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

Should you visit Heraklion or Lyon?

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

Lyon

Lyon is a historic, beautiful, and cultural city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. 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 food, shopping, and museums.

Heraklion and Lyon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Heraklion or Lyon?

You'll generally find more things to do in Lyon than Heraklion. Lyon is bigger than Heraklion, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Lyon is better known for its museums, food, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Heraklion is more popular for its beaches. Heraklion is well known for its archeological sights, local Cretan restaurants, and its vibrant nightlife scene. Lyon is well known for its world-renowned cuisine, charming old town, and vibrant new town. Also, Lyon is famous for The Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière.

How is Heraklion different from Lyon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Lyon 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 Lyon are world-renowned. There are many world class museums and historic landmarks in the city including Musée des Beaux Arts, Musée de la Civilisation Gallo-Romaine, and Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière.

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

Lyon 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 Lyon have been singled out for their culinary prowess. Known as "the Gastronomic Capital of the World" this city stands above the rest when it comes to Michelin star restaurants (there are 17!), fresh ingredients, and unique local flavors. Favorite local dishes include pâté en croûte, rosette de Lyon, and saucisson brioché.

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 Lyon Better for Nightlife?

The high quality nightlife scene is relatively similar in Heraklion and Lyon.

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.

Lyon is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city has enough diverse neighborhoods that you'll find a scene that is great for everyone. There are dance clubs, cocktail bars, and wine bars that meet every personality and style.

Is Heraklion or Lyon Better for Beaches?

Heraklion is a well-known place for the beache. However, Lyon is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Heraklion. 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.

Lyon is not a beach destination.

Is Heraklion or Lyon Better for its Old Town?

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

The historic old town of Lyon is revered around the world. This impressive old town climbs from the river into Fourvière Hill. It's a Renaissance era district with beautiful buildings and plenty of character. You can spend days wandering the quaint streets and popping in the world class restaurants.

Heraklion does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Heraklion or Lyon?

Lyon is a very popular place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Heraklion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Lyon is well-known for its shopping. The city has many trendy markets, pedestrian shopping areas, and character-filled boutiques. From the charming shops in old town to the chic shopping streets, there are plenty of places to splurge around town.

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 Lyon Better for Families?

Lyon 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, Lyon is very family-friendly. The city has many kid-friendly museums including Musée des Confluences and the Cinema and Miniature Museum. There are also playgrounds, patisseries, and river cruises that you can enjoy as a family. Puppet shows are also fun, but do note that they're usually in French. While the restaurants are amazing for adults, it can be tricky to find a kid-friendly option with early opening hours that are convenient for little ones.

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 Lyon Better for Couples?

Both Heraklion and Lyon are high quality 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 Lyon frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples can enjoy wandering the beautiful Old Town, taking a river cruise, and dining on some of the best food in France.

Is Heraklion or Lyon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Heraklion and Lyon are both high quality 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.

Lyon is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. The city has several hostels and a number of activities that are fun for budget travelers and backpackers.

Is Heraklion or Lyon Better for Students?

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

Lyon is a very popular city for students. It is a very livable city with many fun cultural activities for students. There are many different entertainment options during the day, and during the evening there are plenty of places to hang out.

Heraklion is not popular with students.

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

Lyon 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 Lyon can get you around easily. The city has a metro, trams, and buses, that make it easy to get around.

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 Lyon a more walkable city?

Heraklion and Lyon are high quality 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.

Lyon is a very walkable destination. The old town is particularly walkable, but the hills can make things a bit challenging. There are also a number of pedestrian streets around town.

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

Should I spend more time in Lyon or Heraklion?

How long in Heraklion or Lyon?

In either Heraklion or Lyon, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Lyon than Heraklion because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Heraklion, and 2-5 days is enough time in Lyon.

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

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

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

One day in Heraklion or Lyon?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Heraklion. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

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

Heraklion is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It's also a great beach destination, too. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

People visit Lyon because there is so much to do. 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 city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Heraklion or Lyon?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the vibrant destination of Heraklion. This city offers something for everyone. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

People visit Lyon 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. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Heraklion or Lyon?

The historic city of Heraklion offers nightlife and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

Lyon 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 10-Day Tours from Paris, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Heraklion or Lyon?

Lyon has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Heraklion. When comparing the sizes of Heraklion and Lyon, 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 Lyon?

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 Lyon in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Heraklion as well as Lyon. Most visitors come to Heraklion for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Lyon because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Heraklion is a little warmer than Lyon in the summer. The daily temperature in Heraklion averages around 25°C (78°F) in July, and Lyon fluctuates around 22°C (71°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lyon. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Heraklion this time of the year. In the summer, Heraklion often gets more sunshine than Lyon. Heraklion gets 366 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lyon receives 285 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets less rain in July than Lyon. Heraklion gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heraklion or Lyon in the Autumn?

Both Lyon and Heraklion are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Heraklion because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Lyon this time of year.

In the autumn, Heraklion is a little warmer than Lyon. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Heraklion in October average around 20°C (68°F), and Lyon averages at about 14°C (56°F).

Heraklion usually receives more sunshine than Lyon during autumn. Heraklion gets 199 hours of sunny skies, while Lyon receives 127 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Heraklion usually receives less rain than Lyon. Heraklion gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Heraklion or Lyon in the Winter?

Both Lyon and Heraklion during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Heraklion this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Lyon for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Lyon. In January, Heraklion is generally much warmer than Lyon. Daily temperatures in Heraklion average around 12°C (54°F), and Lyon fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

In the winter, Heraklion often gets more sunshine than Lyon. Heraklion gets 121 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lyon receives 62 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets more rain in January than Lyon. Heraklion gets 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heraklion or Lyon in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Heraklion and Lyon. Many travelers come to Heraklion for the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Lyon in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Heraklion is a little warmer than Lyon in the spring. The daily temperature in Heraklion averages around 16°C (61°F) in April, and Lyon fluctuates around 11°C (53°F).

In Heraklion, it's very sunny this time of the year. Heraklion usually receives more sunshine than Lyon during spring. Heraklion gets 224 hours of sunny skies, while Lyon receives 174 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Heraklion usually receives less rain than Lyon. Heraklion gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Lyon and Heraklion