A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Heraklion vs. Palma de Mallorca for Nightlife, Beaches, Food, and Families

Should you visit Heraklion or Palma de Mallorca?

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 Palma de Mallorca 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. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Palma de Mallorca

Palma de Mallorca is a stunning, cultural, and historic island. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the live music, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Heraklion and Palma de Mallorca: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Heraklion or Palma de Mallorca?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Palma de Mallorca than Heraklion. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Palma de Mallorca is very popular for its nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Heraklion attracts visitors for its museums and big city activities. Palma de Mallorca is more touristy than Heraklion and is known for its strikingly blue waters, sandy beaches, all-inclusive resorts, and vibrant towns. It is also well known for the turquoise water and white sand beaches. Heraklion is famous for its archeological sights, local Cretan restaurants, and its vibrant nightlife scene.

The turquoise water and white sand beaches

How is Heraklion different from Palma de Mallorca?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Palma de Mallorca 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 Palma de Mallorca?

Heraklion is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Palma de Mallorca does not have museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Heraklion can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

Palma de Mallorca does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Heraklion or Palma de Mallorca? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Heraklion and Palma de Mallorca both to be high quality 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 Palma de Mallorca is an experience not to be missed. Food here is centered around pork, fish, and vegetables. It is flavored with garlic and olive oil and it offers that feeling of comfort that comes with home cooking.

Is Heraklion or Palma de Mallorca Better for Nightlife?

Palma de Mallorca 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 Palma de Mallorca just to party. Head to Magaluf and Palma for the most popular places.

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 Palma de Mallorca Better for Music?

Palma de Mallorca is a very popular place for its live music scene. However, Heraklion is not a live music destination.

It's worth checking out the music scene in Palma de Mallorca while you're in town. Live concerts, international DJs, and a diverse range of styles have put the island's music scene on the map.

Heraklion is not a live music destination.

Is Heraklion or Palma de Mallorca Better for Resorts?

Palma de Mallorca is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Heraklion is not a resort destination.

In Palma de Mallorca, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. Top resorts on the island include The St Regis Mardavall, Viva Cala Mesquida Resort and Spa, and Nixe Palace Hotel.

Heraklion is not a resort destination.

Is Heraklion or Palma de Mallorca Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Palma de Mallorca is a island with good options for its diving and snorkeling. However, Heraklion is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Palma de Mallorca. Head to Cala Santanyi on the south side of the island for the best snorkeling. For scuba diving, National Park of Cabrera is one of the most popular spots.

Heraklion is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Heraklion or Palma de Mallorca Better for Beaches?

Palma de Mallorca is a world-class destination for the beache. Also, Heraklion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for the beach.

Palma de Mallorca is considered to be a world-class beach destination. The island is lined with sandy beaches and rocky coves, which have contributed to it becoming one of Europe's most popular beach destinations.

Many people visit Heraklion for it's beautiful 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.

Is Heraklion or Palma de Mallorca Better for its Old Town?

Palma de Mallorca is a island 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 Palma de Mallorca. Alcudia is the best old town on the island. It has cobblestone streets and historic walls that give it charm and history.

Heraklion does not have a historic old town.

Is Heraklion or Palma de Mallorca Better for Hiking?

Palma de Mallorca is a island with good options for its hiking trails. However, Heraklion is not a hiking destination.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Palma de Mallorca. There are many beautiful hikes along the water and through the countryside that offer beautiful views and pass by quaint towns.

Heraklion is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Heraklion or Palma de Mallorca?

Shoppers can find a variety of nice stores in both Heraklion and Palma de Mallorca.

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 Palma de Mallorca to go shopping. Head to Palma for some of the areas best shopping.

Is Heraklion or Palma de Mallorca Better for Families?

Palma de Mallorca 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, Palma de Mallorca is very family-friendly. The beaches are large and sandy with beautiful blue waters. There's also many activities that both adults and kids can enjoy around the island including waterparks, aquariums, and amusement areas.

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 Palma de Mallorca Better for Couples?

Heraklion is an excellent place to visit for romance. Also, Palma de Mallorca is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

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.

Palma de Mallorca makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With beautiful beaches and a fun Spanish flare, Mallorca makes for a memorable honeymoon.

Is Heraklion or Palma de Mallorca Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Heraklion and Palma de Mallorca 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.

