A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Heraklion vs. Portimao for Beaches, Families, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Heraklion or Portimao?

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 Portimao 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. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include food, beaches, and shopping.

Portimao

Portimao is a colorful, stunning, and dramatic coastal city. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping.

Heraklion and Portimao: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Heraklion or Portimao?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Heraklion. Although Heraklion and Portimao are both popular with visitors, Heraklion has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Heraklion is more popular for its museums, food, and big city activities, while Portimao is known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty. Portimao is more touristy than Heraklion and is popular for it's dramatic and beautiful beaches and its many activities. Heraklion is popular for its archeological sights, local Cretan restaurants, and its vibrant nightlife scene. It is also home to The Palace of Knossos.

How is Heraklion different from Portimao?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Heraklion is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Portimao does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around 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.

Portimao does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Heraklion is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Portimao is not a good coastal city for its restaurants.

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.

Portimao offers some easy restaurants to choose from. Many resorts have attached restaurants where visitors often find themselves dining. For a slightly more local vibe, you can check out one of the many restaurants around town. Much of the restaurant scene is centered around the Alvor District where you'll find unique options that serve local dishes mixed in with some international choices. The city is most famous for its grilled sardines, which are considered a local specialty.

Is Heraklion or Portimao Better for Nightlife?

The very good nightlife scene is relatively similar in Heraklion and Portimao.

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.

Portimao is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city's nightlife scene is mostly found around Praia da Rocha. It's a compact area that makes it easy to hop from bar to bar on foot. Particularly during the summer months you'll find plenty of parties and all night activities that draw a crowd. Sunset boat parties are also a popular activity in the area.

Is Heraklion or Portimao Better for Resorts?

Portimao is a world-class destination for its luxury resorts. However, Heraklion is not a resort destination.

Portimao is a world class resort vacation destination. The area has all types of resorts, from all-inclusive options to luxury or more family-friendly. Many of the resorts are surprisingly affordable and offer easy access to the beach.

Heraklion is not a resort destination.

Is Heraklion or Portimao Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Portimao is a very popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Heraklion is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Portimao is an extremely popular place to visit for scuba diving and snorkeling. The best water conditions are during the summer months but this is also when the beaches are crowded and swimmers can kick up a lot of sand. There are a variety of vendors where you can book snorkeling or diving trips in the area.

Heraklion is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Heraklion or Portimao Better for Beaches?

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

Portimao is considered to be a world-class beach destination. The stunning beaches are a major draw to the area. They are sandy and feature a backdrop of dramatic red cliffs. The most popular beach in town is Praia da Rocha, which can get crowded during the summer months, but it is quite large so you should still be able to find a spot. The strip behind the beach is lined with shops, bars, restaurants, and a casino. If you want to avoid some of the crowds you can make the walk down to Praia do Vau. Families often enjoy Praia de Alvor, which has a boardwalk that leads to Ria de Alvor nature reserve.

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 the Shopping Better in Heraklion or Portimao?

Shoppers can find a variety of good stores in both Heraklion and Portimao.

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 Portimao to go shopping. It's the second largest city in the Algarve so you'll find several large and modern shopping centers including Aqua Portimão.

Is Heraklion or Portimao Better for Families?

Portimao is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Heraklion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Portimao is an extremely popular coastal city to visit for families. Kids will love the wide range of activities available near Portimao. They can kayak through caves, see an underwater world snorkeling, learn to surf, visit waterparks, explore nature parks, and more. There are activities that the whole family can enjoy, making this stretch of coastline the perfect option for those traveling with kids.

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 Portimao Better for Couples?

Portimao is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Heraklion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Portimao is a great coastal city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. This beautiful stretch of coastline offers unique beaches and stunning outdoor activities. It makes a wonderful honeymoon destination for couples who enjoy adventure, pampering, and romantic resorts. There are great restaurants as well as places to relax or activities for thrill seekers.

Couples visit Heraklion frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Is Heraklion or Portimao Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Heraklion is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Portimao is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Heraklion is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. The city is filled with budget-friendly hostels that often have a social atmosphere and a fun vibe.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Portimao. Most people think of high end resorts when they think of the Mediterranean coast, but there are a couple of hostels available for backpackers. You should also consider transportation options. While buses are available, many visitors prefer to have access to a car so they can experience the outlying regions. The good news is the area in general is not particularly expensive so you can enjoy a touch of luxury at a lower cost.

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

Heraklion is a good destination for its public transit. However, Portimao is not a good coastal city for times when you don't have a car.

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

Public transit is mostly limited in Portimao. There are local buses around town but many routes don't run on weekends.

Is Heraklion or Portimao a more walkable city?

Heraklion is a well-known place for its ease of walking around. However, Portimao is not a good coastal city for its walkability.

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.

Portimao is generally not a very walkable city. While there are some nice walks along the coastline, the city is fairly large and spread out with many resorts located far from the center of town.

Should I spend more time in Portimao or Heraklion?

How long in Heraklion or Portimao?

It's fun to spend time in either Heraklion or Portimao. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Portimao due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Heraklion, and 2-4 days is enough time in Portimao.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Heraklion than Portimao 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 Portimao?

The city of Heraklion offers food and shopping. Most people come for the beaches. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the coastal city of Portimao. 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 Portimao?

Heraklion is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Heraklion, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the dramatic destination of Portimao. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal city has to offer. This coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Heraklion or Portimao?

Heraklion is a popular choice for travelers. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the stunning coastal city of Portimao. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Most people head to the area for the beaches. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Heraklion or Portimao?

Heraklion is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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 something for everyone.

Portimao 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.

Which is Bigger, Heraklion or Portimao?

Heraklion is bigger, and its population is about 3.6 times larger than the population of Portimao. When comparing the population of Heraklion vs. Portimao, 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 and the activities that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Heraklion or Portimao?

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 Portimao in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Heraklion is around the same temperature as Portimao. Typically, the summer temperatures in Heraklion in July average around 25°C (78°F), and Portimao averages at about 25°C (78°F).

Heraklion usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Portimao. Heraklion gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Portimao receives 1 mm (0 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heraklion or Portimao in the Autumn?

Both Portimao 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. Also, many visitors come to Portimao in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Heraklion is generally around the same temperature as Portimao. Daily temperatures in Heraklion average around 20°C (68°F), and Portimao fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).

In October, Heraklion usually receives around the same amount of rain as Portimao. Heraklion gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Portimao receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Heraklion or Portimao in the Winter?

Both Portimao 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. Also, most visitors come to Portimao for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months.

Heraklion is around the same temperature as Portimao in the winter. The daily temperature in Heraklion averages around 12°C (54°F) in January, and Portimao fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Heraklion usually gets more rain in January than Portimao. Heraklion gets 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Portimao receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heraklion or Portimao in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Heraklion and Portimao. Most visitors come to Heraklion for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Portimao because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Heraklion is around the same temperature as Portimao. Typically, the spring temperatures in Heraklion in April average around 16°C (61°F), and Portimao averages at about 15°C (60°F).

In April, Heraklion usually receives less rain than Portimao. Heraklion gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Portimao receives 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Portimao and Heraklion