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

Should you visit Heraklion or Siena?

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 Siena 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. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Siena

Siena is a medieval, history, and beautiful city. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Heraklion and Siena: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Heraklion or Siena?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Heraklion than Siena. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Heraklion is very popular for its nightlife, beaches, and big city activities, while Siena attracts visitors for its historical sights 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. Siena is famous for its beautiful medieval architecture, its delicious local restaurants, and the twice yearly Palio horserace.

How is Heraklion different from Siena?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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 Siena. At the heart of the city is Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta and Piazza del Campo. Other world famous sights include Palazzo Pubblico and Museo Civico, Torre del Mangia, and Pinacoteca Nazionale.

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

Foodies will find both Heraklion and Siena both to be superb 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 Siena is an experience not to be missed. The town is all about local flavors and many restaurants use local ingredients in their dishes. Pecorino of Pienza is the local cheese, and you'll also find many cured meats. Local pasta dishes include wild boar ragu and a local spaghetti. You'll also find local meats such as lamb, rabbit, chicken and pork.

Is Heraklion or Siena Better for Nightlife?

Heraklion is notable for nightlife. Also, Siena is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

Heraklion has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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 Siena. The nightlife is laid back and relaxed. Most visitors enjoy socializing in the evening and meeting friends at Piazza del Campo. There are often live performances which you can enjoy as well as many cafes and wine bars around town.

Is Heraklion or Siena Better for Beaches?

Heraklion is notable for its beaches. However, Siena is not a beach destination.

Heraklion is a very popular place to visit for its 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.

Siena is not a beach destination.

Is Heraklion or Siena Better for its Old Town?

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

The historic old town of Siena is revered around the world. The beautiful old town is filled with medieval brick buildings. At the heart of the city is Piazza del Campo, which is a lively square with many neighborhoods spreading out from there.

Heraklion does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Heraklion or Siena?

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

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 Siena to go shopping. The main shopping street in town is Via Banchi di Sopra, which has many boutiques that sell clothing, bags, and other items. The town also has many leather goods, ceramics, and other local items available.

Is Heraklion or Siena Better for Families?

Heraklion is very good for its family-friendly activities. However, Siena is a mediocre city for its kid-friendly activities.

Heraklion is a family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Siena is not always a place people visit with their families. The beauty and history may be lost to the little ones but there is a great atmosphere that even the young ones will appreciate. Kids will enjoy climbing to the top of Torre del Mangia or visiting one of the many playgrounds around town.

Is Heraklion or Siena Better for Couples?

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

Siena is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. With its impressive beauty and long running history, this is a truly romantic city. The atmosphere is relaxed and there are plazas and neighborhoods that are great for exploring. There are also many great restaurants, superb wine, and world class sights that are not to be missed.

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 Siena Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Heraklion is notable for backpackers. Also, Siena is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Heraklion. The city is filled with budget-friendly hostels that often have a social atmosphere and a fun vibe.

It's common for backpackers to visit Siena. Many backpackers visit Siena as a daytrip from nearby Florence. While there are some affordable places to stay here, the atmosphere isn't as backpacker friendly as nearby Florence.

Is Heraklion or Siena Better for Students?

Siena is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Heraklion is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Siena. It's home to one of the oldest universities in Italy, and it's a wonderful study abroad destination for any student who wants to spend some time in Italy.

Heraklion is not popular with students.

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

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

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

You'll find some public transit in Siena, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. TIEMME is the bus service that runs in and around town. Many lines pass through the train station and provide service from there.

Is Heraklion or Siena a more walkable city?

Heraklion and Siena are superb 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.

Siena is a very walkable destination. The compact town center is best explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Siena or Heraklion?

How long in Heraklion or Siena?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Heraklion than Siena 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 Siena?

In Heraklion, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this vibrant destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Siena. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Siena has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Heraklion or Siena?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Heraklion. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

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

Five days in Heraklion or Siena?

Heraklion is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Heraklion. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the romantic city of Siena. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Heraklion or Siena?

You'll find food and shopping around the bustling destination of Heraklion. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Siena 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Italy, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Italy.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Heraklion or Siena?

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

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 Siena in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Heraklion as well as Siena. Many visitors come to Heraklion in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Siena for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Heraklion is generally around the same temperature as Siena. Daily temperatures in Heraklion average around 25°C (78°F), and Siena fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Siena. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Heraklion this time of the year. In the summer, Heraklion often gets more sunshine than Siena. Heraklion gets 366 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Siena receives 316 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets less rain in July than Siena. Heraklion gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Siena receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heraklion or Siena in the Autumn?

Both Siena and Heraklion are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Heraklion for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Siena because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Heraklion is a little warmer than Siena in the autumn. The daily temperature in Heraklion averages around 20°C (68°F) in October, and Siena fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

Heraklion usually receives more sunshine than Siena during autumn. Heraklion gets 199 hours of sunny skies, while Siena receives 177 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Heraklion usually receives less rain than Siena. Heraklion gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Siena receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Heraklion or Siena in the Winter?

Both Siena and Heraklion during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Heraklion because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Siena this time of year.

In the winter, Heraklion is much warmer than Siena. Typically, the winter temperatures in Heraklion in January average around 12°C (54°F), and Siena averages at about 7°C (45°F).

In the winter, Heraklion often gets more sunshine than Siena. Heraklion gets 121 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Siena receives 105 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets more rain in January than Siena. Heraklion gets 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Siena receives 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heraklion or Siena in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Heraklion and Siena. The beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Heraklion this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Siena for the natural beauty.

In April, Heraklion is generally a little warmer than Siena. Daily temperatures in Heraklion average around 16°C (61°F), and Siena fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In Heraklion, it's very sunny this time of the year. Heraklion usually receives more sunshine than Siena during spring. Heraklion gets 224 hours of sunny skies, while Siena receives 192 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Heraklion usually receives less rain than Siena. Heraklion gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Siena receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Siena and Heraklion