A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Imperia vs. Crete for Food, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Imperia or Crete?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Imperia or Crete? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Imperia

Imperia is a undiscovered, authentic, and charming town. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Crete

Crete is a stunning, breathtaking, and world-renowned island. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Imperia and Crete: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Imperia or Crete?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Crete. Although Imperia and Crete are popular destinations, Crete has more sights and attractions for tourists. Crete is more touristy than Imperia and is known for its breathtaking beaches, wild nightlife, and impressive archeological ruins. It is also well known for the Palace of Knossos. Imperia is famous for its access to the Ligurian coastline.

How is Imperia different from Crete?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Crete and Imperia. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Imperia or Crete?

Imperia
Crete

Crete is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

Crete offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The island is filled with archeological sites including the famous Palace of Knossos. While most people come to Crete for the natural beauty, in the cities you'll find some great museums and landmarks.

Imperia is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several interesting buildings of importance around town.


Is the Food Better in Imperia or Crete? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Imperia
Crete

Crete is a must-visit destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

For foodies, Crete is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Local cuisine is influenced by the island's fertile environment and excellent agriculture. You'll find olive oil in most dishes and seafood is a major staple. You'll also find a lot of stews and recipes that incorporate local ingredients.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Imperia. Food ranges from typical Italian dishes to local recipes that use local ingredients. Unique ingredients in the area include trumpet zucchini, flat breads, and anchovies.

Is Imperia or Crete Better for Nightlife?

Imperia
Crete

Crete is notable for its evening party scene. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for nightlife.

Crete has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The island has excellent nightlife with clubs and bars found in Chania, Malia and Stalis to Elounda. The area is popular with British tourists and you'll find many bars open until 2 or 3 in the morning.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Imperia. There are some bars and lively restaurants around town where you can spend an enjoyable evening.

Is Imperia or Crete Better for Resorts?

Imperia
Crete

Crete is a must-visit destination for its resorts. However, Imperia is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Crete is a great choice. The island has world class resorts that include pools and buffet meals. There are many beachfront resorts that range in style from romantic to family-friendly.

Imperia is not a resort destination.


Is Imperia or Crete Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Imperia
Crete

Crete is notable for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Imperia is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting Crete. The island is surrounded by clear waters that make for great snorkeling and diving. There's a number of beautiful fish and other sea life that you can see. Be on the lookout for crabs, sea stars, sponges, and even octopi.

Imperia is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Imperia or Crete Better for Beaches?

Imperia
Crete

Crete is a must-visit destination for the beach. However, Imperia is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Crete. There are some of the best beaches in the world on Crete. The areas around Chania have some of the island's best beaches, with one of the most beautiful being Balos. On the northern side of the island, be on the lookout for strong winds, particularly in August, which can make for larger waves. The island is large, so you'll find everything from secluded and quiet beaches to more active and lively places.

Imperia is not a beach destination.

Is Imperia or Crete Better for Hiking?

Imperia
Crete

Crete is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Imperia is not a hiking destination.

Crete is a popular spot for hiking. The island is filled with beautiful hikes that run along the shoreline or head inland through the island's beautiful landscapes. There are hikes for every ability level that offer spectacular views and an incredible experience.

Imperia is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Imperia or Crete?

Imperia
Crete

Both Imperia and Crete are nice shopping destinations.

Many visitors go to Imperia to go shopping. There are some shopping streets in town that have a mix of local brands and standard clothing shops.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Crete. The island has many markets that sell local foods and handicrafts. There are also shops and boutiques where you can buy anything from souvenirs to homemade artwork.

Is Imperia or Crete Better for Families?

Imperia
Crete

Crete is a must-visit destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Crete is a very family-friendly destination. The island is large and filled with countless family-friendly activities. You can spend several days at the beach, explore Lake Kournas, visit a water park, or even take a pirate themed boat cruise. There's also the amusement park, ​​Labyrinth Park, aquariums and more.

Imperia is a family-friendly town. There's some nice walking trails in the countryside that the kids will enjoy.

Is Imperia or Crete Better for Couples?

Imperia
Crete

Crete is a must-visit destination for couples. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for romance.

Crete makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. It's stunning beaches, beautiful landscapes, world renowned restaurants, and amazing resorts make this a top honeymoon spot for international travelers and romance seekers.

Imperia is a nice destination for couples. It's a beautiful town with a nice atmosphere that offers a nice break from the tourist crowds.


Is Imperia or Crete Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Imperia
Crete

Crete is notable for backpackers. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Crete is a very popular island for backpackers and budget travelers. It's a large island with a great social scene and no shortage of hostels for backpackers to choose from.

Imperia is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Accommodation tends to be affordable and there's an off-the-beaten-path vibe that some backpackers will appreciate.

Is Imperia or Crete Better for Students?

Imperia
Crete

Crete is notable for students. However, Imperia is not popular with students.

Crete is a very popular island for students and younger travelers. It's affordability and great coastal activities is a big draw for students in the area.

Imperia is not popular with students.

Is Imperia or Crete Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Imperia
Crete

Both Imperia and Crete offer nice public transit options.

Imperia has a few public transit options. There are buses that connect the city to different areas.

Crete has some public transit options. There's a decent bus system that travels around the island and offers access to many areas.


Is Imperia or Crete a more walkable city?

Imperia
Crete

Imperia is a popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Crete is not particularly known for its walkability.

Imperia is a somewhat walkable town. Parts of the town are convenient to walk around.

Crete is generally not a very walkable town. The island is large and requires a vehicle to get around, but there are short strolls that let you enjoy the stunning landscapes.

