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

Should you visit Heraklion or Pisa?

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 Pisa 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. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the beaches, shopping, and museums.

Pisa

Pisa is a charming, iconic, and world-famous city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the nightlife, food, and beaches.

Heraklion and Pisa: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Heraklion or Pisa?

You'll generally find more things to do in Heraklion than Pisa. Heraklion is bigger than Pisa, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Heraklion is better known for its beaches and big city activities, while Pisa is more popular for its historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty. Heraklion is well known for its archeological sights, local Cretan restaurants, and its vibrant nightlife scene. Also, Heraklion is famous for The Palace of Knossos. Pisa is well known for its iconic Leaning Tower, its beautiful squares, and its lively atmosphere.

How is Heraklion different from Pisa?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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 Pisa. The city is more than a one hit wonder. In addition to the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa, you'll find many beautiful buildings and museums. Popular places to visit include the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, Campo Santo (Sacred Field), and Museo dell'Opera del Duomo.

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

Foodies will find both Heraklion and Pisa both to be excellent 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 Pisa is an experience not to be missed. The local cuisine is heavily influenced by the city's maritime roots. You'll find many seafood dishes as well as local classic recipes that have been passed down through the generations. A quintessential local dish is Bordatino alla Pisana, which is made with beans, cabbage, and cornflour. Also popular are Pasta e Ceci (chickpea pasta), Palette (a local polenta), and Trippa alla Pisana.

Is Heraklion or Pisa Better for Nightlife?

The excellent nightlife scene is relatively similar in Heraklion and Pisa.

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.

Pisa is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. Head out to an aperitivo bar for an early drink, then head to one of the area's best nightlife neighborhoods. For the biggest party scene, go about 10 kilometers out of town to the Versilian coast. This area has the most popular clubs. If you decide to stay in town, there are still plenty of places to catch live music and dance.

Is Heraklion or Pisa Better for Beaches?

Heraklion is a great city for the beache. Also, Pisa is not as popular, but is still a nice city for the beach.

Heraklion is considered a top beach destination. 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.

Many people head to Pisa to enjoy the beach. Many people forget that there are beaches near Pisa, but the city is close to the sea. Some of the closest beaches include Marina di Vecchiano and Marina di Pisa.

Is Heraklion or Pisa Better for its Old Town?

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

Pisa is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The old town is where you'll find the city's classic charm and many of the best sights.

Heraklion does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Heraklion or Pisa?

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

Pisa is well-known for its shopping. There's a great mix of traditional markets, high end stores, and indoor shopping malls where you can find anything that you might need. Corso Italia is one of the most popular shopping areas, but also worth checking out are Centro Commerciale Pisanova, Borgo Stretto and Borgo Largo.

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 Pisa Better for Families?

Both Heraklion and Pisa are notable to visit with kids.

Heraklion is a family-friendly city. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Pisa. It's a lively city with beautiful squares and the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa. Kids will enjoy hanging out in the city center, visiting Parco Don Bosco, Giardino Scotto Park, or Marina di Pisa. If you have a car and are willing to venture a bit further away, there's the Piccolo Mondo Amusement Park and Parco Preistorico Peccioli.

Is Heraklion or Pisa Better for Couples?

Heraklion is a great city for its romantic activities. Also, Pisa is not as popular, but is still a nice city for couples.

Heraklion is a great city if you're traveling as 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.

Pisa is a good city for couples to visit. It's an iconic Italian destination that offers so much more than its most famous landmark. The city is filled with charming squares, beautiful architecture, and plenty of fun activities that couples can enjoy.

Is Heraklion or Pisa Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Heraklion and Pisa are both excellent 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.

Pisa is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. Most backpackers pass through on their way to other towns, but for those that linger, there are plenty of hostels and a lively social scene.

Is Heraklion or Pisa Better for Students?

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

Pisa is a very popular city for students. Many study abroad students flock to Italy for its beautiful culture, art, and architecture. Pisa makes a nice base for international students, and it offers easy access to other parts of Italy. It's also home to an internationally acclaimed university, Scuola Normale Superiore, which was founded in 1810.

Heraklion is not popular with students.

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

Visitors will find notable public transit in both Heraklion and Pisa.

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

You'll find some public transit in Pisa, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are public buses through town with the most popular lines being the Red and Green Lines.

Is Heraklion or Pisa a more walkable city?

Heraklion and Pisa are excellent 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.

Pisa is a very walkable destination. The city is a great place to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Pisa or Heraklion?

How long in Heraklion or Pisa?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Heraklion and Pisa. In our opinion, Pisa has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Pisa than Heraklion. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Couples should spend more time in Heraklion than Pisa. 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 Pisa 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 Pisa.

One day in Heraklion or Pisa?

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.

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

A weekend in Heraklion or Pisa?

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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the iconic destination of Pisa. 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 Pisa?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the accessible 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the iconic city of Pisa. 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 Pisa?

The accessible 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.

Pisa 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 2-Week Tours in Italy, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Italy.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Heraklion or Pisa?

Heraklion has a larger population, and is about 53% larger than the population of Pisa. When comparing the sizes of Heraklion and Pisa, 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 Pisa?

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 Pisa in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Heraklion and Pisa. Many travelers come to Heraklion for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Pisa in the summer for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

Heraklion is around the same temperature as Pisa in the summer. The daily temperature in Heraklion averages around 25°C (78°F) in July, and Pisa fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Pisa this time of the year. In Heraklion, it's very sunny this time of the year. Heraklion usually receives more sunshine than Pisa during summer. Heraklion gets 366 hours of sunny skies, while Pisa receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Heraklion usually receives less rain than Pisa. Heraklion gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Pisa receives 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Heraklion or Pisa in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Heraklion as well as Pisa. Many visitors come to Heraklion in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Additionally, most visitors come to Pisa for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Heraklion is a little warmer than Pisa. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Heraklion in October average around 20°C (68°F), and Pisa averages at about 17°C (63°F).

In the autumn, Heraklion often gets more sunshine than Pisa. Heraklion gets 199 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pisa receives 177 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Pisa. Heraklion usually gets less rain in October than Pisa. Heraklion gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Pisa receives 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heraklion or Pisa in the Winter?

Both Pisa and Heraklion are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Heraklion for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Pisa because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Heraklion is generally much warmer than Pisa. Daily temperatures in Heraklion average around 12°C (54°F), and Pisa fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

Heraklion usually receives more sunshine than Pisa during winter. Heraklion gets 121 hours of sunny skies, while Pisa receives 105 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Heraklion usually receives more rain than Pisa. Heraklion gets 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Pisa receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Heraklion or Pisa in the Spring?

Both Pisa and Heraklion during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Heraklion because of the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Pisa this time of year.

Heraklion is a little warmer than Pisa in the spring. The daily temperature in Heraklion averages around 16°C (61°F) in April, and Pisa fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

It's quite sunny in Heraklion. In the spring, Heraklion often gets more sunshine than Pisa. Heraklion gets 224 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pisa receives 192 hours of full sun.

Pisa gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Heraklion usually gets less rain in April than Pisa. Heraklion gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Pisa receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Pisa and Heraklion