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

Should you visit Heraklion or Varenna?

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 Varenna 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. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and shopping.

Varenna

Varenna is a scenic, pristine, and beautiful village. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Heraklion and Varenna: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Heraklion or Varenna?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Heraklion than Varenna, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Heraklion is better known for its museums, nightlife, beaches, and big city activities, while Varenna is more popular for its food, hiking, and impressive beauty. Heraklion is well known for its archeological sights, local Cretan restaurants, and its vibrant nightlife scene. Also, Heraklion is famous for The Palace of Knossos. Varenna is well known for its beautiful location by Lake Como.

How is Heraklion different from Varenna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Heraklion is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. Also, Varenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Varenna. Most people visit the town for its beautiful setting on Lake Como. There are some popular sights around town though such as the Church of San Giorgio and Castello di Vezio.

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

Varenna 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 Varenna have been singled out for their culinary prowess. Despite the touristy nature of the town, the restaurants are surprisingly good and you'll find some excellent Italian food around town.

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 Varenna Better for Nightlife?

Heraklion is an excellent place to visit for nightlife and partying. However, Varenna is lacking in options for its evening party scene.

Heraklion has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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.

Varenna is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. The best way to enjoy the evening is to head to a restaurant and spend the time sipping wine in a laid back setting.

Is Heraklion or Varenna Better for Beaches?

Heraklion is an excellent place to visit for the beache. However, Varenna is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Heraklion for it's beautiful 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.

Varenna is not a beach destination.

Is Heraklion or Varenna Better for Hiking?

Varenna is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Heraklion is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Varenna. There are lakefront trails and other hiking options near town. The Lungolago di Varenna - Baia di Varenna loop follows the water and makes for a pleasant stroll.

Heraklion is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Heraklion or Varenna?

Shoppers can find a variety of notable stores in both Heraklion and Varenna.

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 Varenna to go shopping. The streets are lined with artisan shops and boutique venders that are fun to explore.

Is Heraklion or Varenna Better for Families?

Both Heraklion and Varenna are notable 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 Varenna. The charming village has play areas for children and the beautiful Villa Monastero, which are gardens that they'll enjoy exploring. It's also worth visiting the Castle of Vezio.

Is Heraklion or Varenna Better for Couples?

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

Varenna is a great village for couples, as it has plenty to offer. This beautiful village has a romantic atmosphere with a "lovers promenade" and many stunning views. It makes the perfect couples trip, whether you're on your honeymoon or just need some time away.

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 Varenna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Heraklion is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Varenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

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

Plenty of budget travelers visit Varenna. There are some hostels and guesthouses that cater to budget travelers. There's also plenty of outdoor activities that are free.

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

Visitors will find notable public transit in both Heraklion and Varenna.

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

You'll find some public transit in Varenna, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The town is easily accessible by public transit and once you're in town you can walk everywhere.

Is Heraklion or Varenna a more walkable city?

Varenna 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 Varenna. Everything is walkable and the town is best explored on foot.

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 Varenna Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Varenna or Heraklion?

How long in Heraklion or Varenna?

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

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

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

In Heraklion, you'll find nightlife and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

You'll find shopping and museums around the village of Varenna. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Varenna has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Heraklion or Varenna?

In Heraklion, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Heraklion has to offer.

You'll find museums and food around the pristine destination of Varenna. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this village has to offer. This village offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Heraklion or Varenna?

Heraklion is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the pristine village of Varenna. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Varenna?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Heraklion. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Heraklion. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Varenna is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Budget Tours to Italy, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy.

When comparing the travel costs between Heraklion and Varenna, we can see that Varenna 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 Varenna Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Heraklion or Varenna?

Heraklion has a larger population, and is about 160 times larger than the population of Varenna. When comparing the sizes of Heraklion and Varenna, 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 Varenna?

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 Varenna in the Summer?

Both Varenna and Heraklion are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Heraklion this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Varenna for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Heraklion is around the same temperature as Varenna in the summer. The daily temperature in Heraklion averages around 25°C (78°F) in July, and Varenna fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

It's quite sunny in Varenna. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Heraklion. Heraklion usually receives more sunshine than Varenna during summer. Heraklion gets 366 hours of sunny skies, while Varenna receives 250 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Varenna. In July, Heraklion usually receives less rain than Varenna. Heraklion gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Heraklion or Varenna in the Autumn?

Both Varenna and Heraklion during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Heraklion for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Furthermore, many visitors come to Varenna in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Heraklion is a little warmer than Varenna. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Heraklion in October average around 20°C (68°F), and Varenna averages at about 15°C (58°F).

In the autumn, Heraklion often gets more sunshine than Varenna. Heraklion gets 199 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Varenna receives 152 hours of full sun.

Varenna gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Heraklion usually gets less rain in October than Varenna. Heraklion gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heraklion or Varenna in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Heraklion and Varenna. Many visitors come to Heraklion in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Varenna for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Varenna can be very cold during winter. In January, Heraklion is generally much warmer than Varenna. Daily temperatures in Heraklion average around 12°C (54°F), and Varenna fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Heraklion usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Varenna during winter. Heraklion gets 121 hours of sunny skies, while Varenna receives 119 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Heraklion usually receives more rain than Varenna. Heraklion gets 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Heraklion or Varenna in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Heraklion as well as Varenna. Most visitors come to Heraklion for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Varenna because of the natural beauty.

Heraklion is a little warmer than Varenna in the spring. The daily temperature in Heraklion averages around 16°C (61°F) in April, and Varenna fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Heraklion this time of the year. In the spring, Heraklion often gets more sunshine than Varenna. Heraklion gets 224 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Varenna receives 176 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Varenna. Heraklion usually gets less rain in April than Varenna. Heraklion gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Varenna receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Varenna and Heraklion