A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Heraklion vs. Plitvice Lakes National Park for Food, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Heraklion or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

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 Plitvice Lakes National Park 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. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a scenic, world-famous, and spectacular national park. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the hiking.

Heraklion and Plitvice Lakes National Park: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Heraklion or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Heraklion. Although Heraklion and Plitvice Lakes National Park are popular destinations, Heraklion has more sights and attractions for tourists. Heraklion is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Plitvice Lakes National Park attracts visitors for its hiking and impressive beauty. Plitvice Lakes National Park is more touristy than Heraklion and is known for its stunning natural scenery which includes 16 beautiful terraced lakes. Heraklion is famous for its archeological sights, local Cretan restaurants, and its vibrant nightlife scene. It is also well known for The Palace of Knossos.

How is Heraklion different from Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Plitvice Lakes National Park 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 Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Heraklion is great for its historical sights. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Heraklion specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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.

Plitvice Lakes National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Heraklion or Plitvice Lakes National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Heraklion is great for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in 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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Plitvice Lakes National Park. You'll find a few tourist cafes near the lakes that serve grilled meats and other simple dishes. You can also grab a snack from the food stalls that are near the entrance to the park.

Is Heraklion or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Nightlife?

Heraklion is great for nightlife. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Many people head to Heraklion for the nightlife scene. 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.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Heraklion or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Beaches?

Heraklion is great for its beaches. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a beach destination.

Heraklion is a very popular place to visit for its 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.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Heraklion or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Hiking?

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Heraklion is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Plitvice Lakes National Park. There are eight different walking routes that range in length from 3 kilometers to 18 kilometers. They take between 3 and 8 hours and are well marked.

Heraklion is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Heraklion or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Heraklion is very good for shopping. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Heraklion. There are a number of unique shops around town that sell everything from traditional pottery to homemade jewelry.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Heraklion or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Families?

Plitvice Lakes National Park 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, Plitvice Lakes National Park is very family-friendly. It's a fun place to explore with kids, but if you're traveling with young ones, keep a close eye on them. Also take note that it's not stroller-friendly and make sure that you arrive early to avoid the crowds.

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 Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Couples?

Both Heraklion and Plitvice Lakes National Park are superb 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 Plitvice Lakes National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It's a natural wonder that is beautiful and romantic to explore as a couple. It can get crowded, as it's a top tourist destination is Croatia, so make sure you arrive early to avoid the peak times.

Is Heraklion or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Heraklion and Plitvice Lakes National Park are both superb 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.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. There are three hotels within the park and a handful of hostels nearby. There's also some camping options in the area.

Is Heraklion or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Heraklion is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Heraklion offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. KTEL buses travel both within town and to nearby villages.

Public transit is generally limited in Plitvice Lakes National Park. There are several bus stops near the park but the bus service is infrequent and can involve long trips.

Is Heraklion or Plitvice Lakes National Park a more walkable city?

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Heraklion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Plitvice Lakes National Park. The park is well organized into several walking routes that can be explored in a few hours.

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

For even more information, also check out Is Heraklion Worth Visiting? and Is Plitvice Lakes National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Plitvice Lakes National Park or Heraklion?

How long in Heraklion or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Heraklion or Plitvice Lakes National Park to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Heraklion than Plitvice Lakes National Park 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 Plitvice Lakes National Park.

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

Couples should spend more time in Heraklion than Plitvice Lakes National Park. 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 Plitvice Lakes National Park 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 Plitvice Lakes National Park?

In Heraklion, you'll find food and shopping. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. It offers something for everyone. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

You'll find around the national park of Plitvice Lakes National Park. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Plitvice Lakes National Park has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Heraklion or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Heraklion is a fun place to experience. It's also a great beach destination, too. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here.

You'll find around the spectacular destination of Plitvice Lakes National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this national park has to offer. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Heraklion or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historic destination of Heraklion. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Five days 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.

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the scenic national park of Plitvice Lakes National Park. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Heraklion or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

The historic city of Heraklion offers nightlife and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Croatia, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Croatia.

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

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

When is the best time to visit Heraklion or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

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 Plitvice Lakes National Park in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Heraklion and Plitvice Lakes National Park. Many visitors come to Heraklion in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Plitvice Lakes National Park for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Heraklion is generally a little warmer than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Daily temperatures in Heraklion average around 25°C (78°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Plitvice Lakes National Park this time of the year. In Heraklion, it's very sunny this time of the year. Heraklion usually receives more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park during summer. Heraklion gets 366 hours of sunny skies, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 266 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Heraklion usually receives less rain than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Heraklion gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Heraklion or Plitvice Lakes National Park in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Heraklion as well as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Most visitors come to Heraklion for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Plitvice Lakes National Park because of the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

Heraklion is much warmer than Plitvice Lakes National Park in the autumn. The daily temperature in Heraklion averages around 20°C (68°F) in October, and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the autumn, Heraklion often gets more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Heraklion gets 199 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 133 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Heraklion gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heraklion or Plitvice Lakes National Park in the Winter?

Both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Heraklion are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Heraklion because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the cuisine are the main draw to Plitvice Lakes National Park this time of year.

It's quite cold in Plitvice Lakes National Park in the winter. In the winter, Heraklion is much warmer than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Typically, the winter temperatures in Heraklion in January average around 12°C (54°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park averages at about 1°C (35°F).

Heraklion usually receives more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park during winter. Heraklion gets 121 hours of sunny skies, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 54 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Heraklion usually receives more rain than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Heraklion gets 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Heraklion or Plitvice Lakes National Park in the Spring?

Both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Heraklion during the spring are popular places to visit. The beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Heraklion this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Plitvice Lakes National Park for the natural beauty.

In April, Heraklion is generally a little warmer than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Daily temperatures in Heraklion average around 16°C (61°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

It's quite sunny in Heraklion. In the spring, Heraklion often gets more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Heraklion gets 224 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 163 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets less rain in April than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Heraklion gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Plitvice Lakes National Park and Heraklion