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

Should you visit Heraklion or Saint-Tropez?

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-Tropez 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 accessible, bustling, and historic city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the beaches, shopping, and museums.

Saint-Tropez

Saint-Tropez is a opulent, ritzy, and celebrity-filled resort town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Heraklion and Saint-Tropez: Pros and Cons

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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Heraklion than Saint-Tropez, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Heraklion is better known for its museums, food, and big city activities, while Saint-Tropez is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, shopping, and impressive beauty. Heraklion is well known for its archeological sights, local Cretan restaurants, and its vibrant nightlife scene. Also, Heraklion is famous for The Palace of Knossos. Saint-Tropez is well known for its trendy beach clubs around the Bay of Pampelonne, as well as its popularity with celebrities and the extravagantly wealthy.

How is Heraklion different from Saint-Tropez?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Heraklion is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Saint-Tropez does not have museums and landmarks.

Heraklion offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

Saint-Tropez does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Heraklion is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Saint-Tropez is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit 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.

Saint-Tropez is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The food is all about the local flavors. You'll find plenty of local seafood as well as local organic meats, fruits, vegetables, olive oil, garlic, and truffles. Cheese is a common ingredient as well. There are many different soups and stews, and bouillabaisse is a common fish soup found in the restaurants around town. Daube is another popular stew that is made with beef. Ratatouille is a vegetable casserole that has made a name for itself both inside and outside of France. And, of course, you have to try the local salads and pastries. Because it's such a touristy area, there are many restaurants geared specifically to the tourists, many of which are overpriced.

Is Heraklion or Saint-Tropez Better for Nightlife?

Saint-Tropez is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Heraklion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

People head to Saint-Tropez just to party. It is a place to see and be seen, so if you're looking for A-list celebrities, glamourous yacht parties, and ritzy dance clubs, then this is your place. While the nightlife scene is filled with extravagance, there are still laid back clubs where you can sip a cocktail in style. The best season to come and party is during the summer months, but you'll still find plenty to do throughout the year.

Heraklion is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

Is Heraklion or Saint-Tropez Better for Resorts?

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

Saint-Tropez is a world class resort vacation destination. Luxury and extravagance is what this resort town is all about. If you have the money to spend, you'll have no trouble finding a glamourous villa or luxury hotel where you can relax, party, or soak up the French Riviera sun.

Heraklion is not a resort destination.

Is Heraklion or Saint-Tropez Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Saint-Tropez is a world-class destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Heraklion is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Saint-Tropez is a world class destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. The Gulf of Saint Tropez is one of the best places to snorkel and scuba dive along the French Riviera. There are wreck dives including the most famous, The Rubis, a submarine that is surrounded by marine life. Although you're not allowed to enter the vessel, there is still plenty to see. There are also plenty of dive spots that feature rock formations, schools of fish, and lobsters.

Heraklion is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Heraklion or Saint-Tropez Better for Beaches?

Both Heraklion and Saint-Tropez are considered to be excellent beach destinations.

The beaches at Heraklion attract visitors from all over. 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.

Many people visit Saint-Tropez for it's beautiful beaches. The beaches are frequented by celebrities, so you'll find plenty of glitz and glamour by the water. For some of the best beaches, you'll want to head a little out of town. The most famous beach in the area is Pampelonne Beach which is popular with Hollywood celebrities during the summer months. Bouillabaisse Beach is the place to go if you want to look at the yachts, but for a more natural setting head to Graniers Beach.

Is the Shopping Better in Heraklion or Saint-Tropez?

Saint-Tropez is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Heraklion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Saint-Tropez draws large crowds to its stores. Surrounded by luxury, shopping is a must in this glamourous resort town. There are international luxury brands as well as local designer boutiques. Whether you're looking for yachting clothes, cigars, jewelry, or perfume, this is one of the best shopping destinations along the Cote d'Azur. Art is a particularly popular item to purchase while you're in town.

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 Saint-Tropez Better for Families?

Saint-Tropez 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.

Saint-Tropez is an extremely popular resort town to visit for families. With great beaches, several amusement parks, waterparks, and even Marineland, there are an endless supply of activities for kids. There's also a zoo and nature reserve for wildlife enthusiasts. For adventure lovers, there are a number of different watersports to try and if the weather isn't cooperating, there are a few good museums and other indoor activities as well.

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 Saint-Tropez Better for Couples?

