A Travel Price Comparison for Greece Volos vs. Crete for Food, Beaches, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Volos or Crete?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Volos and Crete can help you decide which place is right for you.

Volos

Volos is a youthful, authentic, and vibrant city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping.

Crete

Crete is a breathtaking, world-renowned, and scenic island. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Volos and Crete: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • 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
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Volos or Crete?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Crete. Although Volos and Crete are roughly the same size, Crete has more sights and attractions for tourists. Crete is more popular for its museums, food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Volos is known for its big city activities. Crete is more touristy than Volos and is popular for its breathtaking beaches, wild nightlife, and impressive archeological ruins. It is also home to the Palace of Knossos. Volos is popular for its vibrant seaside setting and its access to nearby natural beauty.

How is Volos different from Crete?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Volos
Crete

Crete is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Volos is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Crete specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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.

Volos offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are a couple of museums in town including the Archaeological Museum of Volos.


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

Volos
Crete

Crete is a world-class destination for its restaurants. Also, Volos is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Crete has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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.

Dining out in Volos is an experience not to be missed. Greece cuisine is very regional specific, and this area has its own dishes that are very different from elsewhere in the country. Deep fried kolitsianoi (sea anemone), boubari (local sausage), and spetzofai (sausage, tomato, and peppers) are just some of the unique dishes in the area.

Is Volos or Crete Better for Nightlife?

Volos
Crete

The great nightlife scene is relatively similar in Volos and Crete.

Volos has a large number of nightlife venues. The universities around town keep the nightlife scene active and fun. There are a number of bars and clubs that are fun throughout the year.

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 Volos or Crete Better for Resorts?

Volos
Crete

Crete is a world-class destination for its luxury resorts. However, Volos is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Crete is a perfect 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.

Volos is not a resort destination.


Is Volos or Crete Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Volos
Crete

Crete is a very popular place for its diving and snorkeling. Also, Volos is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for snorkeling and scuba diving.

There is a nice variety of marine life that makes scuba diving and snorkeling great in 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.

Volos has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. There are some snorkeling and dive shops in town that offer day trips.

Is Volos or Crete Better for Beaches?

Volos
Crete

Crete is a world-class destination for the beache. Also, Volos is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for the beach.

With world-famous beaches, Crete is a very popular vacation destination. 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.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Volos. If you're willing to travel out of town, this region has some of the best beaches in Greece. The summers are cooler than other parts of the country and the winters are milder, so this is both a beautiful and a comfortable place to explore.

Is Volos or Crete Better for Hiking?

Volos
Crete

Crete is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Volos 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.

Volos is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Volos or Crete?

Volos
Crete

Shoppers can find a variety of good stores in both Volos and Crete.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Volos. There are shopping malls and shopping centers around town that have a variety of retail options including clothing, jewelry, and home goods.

Many visitors go to Crete to go shopping. 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 Volos or Crete Better for Families?

Volos
Crete

Crete is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Volos is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Crete is one of the most popular family destinations. 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 Volos. If your kids are adventurous, they'll enjoy horseback riding or exploring the area's beaches. There's also the Archaeological Museum of Volos and Agios Konstantinos Park.

Is Volos or Crete Better for Couples?

Volos
Crete

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

For those traveling as a couple, Crete has plenty to offer. It's stunning beaches, beautiful landscapes, world renowned restaurants, and amazing resorts make this a top honeymoon spot for international travelers and romance seekers.

Volos is a good city for couples to visit. There are gardens and outdoor activities that couples can enjoy. There are also museums and beaches.


Is Volos or Crete Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Volos
Crete

Crete is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Volos is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Crete. It's a large island with a great social scene and no shortage of hostels for backpackers to choose from.

Volos is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not a popular backpacker destination and you won't find that many hostels in the area.

Is Volos or Crete Better for Students?

Volos
Crete

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

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

Volos is popular with students. You'll find several universities in town. The port city also offers access to different parts of the country.

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

Volos
Crete

Visitors will find good public transit in both Volos and Crete.

Volos has some public transit options. There is a bus system that travels around town.

You'll find some public transit in Crete, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There's a decent bus system that travels around the island and offers access to many areas.


Is Volos or Crete a more walkable city?

Volos
Crete

Volos is well known for its ease of walking around. However, Crete is not particularly known for its walkability.

Volos is a very walkable destination. The city is flat and there's a historic district that you can explore on foot.

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 Volos Worth Visiting? and Is Crete Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Crete or Volos?

How long in Volos or Crete?

Both Volos 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 Volos. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Volos, and 5-7 days is enough time in Crete.

Families should spend more time in Crete than Volos. 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 Volos. 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 Volos 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 Volos or Crete? Ideal Length of Stay
    Volos 1-2 
    Crete 5-7

One day in Volos or Crete?

In Volos, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping that this vibrant destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

In Crete, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this world-renowned destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This island 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.

A weekend in Volos or Crete?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Volos. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Crete. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


Five days in Volos or Crete?

Volos is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Volos. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Crete is a fun place to experience. In Crete, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this destination offers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Volos or Crete?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the vibrant destination of Volos. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

In Crete, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this world-renowned destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Athens, The Best 10-Day Tours from Athens, The Best 2-Week Tours from Athens, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Greece.


