A question as old as Crete itself: is it better to stay in Chania or Heraklion? Well…okay, maybe people weren’t asking it 8,600 years ago. But since they are now, we’re here to get to the bottom of it.
The truth is that Chania and Heraklion both have tons to offer as destinations. If your schedule permits, we really do recommend visiting both. But in case your trip to beautiful Crete is tight on time, we hope this handy guide will help you make an informed decision about choosing Heraklion or Chania.
Crete Chania or Heraklion: The Basics
Heraklion is the bustling capital of Crete that 180,000 people call home. It’s an authentic Greek city with a very energetic urban environment that blends modern and historical architecture. Heraklion boasts a lively dining and nightlife scene that’s popular with younger crowds. It’s also home to the center of Minoan civilization – Knossos Palace – and several impressive archaeological museums. Heraklion houses the island’s main ferry port.
Chania is a stunning port town on the northwestern coast of Crete with a population of 50,000. Visitors describe Chania as having a charming, old-world feel, particularly in this historic Venetian harbor. The region’s history is well-preserved in architecture and museums alike. The nightlife and dining options are sophisticated and tend to attract older crowds, as do the shopping options of the Old Town.
2. Beaches: Is Heraklion or Chania better?
Heraklion’s beaches are large, sandy, family-friendly and very popular with tourists. Kateros’s shallow waters are perfect for swimming with young children, Ammoudara has excellent facilities, water sports, and nearby restaurants, and Agia Pelagia’s crystal clear waters draw many visitors all summer long.
Chania’s beaches are pristine and replete with dynamic natural beauty. They’re some of the most photographed places in all of Crete. Take a boat to Balos Lagoon for turquoise waters and blush-colored sand, catch a spectacular sunset at Falassarna, or head to Stavros’ sheltered bay to brag to your friends that you visited the filming location for Zorba the Greek!
The verdict
Heraklion’s beach facilities and shallow waters make it a better option for families with young children and seniors who prefer more accessible locations. Chania’s beaches are more beautiful, but harder to get to, making them ideal for adventurous travelers or those seeking some peace and quiet.
3. Chania or Heraklion Nightlife and Dining
As the sun sets on the Cretan coast, Heraklion comes to life. While Eleftheriou Venizelou (Lion’s Square) is the main hub for bars and clubs, you can also find many-an-adventure in the trendy Waterfront District, the Korai Street strip, and the fast-growing alternative neighbourhood of the Lakkos District. Heraklion really has it all: wine bars like Peskesi Cellar, beach bars like Wet & Drys, and world-famous nightclubs like Privilege Club.
Chania’s nightlife scene is sophisticated, with a heavy emphasis on Cretan cocktail and wine culture. The Venetian Harbor, alleys of Old Town, and Daliani Street are all replete with cozy, atmospheric venues perfect for intimate nights with friends and lovers. It’s not all quiet, though – you can very well have a rowdier night out at Synagogi or Conor Pass Irish bar if that’s more your speed.
The verdict
If you’re looking for a big night out with a group of friends (or to make some more!), then Heraklion has much more to offer in the nightlife department. Its world-famous bars and clubs draw thousands of visitors every summer, and there’s really something for everyone. After dark, Chania is comparatively quiet, but is by no means a sleepy port town. It just has a slower pace that appeals more to older demographics, couples, and wine and food aficionados.
4. Heraklion or Chania Airport and Accessibility
Heraklion International Airport “Nikos Kazantzakis” (HER) handles 8-9 million passengers internationally and is the second busiest airport in Greece, next to Athens. Because of its high traffic, high competition, and multiple airline carriers, it tends to be pretty easy and affordable to fly into. Once in Heraklion, you can get around with its robust public transit system or access several popular destinations around Crete via bus or car rental.
Chania International Airport “Daskalogiannis” (CHQ) has around 3 million annual passengers and operates principally in the summer season. Greeks and international visitors use it as a hub to access the western parts of the island. Despite offering budget flights from carriers like RyanAir, its lack of competition tends to drive up flight tickets, especially when compared directly to HER. On the ground, Chania doesn’t have public transit, but you can easily rent a car.
The verdict
Heraklion is a more accessible destination, both to fly into and get around in once on the ground. That being said, if you’d like to add other western destinations to your Cretan adventure, it may make more sense to fly into Chania to offset the extra miles on a Heraklion car rental.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Chania or Heraklion?
It really depends what you’re looking for from your vacation. Heraklion is a more bustling destination that’s easy to navigate, more family-friendly, and an excellent hub to fly into. Chania is more relaxed, has more natural wonders, and better suits adventurous travelers.
Is it better to fly to Chania or Heraklion?
In most cases it’s better to fly into Heraklion. It’s a much bigger airport, so you’ll have way more options for dates and affordable tickets. That said, if it’s the western part of the island you have your eye on, it may be better to fly into Chania. Check both to be safe!
Is it cheaper to fly to Chania or Heraklion?
It’s almost always cheaper to fly into Heraklion’s “Nikos Kazantzakis” (HER) International Airport. This is because it has more competing airlines, and is generally a more active airport than Chania’s.
Is Chania Airport bigger than Heraklion?
No. Chania International Airport “Daskalogiannis” (CHQ) has around 3 million passengers annually, whereas Heraklion’s airport serves between 8 and 9 million.
Which is the nicest part of Crete?
Crete has so many beautiful villages and destinations that it’s impossible to select one as the nicest. Heraklion, Chania, Rethymno, Agios Nikolaos, and Hersonissos all attract thousands of tourists per season, and each is unique in its landscape, culture, and food!
Is Heraklion nicer than Chania?
Whether or not Heraklion is nicer than Chania is subjective. That being said, Chania’s laid back, old-world vibe and slow pace is a bit “nicer” than Heraklion’s bustling energy. It really just depends what you’re looking for in beautiful Crete.
