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

Should you visit Tallinn or Crete?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Tallinn or Crete, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Tallinn

Tallinn is a quaint, whimsical, and historical city. The famous beauty of Tallinn is one of the main draws. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Tallinn travel costs.

Crete

Crete is a breathtaking, world-renowned, and scenic island. The beauty of Crete is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the beaches, hiking, and shopping. See Crete travel costs.

Tallinn and Crete: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Tallinn or Crete?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Crete than Tallinn, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Crete is more popular for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking, while Tallinn is known for its historical sights, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Tallinn is popular for its well preserved old town and its active nightlife scene. Crete is popular for its breathtaking beaches, wild nightlife, and impressive archeological ruins. It is also home to the Palace of Knossos.

How is Tallinn different from Crete?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Tallinn and Crete.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Tallinn can be an interesting and educational experience. There are beautiful historic churches, particularly in the city's old town. A highlight is the stunning Alexander Nevski Cathedral. You'll also find some unique museums around town as well as Toompea Castle.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Crete. 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.

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

Crete is a must-visit destination for its restaurants. Also, Tallinn is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Crete is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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 many up and coming restaurants in the Tallinn area. Food is affordable and hearty. Many dishes incorporate rye bread, pork, smoked fish, potatoes, or dairy products. You'll also find a lot of variation in dishes between seasons.

Is Tallinn or Crete Better for Nightlife?

The very good nightlife scene is relatively similar in Tallinn and Crete.

Tallinn has a large number of nightlife venues. As it's grown in popularity with tourists, the city has put itself on the map as a top party destination in Eastern Europe. There's an active bar and club scene, but there are also art venues and other creative activities for everyone.

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

Is Tallinn or Crete Better for Resorts?

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

Crete offers an unforgettable resort vacation. 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.

Tallinn is not a resort destination.

Is Tallinn or Crete Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

Many visitors go to Crete to enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling. 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.

Tallinn is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Tallinn or Crete Better for Beaches?

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

The beaches in Crete are among the best in the world. 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.

Tallinn is not a beach destination.

Is Tallinn or Crete Better for its Old Town?

Tallinn is an amazing city to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Crete does not have a historic old town.

Tallinn offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. The city's medieval old town is at the heart of it's tourist attractions. The Gothic architecture, local restaurants, and cobblestone streets give the city a fairytale charm.

Crete does not have a historic old town.

Is Tallinn or Crete Better for Hiking?

Crete is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Tallinn is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Crete. 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.

Tallinn is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Tallinn or Crete?

Tallinn is well known for its shopping areas. Also, Crete is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Tallinn. There's a mix of quirky shops and recognizable brands around town. Old town is a popular shopping area, as is nearby Kalamaja. Visitors enjoy picking up marzipan, local crafts, and unique art.

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 Tallinn or Crete More Beautiful?

Tallinn is an amazing city to visit for its scenery and beauty. Also, Crete is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

The famous beauty of Tallinn is one of the main draws. The beautiful architecture and impressive old town makes this a top tourist destination in Eastern Europe.

Crete is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The island has some of the world's most beautiful beaches. The blue waters and striking landscapes make this a world class destination.

Is Tallinn or Crete Better for Families?

Crete is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Tallinn is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Crete is an amazing family-friendly island to visit. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Tallinn. Your kids will feel like they stepped into a fairytale in this beautiful city. It has countless museums including an open air museum and a zoo. There's also nearby Pirita Beach, where you and your kids can enjoy ice cream in a seaside setting.

Is Tallinn or Crete Better for Couples?

Crete is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. Also, Tallinn is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Crete has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. It's stunning beaches, beautiful landscapes, world renowned restaurants, and amazing resorts make this a top honeymoon spot for international travelers and romance seekers.

Couples visit Tallinn frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Filled with gardens, romantic walks, and impressive views, this city makes for a great couple's getaway. Base yourself in the city's beautiful old town and dine in one of the many local restaurants. There are also nice hotels around town that are great for couples.

Is Tallinn or Crete Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Tallinn is an amazing city to visit for backpackers. Also, Crete is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Tallinn is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. The city is both affordable and unique, which is perfect for travelers on a budget. There are plenty of hostels around town as well as casual places to grab a cheap bite to eat.

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

Is Tallinn or Crete Better for Students?

Crete is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. Also, Tallinn is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Crete is a great island to visit as a student. It's affordability and great coastal activities is a big draw for students in the area.

Tallinn is popular with students. International students appreciate the vibrant atmosphere and the affordable options around town.

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

Tallinn is well known for its public transit. Also, Crete is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Tallinn offers a very effecient public transportation network. There are buses trolleys and trams around town.

While Crete offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's a decent bus system that travels around the island and offers access to many areas.

Is Tallinn or Crete a more walkable city?

Tallinn is an amazing city to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Crete is not particularly known for its walkability.

Getting around Tallinn on foot is easy. The city is compact and easily explored on foot, particularly in the most touristy areas.

Crete is generally not a very walkable city. 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 Tallinn Worth Visiting? and Is Crete Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Crete or Tallinn?

How long in Tallinn or Crete?

Both Tallinn 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 Tallinn. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Tallinn, and 5-7 days is enough time in Crete.

Families should spend more time in Crete than Tallinn. 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 Tallinn. 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 Tallinn than Crete 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 Tallinn.

One day in Tallinn or Crete?

In Tallinn, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this historical destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

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 Tallinn or Crete?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Tallinn. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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 Tallinn or Crete?

Tallinn is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the quaint destination of Tallinn. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 Tallinn or Crete?

You'll find food and shopping around the whimsical destination of Tallinn. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 2-Week Tours from Tallinn, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Estonia, The Best Contiki Tours to Greece, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Greece.

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

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

Which has a larger population, Tallinn or Crete?

Crete has a larger population, and is about 53% larger than the population of Tallinn. When comparing the sizes of Tallinn 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.