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

Should you visit Heraklion or Nantes?

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

Nantes

Nantes is a historical, beautiful, and vibrant city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Heraklion and Nantes: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Heraklion or Nantes?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Heraklion than Nantes. While Nantes is larger than Heraklion, Heraklion has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Heraklion is more popular for its beaches and big city activities, while Nantes is known for its food, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty. Heraklion is more touristy than Nantes and is known for its archeological sights, local Cretan restaurants, and its vibrant nightlife scene. It is also home to The Palace of Knossos. Nantes is popular for its castles and historical landmarks, local wine, and beautiful parks and gardens.

How is Heraklion different from Nantes?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Heraklion and Nantes.

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.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Nantes. The city is filled with historical monuments, particularly in the Bouffay District. Highlights include Cathédrale Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul, Château des Ducs de Bretagne, and the Musée d'Arts de Nantes.

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

Nantes 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 Nantes have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The region lends itself to unique flavors with a great mix of seafood from the Atlantic, freshwater fish from the Loire, and dairy from the surrounding countryside. The region is also famous for its wine. Local dishes that you should try include Filet de Sandre au Beurre Blanc (fresh fish in butter sauce), Crepes Bretonnes (breakfast crepes), and Le Canard Nantais (duck with Muscadet wine).

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 Nantes Better for Nightlife?

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

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.

Nantes is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The large student population heavily influences the nightlife scene. You'll find a young vibe with a lot of bars and clubs to choose from, particularly around Île de Nantes.

Is Heraklion or Nantes Better for Beaches?

Heraklion is a very popular place for the beach. However, Nantes 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.

Nantes is not a beach destination.

Is Heraklion or Nantes Better for its Old Town?

Nantes is a city with good options for its old town. However, Heraklion does not have a historic old town.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Nantes. The city's old town is in the Bouffay District and it is filled with half-timbered houses and a maze of streets and shops.

Heraklion does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Heraklion or Nantes?

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

Nantes is well-known for its shopping. There are impressive shopping streets, boutique stores, and grand shopping malls. Make sure you check out Rue Crébillon, Passage Pommeraye, and the shops around the Bouffay District. Talensac Market is also a historical covered market that you can explore.

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 Nantes Better for Families?

Nantes 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, Nantes is very family-friendly. It's filled with gardens, museums, and theme parks, making it a great combination of fascinating activities for adults and kids alike. Some of the top kid-friendly activities include a visit to Machine of the Isle of Nantes (both a theme park and a museum), seeing a show at Le Lieu Unique, or experiencing Naudières Park (a smaller theme park). Kids will also enjoy seeing Goulaine Castle or wandering around Jardin Extraordinaire or the Botanical Gardens.

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 Nantes Better for Couples?

Both Heraklion and Nantes 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 Nantes frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There is a mix of both natural and historical beauty. Couples can enjoy a nice meal, stroll through one of the many parks and gardens, or even spend the day at the spa.

Is Heraklion or Nantes Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Heraklion is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Nantes is lacking in good options for backpackers.

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

Nantes is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There aren't as many hostels as you would expect in the area, so finding an affordable and social place to stay may be a bit challenging.

Is Heraklion or Nantes Better for Students?

Nantes is a city with good options for its student-friendly activities. However, Heraklion is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Nantes. There's a decent sized student population and the city has a welcoming atmosphere. It's also easy to get around with public transportation.

Heraklion is not popular with students.

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

Nantes 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.

Nantes has some very good public transit options. There are both trams and buses throughout the city that are operated by TAN (Transport de l'Agglomeration Nantaise).

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 Nantes a more walkable city?

Heraklion and Nantes 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.

Nantes is a very walkable destination. The city is very walkable. Both locals and tourists alike choose to walk in Nantes.

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

Should I spend more time in Nantes or Heraklion?

How long in Heraklion or Nantes?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Heraklion and Nantes. In our opinion, Nantes has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Nantes than Heraklion. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Heraklion, and 2-3 days is enough time in Nantes.

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

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

One day in Heraklion or Nantes?

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.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Nantes. 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 Nantes?

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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historical destination of Nantes. 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 Nantes?

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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the welcoming city of Nantes. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the food. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Heraklion or Nantes?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the accessible 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.

Nantes is a popular choice for travelers. 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 in France, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in France.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Heraklion or Nantes?

Nantes has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Heraklion. When comparing the sizes of Heraklion and Nantes, 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 Nantes?

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 Nantes in the Summer?

Both Nantes and Heraklion are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Heraklion for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Nantes because of the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Heraklion is a little warmer than Nantes. Typically, the summer temperatures in Heraklion in July average around 25°C (78°F), and Nantes averages at about 19°C (67°F).

It's quite sunny in Nantes. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Heraklion. Heraklion usually receives more sunshine than Nantes during summer. Heraklion gets 366 hours of sunny skies, while Nantes receives 267 hours of full sun in the summer.

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

Should I visit Heraklion or Nantes in the Autumn?

Both Nantes and Heraklion during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Heraklion because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Nantes this time of year.

In October, Heraklion is generally much warmer than Nantes. Daily temperatures in Heraklion average around 20°C (68°F), and Nantes fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

In the autumn, Heraklion often gets more sunshine than Nantes. Heraklion gets 199 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nantes receives 141 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets less rain in October than Nantes. Heraklion gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Nantes receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heraklion or Nantes in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Heraklion and Nantes. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Heraklion this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Nantes for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Heraklion is much warmer than Nantes in the winter. The daily temperature in Heraklion averages around 12°C (54°F) in January, and Nantes fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

Heraklion usually receives more sunshine than Nantes during winter. Heraklion gets 121 hours of sunny skies, while Nantes receives 72 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Heraklion usually receives around the same amount of rain as Nantes. Heraklion gets 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Nantes receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Heraklion or Nantes in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Heraklion as well as Nantes. Many travelers come to Heraklion for the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Nantes in the spring for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Heraklion is much warmer than Nantes. Typically, the spring temperatures in Heraklion in April average around 16°C (61°F), and Nantes averages at about 11°C (51°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 Nantes. Heraklion gets 224 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nantes receives 187 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets less rain in April than Nantes. Heraklion gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Nantes receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Nantes and Heraklion