A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Heraklion vs. Piazza Armerina for Attractions, Food, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Heraklion or Piazza Armerina?

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 Piazza Armerina 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 food, beaches, and shopping.

Piazza Armerina

Piazza Armerina is a historic, charming, and authentic town. Visitors also love the food and museums.

Heraklion and Piazza Armerina: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Heraklion or Piazza Armerina?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Heraklion than Piazza Armerina, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Heraklion is better known for its food, nightlife, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Piazza Armerina is more popular for its historical sights. Heraklion is more touristy than Piazza Armerina and is popular for its archeological sights, local Cretan restaurants, and its vibrant nightlife scene. Also, Heraklion is famous for The Palace of Knossos. Piazza Armerina is well known for it's local atmosphere and its premiere historic sight - the Villa Romana del Casale.

How is Heraklion different from Piazza Armerina?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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 Piazza Armerina. Most people head to town specifically to visit Villa Romana del Casale, which is a few kilometers away. It's a beautiful Roman villa that can be explored in a few hours. Also in town is an Aragonese Castle and an 18th century Duomo.

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

Heraklion is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Piazza Armerina is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Heraklion. 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.

Piazza Armerina is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Most visitors pass through town, stopping to visit Villa Romana del Casale. There are some pizzerias and other casual restaurants where you can grab a bite to eat.

Is Heraklion or Piazza Armerina Better for Nightlife?

Heraklion is notable for nightlife and partying. However, Piazza Armerina is a mediocre town for its evening party scene.

Heraklion has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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.

Piazza Armerina doesn't offer many options. While many tourists pass through town with the intent of visiting the Villa Romana del Casale, most don't linger long enough appreciate the town at night.

Is Heraklion or Piazza Armerina Better for Beaches?

Heraklion is notable for the beache. However, Piazza Armerina is not a beach destination.

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.

Piazza Armerina is not a beach destination.

Is Heraklion or Piazza Armerina Better for its Old Town?

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

Piazza Armerina is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The old town has a bit of authenticity that is missing from some of the more popular Sicilian cities. While it may feel a little worn to some people, those who like to get away from the souvenir shops will appreciate a visit.

Heraklion does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Heraklion or Piazza Armerina?

Heraklion is a good destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Piazza Armerina 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.

Piazza Armerina is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Heraklion or Piazza Armerina Better for Families?

Heraklion is a good destination for its family-friendly activities. However, Piazza Armerina is a mediocre town for its kid-friendly activities.

Heraklion is a family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Piazza Armerina is not always a place people visit with their families. Most people head to the town to explore the Villa Romana del Casale. The beauty and history may not thrill all kids, but if your kids enjoy a bit of history they will likely appreciate a visit. The town also has an Aragonese Castle that you can visit.

Is Heraklion or Piazza Armerina Better for Couples?

Heraklion is notable for its romantic activities. Also, Piazza Armerina is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for couples.

Heraklion is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Piazza Armerina is a good city for couples to visit. For history enthusiasts, this is a popular place to visit. Like most visitors, couples will appreciate a visit to the town's main attraction Villa Romana del Casale.

Is Heraklion or Piazza Armerina Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Heraklion is notable for backpackers. However, Piazza Armerina is a mediocre town 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.

Piazza Armerina is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Although it's a popular tourist destination, there are a limited number of hostels in town.

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

Visitors will find notable public transit in both Heraklion and Piazza Armerina.

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

You'll find some public transit in Piazza Armerina, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. You can reach the town by bus and once there it's possible to explore on foot.

Is Heraklion or Piazza Armerina a more walkable city?

Heraklion and Piazza Armerina are very good 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.

Piazza Armerina is a very walkable destination. You can explore most of the old and new towns on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Piazza Armerina or Heraklion?

How long in Heraklion or Piazza Armerina?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Heraklion or Piazza Armerina to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Heraklion than Piazza Armerina because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Heraklion, and 1-2 days is enough time in Piazza Armerina.

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

Couples should spend more time in Heraklion than Piazza Armerina. 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 Piazza Armerina 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.

One day in Heraklion or Piazza Armerina?

The bustling destination of Heraklion offers nightlife and food. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

You'll find food and museums around the town of Piazza Armerina. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Piazza Armerina has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Heraklion or Piazza Armerina?

The city of Heraklion offers food and shopping. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

You'll find museums and food around the historic destination of Piazza Armerina. 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 Piazza Armerina?

Heraklion is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. This city offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the historic town of Piazza Armerina. 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 Piazza Armerina?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Heraklion. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Piazza Armerina 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 Bicycle Tours in Italy, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Italy.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Heraklion or Piazza Armerina?

Heraklion has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Piazza Armerina. When comparing the sizes of Heraklion and Piazza Armerina, 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 Piazza Armerina?

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 Piazza Armerina in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Heraklion as well as Piazza Armerina. The beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Heraklion this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Piazza Armerina for the family-friendly experiences.

Heraklion is around the same temperature as Piazza Armerina in the summer. The daily temperature in Heraklion averages around 25°C (78°F) in July, and Piazza Armerina fluctuates around 26°C (79°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Piazza Armerina. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Heraklion this time of the year. In the summer, Heraklion often gets more sunshine than Piazza Armerina. Heraklion gets 366 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Piazza Armerina receives 325 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets less rain in July than Piazza Armerina. Heraklion gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Piazza Armerina receives 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heraklion or Piazza Armerina in the Autumn?

Both Piazza Armerina and Heraklion are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Heraklion for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Heraklion is around the same temperature as Piazza Armerina. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Heraklion in October average around 20°C (68°F), and Piazza Armerina averages at about 19°C (67°F).

Heraklion usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Piazza Armerina during autumn. Heraklion gets 199 hours of sunny skies, while Piazza Armerina receives 189 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Heraklion usually receives less rain than Piazza Armerina. Heraklion gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Piazza Armerina receives 75 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Heraklion or Piazza Armerina in the Winter?

Both Piazza Armerina and Heraklion during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Heraklion in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Piazza Armerina for the museums and the cuisine during these months.

In January, Heraklion is generally a little warmer than Piazza Armerina. Daily temperatures in Heraklion average around 12°C (54°F), and Piazza Armerina fluctuates around 10°C (51°F).

In the winter, Heraklion often gets less sunshine than Piazza Armerina. Heraklion gets 121 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Piazza Armerina receives 153 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets more rain in January than Piazza Armerina. Heraklion gets 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Piazza Armerina receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heraklion or Piazza Armerina in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Heraklion and Piazza Armerina. Most visitors come to Heraklion for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months.

Heraklion is a little warmer than Piazza Armerina in the spring. The daily temperature in Heraklion averages around 16°C (61°F) in April, and Piazza Armerina fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Piazza Armerina this time of the year. In Heraklion, it's very sunny this time of the year. Heraklion usually receives more sunshine than Piazza Armerina during spring. Heraklion gets 224 hours of sunny skies, while Piazza Armerina receives 204 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Heraklion usually receives less rain than Piazza Armerina. Heraklion gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Piazza Armerina receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Piazza Armerina and Heraklion