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

Should you visit Heraklion or Toulouse?

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 Toulouse 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 bustling, historic, and vibrant city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the nightlife, food, and beaches.

Toulouse

Toulouse is a historic, vibrant, and friendly city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Heraklion and Toulouse: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Heraklion or Toulouse?

Both Toulouse and Heraklion have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Heraklion is more popular for its beaches, while Toulouse is known for its food, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty. Heraklion is more touristy than Toulouse and is known for its archeological sights, local Cretan restaurants, and its vibrant nightlife scene. Toulouse is popular for its impressive old town, many museums, and delicious local cuisine.

How is Heraklion different from Toulouse?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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 Toulouse. There is a long running history with countless landmarks and museums. Highlights include Basilique Saint-Sernin, Place du Capitole, Muséum de Toulouse, and Fondation Bemberg.

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

Toulouse is a world-class destination for its restaurants. Also, Heraklion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Many restaurants in Toulouse have been singled out for their culinary prowess. There are many unique regional recipes that make use of poultry, cold meats, and foie gras. Toulouse sausage, cassoulet, Poulet à la Toulousaine, and Foie gras d’oie are all popular local dishes.

Dining out in Heraklion is an experience not to be missed. 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.

Is Heraklion or Toulouse Better for Nightlife?

The great nightlife scene is relatively similar in Heraklion and Toulouse.

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.

Toulouse is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. You'll find a large number of students in town so the nightlife scene is active and fun. For the most lively atmosphere head to Carmes, Saint-Cyprien, or Place Saint-Pierre.

Is Heraklion or Toulouse Better for Beaches?

Heraklion is great for the beach. However, Toulouse is not a beach destination.

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.

Toulouse is not a beach destination.

Is Heraklion or Toulouse Better for its Old Town?

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

Toulouse is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The old town is filled with terra-cota buildings and pedestrian walkways. The area flows out around the Capitole and is crossed by the Garonne.

Heraklion does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Heraklion or Toulouse?

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

Toulouse is well-known for its shopping. There are many great shopping districts around town including Place du Capitole, The Saint Georges district, and Rue Alsace Lorraine.

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 Toulouse Better for Families?

Toulouse 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, Toulouse is very family-friendly. The city's known for its space industry so the La Cite de l’Espace (Space Museum) is a favorite attraction for kids and adults alike. You can also visit Aeroscopia, the airplane museum. La Halle de la machine is a truly unique and impressive playground. The city also has many other museums and outdoor spaces to explore.

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 Toulouse Better for Couples?

Both Heraklion and Toulouse are great 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 Toulouse frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are many beautiful parks, gardens, and walking paths. Make sure you take a stroll along the Canal du Midi and visit Jardin Japonais Pierre Baudis. This is also a great city for visiting a spa.

Is Heraklion or Toulouse Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Heraklion is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Toulouse is not a good destination 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.

Toulouse is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not a major stop off for many backpackers in Europe so you won't find as many hostels as you do in other cities.

Is Heraklion or Toulouse Better for Students?

Toulouse is a city with good options for its student-friendly activities. However, Heraklion is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Toulouse. You'll find a diverse student population with many international students.

Heraklion is not popular with students.

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

Visitors will find good public transit in both Heraklion and Toulouse.

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

You'll find some public transit in Toulouse, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are a large number of bus routes that travel both locally and regionally.

Is Heraklion or Toulouse a more walkable city?

Heraklion and Toulouse are great 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.

Toulouse is a very walkable destination. Within the city center it is very walkable and easy to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Toulouse or Heraklion?

How long in Heraklion or Toulouse?

It's fun to spend time in either Heraklion or Toulouse. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Toulouse due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Heraklion, and 2-4 days is enough time in Toulouse.

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

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

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

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 shopping and museums around the city of Toulouse. 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 Toulouse?

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 museums and nightlife around the dynamic destination of Toulouse. 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 Toulouse?

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 friendly city of Toulouse. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Most people head to the area for the food. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Heraklion or Toulouse?

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.

Toulouse 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 Historical Tours in France, and The Best 10-Day Tours in France.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Heraklion or Toulouse?

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

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 Toulouse in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Heraklion and Toulouse. The summer months attract visitors to Heraklion because of the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Toulouse this time of year.

In the summer, Heraklion is a little warmer than Toulouse. Typically, the summer temperatures in Heraklion in July average around 25°C (78°F), and Toulouse averages at about 22°C (72°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Toulouse this time of the year. In Heraklion, it's very sunny this time of the year. Heraklion usually receives more sunshine than Toulouse during summer. Heraklion gets 366 hours of sunny skies, while Toulouse receives 275 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Heraklion usually receives less rain than Toulouse. Heraklion gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Toulouse receives 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Heraklion or Toulouse in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Heraklion as well as Toulouse. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Heraklion this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Toulouse for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Heraklion is generally a little warmer than Toulouse. Daily temperatures in Heraklion average around 20°C (68°F), and Toulouse fluctuates around 15°C (60°F).

In the autumn, Heraklion often gets more sunshine than Toulouse. Heraklion gets 199 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Toulouse receives 161 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets more rain in October than Toulouse. Heraklion gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Toulouse receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heraklion or Toulouse in the Winter?

Both Toulouse and Heraklion are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Heraklion for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Toulouse in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Heraklion is much warmer than Toulouse in the winter. The daily temperature in Heraklion averages around 12°C (54°F) in January, and Toulouse fluctuates around 6°C (44°F).

Heraklion usually receives more sunshine than Toulouse during winter. Heraklion gets 121 hours of sunny skies, while Toulouse receives 88 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Heraklion usually receives more rain than Toulouse. Heraklion gets 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Toulouse receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Heraklion or Toulouse in the Spring?

Both Toulouse and Heraklion during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Heraklion in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city. Furthermore, most visitors come to Toulouse for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Heraklion is a little warmer than Toulouse. Typically, the spring temperatures in Heraklion in April average around 16°C (61°F), and Toulouse averages at about 12°C (54°F).

It's quite sunny in Heraklion. In the spring, Heraklion often gets more sunshine than Toulouse. Heraklion gets 224 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Toulouse receives 178 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets less rain in April than Toulouse. Heraklion gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Toulouse receives 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Toulouse and Heraklion