A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Heraklion vs. Turin (Torino) for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Couples

Should you visit Heraklion or Turin (Torino)?

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 Turin (Torino) 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. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and food.

Turin (Torino)

Turin (Torino) is a lively, beautiful, and authentic city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Heraklion and Turin (Torino): Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Heraklion or Turin (Torino)?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Heraklion than Turin (Torino). While Turin (Torino) is larger than Heraklion, Heraklion has more sights and attractions for tourists. Heraklion is more popular for its nightlife, beaches, and big city activities, while Turin (Torino) is known for its impressive beauty. Heraklion is more touristy than Turin (Torino) and is popular for its archeological sights, local Cretan restaurants, and its vibrant nightlife scene. It is also home to The Palace of Knossos. Turin (Torino) is popular for its grand squares, beautiful palaces, and easy access to the Alps.

How is Heraklion different from Turin (Torino)?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Turin (Torino) 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 Turin (Torino)?

Heraklion
Turin (Torino)

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Heraklion and Turin (Torino).

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 Turin (Torino). The city boasts a number of museums including The Egyptian Museum, Museo Nazionale del Cinema, and Museo Nazionale dell'Automobile. Other landmarks include the Royal Armory, The Cathedral and the Holy Shroud, and Palazzo Madama.


Is the Food Better in Heraklion or Turin (Torino)? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Heraklion
Turin (Torino)

Foodies will find both Heraklion and Turin (Torino) both to be high quality 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 Turin (Torino) is an experience not to be missed. The region has been credited with being the birthplace of the Slow Food Movement. The dishes often use locally made ingredients and there are very diverse flavors and recipes. Local favorites include antipasto misto, risotto ai funghi (mushroom risotto), and carne cruda (beef tartare).

Is Heraklion or Turin (Torino) Better for Nightlife?

Heraklion
Turin (Torino)

Heraklion is notable for its evening party scene. Also, Turin (Torino) is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

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 Turin (Torino). There's a good nightlife scene that includes everything from bars to dance clubs. Via Po is one of the city's main bar hopping streets. For a more relaxed night out head to Via Garibaldi which has a number of restaurants and cocktail bars.

Is Heraklion or Turin (Torino) Better for Beaches?

Heraklion
Turin (Torino)

Heraklion is notable for the beach. However, Turin (Torino) is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Heraklion. 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.

Turin (Torino) is not a beach destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Heraklion or Turin (Torino)?

Heraklion
Turin (Torino)

Shoppers can find a variety of good stores in both Heraklion and Turin (Torino).

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 Turin (Torino) to go shopping. The city has everything from high end shopping to local boutiques. For the best luxury shopping head to Via Roma. Via Garibaldi is another popular pedestrian street that has many shops and restaurants.

Is Heraklion or Turin (Torino) Better for Families?

Heraklion
Turin (Torino)

Both Heraklion and Turin (Torino) are good 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 Turin (Torino). If the kids need to stretch their legs, head to Valentino Park. For kid-friendly museums, check out The Cinema Museum The Egyptian Museum, or the Museum of Car. It's also fun to take a ride of the historic tram.

Is Heraklion or Turin (Torino) Better for Couples?

Heraklion
Turin (Torino)

Both Heraklion and Turin (Torino) 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 Turin (Torino) frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. With grand squares, beautiful architecture, and excellent cuisine, couples will enjoy every minute of their trip to Turin. The city is also near the Alps, so outdoor adventure isn't far away.


Is Heraklion or Turin (Torino) Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Heraklion
Turin (Torino)

Heraklion and Turin (Torino) are both high quality destinations for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Heraklion. The city is filled with budget-friendly hostels that often have a social atmosphere and a fun vibe.

Turin (Torino) is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. You'll find hostels around town and easy access to outdoor activities. The city also has great food and a lively atmosphere.

Is Heraklion or Turin (Torino) Better for Students?

Heraklion
Turin (Torino)

Turin (Torino) 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 Turin (Torino). It's relatively easy to find study abroad opportunities to the area. The city's atmosphere is diverse and fun with many activities that the student population can enjoy.

Heraklion is not popular with students.

Is Heraklion or Turin (Torino) Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Heraklion
Turin (Torino)

Turin (Torino) is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Heraklion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Turin (Torino) has some very good public transit options. The public transit system is operated by Gruppo Torinese Trasporti (GTT) and includes one metro line, nine tram lines, and a number of bus lines.

You'll find some public transit in Heraklion, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. KTEL buses travel both within town and to nearby villages.


Is Heraklion or Turin (Torino) a more walkable city?