Which place is cheaper, Crete or Volos?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Volos is €95, 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 Volos and Crete in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Volos 43
    Crete 48
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Volos 86
    Crete 96
Compare Hotels in Volos and Crete

Looking for a hotel in Volos 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 Volos


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: Volos Hotel Prices and Crete Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Volos 37
    Crete 23

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Volos

Also for Volos, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • From Volos to Athens Airport / Athens / Piraeus Private Transfer: $283
  • Volos to Athens Easy & Economy Transfer: $532
  • Volos to Athens, Athens Airport and Piraeus Port Private Transfer: $260

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Crete

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Crete:

  • Wine Tasting Experience @ Lyrarakis Winery (Transfer Included) : $109
  • Wine Tasting Experience @ Lyrarakis Winery (Transfer Included): $109
  • VIP Private Transfer: Heraklion - Analipsi Hotels & Villas: $62
  • Transfer from Chania airport to Stalos up to 3 or vise versa: $68
  • Transfer from Chania airport to Paleochora up to 3 or vise versa: $202
  • Transfer from Chania airport to Elafonisi up to 3 or vise versa: $226
  • Transfer Services From Heraklion To Rethymno Hotels: $98
  • Transfer Service in Crete - Starts from Heraklion Prefecture: $33
  • Transfer Heraklion Airport to RETHIMNO CITY area up to 7 : $159
  • Transfer Heraklion Airport to Panormos area up to 7 customers: $133
  • Transfer Heraklion Airport to MATALA area up to 7 customers: $151
  • Transfer Heraklion Airport to MALIA area up to 7 customers: $81

Is it cheaper to fly into Volos or Crete?

Prices for flights to both Crete and Volos 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
    Volos 30
    Crete 34

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Volos

For Volos, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Cooking Session "Pelion Flavours": $72
  • Cook like a local Greek Cooking lesson in Mt Pelion Greece: $110

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Crete

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

  • Troy Dinner-Show: $33
  • Olive Oil Factory Tour, Dinner & Traditional Dancing: $60
  • Chania: Cretan Folklore Dance Show with Dinner and Pickup: $76
  • Cook with Locals | Cretan cooking Class at Archanes (transfer - lunch included): $87
  • The Delicious Chania PRIVATE Street Food Tour : $88
  • Sightseeing Day Trip with Cooking Lesson and Lunch: $97
  • Full-Day Jeep Safari Tour with Cooking Lesson: $98
  • Chania Cooking Class in Crete with rustic, delicious and homely Cretan food!: $101
  • Authentic and Traditional Cooking Class in Chania Crete: $101
  • E-bike Food Tour Tasting in Heraklion : $114
  • Heraklion: Cretan Cooking Lesson with Lunch in Arolithos: $119
  • Chania: Authentic Cooking Class in the White Mountains: $119

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Volos 17
    Crete 26

Tours and Activities in Volos

For Volos, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Kayaking Adventure around Pelion Coastline : $33
  • East Pelion - Sea Kayak Tour "Short Paddle": $39
  • Half-Day Sea Kayak Tour "The Secret Cave": $50
  • Volos Pelion Full Day Tour : $188
  • HIKING PELION - Private Guided Full or Half Day Tour: $199
  • BIKING PELION Private Guided Full or Half Day Tour: $213
  • From Hidden Sights of Meteora Private Tour: $217
  • Pagasetic Gulf Full-Day Sailboat Experience: $747

Tours and Activities in Crete

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

  • 4x4 Safari tour Southern Crete Tripitis Gorge: $109
  • Adventure Safari Tour Secrets of the southern Crete : $102
  • Seitan Limania - Marathi tour with SUP & lunch: $166
  • 4-Hour Giouchtas Trekking Hiking Experience from Heraklion: $91
  • 4x4 self drive adventure: $88
  • Agia Pelagia: Quad Safari-Family Tour: $87
  • Agios Nikolaos: Private Sailing Cruise in Mirabello Bay: $2,172
  • All Inclusive Full-day Private Tour of Crete Villages from Chania: $282
  • An Unexpected Journey: Chania Trikke City Tour: $30
  • Archaeological Museum & Knossos Palace Guided Tour Half Day: $111
  • Archaeological Museum Guided Tour Half Day: $63
  • Archaeological Museum of Heraklion Tour: $87

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Volos 7.86
    Crete 20

Sample the Local Flavors in Crete

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

  • Cheese and Wine Tasting Tour From Chania: $42
  • Chania: Off-Road Tour at Sunset with Wine Tasting: $97
  • Jeep Safari Wine Tour and South sea swimming: $98
  • Ecobike Wine Tasting Tour in Heraklion: $104
  • Wine Tasting-Olive Oil Factory-Traditional Villages- Small Group : $133
  • The Gourmet Wine Tour of Heraklion area: $166
  • Knossos, Olive Mill, Winery - Distillery with Tastings & Lunch : $179
  • Private-Knossos Palace and Wine tasting in Heraklion countryside: $221
  • From Elounda Private Heraklion Wine Tour with Tastings and Lunch: $232
  • Ecobike Tour • All in One • Historical Tour-Food Tasting-Wine Tasting: $234
  • Heraklion SUV Private Guided Wine Tour with Lunch : $243
  • Heraklion: Private Knossos & Wine Tasting Tour with Lunch: $250


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


Which has a larger population, Volos or Crete?

Crete has a larger population, and is about 7% larger than the population of Volos. When comparing the sizes of Volos 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.