A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Heraklion vs. Malaga for Nightlife, Backpackers, Food, and Beaches

Should you visit Heraklion or Malaga?

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 Malaga 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 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. See Heraklion travel costs.

Malaga

Malaga is a welcoming, historic, and beautiful port city. The beauty of Malaga is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the live music, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Malaga travel costs.

Heraklion and Malaga: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Heraklion or Malaga?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Heraklion than Malaga. While Malaga is larger than Heraklion, Heraklion has more sights and attractions for tourists. Heraklion is better known for its museums and attractions, beaches, and big city activities, while Malaga is more popular for its nightlife, music, scuba diving & snorkeling, historical sights, and impressive beauty. 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. Malaga is well known for its perfect blend of sandy beaches, beautiful culture, fascinating history, and a lively nightlife scene.

How is Heraklion different from Malaga?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Heraklion is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Malaga does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Malaga does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Foodies will find both Heraklion and Malaga both to be very good 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 Malaga is an experience not to be missed. Head to any of the local food markets and seafood shops to try local cuisine. Also make sure you try tapas and a filling Andalusian breakfast.

Is Heraklion or Malaga Better for Nightlife?

Malaga 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 Malaga just to party. The city has some of the most active nightlife in Europe. There are plenty of opportunities to party in Malaga and you'll find the most vibrant nightlife in the Centro Historico.

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 Heraklion or Malaga Better for Music?

Malaga is a very popular place for its live music scene. However, Heraklion is not a live music destination.

It's worth checking out the music scene in Malaga while you're in town. The city has venues that offer pop, rock, blues, soulful, and more. Some of the most popular include ZZ club, Clarence Jazz Club, and Velvet Club.

Heraklion is not a live music destination.

Is Heraklion or Malaga Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Malaga is a port city with good options for its diving and snorkeling. However, Heraklion is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Malaga. Water temperatures are mild enough for diving or snorkeling near Malaga. For the best diving, head to Cala del Canuelo Beach. Closer by, Penon del Cuervo Beach offers diving and snorkeling as well.

Heraklion is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Heraklion or Malaga Better for Beaches?

Heraklion is a well-known place for the beach. Also, Malaga is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for the beach.

Many people visit Heraklion for it's beautiful beaches. 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.

Malaga is a good option for a beach vacation. There are some nice beaches around Malaga, but for the best options you'll have to travel further outside of the city.

Is Heraklion or Malaga Better for its Old Town?

Malaga is a very popular place for its old town. However, Heraklion does not have a historic old town.

Malaga is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The city's old town is compact and small, making it a fun place to walk. There are historic buildings, museums, churches, and squares, as well as many restaurants and shops.

Heraklion does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Heraklion or Malaga?

Shoppers can find a variety of notable stores in both Heraklion and Malaga.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Heraklion. There are a number of unique shops around town that sell everything from traditional pottery to homemade jewelry.

Many visitors go to Malaga to go shopping. There are a number of shopping areas in the city with both local boutiques and name brands.

Is Heraklion or Malaga More Beautiful?

Malaga is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Heraklion is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Malaga is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The city has a rich history and beautiful architecture, making it one of the most beautiful cities in Spain.

Heraklion is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Heraklion or Malaga Better for Families?

Both Heraklion and Malaga 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 Malaga. The city has castles that you can explore as well as a waterpark.

Is Heraklion or Malaga Better for Couples?

Heraklion is a well-known place for its romantic activities. Also, Malaga is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for couples.

Heraklion is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Malaga is a good city for couples to visit. It has a beautiful coastline and a rich history that makes it unique.

Is Heraklion or Malaga Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Malaga is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Heraklion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Malaga is extremely popular for backpackers. From an endless supply of hostels to plenty of opportunities to meet other backpackers, this is a very backpacker friendly area.

Heraklion is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. The city is filled with budget-friendly hostels that often have a social atmosphere and a fun vibe.

Is Heraklion or Malaga Better for Students?

Malaga is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Heraklion is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Malaga. The city has many opportunities to learn Spanish. It's also an affordable city with a young population and a lively atmosphere that appeals to international students.

Heraklion is not popular with students.

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

Visitors will find notable public transit in both Heraklion and Malaga.

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

You'll find some public transit in Malaga, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is an efficient bus system as well as a light metro system.

Is Heraklion or Malaga a more walkable city?

Heraklion and Malaga are very good when it comes to walkability.

Heraklion is a very walkable city. Many parts of the town are walkable and doing a walking tour is a great way to see many of the city's sights.

Malaga is a very walkable destination. It has a very compact and walkable historic center with most of the tourist attractions easily accessible on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Heraklion Worth Visiting? and Is Malaga Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Malaga or Heraklion?

How long in Heraklion or Malaga?

Both Heraklion and Malaga have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Malaga than in Heraklion. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Heraklion, and 3-7 days is enough time in Malaga.

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

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

One day in Heraklion or Malaga?

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 port city of Malaga. 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 Malaga?

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 welcoming destination of Malaga. 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 port city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Heraklion or Malaga?

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 scuba diving and snorkeling around the welcoming port city of Malaga. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this port city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Most people head to the area for the nightlife. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this port city has to offer.

A week in Heraklion or Malaga?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historic 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.

Malaga is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Malaga, one week is sufficent for most. 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 10-Day Tours from Madrid, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Barcelona.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Heraklion or Malaga?

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

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Heraklion or Malaga in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Heraklion as well as Malaga. The beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Heraklion this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Malaga for the beaches, snorkeling, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Heraklion is around the same temperature as Malaga in the summer. The daily temperature in Heraklion averages around 25°C (78°F) in July, and Malaga fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Malaga. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Heraklion this time of the year. In the summer, Heraklion often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Malaga. Heraklion gets 366 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Malaga receives 348 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets less rain in July than Malaga. Heraklion gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Malaga receives 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heraklion or Malaga in the Autumn?

Both Malaga and Heraklion are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Heraklion for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Malaga in the autumn for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Heraklion is around the same temperature as Malaga. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Heraklion in October average around 20°C (68°F), and Malaga averages at about 19°C (67°F).

It's quite sunny in Malaga. Heraklion usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Malaga during autumn. Heraklion gets 199 hours of sunny skies, while Malaga receives 213 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Heraklion usually receives more rain than Malaga. Heraklion gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Malaga receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Heraklion or Malaga in the Winter?

Both Malaga and Heraklion during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Heraklion in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Malaga for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months.

In January, Heraklion is generally around the same temperature as Malaga. Daily temperatures in Heraklion average around 12°C (54°F), and Malaga fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In the winter, Heraklion often gets less sunshine than Malaga. Heraklion gets 121 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Malaga receives 171 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets more rain in January than Malaga. Heraklion gets 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Malaga receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heraklion or Malaga in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Heraklion and Malaga. Most visitors come to Heraklion for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Malaga because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

Heraklion is around the same temperature as Malaga in the spring. The daily temperature in Heraklion averages around 16°C (61°F) in April, and Malaga fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Malaga this time of the year. In Heraklion, it's very sunny this time of the year. Heraklion usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Malaga during spring. Heraklion gets 224 hours of sunny skies, while Malaga receives 220 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Heraklion usually receives less rain than Malaga. Heraklion gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Malaga receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Malaga and Heraklion