Heraklion
Turin (Torino)

Heraklion is notable for its ease of walking around. Also, Turin (Torino) is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its walkability.

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

Turin (Torino) is somewhat walkable. While the city is large, the city center is generally compact and walkable.

For even more information, also check out Is Heraklion Worth Visiting? and Is Turin (Torino) Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Turin (Torino) or Heraklion?

How long in Heraklion or Turin (Torino)?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Heraklion and Turin (Torino). In our opinion, Heraklion has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Heraklion than Turin (Torino). In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Heraklion, and 2-3 days is enough time in Turin (Torino).

Families should spend more time in Heraklion than Turin (Torino). 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 Turin (Torino). 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 Turin (Torino) 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.


  • How many days in Heraklion or Turin (Torino)? Ideal Length of Stay
    Heraklion 1-3 
    Turin (Torino) 2-3

One day in Heraklion or Turin (Torino)?

In Heraklion, you'll find museums and nightlife. Most people come for the beaches. So, one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Turin (Torino). 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 Turin (Torino)?

Heraklion is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the lively destination of Turin (Torino). 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 Turin (Torino)?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Heraklion. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. It offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the beautiful city of Turin (Torino). 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 Turin (Torino)?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the city of Heraklion. It's also a great beach destination, too. Your budget might influence how long you stay. 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.

Turin (Torino) 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 Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy, and The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Turin (Torino) or Heraklion?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Heraklion is €158, while the average daily cost in Turin (Torino) is €157. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Heraklion and Turin (Torino) in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Heraklion 81
    Turin (Torino) 79
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Heraklion 162
    Turin (Torino) 158
Compare Hotels in Heraklion and Turin (Torino)

Looking for a hotel in Heraklion or Turin (Torino)? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Heraklion


Hotels in Turin (Torino)


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Heraklion Hotel Prices and Turin (Torino) Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Heraklion 31
    Turin (Torino) 44

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Heraklion

Also for Heraklion, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • One-Way Shared Transfer From or To Heraklion Air - Hersonissos: $16
  • Acqua Plus Water Park Admission with Optional Transfer: $32
  • Private Transfer in Crete: $33
  • Transfer Heraklion Airport to KOKKINI HANI area up to 7 customers: $44
  • Transfer Heraklion Airport to AMMOUDARA HERAKLION area up to 7: $47
  • Crete Private Transfer from Heraklion to Hersonissos: $51
  • Transfer Heraklion Airport to ANISSARAS area up to 7 customers: $61
  • VIP Private Transfer: Heraklion - Analipsi Hotels & Villas: $62
  • Transfer Heraklion Airport to HERSONISSOS area up to 7 customers: $62
  • Transfer Heraklion Airport to KOUTOULOUFARI area up to 7 : $62
  • Transfer Heraklion Airport to AGIA PELAGIA area up to 7 customers: $62
  • Transfer Heraklio Airport to ANALIPSI area up to 7 customers: $62

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Turin (Torino)

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Turin (Torino):

  • Turin Private Transfer from Turin city centre to Turin Airport: $102
  • Turin Caselle Airport to Sestriere/Val Chisone-RoundTrip Transfer: $142
  • Turin Caselle Airport to Courmayeur - Arrival Private Transfer: $87
  • Turin Caselle Airport to Courchevel La Plagne Round Trip Transfer: $295
  • Turin Caselle Airport to Chamonix - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $142
  • Turin Caselle Airport TRN to Breuil-Cervinia -Round-Trip Transfer: $142
  • Turin Airport to Val d'Isere/Morzine/Avoriaz-Arrival Transfer: $87
  • Turin Airport Private Departure Transfer: $60
  • Private Transfer from Turin City to Milan Airport/City by Sedan: $236
  • Private Direct Transfer From Turin to Milan: $256
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Turin Caselle Airport to Courchevel: $147
  • Departure by Van or Car from Transfer Turin to Turin Airport TRN: $50

Is it cheaper to fly into Heraklion or Turin (Torino)?

Prices for flights to both Turin (Torino) and Heraklion change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Heraklion 52
    Turin (Torino) 43

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Heraklion

For Heraklion, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Troy Dinner-Show: $33
  • Spectacular Dinner-Show: $44
  • From Village Cretan Night, Live Dancers & dinner: $48
  • Cretan Night with Dinner & Live Show: $49
  • Crete: Olive Oil Festival, Farm Dinner, Live Show & Pickup: $59
  • Cretan Farm with scenic view: Olive Mill Festival & dinner: $64
  • Amazing Sunset Safari Route with Dinner: $84
  • Cook with Locals | Cretan cooking Class at Archanes (transfer - lunch included): $86
  • Crete: Land Rover Safari with Sunset Viewing, Dinner, & Wine: $90
  • Full-Day Jeep Safari Tour with Cooking Lesson: $97
  • Food tour tasting walking tour: $123
  • E-bike Food Tour Tasting in Heraklion : $125

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Turin (Torino)

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Turin (Torino).

