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

Should you visit Heraklion or Vienna?

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 Vienna 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 museums, nightlife, and food.

Vienna

Vienna is a ritzy, classical, and traditional city. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the nightlife, live music, and food.

Heraklion and Vienna: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Heraklion or Vienna?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Heraklion than Vienna. While Vienna is larger than Heraklion, Heraklion has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Heraklion is better known for its nightlife, beaches, and big city activities, while Vienna is more popular for its music, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty. Vienna is more touristy than Heraklion and is known for its strong classical music roots including being home to both Mozart and Beethoven. 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.

How is Heraklion different from Vienna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Heraklion and Vienna.

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 Vienna. Filled with palaces, museums, and parks, there are many things to see around town. Make sure you check out the Schönbrunn Palace, Hofburg, and Kunsthistorisches Museum.

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

Foodies will find both Heraklion and Vienna 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 Vienna is an experience not to be missed. The city's cuisine has been influenced by many different flavors. Pastries are ubiquitous so make sure you try the apfelstrudel and kaiserschmarrn. Other common dishes include wiener schnitzel and goulash.

Is Heraklion or Vienna Better for Nightlife?

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

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.

Vienna has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The music and dance scene is diverse and fun. There are clubs that cater to different crowds and personalities.

Is Heraklion or Vienna Better for Music?

Vienna is a world-class destination for its live music scene. However, Heraklion is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Vienna. On the surface, the city seems locked in the past, with ballet dancing and classical concerts filling the evenings. But the city also has a famous jazz scene, as well as techno, hip-hop, and rock all having a strong presence.

Heraklion is not a live music destination.

Is Heraklion or Vienna Better for Beaches?

Heraklion is a very popular place for the beache. However, Vienna 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.

Vienna is not a beach destination.

Is Heraklion or Vienna Better for its Old Town?

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

The historic old town of Vienna is revered around the world. Innere Stadt, as it is known, is encircled by Ringstrasse and filled with many shops and cafes. Head to Kärntner Strasse and Graben for popular pedestrian streets.

Heraklion does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Heraklion or Vienna?

Vienna 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, Vienna draws large crowds to its stores. The city is filled with pedestrian streets that are lined with designer shops, jewelry stores, and art galleries.

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 Vienna Better for Families?

Both Heraklion and Vienna 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 Vienna. Families enjoy taking carriage rides or dressing up in costumes at Schönbrunn Palace. The city also has children's museums, parks, and playgrounds where you can let little legs run around.

Is Heraklion or Vienna Better for Couples?

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

Vienna is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. With it's Baroque architecture and classical concerts, this city is filled with romance. Explore the palaces, take a carriage ride, or enjoy a meal at a nice restaurant.

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 Vienna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Heraklion is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Vienna 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.

Vienna is a good city to visit for backpackers. The city flies under the radar for many backpackers, but those who visit will be rewarded with beautiful buildings, charming cafes, and fun hostels.

Is Heraklion or Vienna Better for Students?

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

Vienna is a very popular city for students. The city is a popular destination for international students who are interested in art, architecture, and music.

Heraklion is not popular with students.

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

Vienna 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 Vienna can get you around easily. The system includes buses, trains, trams and underground 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 Vienna a more walkable city?

Vienna 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 Vienna. The city center is particularly walkable with pedestrian areas and low traffic zones.

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 Vienna Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Vienna or Heraklion?

How long in Heraklion or Vienna?

In either Heraklion or Vienna, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Vienna than Heraklion because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Heraklion, and 2-5 days is enough time in Vienna.

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

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

One day in Heraklion or Vienna?

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 nightlife and live music around the city of Vienna. 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 Vienna?

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 live music and food around the traditional destination of Vienna. 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 Vienna?

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 ritzy city of Vienna. 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 Vienna?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the vibrant 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.

Vienna 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 2-Week Tours in Austria, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Austria.

When comparing the travel costs between Heraklion and Vienna, 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 Vienna Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Heraklion or Vienna?

Vienna has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Heraklion. When comparing the sizes of Heraklion and Vienna, 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 Vienna?

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 Vienna in the Summer?

Both Vienna and Heraklion are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Heraklion for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Vienna because of the music scene and the family-friendly experiences.

Heraklion is a little warmer than Vienna in the summer. The daily temperature in Heraklion averages around 25°C (78°F) in July, and Vienna fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

It's quite sunny in Vienna. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Heraklion. Heraklion usually receives more sunshine than Vienna during summer. Heraklion gets 366 hours of sunny skies, while Vienna receives 255 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Heraklion usually receives less rain than Vienna. Heraklion gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Vienna receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Heraklion or Vienna in the Autumn?

Both Vienna and Heraklion during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Heraklion because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Vienna this time of year.

In the autumn, Heraklion is much warmer than Vienna. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Heraklion in October average around 20°C (68°F), and Vienna averages at about 12°C (54°F).

In the autumn, Heraklion often gets more sunshine than Vienna. Heraklion gets 199 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Vienna receives 140 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets more rain in October than Vienna. Heraklion gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Vienna receives 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heraklion or Vienna in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Heraklion and Vienna. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Heraklion this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Vienna for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Vienna. In January, Heraklion is generally much warmer than Vienna. Daily temperatures in Heraklion average around 12°C (54°F), and Vienna fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

Heraklion usually receives more sunshine than Vienna during winter. Heraklion gets 121 hours of sunny skies, while Vienna receives 65 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Heraklion usually receives more rain than Vienna. Heraklion gets 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Vienna receives 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Heraklion or Vienna in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Heraklion as well as Vienna. Many travelers come to Heraklion for the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Vienna in the spring for the natural beauty.

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

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Vienna. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Heraklion this time of the year. In the spring, Heraklion often gets more sunshine than Vienna. Heraklion gets 224 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Vienna receives 202 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets less rain in April than Vienna. Heraklion gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Vienna receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Vienna and Heraklion