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

Should you visit Heraklion or Salzburg?

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 Salzburg 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 museums, nightlife, and food.

Salzburg

Salzburg is a historic, beautiful, and musical city. 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 nightlife, live music, and food.

Heraklion and Salzburg: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Heraklion or Salzburg?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Heraklion. Although Heraklion and Salzburg are both popular with visitors, Heraklion has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Heraklion is more popular for its nightlife, beaches, and big city activities, while Salzburg is known for its music, historical sights, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Salzburg is more touristy than Heraklion and is popular for its elegant breakfasts, its classical music scene, and its role in the Sound of Music. 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 Salzburg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Heraklion and Salzburg.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into 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.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Salzburg. There are many historic sights to explore including Mozart's birthplace, the Mozart Residence, the Salzburg Museum, and the many stunning churches and concert halls.

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

Foodies will find both Heraklion and Salzburg both to be high quality destinations.

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.

Dining out in Salzburg is an experience not to be missed. The old town is filled with charming restaurants that serve local specialties including schnitzel, tafelspitz, and strudel. The city is also known for it's impressive breakfast spread that is often served on a three tiered cake stand and includes cheeses, salami, fresh fruit, pastries, olives, jams and more.

Is Heraklion or Salzburg Better for Nightlife?

Heraklion is a well-known place for its evening party scene. Also, Salzburg is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

Heraklion offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Salzburg. The city has a number of trendy bars, pubs, and clubs where you can enjoy music and a lively atmosphere.

Is Heraklion or Salzburg Better for Music?

Salzburg is a world-class destination for its live music scene. However, Heraklion is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Salzburg. Although most people think of Mozart and the Sound of Music when they think of this city, there are also many music festivals, including the famous Salzburg Music Festival, as well as concert venues and an independent music scene that is excellent.

Heraklion is not a live music destination.

Is Heraklion or Salzburg Better for Beaches?

Heraklion is a well-known place for the beach. However, Salzburg 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.

Salzburg is not a beach destination.

Is Heraklion or Salzburg Better for its Old Town?

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

The historic old town of Salzburg is revered around the world. This beautiful old town is filled with cafes, restaurants, and churches. You can enjoy local music performed by street performers as you soak in the atmosphere and the regular chime of the church bells really gives the city personality. There are also frequent markets and shops to explore.

Heraklion does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Heraklion or Salzburg?

Salzburg 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, Salzburg draws large crowds to its stores. The city's historic heart is filled with boutique shops, chocolate markets, and charming local vendors. It's fun to peruse the many shops that line the streets while you shop for local souvenirs.

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 Salzburg Better for Families?

Salzburg 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, Salzburg is very family-friendly. Kids who know the Sound of Music will enjoy visiting the setting of a number of scenes from the movie. There are even popular Sound of Music tours that take you to the gardens where they sang "Do Re Mi" and out of town to the church where Maria married the Captain. The city also offers Marionette Puppet shows, cooking classes, castles and more around town that everyone can enjoy.

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 Salzburg Better for Couples?

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

Salzburg is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. The town offers a romantic setting with elaborate breakfasts, beautiful architecture, live shows, and plenty that couples can enjoy. You can simply wander around old town or explore the many gardens around town. Couples will also enjoy the concerts and music that the city is so famous for.

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 Salzburg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Heraklion and Salzburg are both high quality destinations for backpackers.

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

Salzburg is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. This is a popular city to visit, so there are plenty of amenities for backpackers. If you want to save a little money, you can stay and eat outside of old town where the prices are a little less.

Is Heraklion or Salzburg Better for Students?

Salzburg is a world-class destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Heraklion is not popular with students.

Salzburg is a very popular city for students. International students appreciate the high quality of life, excellent educational opportunities and unique European setting that makes this city special. There are also a number of beautiful places just outside of town that you can explore, as well as many travel connections to other popular cities in Europe.

Heraklion is not popular with students.

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

Salzburg is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Heraklion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Salzburg has some very good public transit options. Trolleys and buses make it easy to get around town.

You'll find some public transit in Heraklion, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. KTEL buses travel both within town and to nearby villages.

Is Heraklion or Salzburg a more walkable city?

Heraklion and Salzburg 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.

Salzburg is a very walkable destination. The old town is very walkable, but if you stay outside of the main tourist areas, you'll likely want to take a bus.

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

Should I spend more time in Salzburg or Heraklion?

How long in Heraklion or Salzburg?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Salzburg than Heraklion 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 Salzburg.

One day in Heraklion or Salzburg?

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 nightlife and live music around the quaint city of Salzburg. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 Salzburg?

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 live music and food around the recognizable destination of Salzburg. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Heraklion or Salzburg?

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.

You'll find food and shopping around the historic city of Salzburg. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Heraklion or Salzburg?

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.

Salzburg is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 in Austria, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Austria.

When comparing the travel costs between Heraklion and Salzburg, 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 Salzburg Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Heraklion or Salzburg?

Salzburg has a larger population, and is about 10% larger than the population of Heraklion. When comparing the sizes of Heraklion and Salzburg, 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 Salzburg?

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 Salzburg in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Heraklion as well as Salzburg. Most visitors come to Heraklion for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Salzburg because of the music scene and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Heraklion is a little warmer than Salzburg. Typically, the summer temperatures in Heraklion in July average around 25°C (78°F), and Salzburg averages at about 20°C (68°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Salzburg. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Heraklion this time of the year. In the summer, Heraklion often gets more sunshine than Salzburg. Heraklion gets 366 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Salzburg receives 227 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets less rain in July than Salzburg. Heraklion gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Salzburg receives 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heraklion or Salzburg in the Autumn?

Both Salzburg and Heraklion are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Heraklion because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Salzburg this time of year.

In October, Heraklion is generally much warmer than Salzburg. Daily temperatures in Heraklion average around 20°C (68°F), and Salzburg fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Heraklion usually receives more sunshine than Salzburg during autumn. Heraklion gets 199 hours of sunny skies, while Salzburg receives 108 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Heraklion usually receives more rain than Salzburg. Heraklion gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Salzburg receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Heraklion or Salzburg in the Winter?

Both Salzburg and Heraklion during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Heraklion this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Salzburg for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Salzburg. Heraklion is much warmer than Salzburg in the winter. The daily temperature in Heraklion averages around 12°C (54°F) in January, and Salzburg fluctuates around -0°C (31°F).

In the winter, Heraklion often gets more sunshine than Salzburg. Heraklion gets 121 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Salzburg receives 44 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets more rain in January than Salzburg. Heraklion gets 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Salzburg receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heraklion or Salzburg in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Heraklion and Salzburg. Many travelers come to Heraklion for the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Salzburg in the spring for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Heraklion is much warmer than Salzburg. Typically, the spring temperatures in Heraklion in April average around 16°C (61°F), and Salzburg averages at about 11°C (51°F).

In Heraklion, it's very sunny this time of the year. Heraklion usually receives more sunshine than Salzburg during spring. Heraklion gets 224 hours of sunny skies, while Salzburg receives 155 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Heraklion usually receives less rain than Salzburg. Heraklion gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Salzburg receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Salzburg and Heraklion