A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Heraklion vs. Saint-Etienne for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Couples

Should you visit Heraklion or Saint-Etienne?

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 Saint-Etienne 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 food, beaches, and shopping.

Saint-Etienne

Saint-Etienne is a undiscovered, authentic, and historic city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the hiking, museums, and nightlife.

Heraklion and Saint-Etienne: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Heraklion or Saint-Etienne?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Heraklion than Saint-Etienne. While Saint-Etienne is larger than Heraklion, Heraklion has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Heraklion is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Saint-Etienne is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Heraklion is more touristy than Saint-Etienne and is known for its archeological sights, local Cretan restaurants, and its vibrant nightlife scene. Also, Heraklion is famous for The Palace of Knossos. Saint-Etienne is well known for its industrial and manufacturing past.

How is Heraklion different from Saint-Etienne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Saint-Etienne 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 Saint-Etienne?

Heraklion is great for its historical sights. Also, Saint-Etienne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Saint-Etienne. There are several great museums in town including the Musée d'Art et d'Industrie, Musée de la Mine, Musée des Verts, and the planetarium.

Is the Food Better in Heraklion or Saint-Etienne? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Heraklion is great for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Saint-Etienne is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

Saint-Etienne may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Try the many local cheeses which are a defining part of the cuisine in the area. You'll find some local restaurants around town where you can sample local flavors.

Is Heraklion or Saint-Etienne Better for Nightlife?

Heraklion is great for nightlife and partying. Also, Saint-Etienne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its evening party scene.

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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Saint-Etienne. The nightlife is centered around sipping wine or visiting one of the clubs in town.

Is Heraklion or Saint-Etienne Better for Beaches?

Heraklion is great for the beache. However, Saint-Etienne is not a beach destination.

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.

Saint-Etienne is not a beach destination.

Is Heraklion or Saint-Etienne Better for Hiking?

Saint-Etienne is a city with good options for its hiking trails. However, Heraklion is not a hiking destination.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Saint-Etienne. You'll find several great hikes just outside of town. It's a great way to experience the surrounding countryside.

Heraklion is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Heraklion or Saint-Etienne?

Heraklion is a good destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Saint-Etienne is not a good destination for its shopping areas.

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.

Saint-Etienne has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. Shopping malls and several boutique shopping areas make up the city's shopping scene.

Is Heraklion or Saint-Etienne Better for Families?

Both Heraklion and Saint-Etienne 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 Saint-Etienne. There are several kid-friendly museums as well as plenty of natural settings just outside of town. Your kids can run around and stretch their legs nearby at Crest of the Partridge or on a rainy day, the planetarium is a fun place to visit.

Is Heraklion or Saint-Etienne Better for Couples?

Heraklion is great for its romantic activities. However, Saint-Etienne is not a good destination 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.

Saint-Etienne is not always the best place to visit for a couple. There are museums, parks, gardens, and beautiful architecture that make this a wonderful place for couples.

Is Heraklion or Saint-Etienne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Heraklion is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Saint-Etienne is not a good destination for backpackers.

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

Saint-Etienne is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not high on the backpacker trail, but there are hostels and plenty of activities to enjoy.

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

Visitors will find notable public transit in both Heraklion and Saint-Etienne.

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

You'll find some public transit in Saint-Etienne, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are tram and bus options available in town.

Is Heraklion or Saint-Etienne a more walkable city?

Heraklion is great for its high level of walkability. Also, Saint-Etienne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its ease of walking around.

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.

Saint-Etienne is a somewhat walkable city. There are several walkable areas in the city.

For even more information, also check out Is Heraklion Worth Visiting? and Is Saint-Etienne Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Saint-Etienne or Heraklion?

How long in Heraklion or Saint-Etienne?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Heraklion or Saint-Etienne to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Heraklion than Saint-Etienne 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 Saint-Etienne.

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

Couples should spend more time in Heraklion than Saint-Etienne. 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 Saint-Etienne 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 Saint-Etienne?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the accessible destination of Heraklion. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

You'll find nightlife and museums around the city of Saint-Etienne. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Saint-Etienne has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Heraklion or Saint-Etienne?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Heraklion. Most people come for the beaches. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historic destination of Saint-Etienne. 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 Saint-Etienne?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the bustling destination of Heraklion. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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 nightlife and museums when visiting the undiscovered city of Saint-Etienne. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Heraklion or Saint-Etienne?

You'll find food and shopping around the city of Heraklion. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Saint-Etienne is a popular choice for travelers. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Paris, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Heraklion or Saint-Etienne?

Saint-Etienne has a larger population, and is about 29% larger than the population of Heraklion. When comparing the sizes of Heraklion and Saint-Etienne, 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 Saint-Etienne?

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 Saint-Etienne in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Heraklion and Saint-Etienne. 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 Saint-Etienne for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Heraklion is a little warmer than Saint-Etienne in the summer. The daily temperature in Heraklion averages around 25°C (78°F) in July, and Saint-Etienne fluctuates around 22°C (71°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Saint-Etienne this time of the year. In Heraklion, it's very sunny this time of the year. Heraklion usually receives more sunshine than Saint-Etienne during summer. Heraklion gets 366 hours of sunny skies, while Saint-Etienne receives 285 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Heraklion usually receives less rain than Saint-Etienne. Heraklion gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Saint-Etienne receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Heraklion or Saint-Etienne in the Autumn?

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

In the autumn, Heraklion is a little warmer than Saint-Etienne. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Heraklion in October average around 20°C (68°F), and Saint-Etienne averages at about 14°C (56°F).

In the autumn, Heraklion often gets more sunshine than Saint-Etienne. Heraklion gets 199 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Saint-Etienne receives 127 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets less rain in October than Saint-Etienne. Heraklion gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Saint-Etienne receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heraklion or Saint-Etienne in the Winter?

Both Saint-Etienne 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 Saint-Etienne for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Saint-Etienne can be very cold during winter. In January, Heraklion is generally much warmer than Saint-Etienne. Daily temperatures in Heraklion average around 12°C (54°F), and Saint-Etienne fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

Heraklion usually receives more sunshine than Saint-Etienne during winter. Heraklion gets 121 hours of sunny skies, while Saint-Etienne receives 62 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Heraklion usually receives more rain than Saint-Etienne. Heraklion gets 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Saint-Etienne receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Heraklion or Saint-Etienne in the Spring?

Both Saint-Etienne 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 Saint-Etienne because of the natural beauty.

Heraklion is a little warmer than Saint-Etienne in the spring. The daily temperature in Heraklion averages around 16°C (61°F) in April, and Saint-Etienne fluctuates around 11°C (53°F).

It's quite sunny in Heraklion. In the spring, Heraklion often gets more sunshine than Saint-Etienne. Heraklion gets 224 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Saint-Etienne receives 174 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets less rain in April than Saint-Etienne. Heraklion gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Saint-Etienne receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Saint-Etienne and Heraklion