A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Heraklion vs. Ventimiglia for Food, Beaches, Couples, and Families

Should you visit Heraklion or Ventimiglia?

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 Ventimiglia 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 accessible, bustling, and historic city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include beaches, shopping, and museums.

Ventimiglia

Ventimiglia is a classic, authentic, and elegant seaside town. You'll find plenty of local activities in this small town. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the beaches, shopping, and food.

Heraklion and Ventimiglia: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Heraklion or Ventimiglia?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Heraklion. Although Heraklion and Ventimiglia are both popular with visitors, Heraklion has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Heraklion is more popular for its museums, nightlife, beaches, and big city activities, while Ventimiglia is known for its historical sights, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Heraklion is more touristy than Ventimiglia and is popular for its archeological sights, local Cretan restaurants, and its vibrant nightlife scene. It is also home to The Palace of Knossos. Ventimiglia is popular for its weekly market, colorful old town, and nice beaches.

How is Heraklion different from Ventimiglia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Heraklion is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Ventimiglia does not have museums and landmarks.

Heraklion offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

Ventimiglia does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Foodies will find both Heraklion and Ventimiglia both to be excellent 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 Ventimiglia is an experience not to be missed. Italian classics are abundant including tiramisus, Italian pizzas, risotto alla milanese, and traditional lasagna. If you're in town on a Friday you should visit the local market which has stalls selling local produce and foods.

Is Heraklion or Ventimiglia Better for Nightlife?

Heraklion is a great destination for its evening party scene. However, Ventimiglia is a seaside town with minimal options for nightlife.

The people in Heraklion know how to have a good time. 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.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Ventimiglia Most people don't head to town for the nightlife, but there are some bars where you can grab a drink or sip a glass of wine.

Is Heraklion or Ventimiglia Better for Beaches?

Heraklion is a great destination for the beach. Also, Ventimiglia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its beaches.

Heraklion is considered a top beach destination. 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.

Many people head to Ventimiglia to enjoy the beach. The lungomare is a promenade along the sea that allows visitors to wander and take in waterfront views. Most of the beaches are free to access and have been influenced by the coastal erosion efforts which have led to a series of scalloped bays. If you reach the end of the lungomare you'll find a natural area where the Roya and Nervia rivers meet the ocean. This is also a popular spot for breeding birds.

Is Heraklion or Ventimiglia Better for its Old Town?

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

Ventimiglia is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The old town is filled with cobblestone streets and charming pastel buildings. There are also a number of historic buildings and monuments that give the town a special atmosphere.

Heraklion does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Heraklion or Ventimiglia?

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

Ventimiglia is well-known for its shopping. Most people head in town on Friday for the market, which has stalls selling crafts and local products.

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 Ventimiglia Better for Families?

Both Heraklion and Ventimiglia 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 Ventimiglia. The charming town is a great place for kids to explore. There is a botanical garden and hiking trails that the whole family can enjoy as well as quiet beaches where they can play. The Italian food is also perfect for young palates.

Is Heraklion or Ventimiglia Better for Couples?

Both Heraklion and Ventimiglia are excellent 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 Ventimiglia frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. This quintessential Italian town offers a romantic setting with cobblestone streets and pastel buildings. There are many culinary delights and romantic settings that are perfect for couples. The hiking trails and botanical gardens are also fun places to explore.

Is Heraklion or Ventimiglia Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Heraklion is a great destination for backpackers. However, Ventimiglia is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Heraklion is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. The city is filled with budget-friendly hostels that often have a social atmosphere and a fun vibe.

Ventimiglia is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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

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

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

You'll find some public transit in Ventimiglia, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are trains and buses to town. Once you're in town it's easy to explore on foot.

Is Heraklion or Ventimiglia a more walkable city?

Heraklion and Ventimiglia are excellent 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.

Ventimiglia is a very walkable destination. It's small size and charming atmosphere make it a great town to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Ventimiglia or Heraklion?

How long in Heraklion or Ventimiglia?

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

Families should spend more time in Heraklion than Ventimiglia. 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 Ventimiglia. 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 Ventimiglia 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 Ventimiglia?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the accessible city of Heraklion. It's also a great beach destination, too. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Even though Ventimiglia is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Ventimiglia has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Heraklion or Ventimiglia?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the accessible destination of Heraklion. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Ventimiglia is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and food. 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 seaside town has to offer. This seaside town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Heraklion or Ventimiglia?

The bustling city of Heraklion offers shopping and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Ventimiglia is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. 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 Ventimiglia?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Heraklion. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people come for the beaches. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Ventimiglia 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 Food and Culinary Tours in Italy, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Heraklion or Ventimiglia?

Heraklion has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Ventimiglia. When comparing the sizes of Heraklion and Ventimiglia, 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 Ventimiglia?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Heraklion or Ventimiglia in the Summer?

Both Ventimiglia and Heraklion during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Heraklion for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Ventimiglia in the summer for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Heraklion is a little warmer than Ventimiglia. Typically, the summer temperatures in Heraklion in July average around 25°C (78°F), and Ventimiglia averages at about 23°C (73°F).

In Ventimiglia, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Heraklion. In the summer, Heraklion often gets more sunshine than Ventimiglia. Heraklion gets 366 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ventimiglia receives 295 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets less rain in July than Ventimiglia. Heraklion gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Ventimiglia receives 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heraklion or Ventimiglia in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Heraklion and Ventimiglia. Many visitors come to Heraklion in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Furthermore, most visitors come to Ventimiglia for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Heraklion is generally a little warmer than Ventimiglia. Daily temperatures in Heraklion average around 20°C (68°F), and Ventimiglia fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

Heraklion usually receives more sunshine than Ventimiglia during autumn. Heraklion gets 199 hours of sunny skies, while Ventimiglia receives 183 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Ventimiglia receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Heraklion usually receives less rain than Ventimiglia. Heraklion gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Ventimiglia receives 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Heraklion or Ventimiglia in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Heraklion as well as Ventimiglia. Most visitors come to Heraklion for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Ventimiglia because of the shopping scene and the cuisine.

Heraklion is a little warmer than Ventimiglia in the winter. The daily temperature in Heraklion averages around 12°C (54°F) in January, and Ventimiglia fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

In the winter, Heraklion often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Ventimiglia. Heraklion gets 121 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ventimiglia receives 127 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets more rain in January than Ventimiglia. Heraklion gets 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Ventimiglia receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heraklion or Ventimiglia in the Spring?

Both Ventimiglia and Heraklion are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Heraklion because of the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Ventimiglia this time of year.

In the spring, Heraklion is a little warmer than Ventimiglia. Typically, the spring temperatures in Heraklion in April average around 16°C (61°F), and Ventimiglia averages at about 13°C (56°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Heraklion. Heraklion usually receives more sunshine than Ventimiglia during spring. Heraklion gets 224 hours of sunny skies, while Ventimiglia receives 198 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Heraklion usually receives less rain than Ventimiglia. Heraklion gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Ventimiglia receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Ventimiglia and Heraklion