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

Should you visit Heraklion or Tenerife?

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 Tenerife 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. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Tenerife

Tenerife is a beautiful, volcanic, and scenic island. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Heraklion and Tenerife: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Heraklion or Tenerife?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Heraklion. Although Heraklion and Tenerife are popular destinations, Heraklion has more sights and attractions for tourists. Heraklion is very popular for its museums, food, and big city activities, while Tenerife attracts visitors for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty. Tenerife is more touristy than Heraklion and is known for its volcanic landscapes, built-up resorts, and fun-filled beaches. 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.

How is Heraklion different from Tenerife?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Heraklion is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Tenerife is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Heraklion can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

Tenerife offers a few options for museum-goers. The island is filled with national parks, beautiful landscapes, and stunning beaches, but if you're not into outdoor activities, then you won't find many museums or other historical sights to visit.

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

Heraklion is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Tenerife is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in 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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Tenerife. Many visitors stick to the major touristy areas, eating in their resorts or other nearby restaurants. If you want to try a bit of the island's authentic Canarian cuisine, you'll need to do a little research. Head into the local areas near the markets for the best chance of finding something a little more authentic. Local dishes often include fish and seafood as well as local meats, but you'll rarely find beef as there isn't a lot of land for cows to graze on the island.

Is Heraklion or Tenerife Better for Nightlife?

Tenerife 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 Tenerife just to party. The island has a variety of nightclubs that range in style and personality. There are all night wild beach parties as well as laid back beach clubs and hole-in-the-wall pubs. Many bars have happy hours where you can relax with a drink and many nightclubs host famous DJs that keep the party going into the early morning hours.

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 Tenerife Better for Resorts?

Tenerife is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Heraklion is not a resort destination.

In Tenerife, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. You'll find everything from world-class resorts like the Ritz to more budget-friendly hotels and even some hostels around the island. You'll find most of the resorts on the south side of the island, which is also where you'll find the best weather.

Heraklion is not a resort destination.

Is Heraklion or Tenerife Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Tenerife is a very popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Heraklion is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Tenerife is an extremely popular place to visit for scuba diving and snorkeling. A highlight of snorkeling in this area is the opportunity to swim with sea turtles. Some of the best snorkeling is in El Puertito, which is known for its many turtles and there is no shortage of organized snorkeling trips to the area. The island also has excellent scuba diving trips with a variety of shipwrecks and marine species.

Heraklion is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Heraklion or Tenerife Better for Beaches?

Both Heraklion and Tenerife are considered to be high quality 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 Tenerife for it's beautiful beaches. The island has a large number of beaches that attract tourists, particularly during the peak winter months. The island's volcanic nature means that many of its natural beaches have black sand. The golden sand from the more developed beaches typically comes from the Sahara Desert. A favorite beach on the island is the 2 kilometer long Playa de las Teresitas.

Is Heraklion or Tenerife Better for Hiking?

Tenerife is a world-class destination for its hiking trails. However, Heraklion is not a hiking destination.

Around Tenerife visitors will find world-class hiking trails. The island's volcanic landscapes mean that there are dramatic and breathtaking hikes throughout the island. Some of the best hikes are found in the Anaga Rural Park, Teide National Park, and the Teno Mountains.

Heraklion is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Heraklion or Tenerife?

Tenerife is a very popular place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Heraklion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Tenerife is well-known for its shopping. The island's low tax rates make it a popular shopping destination for tourists. The are shopping streets, local markets, and luxury malls that you can explore.

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 Tenerife Better for Families?

Tenerife 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.

Tenerife is an extremely popular island to visit for families. The island has many great waterparks for kids, with one of the best being Siam Park. Other family-friendly destinations include Aqualand, Loro Parque, Jungle Park, and Monkey Park. There are whale watching trips, outdoor adventures, and kid-friendly beaches 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 Tenerife Better for Couples?

Both Heraklion and Tenerife are high quality 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 Tenerife frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The natural beauty, great landscapes, and lively beaches make this a great island for a romantic getaway. There's hiking and outdoor adventures as well as swimming, boat rides, and even whale watching.

Is Heraklion or Tenerife Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Heraklion is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Tenerife is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Heraklion is very popular with the backpacker crowd. The city is filled with budget-friendly hostels that often have a social atmosphere and a fun vibe.

Tenerife is a good city to visit for backpackers. The island is large enough that there are a decent number of hostels and budget-friendly places to stay for backpackers.

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

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

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

You'll find some public transit in Tenerife, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The island has a decent bus service that is operated by a company called "TITSA".

Is Heraklion or Tenerife a more walkable city?

Heraklion is a very popular place for its walkability. Also, Tenerife is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

Heraklion is very walkable. Many parts of the town are walkable and doing a walking tour is a great way to see many of the city's sights.

Tenerife is a somewhat walkable place. There are many walks on the island that make for a fun way to explore the setting.

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

Should I spend more time in Tenerife or Heraklion?

How long in Heraklion or Tenerife?

Both Heraklion and Tenerife have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Tenerife than in Heraklion. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Heraklion, and 3-7 days is enough time in Tenerife.

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

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

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

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 scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the island of Tenerife. 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 Tenerife?

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 beautiful destination of Tenerife. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Heraklion or Tenerife?

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 nightlife and food around the volcanic island of Tenerife. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this island makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer.

A week in Heraklion or Tenerife?

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.

Tenerife is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Tenerife, one week is sufficent for most. 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 Spain, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Spain.

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

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

When is the best time to visit Heraklion or Tenerife?

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 Tenerife in the Summer?

Both Tenerife and Heraklion are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Heraklion for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Tenerife because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

It's quite sunny in Tenerife. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Heraklion. Heraklion usually receives more sunshine than Tenerife during summer. Heraklion gets 366 hours of sunny skies, while Tenerife receives 268 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Heraklion usually receives less rain than Tenerife. Heraklion gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Tenerife receives 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Heraklion or Tenerife in the Autumn?

Both Tenerife and Heraklion during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Heraklion because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Tenerife this time of year.

Heraklion is around the same temperature as Tenerife in the autumn. The daily temperature in Heraklion averages around 20°C (68°F) in October, and Tenerife fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

In Tenerife, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Heraklion often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Tenerife. Heraklion gets 199 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tenerife receives 200 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets more rain in October than Tenerife. Heraklion gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Tenerife receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heraklion or Tenerife in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Heraklion and Tenerife. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Heraklion this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Tenerife for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

In the winter, Heraklion is cooler than Tenerife. Typically, the winter temperatures in Heraklion in January average around 12°C (54°F), and Tenerife averages at about 17°C (63°F).

Heraklion usually receives less sunshine than Tenerife during winter. Heraklion gets 121 hours of sunny skies, while Tenerife receives 191 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Heraklion usually receives more rain than Tenerife. Heraklion gets 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Tenerife receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Heraklion or Tenerife in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Heraklion as well as Tenerife. Many travelers come to Heraklion for the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Tenerife in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Heraklion is generally around the same temperature as Tenerife. Daily temperatures in Heraklion average around 16°C (61°F), and Tenerife fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Tenerife. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Heraklion this time of the year. In the spring, Heraklion often gets more sunshine than Tenerife. Heraklion gets 224 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tenerife receives 205 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets more rain in April than Tenerife. Heraklion gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Tenerife receives 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Tenerife and Heraklion