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

Should you visit Heraklion or San Remo?

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

San Remo

San Remo is a authentic, historic, and relaxing coastal city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and shopping.

Heraklion and San Remo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Heraklion or San Remo?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Heraklion than San Remo, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Heraklion is more popular for its museums, nightlife, and big city activities, while San Remo is known for its historical sights and impressive beauty. Heraklion is more touristy than San Remo and is known for its archeological sights, local Cretan restaurants, and its vibrant nightlife scene. It is also home to The Palace of Knossos. San Remo is popular for its olives, lemons, and flower market.

How is Heraklion different from San Remo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Heraklion is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, San Remo 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.

San Remo does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Foodies will find both Heraklion and San Remo both to be excellent 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 San Remo is an experience not to be missed. The local restaurants are charming and sell a number of local specialties. Many traditional dishes are made with rabbit or chicken. There are also vegetable pies and sardenaira, which is a type of pizza that's made with tomatoes, garlic, and anchovies. Also make sure you pick up Baci di Sanremo, which are soft chocolate biscuits that are available in local bakeries.

Is Heraklion or San Remo Better for Nightlife?

Heraklion is a very popular place for its evening party scene. Also, San Remo is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Heraklion has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

San Remo has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The city has a number of clubs and bars where you can enjoy a drink or hang out late into the evening. It's a pretty mellow nightlife scene, but there's still plenty of places to go as well as a local vibe that doesn't have the influx of tourists that you find in many of other Italian cities.

Is Heraklion or San Remo Better for Beaches?

Both Heraklion and San Remo 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 San Remo for it's beautiful beaches. The beautiful sandy beaches are nice to visit and it's possible to rent chairs and umbrellas in many places. The main beach in town is Spiaggia dei Porti. Other popular nearby beaches include Spiaggia dei tre ponti, which is a large public beach, and Cala degli Orsi, which is one of the most beautiful public beaches in the area.

Is Heraklion or San Remo Better for its Old Town?

San Remo is a very popular place for its old town. However, Heraklion does not have a historic old town.

San Remo is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The old quarter of Pigna is a Medieval area with narrow streets that feel as if they're frozen in time. The hills offer impressive city views and the area has a unique historic character.

Heraklion does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Heraklion or San Remo?

Shoppers can find a variety of good stores in both Heraklion and San Remo.

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 San Remo to go shopping. There are local and international brands as well as a shopping mall and outlets where you can enjoy shopping.

Is Heraklion or San Remo Better for Families?

San Remo 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, San Remo is very family-friendly. The area offers plenty of outdoor activities that the whole family will enjoy. There's horseback riding, hiking, rowing, snorkeling, cooking classes, farm tours and more. There are also a number of hotels in the area that have kid-friendly activities.

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 San Remo Better for Couples?

Both Heraklion and San Remo are excellent 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 San Remo frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It's known as the city of flowers, and the many beautiful gardens make this a truly romantic place to visit. Couples will enjoy soaking up the city's history and enjoy the vibrant culture and outdoor activities that are available.

Is Heraklion or San Remo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Heraklion is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, San Remo is lacking in good options 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.

San Remo is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There aren't many hostels in town, and most backpackers head to more popular Italian destinations. If you're looking for a more off-the-beaten path destination, then this may be your style.

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

Visitors will find good public transit in both Heraklion and San Remo.

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

You'll find some public transit in San Remo, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are local buses around town.

Is Heraklion or San Remo a more walkable city?

Heraklion and San Remo are excellent 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.

San Remo is a very walkable destination. The old quarter is fun to explore on foot and there are a number of walking tours through town.

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

Should I spend more time in San Remo or Heraklion?

How long in Heraklion or San Remo?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Heraklion than San Remo. 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 San Remo 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 San Remo?

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 food and shopping around the coastal city of San Remo. 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 San Remo has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Heraklion or San Remo?

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 shopping and nightlife around the scenic destination of San Remo. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal city has to offer. This coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Heraklion or San Remo?

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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the scenic coastal city of San Remo. 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.

A week in Heraklion or San Remo?

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.

San Remo 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.

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 Sightseeing Tours in Italy, and The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Heraklion or San Remo?

Heraklion has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of San Remo. When comparing the sizes of Heraklion and San Remo, 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 San Remo?

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 San Remo in the Summer?

Both San Remo and Heraklion are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Heraklion for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to San Remo in the summer for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Heraklion is a little warmer than San Remo. Typically, the summer temperatures in Heraklion in July average around 25°C (78°F), and San Remo averages at about 23°C (73°F).

It's quite sunny in San Remo. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Heraklion. Heraklion usually receives more sunshine than San Remo during summer. Heraklion gets 366 hours of sunny skies, while San Remo receives 295 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Heraklion usually receives less rain than San Remo. Heraklion gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while San Remo receives 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Heraklion or San Remo in the Autumn?

Both San Remo and Heraklion during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Heraklion in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to San Remo for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

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

In the autumn, Heraklion often gets more sunshine than San Remo. Heraklion gets 199 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Remo receives 183 hours of full sun.

San Remo gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Heraklion usually gets less rain in October than San Remo. Heraklion gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while San Remo receives 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heraklion or San Remo in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Heraklion and San Remo. Most visitors come to Heraklion for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to San Remo because of the shopping scene and the cuisine.

Heraklion is a little warmer than San Remo in the winter. The daily temperature in Heraklion averages around 12°C (54°F) in January, and San Remo fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

Heraklion usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as San Remo during winter. Heraklion gets 121 hours of sunny skies, while San Remo receives 127 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Heraklion usually receives more rain than San Remo. Heraklion gets 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while San Remo receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Heraklion or San Remo in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Heraklion as well as San Remo. 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 San Remo this time of year.

In the spring, Heraklion is a little warmer than San Remo. Typically, the spring temperatures in Heraklion in April average around 16°C (61°F), and San Remo averages at about 13°C (56°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 San Remo. Heraklion gets 224 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Remo receives 198 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets less rain in April than San Remo. Heraklion gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while San Remo receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for San Remo and Heraklion