For even more information, also check out Is Imperia Worth Visiting? and Is Crete Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Crete or Imperia?

How long in Imperia or Crete?

Both Imperia and Crete have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Crete than in Imperia. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Imperia, and 5-7 days is enough time in Crete.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Crete than Imperia 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 Crete.


  • How many days in Imperia or Crete? Ideal Length of Stay
    Imperia 1-2 
    Crete 5-7

One day in Imperia or Crete?

In Imperia, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this authentic destination offers. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

In Crete, you'll find shopping and museums. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This island offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Imperia or Crete?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Imperia. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

In Crete, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.


Five days in Imperia or Crete?

Imperia is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Imperia. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Crete is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Crete has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Imperia or Crete?

You'll find food and shopping around the undiscovered destination of Imperia. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Crete. In Crete, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Walking Tours in Italy, The Best Luxury Tours to Italy, The Best Contiki Tours to Greece, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Greece.


Which place is cheaper, Crete or Imperia?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Imperia is €108, while the average daily cost in Crete is €102. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Imperia and Crete in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Imperia 51
    Crete 48
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Imperia 102
    Crete 96
Compare Hotels in Imperia and Crete

Looking for a hotel in Imperia or Crete? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Imperia


Hotels in Crete


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Imperia Hotel Prices and Crete Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Imperia 36
    Crete 23

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Crete

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Crete:

  • One-Way Shared Transfer From or To Heraklion Air - Hersonissos: $16
  • Rethymno: Shared Transfer to/from Chania Airport: $17
  • Heraklion Airport: Shared Transfer To/From Rethymno: $19
  • One Way Shared Transfer From/To Heraklion Airport - Bali: $21
  • Private Transfer from Chania Hotels to Chania Souda Cruise Port: $23
  • Shared Transfer to/from Airport-Georgioupolis/Kavros: $23
  • Private Transfer to/from Ports & Airports by Mercedes: $27
  • Acqua Plus Water Park Admission with Optional Transfer: $31
  • Acqua Plus Water Park Admission with Optional Transfer: $32
  • Acqua Plus Water Park Entrance Ticket with Transfer: $32
  • Private Transfer in Crete: $33
  • One way shared transfer from or to Chania Airport To Bali : $34

Is it cheaper to fly into Imperia or Crete?

Prices for flights to both Crete and Imperia change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Imperia 35
    Crete 34

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Crete

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Crete.

  • Cretan Night with Dinner & Live Show: $49
  • Olive Oil Factory Tour, Dinner & Traditional Dancing: $59
  • Chania: Cretan Folklore Dance Show with Dinner and Pickup: $75
  • Cook with Locals | Cretan cooking Class at Archanes (transfer - lunch included): $86
  • The Delicious Chania PRIVATE Street Food Tour : $87
  • Sightseeing Day Trip with Cooking Lesson and Lunch: $95
  • Full-Day Jeep Safari Tour with Cooking Lesson: $97
  • Heraklion: Cretan Cooking Lesson with Lunch in Arolithos: $117
  • Chania: Authentic Cooking Class in the White Mountains: $117
  • E-bike Food Tour Tasting in Heraklion : $125
  • Sunset Craft Beer & Food Tour - Chania: $130
  • Private Interactive Cooking Class with Aggeliki : $158

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Imperia 13
    Crete 26

Tours and Activities in Imperia

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Imperia are as follows:

  • Imperia - Old Town Private Historic Walking Tour: $426

Tours and Activities in Crete

Here are a few actual costs in Crete for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Chania: Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and City Highlights Tour: $6.93
  • Heraklion Archaeological Museum Ticket & Audio Guide: $8.52
  • CRETAquarium Entrance Ticket in Crete: $8.71
  • The Terra Creta Olive Oil Experience Tour: $11
  • Chania: Archaeological Museum Skip-The-Line Ticket and audio tour on your phone: $11
  • Heraklion: Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Bus Tour: $13
  • Chania: Sunset Boat Cruise with Guide: $15
  • Entry E-Ticket to Heraklion Archaeological Museum with Audio: $15
  • Heraklion: Hop-on Hop-off Open Top Bus Sightseeing Tour: $16
  • Gramvousa Island and Balos Lagoon Day Tour from Rethimno: $16
  • Chersonissos: Mini-Train City Highlights Tour: $17
  • Heraklion City Tour - Aquarium: $17

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Imperia 7.50
    Crete 20

Sample the Local Flavors in Crete

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Crete:

  • Chania: Off-Road Tour at Sunset with Wine Tasting: $95
  • Ecobike Wine Tasting Tour in Heraklion: $114
  • Heraklion: Half Day Small Group Wine Tour with wine Tastings: $125
  • Wine Tasting on Luxury Yacht Sunset Evening in Marina: $173
  • The Gourmet Wine Tour of Heraklion area: $180
  • Knossos, Olive Mill, Winery - Distillery with Tastings & Lunch : $196
  • Heraklion SUV Private Guided Wine Tour with Lunch : $215
  • Private-Knossos Palace and Wine tasting in Heraklion countryside: $218
  • From Elounda Private Heraklion Wine Tour with Tastings and Lunch: $228
  • Heraklion: Private Knossos & Wine Tasting Tour with Lunch: $245
  • Ecobike Tour • All in One • Historical Tour-Food Tasting-Wine Tasting: $256


When comparing the travel costs between Imperia and Crete, we can see that Imperia 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 Imperia Expensive? and Is Crete Expensive?.


Which has a larger population, Imperia or Crete?

Crete has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Imperia. When comparing the sizes of Imperia and Crete, 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.