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

Should you visit Heraklion or Toulon?

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 Toulon 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.

Toulon

Toulon is a off-the-beaten-path, real world, and industrial port city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the nightlife, food, and beaches.

Heraklion and Toulon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Heraklion or Toulon?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Heraklion than Toulon. While Toulon is larger than Heraklion, Heraklion has more sights and attractions for tourists. Heraklion is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, beaches, and big city activities, while Toulon attracts visitors for its scuba diving & snorkeling, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty. Heraklion is more touristy than Toulon and is popular for its archeological sights, local Cretan restaurants, and its vibrant nightlife scene. It is also well known for The Palace of Knossos. Toulon is famous for its old town, its coastal setting, and its popularity with local vacationers.

How is Heraklion different from Toulon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Heraklion is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its museums and history.

Many visitors head to Heraklion specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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.

Toulon offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Many of the sights are found in the old town and harbor areas. Some of the most interesting attractions include the Opera House, the Allied Landings Museum, the Naval Museum, and Cathédrale Sainte-Marie-de-la-Seds.

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

Heraklion is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Heraklion makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Toulon has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are a variety of cafes and restaurants that are found along the harbor or in the old town. Whether you want waterfront views or a charming street front cafe, there are great options available. Many restaurants offer local seafood but you'll also find pastries, traditional local food, a several Italian restaurants.

Is Heraklion or Toulon Better for Nightlife?

Heraklion is a well-known place for nightlife. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for nightlife and partying.

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 Toulon. It's a relatively large city and traditionally a sailor's town, so the city has a long running tradition of partying into the night. While it doesn't have the party-hard reputation of some places, you likely won't be bored at night. Head to the harbor area or the beaches around Mourillon for the most lively bars and cafes.

Is Heraklion or Toulon Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Toulon is a decent place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Heraklion is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's possible to go snorkeling in Toulon. There are a few beaches in the area that are worth checking out with a mask and snorkel. You'll likely see some underwater life hanging out by the rocks in the quieter areas.

Heraklion is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Heraklion or Toulon Better for Beaches?

Heraklion is a well-known place for its beaches. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for the beache.

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.

Toulon has a beach worth visiting. The beaches are sandy and less crowded than some of the more popular areas. The most accessible beach is Mourillon Beach which has public facilities and restaurants. If you're willing to venture a little farther from the center of town you'll find Mitre Beach which has some snorkeling. Battere Basse Beach is a bit quieter and also has snorkeling. Anse de Méjean is a popular spot with the locals.

Is Heraklion or Toulon Better for its Old Town?

Toulon is a decent place to visit for its old town. However, Heraklion does not have a historic old town.

You can check out the historic old town in Toulon. The old town has plazas, terraced cafes, and plenty of outdoor shopping opportunities that visitors can enjoy.

Heraklion does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Heraklion or Toulon?

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

Toulon is well-known for its shopping. If you're looking for traditional local shopping opportunities then this is your place. There are a number of traditional Provençal markets around town but the most famous is Cours Lafayette. You can shop with the locals looking for produce or flowers. There's also a weekend farmers market, Petit Cours, that is fun to 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 Toulon Better for Families?

Both Heraklion and Toulon are nice to visit with kids.

Heraklion is a family-friendly city. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Toulon. The city may be known as a hub for the French navy, but there are also activities that kids and adults alike can enjoy. There are several military themed museums, a few good beaches, and local shopping. There's also the enjoyable cable car ride that you can take to the top of Mont Faron as well as several nice seaside walks in the area.

Is Heraklion or Toulon Better for Couples?

Heraklion is a well-known place for romance. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its romantic activities.

Heraklion is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Toulon makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will appreciate the walks along the coast or through the harbor. There are also nice restaurants, interesting art galleries, and a few good hotels around town that make for a nice couple's weekend.

Is Heraklion or Toulon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Heraklion is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port 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 Toulon. It doesn't have the reputation of many nearby towns along the French Riviera, so you can still find some affordable hostels and cafes in the area. You also won't find the crowds so you can enjoy a touch of the authentic local culture.

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

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

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

You'll find some public transit in Toulon, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses as well as petits trains (little tourist trains) that you can take around town.

Is Heraklion or Toulon a more walkable city?

Heraklion and Toulon 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.

Toulon is a very walkable destination. You can walk around the old town and harbor area where many of the sights are concentrated.

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

Should I spend more time in Toulon or Heraklion?

How long in Heraklion or Toulon?

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

Families should spend more time in Heraklion than Toulon. 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 Heraklion than Toulon. 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 Toulon 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 Toulon?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Heraklion. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

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

A weekend in Heraklion or Toulon?

Heraklion is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the industrial destination of Toulon. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this port city has to offer. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Heraklion or Toulon?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Heraklion. Most people come for the beaches. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the real world port city of Toulon. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Heraklion or Toulon?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the accessible destination of Heraklion. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Toulon is a popular choice for travelers. 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 Luxury Tours to France, and The Best Budget Tours to France.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Heraklion or Toulon?

Toulon has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Heraklion. When comparing the sizes of Heraklion and Toulon, 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 Toulon?

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 Toulon in the Summer?

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

In July, Heraklion is generally around the same temperature as Toulon. Daily temperatures in Heraklion average around 25°C (78°F), and Toulon fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Toulon. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Heraklion this time of the year. In the summer, Heraklion often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Toulon. Heraklion gets 366 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Toulon receives 366 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets less rain in July than Toulon. Heraklion gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Toulon receives 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heraklion or Toulon in the Autumn?

Both Toulon 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 Toulon because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

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

It's quite sunny in Toulon. Heraklion usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Toulon during autumn. Heraklion gets 199 hours of sunny skies, while Toulon receives 205 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Heraklion usually receives less rain than Toulon. Heraklion gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Toulon receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Heraklion or Toulon in the Winter?

Both Toulon 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. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Toulon this time of year.

In the winter, Heraklion is much warmer than Toulon. Typically, the winter temperatures in Heraklion in January average around 12°C (54°F), and Toulon averages at about 7°C (44°F).

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

Heraklion usually gets more rain in January than Toulon. Heraklion gets 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Toulon receives 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heraklion or Toulon in the Spring?

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

In April, Heraklion is generally a little warmer than Toulon. Daily temperatures in Heraklion average around 16°C (61°F), and Toulon fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Toulon this time of the year. In Heraklion, it's very sunny this time of the year. Heraklion usually receives less sunshine than Toulon during spring. Heraklion gets 224 hours of sunny skies, while Toulon receives 245 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Heraklion usually receives less rain than Toulon. Heraklion gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Toulon receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Toulon and Heraklion