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

Should you visit Heraklion or Valletta?

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 Valletta 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. 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.

Valletta

Valletta is a charming, cultural, and waterfront town. 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 Valletta: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Heraklion or Valletta?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Heraklion. Although Heraklion and Valletta are both popular with visitors, Heraklion has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Heraklion is more popular for its nightlife, beaches, and big city activities, while Valletta is known for its museums, food, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty. Heraklion is more touristy than Valletta and is known for its archeological sights, local Cretan restaurants, and its vibrant nightlife scene. It is also home to The Palace of Knossos. Valletta is popular for its ancient fortifications, Baroque palaces, and beautiful gardens.

How is Heraklion different from Valletta?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Valletta is a world-class destination for its museums and history. Also, Heraklion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Valletta are world-renowned. With its rich culture and compact old town, there are countless museums, sights, and monuments that are worth visiting. Some options include Saint John's Co-Cathedral, the Grandmaster's Palace and Armory, the National Museum of Archaeology, Manoel Theater, and the Upper Barrakka Gardens.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around 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.

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

Valletta 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 Valletta have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The town's culinary scene has a long history with many traditional flavors. You really must experience a meal in one of the traditional stone cellar restaurants, which often serve local meze. Head to Republic Street for a stretch of longstanding restaurants in town. Local dishes include stuffat tal-fenek (rabbit stew), bragioli (rolled meat covered in sauce), and lampuki pie (fish pie).

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 Valletta Better for Nightlife?

Heraklion is a very popular place for its evening party scene. Also, Valletta is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

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.

Valletta has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. It wasn't long ago that the town went quiet in the evenings, but recent years have brought a surge in bars and clubs around town. You'll find the liveliest nightlife in areas around Strait Street and the Valletta Waterfront. If you're looking for a true clubbing scene, you'll want to head north out of town to Paceville.

Is Heraklion or Valletta Better for Beaches?

Heraklion is a very popular place for the beach. However, Valletta is lacking in good options for its beaches.

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.

Valletta is a good spot to see the beach. There aren't any beaches in town, but if you head north to St. George’s Bay you'll find some nice beaches with a variety of resorts to choose from.

Is Heraklion or Valletta Better for its Old Town?

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

The historic old town of Valletta is revered around the world. The old town is laid out with a uniform grid and the streets are lined with hundreds of historic buildings. At the heart of old town is Republic Street, which divides the area in half and is where you'll find a large concentration of restaurants.

Heraklion does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Heraklion or Valletta?

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

Valletta is well-known for its shopping. For the best shopping head to Republic Street and Merchants Street where you'll find craft shops, boutiques, and other local souvenirs. Many visitors enjoy picking up blown glass, a locally made miniature, or cactus liquor. Lace is also a common local item that you'll find around town.

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 Valletta Better for Families?

Both Heraklion and Valletta 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 Valletta. This charming town has nearby beaches as well as a few museums that kids will enjoy, including a toy museum. There are also several multi-media shows that educate visitors on the area's history. Make sure you check out Malta 5D and the Malta Experience.

Is Heraklion or Valletta Better for Couples?

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

Valletta is a great town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. The town offers beautiful walks, luxury spa experiences, and evening sunset cruises that are seeped in romance. During the evening you can enjoy a cocktail hour and then dine in one of the town's many unique restaurants.

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 Valletta Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Heraklion and Valletta are both great 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.

Valletta is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. The island has grown in popularity with backpackers, particularly those coming from Europe, as there are affordable flights and easy accessibility. You'll also find some nice hostels around town where you can stay on a budget.

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

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

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

You'll find some public transit in Valletta, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. If you're not up for walking up and down the hills, there are some buses around town.

Is Heraklion or Valletta a more walkable city?

Valletta is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Heraklion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Valletta. The town is compact and easy to walk around with many sights within a short distance of each other. There's also very little street traffic.

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.

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

Should I spend more time in Valletta or Heraklion?

How long in Heraklion or Valletta?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Heraklion and Valletta. In our opinion, Valletta has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Valletta than Heraklion. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Valletta than Heraklion 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 Valletta.

One day in Heraklion or Valletta?

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 town of Valletta. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Valletta has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Heraklion or Valletta?

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 charming destination of Valletta. 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 town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Heraklion or Valletta?

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 cultural town of Valletta. 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 Valletta?

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.

Valletta 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 Malta, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Malta.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Heraklion or Valletta?

Heraklion has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Valletta. When comparing the sizes of Heraklion and Valletta, 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 Valletta?

Heraklion has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Valletta experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Heraklion or Valletta in the Summer?

Both Valletta and Heraklion are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Heraklion because of the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Plenty of visitors come to Valletta because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

In the summer, Heraklion is around the same temperature as Valletta. Typically, the summer temperatures in Heraklion in July average around 25°C (78°F), and Valletta averages at about 26°C (79°F).

It's quite sunny in Valletta. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Heraklion. Heraklion usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Valletta during summer. Heraklion gets 366 hours of sunny skies, while Valletta receives 365 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Heraklion usually receives less rain than Valletta. Heraklion gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Valletta receives 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Heraklion or Valletta in the Autumn?

Both Valletta and Heraklion during the autumn are popular places to visit. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Heraklion this time of year. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Valletta year-round.

In October, Heraklion is generally around the same temperature as Valletta. Daily temperatures in Heraklion average around 20°C (68°F), and Valletta fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

In Valletta, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Heraklion often gets less sunshine than Valletta. Heraklion gets 199 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Valletta receives 221 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets less rain in October than Valletta. Heraklion gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Valletta receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heraklion or Valletta in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Heraklion and Valletta. Many travelers come to Heraklion for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Valletta attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

Heraklion is around the same temperature as Valletta in the winter. The daily temperature in Heraklion averages around 12°C (54°F) in January, and Valletta fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Heraklion usually receives less sunshine than Valletta during winter. Heraklion gets 121 hours of sunny skies, while Valletta receives 159 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Heraklion usually receives around the same amount of rain as Valletta. Heraklion gets 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Valletta receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Heraklion or Valletta in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Heraklion as well as Valletta. Many visitors come to Heraklion in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city. The warm climate attracts visitors to Valletta throughout the year.

In the spring, Heraklion is around the same temperature as Valletta. Typically, the spring temperatures in Heraklion in April average around 16°C (61°F), and Valletta averages at about 16°C (61°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Valletta. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Heraklion this time of the year. In the spring, Heraklion often gets less sunshine than Valletta. Heraklion gets 224 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Valletta receives 247 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Valletta. Heraklion gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Valletta receives 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Valletta and Heraklion