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

Saint-Tropez is a great resort town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Whether you're honeymooning or taking a short getaway to the French Riviera, this is a great option for couples. You can take a stroll at sunset, relax on one of the beautiful beaches, dine on local seafood, and soak up the rich local culture. The romance and beauty of this French Riviera city make it a world class romantic destination.

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 Saint-Tropez Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Heraklion is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Saint-Tropez is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Saint-Tropez is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. For many backpackers it may seem cost prohibitive to visit the French Riviera, but for those with the money, it is well worth the splurge. You can save some money by staying outside of town or finding a vacation rental where you can cook meals. There are also hostels and rooms in local homes that come at a more reasonable price.

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

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

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

You'll find some public transit in Saint-Tropez, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a bus system that connects many parts of the area.

Is Heraklion or Saint-Tropez a more walkable city?

Saint-Tropez 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 Saint-Tropez. It's easy to explore many places on foot, passing by beautiful beaches, stunning views, impressive yachts, and glamourous villas.

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 Saint-Tropez Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Heraklion or Saint-Tropez?

It's fun to spend time in either Heraklion or Saint-Tropez. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Saint-Tropez 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 Saint-Tropez.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Heraklion than Saint-Tropez 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-Tropez?

In Heraklion, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this accessible city offers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this city.

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the resort town of Saint-Tropez. 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 Saint-Tropez?

Heraklion is a fun place to experience. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the extravagant destination of Saint-Tropez. 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 resort town has to offer. This resort town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Heraklion or Saint-Tropez?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the bustling destination of Heraklion. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the celebrity-filled resort town of Saint-Tropez. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Heraklion or Saint-Tropez?

Heraklion is a popular place to visit. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Saint-Tropez 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.

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 Food and Culinary Tours in France, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in France.

When comparing the travel costs between Heraklion and Saint-Tropez, we can see that Heraklion is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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-Tropez Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Heraklion or Saint-Tropez?

Heraklion has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Saint-Tropez. When comparing the sizes of Heraklion and Saint-Tropez, 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-Tropez?

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 Saint-Tropez in the Summer?

Both Saint-Tropez and Heraklion during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Heraklion for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Saint-Tropez in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences.

Heraklion is a little warmer than Saint-Tropez in the summer. The daily temperature in Heraklion averages around 25°C (78°F) in July, and Saint-Tropez fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

In Saint-Tropez, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Heraklion. In the summer, Heraklion often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Saint-Tropez. Heraklion gets 366 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Saint-Tropez receives 366 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets less rain in July than Saint-Tropez. Heraklion gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Saint-Tropez receives 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Heraklion and Saint-Tropez. Many visitors come to Heraklion in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Furthermore, most visitors come to Saint-Tropez for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Heraklion is a little warmer than Saint-Tropez. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Heraklion in October average around 20°C (68°F), and Saint-Tropez averages at about 17°C (63°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Saint-Tropez this time of the year. Heraklion usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Saint-Tropez during autumn. Heraklion gets 199 hours of sunny skies, while Saint-Tropez receives 205 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Saint-Tropez receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Heraklion usually receives less rain than Saint-Tropez. Heraklion gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Saint-Tropez receives 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

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

The winter brings many poeple to Heraklion as well as Saint-Tropez. Most visitors come to Heraklion for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Saint-Tropez because of the shopping scene and the cuisine.

In January, Heraklion is generally a little warmer than Saint-Tropez. Daily temperatures in Heraklion average around 12°C (54°F), and Saint-Tropez fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

In the winter, Heraklion often gets less sunshine than Saint-Tropez. Heraklion gets 121 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Saint-Tropez receives 150 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets more rain in January than Saint-Tropez. Heraklion gets 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Saint-Tropez receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Saint-Tropez and Heraklion are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Heraklion because of the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Saint-Tropez this time of year.

Heraklion is a little warmer than Saint-Tropez in the spring. The daily temperature in Heraklion averages around 16°C (61°F) in April, and Saint-Tropez fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

It's quite sunny in Saint-Tropez. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Heraklion. Heraklion usually receives less sunshine than Saint-Tropez during spring. Heraklion gets 224 hours of sunny skies, while Saint-Tropez receives 245 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Heraklion usually receives less rain than Saint-Tropez. Heraklion gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Saint-Tropez receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Saint-Tropez and Heraklion