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

Should you visit Heraklion or London?

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 London 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. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

London

London is a global, international, and historic city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the live music, food, and shopping.

Heraklion and London: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Heraklion or London?

Travelers will usually find more to do in London than Heraklion, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. London is more popular for its museums, theatre productions, nightlife, music, shopping, christmas markets, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Heraklion is known for its beaches. London is more touristy than Heraklion and is known for its international reputation, its world-renowned theater productions, and its many different markets. It is also home to Big Ben. Heraklion is popular for its archeological sights, local Cretan restaurants, and its vibrant nightlife scene.

Big Ben

How is Heraklion different from London?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

London is a world-class destination for its museums and history. Also, Heraklion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in London are world-renowned. The city has so many iconic sights that we can't list them all, but some of the most famous include the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, St. Paul's Cathedral, Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, and the British Museum. You can fill many days exploring the treasures found at each of the venues.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around 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.

Is Heraklion or London Better for Theater?

London is a world-class destination for its theatre productions. However, Heraklion is not a theatre destination.

Visitors will find world class theater shows, plays, and musicals in London that are not to be missed. The West End theater district is where you'll find the most popular musicals. Famous theaters include Apollo Theatre, Palace Theatre, and Piccadilly Theatre. There are often Wednesday matinees that are a bit cheaper than the evening shows. You may also be able to get discounted last minute tickets if you're visiting during the less touristy times.

Heraklion is not a theatre destination.

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

Foodies will find both Heraklion and London both to be superb 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 London is an experience not to be missed. Although food here was once the butt of a number of jokes, the restaurant scene has come a long way, and you can find anything and everything around town. Head to Chinatown to try dim sum or hot pot. There are no shortage of Indian restaurants as well. If you want the best food for the lowest prices, your best bet is to get out of the touristy areas and discover where the locals eat. There are also many markets that are perfect for grabbing a unique lunch or snack. Burrough Market has a number of ethnic and seafood vendors as well as fresh produce and snack options.

Is Heraklion or London Better for Nightlife?

London is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Heraklion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

People head to London just to party. Some of the best neighborhoods for nightlife are Camden, West End, Soho, and Shoreditch. There are many festivals, concerts, and shows worth checking out and the nightlife scene is diverse enough that there really is something for everyone.

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.

Is Heraklion or London Better for Music?

London is a world-class destination for its live music scene. However, Heraklion is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in London. Famous music venues include Dominion Theatre, the Roundhouse, and Dublin Castle.

Heraklion is not a live music destination.

Is Heraklion or London Better for Beaches?

Heraklion is a great city for the beach. However, London is not a beach destination.

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.

London is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Heraklion or London?

London is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Heraklion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, London draws large crowds to its stores. With so much iconic shopping around town, it's hard to decide where to go. Head to Oxford Street, Regent Street, or Piccadilly Circus for a quintessential British shopping experience.

Many visitors go to Heraklion to go shopping. There are a number of unique shops around town that sell everything from traditional pottery to homemade jewelry.

Is Heraklion or London Better for Christmas?

London is a world-class destination for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Heraklion does not offer Christmas activities.

London offers plenty of sights and activities around Christmas. There's Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, outdoor ice skating, and beautiful Christmas lights throughout the city. You can also listen to Christmas Carols in Trafalgar Square or see a classic Christmas show.

Heraklion does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Heraklion or London Better for Christmas Markets?

London is a world-class destination for visiting Christmas markets. However, Heraklion does not offer Christmas markets.

Many people travel to London specifically for the Christmas markets. The city has many Christmas markets. There is Winter Wonderland Christmas market, Southbank Centre Winter Market, and Selfridges Christmas Market, among many others.

Heraklion does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Heraklion or London Better for Families?

London 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.