  • Bolognese a la Mode | Online Cooking with Chef Abram | Italy: $64
  • Turin Guided Food Tour with Chocolate and Wine Tasting: $69
  • Turin, food tour, taste our tradition.: $85
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Castelnuovo Belbo with Show Cooking: $93
  • Dining experience at a local's home in Nebbiuno with cooking demo: $93
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Leinì with Show Cooking: $93
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Lessona with Show Cooking: $93
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Casale Monferrato with Show Cooking: $93
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Casaleggio Boiro with Show Cooking: $93
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Cella Monte with Show Cooking: $93
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Alessandria with Show Cooking: $93
  • Turin Mix Aperitivo & Street Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience: $97

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Heraklion 38
    Turin (Torino) 28

Tours and Activities in Heraklion

For Heraklion, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Heraklion Area: CRETAquarium Admission Ticket: $8.56
  • CRETAquarium Entrance Ticket in Crete: $8.73
  • Mobile Self-Guided Audio Sightseeing Tour: $11
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Crete: Palace of Knossos E-Ticket and Optional Audio Guide: $11
  • Herakleion: City Self-Guided Game & Tour: $12
  • Heraklion Market & CretAquarium *Skip the line: $16
  • Heraklion City Tour - Aquarium: $17
  • Knossos Palace: E-ticket with Audio and Heraklion City Tour: $18
  • Party Bike 1 hour Experience in Malia : $19
  • Knossos Self-Guided Treasure Hunt & Tour KIDS: $21
  • Minoan Day Experience: $22

Tours and Activities in Turin (Torino)

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Turin (Torino) are as follows:

  • "Langhe del Barolo" Private E-bike Tour - Asphalt and Dirt Road: $79
  • 2 Hours Private Guided Tour in Turin Egyptian Museum : $163
  • 2-Hour Private Turin Walking Tour: $136
  • Be a Movie Star Tour for Kids & Families at the Turin National Cinema Museum: $173
  • Cesarine: Market Tour & Typical Dining at a Local's Home in Turin: $152
  • Chocolate Tour in Turin for Kids and Families Including Gianduiotto and Bicerin: $147
  • CioccolaTOur, discover the sweet side of Turin tasting the most famous chocolate: $218
  • City Sightseeing Turin Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $21
  • Classic e-bike tour Turin, from the historic center to the hill: $49
  • Custom Guided Tours: $201
  • E-bike tour with aperitif included: $82
  • Entrance ticket with tasting at Casa Martini: $22

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Heraklion 26
    Turin (Torino) 8.57

Sample the Local Flavors in Heraklion

Also in Heraklion, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Wine Tasting E-Bike Tour: $95
  • Ecobike Wine Tasting Tour in Heraklion: $115
  • Ecobike Tour with Wine Tasting: $118
  • Luxury Private Wine Tasting Experience in Haralabakis Winery: $119
  • Half Day Small Group Wine Tour with wine Tastings: $125
  • Half Day Semi Private Wine Tour with Tastings: $134
  • Semi Private Heraklion Valley Wine Tour with Lunch: $159
  • The Gourmet Wine Tour of Heraklion area: $180
  • Private SUV Wine Tour with Lunch: $183
  • Full Day Private Crete Wine Tour Experience from Heraklion : $190
  • Full day Knossos Palace, Local Distillery, Lunch @ Archanes: $192
  • Knossos, Olive Mill, Winery - Distillery with Tastings & Lunch : $196

Sample the Local Flavors in Turin (Torino)

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Turin (Torino):

  • Tour of the Historical Cellars and Wine Tasting in Turin: $35
  • Wine Tour and Tasting with the Producer in the Monferrato-Classic: $41
  • 2 Hour Courtyard Aperitivo in Turin with Wine Tasting: $47
  • Wine Tasting near Royal Palace of Turin: $49
  • Cesarine: Turin Wine Tasting & Food Pairing with an Expert : $119


When comparing the travel costs between Heraklion and Turin (Torino), 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 Turin (Torino) Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Heraklion or Turin (Torino)?

Turin (Torino) has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Heraklion. When comparing the sizes of Heraklion and Turin (Torino), 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.