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

Should you visit Heraklion or Positano?

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 Positano 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. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the food, beaches, and shopping.

Positano

Positano is a picturesque, colorful, and stunning Mediterranean village. You'll find plenty of local activities in this small town. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Heraklion and Positano: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Heraklion or Positano?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Heraklion. Although Heraklion and Positano are both popular with visitors, Heraklion has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Heraklion is more popular for its museums, nightlife, beaches, and big city activities, while Positano is known for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, historical sights, hiking, shopping, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Positano is more touristy than Heraklion and is known for its beautiful cliffside setting, its colorful buildings, and its quintessential Amalfi atmosphere. 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 Positano?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Heraklion is great for its historical sights. However, Positano 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.

Positano does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Positano is a world-class destination for its restaurants. Also, Heraklion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Many restaurants in Positano have been singled out for their culinary prowess. Seafood is the obvious choice along the Amalfi Coast but Positano is also famous for its salami, chestnuts, cheese, and figs.

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.

Is Heraklion or Positano Better for Nightlife?

Heraklion is great for its evening party scene. However, Positano is not a good destination for 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.

Most people don't head to Positano specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. The town has a relaxing nightlife that is usually centered around the clubs found at nearby resorts.

Is Heraklion or Positano Better for Resorts?

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

Positano is a world class resort vacation destination. The town has a number of luxury resorts including Le Sirenuse, Il San Pietro di Positano, and Hotel Le Agavi.

Heraklion is not a resort destination.

Is Heraklion or Positano Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Positano is a decent place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Heraklion is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's possible to go snorkeling in Positano. There are snorkeling boat trips that you can book to enjoy exploring the undersea world.

Heraklion is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Heraklion or Positano Better for Beaches?

Heraklion is great for the beach. Also, Positano is not as popular, but is still a nice Mediterranean village for its beaches.

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.

Positano is a good option for a beach vacation. Like the rest of the Amalfi Coast, beaches near Positano tend to be pebbly instead of sandy. They can also get a bit crowded during the summer months. Still, the picturesque setting makes these beaches truly amazing. The main beach at the edge of town is Spiaggia Grande, but there are several others nearby as well.

Is Heraklion or Positano Better for its Old Town?

Positano is a world-class destination for its old town. However, Heraklion does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Positano is revered around the world. Exploring the old town, soaking up the atmosphere, and simply enjoying the colorful buildings is what a trip to Positano is all about.

Heraklion does not have a historic old town.

Is Heraklion or Positano Better for Hiking?

Positano 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 Positano. The best way to explore the area out of town is on foot. There are a number of foot paths and trails that will take you through the stunning landscapes.

Heraklion is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Heraklion or Positano?

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

Positano is well-known for its shopping. The main street in town is lined with quaint shops that sell local lemon products, ceramics, clothing, and more.

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 Positano Better for Families?

Both Heraklion and Positano are good 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 Positano. Fun activities include boat rides, eating gelato, and hanging out at the beach. Some of the best family-friendly beaches are Spiaggia Grande, Fornillo Beach, and Arienzo Beach.

Is Heraklion or Positano Better for Couples?

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

Positano is a great Mediterranean village for couples, as it has plenty to offer. It is a picturesque coast town that is both romantic and fun. Wandering through the streets and sampling Italian food make this the perfect honeymoon getaway.

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 Positano Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Heraklion is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Positano is not as popular, but is still a nice Mediterranean village for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Heraklion. The city is filled with budget-friendly hostels that often have a social atmosphere and a fun vibe.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Positano. The town has a handful of great hostels that make the Amalfi Coast accessible to backpackers on a budget.

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

Visitors will find good public transit in both Heraklion and Positano.

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

You'll find some public transit in Positano, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. You can walk everywhere once you arrive, and the SITA bus travels to and from the town.

Is Heraklion or Positano a more walkable city?

Positano 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 Positano. The town is best explored on foot. You can wander the quaint streets or take the foot path to the beach or nearby castles.

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 Positano Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Positano or Heraklion?

How long in Heraklion or Positano?

Both Heraklion and Positano have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Positano than in Heraklion. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Heraklion, and 2-7 days is enough time in Positano.

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

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

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

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.

Even though Positano is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. 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 Positano?

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.

Positano is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and food. 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 Mediterranean village has to offer. This Mediterranean village offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Heraklion or Positano?

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.

Positano is a small town with plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this Mediterranean village makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Most people head to the area for the food. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this Mediterranean village has to offer.

A week in Heraklion or Positano?

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.

Positano is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Positano, one week is sufficent for most. 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, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Italy, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in Italy.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Heraklion and Positano, we can see that Positano is more expensive. And not only is Heraklion much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Heraklion would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Heraklion 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 Positano would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Positano than you might in Heraklion.

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

Which is Bigger, Heraklion or Positano?

Heraklion has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Positano. When comparing the sizes of Heraklion and Positano, 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 Positano?

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 Positano in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Heraklion and Positano. 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 Positano for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Heraklion is around the same temperature as Positano. Typically, the summer temperatures in Heraklion in July average around 25°C (78°F), and Positano averages at about 23°C (74°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Positano this time of the year. In Heraklion, it's very sunny this time of the year. Heraklion usually receives more sunshine than Positano during summer. Heraklion gets 366 hours of sunny skies, while Positano receives 313 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Heraklion usually receives less rain than Positano. Heraklion gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Positano receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Heraklion or Positano in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Heraklion as well as Positano. Many travelers come to Heraklion for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Positano in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Heraklion is generally a little warmer than Positano. Daily temperatures in Heraklion average around 20°C (68°F), and Positano fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In the autumn, Heraklion often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Positano. Heraklion gets 199 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Positano receives 189 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Positano. Heraklion usually gets less rain in October than Positano. Heraklion gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Positano receives 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heraklion or Positano in the Winter?

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

Heraklion is much warmer than Positano in the winter. The daily temperature in Heraklion averages around 12°C (54°F) in January, and Positano fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Heraklion usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Positano during winter. Heraklion gets 121 hours of sunny skies, while Positano receives 115 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Positano. In January, Heraklion usually receives less rain than Positano. Heraklion gets 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Positano receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Heraklion or Positano in the Spring?

Both Positano and Heraklion during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Heraklion for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Positano because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Heraklion is a little warmer than Positano. Typically, the spring temperatures in Heraklion in April average around 16°C (61°F), and Positano averages at about 13°C (55°F).

It's quite sunny in Heraklion. In the spring, Heraklion often gets more sunshine than Positano. Heraklion gets 224 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Positano receives 189 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets less rain in April than Positano. Heraklion gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Positano receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Positano and Heraklion