London is an extremely popular city to visit for families. Whether you do a Harry Potter Tour, take a ride on the London Eye, or enjoy afternoon tea, there are plenty of activities for kids around town. The Harry Potter Studio Tour is fun for everyone, but should be booked well in advance as it sells out. Theatre enthusiasts will enjoy catching a musical in West End and sampling dim sum or a hot pot in Chinatown. There are often Wednesday matinee showings that are perfect for kids with early bedtimes.

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 London Better for Couples?

London is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Heraklion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

London is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. With every type of entertainment that you can imagine, this city is the ultimate couple's getaway. There are world class musicals, evening concerts, and restaurants of every style, cuisine, and budget. It's easy for couples to fill days in this vibrant city.

Couples visit Heraklion frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Is Heraklion or London Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

London is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Heraklion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, London is extremely popular for backpackers. Although the city is very expensive, it has tons of hostels, affordable restaurant options, and great public transit. There's a huge backpacker network here and it's easy to meet other travelers. The nightlife scene is also second to none.

Heraklion is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. The city is filled with budget-friendly hostels that often have a social atmosphere and a fun vibe.

Is Heraklion or London Better for Students?

London is a world-class destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Heraklion is not popular with students.

London is a very popular city for students. The city has a number of universities and is a popular study abroad destination. It's also a very diverse city, so international students will feel right at home.

Heraklion is not popular with students.

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

London is a world-class destination for times when you don't have a car. Also, Heraklion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

With a huge network, the transit system in London can get you around easily. From the iconic double decker buses to the Tube, there are plenty of options throughout the city.

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 London a more walkable city?

London 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 London. With many walkable areas, it is considered to be one of the world's most walkable major cities.

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 London Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in London or Heraklion?

How long in Heraklion or London?

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

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

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

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

One day in Heraklion or London?

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.

People visit London because there is so much to do. 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 London?

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.

People visit London because there is so much to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Heraklion or London?

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.

People visit London because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Heraklion or London?

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.

London is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in London, 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in United Kingdom, and The Best 3-Day Tours in United Kingdom.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Heraklion and London, we can see that London is more expensive. And not only is Heraklion much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Heraklion would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Heraklion 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 London would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in London than you might in Heraklion.

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

Which is Bigger, Heraklion or London?

London has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Heraklion. When comparing the sizes of Heraklion and London, 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 London?

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 London in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Heraklion and London. Many visitors come to Heraklion in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to London for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Heraklion is a little warmer than London. Typically, the summer temperatures in Heraklion in July average around 25°C (78°F), and London averages at about 18°C (64°F).

In Heraklion, it's very sunny this time of the year. Heraklion usually receives more sunshine than London during summer. Heraklion gets 366 hours of sunny skies, while London receives 195 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Heraklion usually receives less rain than London. Heraklion gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while London receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Heraklion or London in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Heraklion as well as London. Most visitors come to Heraklion for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to London because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Heraklion is generally much warmer than London. Daily temperatures in Heraklion average around 20°C (68°F), and London fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In the autumn, Heraklion often gets more sunshine than London. Heraklion gets 199 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while London receives 107 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets more rain in October than London. Heraklion gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while London receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heraklion or London in the Winter?

Both London and Heraklion are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Heraklion because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to London this time of year.

It's quite cold in London in the winter. Heraklion is much warmer than London in the winter. The daily temperature in Heraklion averages around 12°C (54°F) in January, and London fluctuates around 4°C (40°F).

Heraklion usually receives more sunshine than London during winter. Heraklion gets 121 hours of sunny skies, while London receives 52 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Heraklion usually receives more rain than London. Heraklion gets 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while London receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Heraklion or London in the Spring?

Both London and Heraklion during the spring are popular places to visit. The beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Heraklion this time of year. Also, many travelers come to London for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Heraklion is much warmer than London. Typically, the spring temperatures in Heraklion in April average around 16°C (61°F), and London averages at about 9°C (48°F).

It's quite sunny in Heraklion. In the spring, Heraklion often gets more sunshine than London. Heraklion gets 224 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while London receives 147 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets less rain in April than London. Heraklion gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while London receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for London and Heraklion