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

Should you visit Heraklion or Reykjavik?

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 Reykjavik 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 vibrant, accessible, and bustling city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Reykjavik

Reykjavik is a green, safe, and friendly city. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Heraklion and Reykjavik: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Heraklion or Reykjavik?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Heraklion than Reykjavik. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Heraklion is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, beaches, and big city activities, while Reykjavik attracts visitors for its hiking and impressive beauty. 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. Reykjavik is famous for its proximity to natural beauty and many thermal pools, as well as its active nightlife scene and many festivals.

How is Heraklion different from Reykjavik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Heraklion is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Reykjavik does not have museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Heraklion can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

Reykjavik does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Heraklion is an excellent place to visit for its restaurants. However, Reykjavik is lacking in options for its restaurant scene.

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 Reykjavik. Traditional Icelandic food may not have the best reputation, but restaurants these days are pretty good with a variety of dishes to choose from. Popular foods in the area include fish, lamb, and Icelandic skyr (a type of yogurt).

Is Heraklion or Reykjavik Better for Nightlife?

Heraklion is an excellent place to visit for nightlife. Also, Reykjavik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Heraklion has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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.

Reykjavik has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The city offers the best nightlife in Iceland and you'll be surprised at the number of clubs, bars, and craft breweries that you can choose from. Almost all of the popular nightlife spots are around Laugavegur, a major shopping street in town.

Is Heraklion or Reykjavik Better for Beaches?

Heraklion is an excellent place to visit for its beaches. However, Reykjavik is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Heraklion. 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.

Reykjavik is not a beach destination.

Is Heraklion or Reykjavik Better for Hiking?

Reykjavik is a world-class destination for its hiking trails. However, Heraklion is not a hiking destination.

Around Reykjavik visitors will find world-class hiking trails. The city offers easy access to some of the world's most spectacular scenery. There are many hikes that you can easily reach from town. They pass through diverse landscapes that include waterfalls, mountains, glaciers, and beaches.

Heraklion is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Heraklion or Reykjavik?

Shoppers can find a variety of nice stores in both Heraklion and Reykjavik.

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 Reykjavik to go shopping. The city's main shopping street is Laugavegur, which is where you'll find the most activity around town as well as a bustling atmosphere.

Is Heraklion or Reykjavik Better for Families?

Reykjavik 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, Reykjavik is very family-friendly. With its many outdoor activities and hands on museums, the city is great for kids. The cafes and restaurants are family-friendly and their are plenty of entertainment options for the whole family.

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 Reykjavik Better for Couples?

Both Heraklion and Reykjavik are high quality 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 Reykjavik frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are museums, outdoor activities, and even the northern lights that make this city very romantic. The cafes are laid-back and the atmosphere is friendly.

Is Heraklion or Reykjavik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Heraklion is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Reykjavik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Heraklion is very popular with the backpacker crowd. The city is filled with budget-friendly hostels that often have a social atmosphere and a fun vibe.

Reykjavik is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are a number of hostels around town, but they can be pretty expensive. Transportation can also be pretty challenging for backpackers.

Is Heraklion or Reykjavik Better for Students?

Reykjavik is a city with good options for its student-friendly activities. However, Heraklion is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Reykjavik. Students will enjoy a unique experience in this city. There are good academic programs as well as beautiful outdoor settings that you can explore.

Heraklion is not popular with students.

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

Visitors will find nice public transit in both Heraklion and Reykjavik.

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

You'll find some public transit in Reykjavik, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a fairly comprehensive bus system around town.

Is Heraklion or Reykjavik a more walkable city?

Heraklion and Reykjavik are high quality 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.

Reykjavik is a very walkable destination. The city is small and compact, so it's easy to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Reykjavik or Heraklion?

How long in Heraklion or Reykjavik?

In either Heraklion or Reykjavik, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Reykjavik than Heraklion because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Heraklion, and 1-5 days is enough time in Reykjavik.

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

Couples should spend more time in Heraklion than Reykjavik. 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 Reykjavik 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 Reykjavik?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Heraklion. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Heraklion has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find nightlife and shopping around the city of Reykjavik. 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 Reykjavik has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Heraklion or Reykjavik?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historic destination of Heraklion. 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 city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the green destination of Reykjavik. 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 city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Heraklion or Reykjavik?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the vibrant city of Heraklion. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

You'll find nightlife and shopping around the friendly city of Reykjavik. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Most people head to the area for the hiking. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Heraklion or Reykjavik?

Heraklion is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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.

Reykjavik 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 Budget Tours to Iceland, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Iceland.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Heraklion and Reykjavik, we can see that Reykjavik 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 Reykjavik would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Reykjavik 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 Reykjavik Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Heraklion or Reykjavik?

Heraklion has a larger population, and is about 20% larger than the population of Reykjavik. When comparing the sizes of Heraklion and Reykjavik, 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 Reykjavik?

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 Reykjavik in the Summer?

Both Reykjavik and Heraklion are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Heraklion for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Reykjavik because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Heraklion is generally much warmer than Reykjavik. Daily temperatures in Heraklion average around 25°C (78°F), and Reykjavik fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Heraklion. Heraklion usually receives more sunshine than Reykjavik during summer. Heraklion gets 366 hours of sunny skies, while Reykjavik receives 171 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Heraklion usually receives less rain than Reykjavik. Heraklion gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Heraklion or Reykjavik in the Autumn?

Both Reykjavik and Heraklion during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Heraklion because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Furthermore, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Reykjavik this time of year.

It's quite cold in Reykjavik in the autumn. Heraklion is much warmer than Reykjavik in the autumn. The daily temperature in Heraklion averages around 20°C (68°F) in October, and Reykjavik fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

In the autumn, Heraklion often gets more sunshine than Reykjavik. Heraklion gets 199 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reykjavik receives 83 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets less rain in October than Reykjavik. Heraklion gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 86 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heraklion or Reykjavik in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Heraklion and Reykjavik. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Heraklion this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Reykjavik for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Reykjavik. In the winter, Heraklion is much warmer than Reykjavik. Typically, the winter temperatures in Heraklion in January average around 12°C (54°F), and Reykjavik averages at about -0°C (32°F).

Heraklion usually receives more sunshine than Reykjavik during winter. Heraklion gets 121 hours of sunny skies, while Reykjavik receives 27 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Heraklion usually receives more rain than Reykjavik. Heraklion gets 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Heraklion or Reykjavik in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Heraklion as well as Reykjavik. Many travelers come to Heraklion for the beaches and the activities around the city. Additionally, many visitors come to Reykjavik in the spring for the natural beauty.

Reykjavik can get quite cold in the spring. In April, Heraklion is generally much warmer than Reykjavik. Daily temperatures in Heraklion average around 16°C (61°F), and Reykjavik fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Heraklion this time of the year. In the spring, Heraklion often gets more sunshine than Reykjavik. Heraklion gets 224 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reykjavik receives 140 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets less rain in April than Reykjavik. Heraklion gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Reykjavik and Heraklion