Palma de Mallorca is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. There is no shortage of hostels in Mallorca so it's easy to find an affordable place to stay and a young crowd to hang out with.

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

Visitors will find nice public transit in both Heraklion and Palma de Mallorca.

Heraklion has some public transit options. KTEL buses travel both within town and to nearby villages.

You'll find some public transit in Palma de Mallorca, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is an efficient bus system that can get you around the island, but trips are less frequent on weekends. Pick up the Intermodal Card which can get you from town to town.

Is Heraklion or Palma de Mallorca a more walkable city?

Heraklion is an excellent place to visit for its walkability. Also, Palma de Mallorca is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

Heraklion is very walkable. Many parts of the town are walkable and doing a walking tour is a great way to see many of the city's sights.

Palma de Mallorca is a somewhat walkable place. It is a larger island that is not walkable, but Palma is generally a walkable area. If you stay in the central area you should be fine to explore on foot but if you want to get out into more rural areas, you'll need access to some type of transportation.

For even more information, also check out Is Heraklion Worth Visiting? and Is Palma de Mallorca Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Palma de Mallorca or Heraklion?

How long in Heraklion or Palma de Mallorca?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Palma de Mallorca 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 Palma de Mallorca.

One day in Heraklion or Palma de Mallorca?

With shopping and museums around the destination of Heraklion, there's plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. One day is often enough time to do most activities. It offers something for everyone.

You'll find nightlife and live music around the island of Palma de Mallorca. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Palma de Mallorca?

With museums and nightlife around the accessible city of Heraklion, there's plenty to do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here.

You'll find live music and food around the cultural destination of Palma de Mallorca. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Heraklion or Palma de Mallorca?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the bustling destination of Heraklion. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the stunning island of Palma de Mallorca. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this island makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer.

A week in Heraklion or Palma de Mallorca?

Heraklion is a popular choice for travelers. Most people come for the beaches. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Palma de Mallorca is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 2-Week Tours in Spain, and The Best 3-Week Tours in Spain.

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

Which is Bigger, Heraklion or Palma de Mallorca?

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

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 Palma de Mallorca in the Summer?

Both Palma de Mallorca 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 Palma de Mallorca because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Heraklion is generally around the same temperature as Palma de Mallorca. Daily temperatures in Heraklion average around 25°C (78°F), and Palma de Mallorca fluctuates around 24°C (76°F).

It's quite sunny in Palma de Mallorca. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Heraklion. Heraklion usually receives more sunshine than Palma de Mallorca during summer. Heraklion gets 366 hours of sunny skies, while Palma de Mallorca receives 334 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Heraklion usually receives less rain than Palma de Mallorca. Heraklion gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Palma de Mallorca receives 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Heraklion or Palma de Mallorca in the Autumn?

Both Palma de Mallorca 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. Furthermore, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Palma de Mallorca this time of year.

Heraklion is around the same temperature as Palma de Mallorca in the autumn. The daily temperature in Heraklion averages around 20°C (68°F) in October, and Palma de Mallorca fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

In Palma de Mallorca, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Heraklion often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Palma de Mallorca. Heraklion gets 199 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Palma de Mallorca receives 204 hours of full sun.

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

Should I visit Heraklion or Palma de Mallorca in the Winter?

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

In the winter, Heraklion is a little warmer than Palma de Mallorca. Typically, the winter temperatures in Heraklion in January average around 12°C (54°F), and Palma de Mallorca averages at about 11°C (52°F).

Heraklion usually receives less sunshine than Palma de Mallorca during winter. Heraklion gets 121 hours of sunny skies, while Palma de Mallorca receives 164 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Heraklion usually receives more rain than Palma de Mallorca. Heraklion gets 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Palma de Mallorca receives 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Heraklion or Palma de Mallorca in the Spring?

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

In April, Heraklion is generally a little warmer than Palma de Mallorca. Daily temperatures in Heraklion average around 16°C (61°F), and Palma de Mallorca fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Palma de Mallorca. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Heraklion this time of the year. In the spring, Heraklion often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Palma de Mallorca. Heraklion gets 224 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Palma de Mallorca receives 210 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets less rain in April than Palma de Mallorca. Heraklion gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Palma de Mallorca receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Palma de Mallorca and Heraklion