A Travel Price Comparison for Greece Mykonos vs. Heraklion for Food, Nightlife, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Mykonos or Heraklion?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Mykonos and Heraklion. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Mykonos

Mykonos is a party-oriented, ritzy, and opulent Greek island. 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 food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Heraklion

Heraklion is a historic, vibrant, and accessible city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the food, beaches, and shopping.

Mykonos and Heraklion: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Mykonos or Heraklion?

You'll generally find more things to do in Mykonos than Heraklion. Mykonos is bigger than Heraklion, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Mykonos is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, historical sights, hiking, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Heraklion is more popular for its museums and big city activities. Mykonos is more touristy than Heraklion and is popular for its active party scene, luxury accommodation, and picturesque villages. Also, Mykonos is famous for the traditional windmills near Chora. Heraklion is well known for its archeological sights, local Cretan restaurants, and its vibrant nightlife scene.

How is Mykonos different from Heraklion?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Mykonos or Heraklion?

Heraklion is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Mykonos is not as famous, but is still a good Greek island to visit for its museums and history.

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 Mykonos. Visitors enjoy checking out the windmills and churches around the island. You can also hop over to Delos to see its archeological sites.

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

Mykonos 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 Mykonos have been singled out for their culinary prowess. Like most things on the island, food is expensive, but its also very good. Make sure you try the louza sausage, kopanisti cheese, and melopita pie.

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 Mykonos or Heraklion Better for Nightlife?

Mykonos is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Heraklion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

People head to Mykonos just to party. With many exclusive clubs and bars, this island is among the best for nightlife in Greece. Popular options include Tropicana Club, Scarpa, and Super Paradise Beach Club.

Heraklion is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

Is Mykonos or Heraklion Better for Resorts?

Mykonos is a world-class destination for its luxury resorts. However, Heraklion is not a resort destination.

Mykonos is a world class resort vacation destination. There are many world class luxury resorts on the island that offer a variety of amenities including pools, restaurants, and spas. Popular options include Myconian Avaton Resort, Myconian Imperial Resort and Villas, and Myconian Utopia Resort.

Heraklion is not a resort destination.

Is Mykonos or Heraklion Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Mykonos is a very popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Heraklion is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Mykonos is an extremely popular place to visit for scuba diving and snorkeling. There are many good diving and snorkeling spots around the island include shipwrecks and reefs with good visibility.

Heraklion is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Mykonos or Heraklion Better for Beaches?

Mykonos and Heraklion both offer very good beaches.

Many people visit Mykonos for it's beautiful beaches. This island has become popular for its sandy beaches, but these days they come with a high price. Many are lined with umbrellas and sunbeds that you can rent. They often have bars that bring high energy and loud music. The water is often calm enough to enjoy swimming or water sports. Most of the best beaches are on the southern side of the island, but there are less crowds on the northern side, although the weather may not be as good.

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.

Is Mykonos or Heraklion Better for its Old Town?

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

The historic old town of Mykonos is revered around the world. Chora, the old town and largest town on the island, is filled with windmills, cafes, churches, and charming streets.

Heraklion does not have a historic old town.

Is Mykonos or Heraklion Better for Hiking?

Mykonos is not a good area for its hiking trails. However, Heraklion is not a hiking destination.

A few hiking trails can be found near Mykonos. This island doesn't have any real hiking but you can walk to the beach along the road. The island is mostly flat.

Heraklion is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Mykonos or Heraklion?

Mykonos 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, Mykonos draws large crowds to its stores. This island has become the playground for celebrities and the wealthy, so there are plenty of shopping opportunities in town.

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 Mykonos or Heraklion Better for Families?

Heraklion is a good destination for its family-friendly activities. However, Mykonos is not a good Greek island for its kid-friendly activities.

Heraklion is a family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Mykonos is not always a place people visit with their families. This island is a bit of a party destination, so many people choose alternative islands when visiting Greece with their kids. If you do head to Mykonos, you'll find nice beaches and some good museums.

Is Mykonos or Heraklion Better for Couples?

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

Mykonos is a great Greek island for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Couples who enjoy beautiful coastal settings with a great party scene will love a vacation or honeymoon to this Greek island.

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 Mykonos or Heraklion Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Heraklion is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Mykonos is not a good Greek island for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Mykonos is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. The island appeals to the wealthy and glamourous, but for backpackers and budget travelers, there are a few budget-friendly hotels. It'll be a bit harder to find affordable food though, as restaurants can be quite expensive.

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

Both Mykonos and Heraklion offer notable public transit options.

Mykonos has a few public transit options. There is a bus system that connects the towns and beaches on the island. Both major bus stations are on the western side of the island.

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

Is Mykonos or Heraklion a more walkable city?

Mykonos 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 Mykonos. Walking is actually one of the only ways to get around town.

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 Mykonos Worth Visiting? and Is Heraklion Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Heraklion or Mykonos?

How long in Mykonos or Heraklion?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Mykonos and Heraklion. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Mykonos than in Heraklion. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Mykonos, and 1-3 days is enough time in Heraklion.

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

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

One day in Mykonos or Heraklion?

You'll find nightlife and food around the quaint Greek island of Mykonos. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

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.

A weekend in Mykonos or Heraklion?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the postcard perfect destination of Mykonos. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This Greek island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

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.

Five days in Mykonos or Heraklion?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the opulent Greek island of Mykonos. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this Greek island makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this Greek island has to offer.

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.

A week in Mykonos or Heraklion?

Mykonos is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Greece, The Best Bicycle Tours in Greece, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Greece, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in Greece.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Mykonos and Heraklion, we can see that Mykonos 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 Mykonos would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Mykonos 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 Mykonos Expensive? and Is Heraklion Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Mykonos or Heraklion?

Mykonos has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Heraklion. When comparing the sizes of Mykonos and Heraklion, 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.