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

Should you visit Heraklion or Venice?

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 Venice 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 shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Venice

Venice is a historic, beautiful, and romantic city. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and food.

Heraklion and Venice: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Heraklion or Venice?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Venice than Heraklion, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Venice is more popular for its museums, historical sights, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Heraklion is known for its food, nightlife, beaches, and big city activities. Venice is more touristy than Heraklion and is known for its many canals, famous gondolas, iconic architecture, romantic squares, and beautiful bridges. It is also home to St. Mark's Basilica. Heraklion is popular for its archeological sights, local Cretan restaurants, and its vibrant nightlife scene.

How is Heraklion different from Venice?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Venice 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 Venice are world-renowned. The many historic and famous landmarks in town include St. Mark's Basilica, St. Mark's Square, Doge's Palace, and the Rialto Bridge.

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 Venice? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Heraklion is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Venice is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Heraklion has a number of nationally recognized food spots and 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.

Venice offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. For the best dining experience, you should try to avoid the touristy restaurants that serve the typical pizza and pasta. Instead, find a local eatery that specializes in the region's traditional flavors like fish and vegetables.

Is Heraklion or Venice Better for Nightlife?

Heraklion is great for its evening party scene. However, Venice is not a good destination for nightlife.

Many people head to Heraklion for the nightlife scene. 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.

Most people don't head to Venice specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. If you want to party, your best option is to head to the Lido area where you'll find night clubs and bars. A better alternative for enjoying your evening is to order a late night meal and a glass of wine at a local restaurant in Venice.

Is Heraklion or Venice Better for Beaches?

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

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.

Venice is not a beach destination.

Is Heraklion or Venice Better for its Old Town?

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

The historic old town of Venice is revered around the world. The city's historic area is unlike anywhere else in the world. The canals, colorful buildings, are world-renowned architecture, make this among the most recognized historic settings in the world.

Heraklion does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Heraklion or Venice?

Venice is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Heraklion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Venice draws large crowds to its stores. There are many unique items that people purchase in town. Some of the most popular include Murano glass, Burano lace, Venetian masks, and local fabrics.

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 Venice Better for Families?

Venice 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, Venice is very family-friendly. Even for kids, visiting this city is all about soaking up the atmosphere and sense of place. It is unlike anywhere else in the world. The canals, historic buildings, gondolas, and plazas offer a special environment, even for kids who may be burned out from exploring cities. Attractions that appeal to kids include visiting the prisons at Doge's Palace, shopping for masks, and taking a ride on a gondola.

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 Venice Better for Couples?

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

Venice is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. With its many truly unique romantic experiences, this city makes for a truly memorable honeymoon or romantic getaway. Ride a gondola, get lost in the city, and enjoy pasta and music around town to make the experience unlike any other.

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 Venice Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Heraklion and Venice are both superb 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.

Venice is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. Many backpackers stay just out of town to save a bit of money, but, even though it's not cheap, this city is well-established on the backpacker trail.

Is Heraklion or Venice Better for Students?

Venice is a world-class destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Heraklion is not popular with students.

Venice is a very popular city for students. Because of its well-established reputation, this city attracts many international students for both semester and full length programs. There are many programs to choose between, and many students focus on the region's art, architecture, history, and language.

Heraklion is not popular with students.

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

Venice is a world-class destination for times when you don't have a car. Also, Heraklion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

With a huge network, the transit system in Venice can get you around easily. There is a comprehensive boat and ferry system that includes aporettos, alilagunas, private water taxis, gondolas, and traghettos.

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 Venice a more walkable city?

Venice 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 Venice. Because it is small, it's easy to walk to all of the major tourist attractions.

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 Venice Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Venice or Heraklion?

How long in Heraklion or Venice?

Both Heraklion and Venice have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Venice than in Heraklion. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Heraklion, and 2-7 days is enough time in Venice.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Venice 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 Venice.

One day in Heraklion or Venice?

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 quaint city of Venice. 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 Venice?

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 food around the historic destination of Venice. 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 Venice?

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.

You'll find food and shopping around the cultural city of Venice. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Heraklion or Venice?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the bustling 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.

Venice is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Venice, one week is sufficent for most. 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 Sightseeing Tours in Italy, and The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Heraklion and Venice, we can see that Venice is more expensive. And not only is Heraklion much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Heraklion would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Heraklion 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 Venice would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Venice than you might in Heraklion.

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

Which is Bigger, Heraklion or Venice?

Venice has a larger population, and is about 97% larger than the population of Heraklion. When comparing the sizes of Heraklion and Venice, 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 Venice?

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 Venice in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Heraklion and Venice. Many visitors come to Heraklion in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Venice for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Heraklion is around the same temperature as Venice. Typically, the summer temperatures in Heraklion in July average around 25°C (78°F), and Venice averages at about 23°C (73°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Venice this time of the year. In Heraklion, it's very sunny this time of the year. Heraklion usually receives more sunshine than Venice during summer. Heraklion gets 366 hours of sunny skies, while Venice receives 287 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Heraklion usually receives less rain than Venice. Heraklion gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Venice receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Heraklion or Venice in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Heraklion as well as Venice. 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 Venice because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Heraklion is generally a little warmer than Venice. Daily temperatures in Heraklion average around 20°C (68°F), and Venice fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

In the autumn, Heraklion often gets more sunshine than Venice. Heraklion gets 199 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Venice receives 134 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Venice. Heraklion gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Venice receives 67 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heraklion or Venice in the Winter?

Both Venice and Heraklion are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. 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 Venice this time of year.

It's quite cold in Venice in the winter. Heraklion is much warmer than Venice in the winter. The daily temperature in Heraklion averages around 12°C (54°F) in January, and Venice fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

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

In January, Heraklion usually receives more rain than Venice. Heraklion gets 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Venice receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Heraklion or Venice in the Spring?

Both Venice and Heraklion during the spring are popular places to visit. The beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Heraklion this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Venice for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Heraklion is a little warmer than Venice. Typically, the spring temperatures in Heraklion in April average around 16°C (61°F), and Venice averages at about 13°C (55°F).

It's quite sunny in Heraklion. In the spring, Heraklion often gets more sunshine than Venice. Heraklion gets 224 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Venice receives 154 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets less rain in April than Venice. Heraklion gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Venice receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Venice and Heraklion