • E-bike Food Tour Tasting in Heraklion : $125

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Heraklion 38
    Lindau 27

Tours and Activities in Heraklion

For Heraklion, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Heraklion Area: CRETAquarium Admission Ticket: $8.56
  • CRETAquarium Entrance Ticket in Crete: $8.73
  • Mobile Self-Guided Audio Sightseeing Tour: $11
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Crete: Palace of Knossos E-Ticket and Optional Audio Guide: $11
  • Herakleion: City Self-Guided Game & Tour: $12
  • Heraklion Market & CretAquarium *Skip the line: $16
  • Heraklion City Tour - Aquarium: $17
  • Knossos Palace: E-ticket with Audio and Heraklion City Tour: $18
  • Party Bike 1 hour Experience in Malia : $19
  • Knossos Self-Guided Treasure Hunt & Tour KIDS: $21
  • Minoan Day Experience: $22

Tours and Activities in Lindau

Here are a few actual costs in Lindau for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Lindau - Town Highlights Walking Tour: $321
  • Lindau Private Christmas Market Tour: $267
  • Lindau Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Murder Crime Game Self-Guided Interactive Tour: $74
  • Private Guided Walking Tour: $207

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Heraklion 26
    Lindau 25

Sample the Local Flavors in Heraklion

Also in Heraklion, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Wine Tasting E-Bike Tour: $95
  • Ecobike Wine Tasting Tour in Heraklion: $115
  • Ecobike Tour with Wine Tasting: $118
  • Luxury Private Wine Tasting Experience in Haralabakis Winery: $119
  • Half Day Small Group Wine Tour with wine Tastings: $125
  • Half Day Semi Private Wine Tour with Tastings: $134
  • Semi Private Heraklion Valley Wine Tour with Lunch: $159
  • The Gourmet Wine Tour of Heraklion area: $180
  • Private SUV Wine Tour with Lunch: $183
  • Full Day Private Crete Wine Tour Experience from Heraklion : $190
  • Full day Knossos Palace, Local Distillery, Lunch @ Archanes: $192
  • Knossos, Olive Mill, Winery - Distillery with Tastings & Lunch : $196

Sample the Local Flavors in Lindau

Also in Lindau, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Lake Constance wine tour > day tour > wine tasting at 3 winemakers: $195


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


Which is Bigger, Heraklion or Lindau?

Heraklion has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Lindau. When comparing the sizes of Heraklion and Lindau, 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.