Cyprus and Crete are both some of the largest islands in the Mediterranean. Both are full of beautiful beaches, great sights and tourist attractions. So how do you choose between them? Which one should you choose for your holidays? We’ll try to help you determine that today.
As a word of introduction, Cyprus is an island with an area of 9251 km² and a population of over 1 200 000. Crete is to the west of Cyprus – it is closer to Greece, has 8450 km² and over 620 000 inhabitants. Cyprus is very close to the eastern end of the Mediterranean, not far from Turkey and Israel.
Cyprus vs Crete: which one is warmer?
Which island has better weather?
Let’s assume you’re planning your trip in summer – if so, then both islands are very, very warm. Cyprus is, for the record, marginally warmer and Crete has higher chances of strong winds, making the perceived temperature a bit cooler. Still, the actual difference is quite subtle. Cyprus is the ideal destination if you like it really hot, Crete is a tiny bit milder. Temperatures on both islands stay quite warm all year long as well.
Cyprus vs Crete: which one has better tourist sites to see?
Which island has better tourist attractions?
If you’re mostly into exploring various places of interest during holidays, both islands are full of various sites for you to see. We do, however, have a few tips. The best tourist attractions in Cyprus are the beautiful national parks, Famagusta, Paphos and Larnaca. As for Crete, it’s mostly a mix of Minoan (Knossos) and Venetian history with a touch of beautiful national parks. If you’re coming over for a short period of time, a few days merely, then we’d argue that it’s better to choose Crete and see Knossos. If you have more time on your hands, then we’d say that Cyprus is better here, with its must-see Famagusta, the National Parks and flamingos.
Cyprus vs Crete: which one has better beaches?
Which sands will suit you better?
It’s always a struggle to pick out the better place for beaches, as we tend to have great memories from all the days we spent at beaches in the Mediterranean. Cyprus has some really beautiful ones, especially the Lara Beach, Ayia Napa, the Golden Beach in northern Cyprus and the Blue Lagoon. As for Crete, we have the popular Balos Lagoon, Elafonisi and Falassarna. We’d argue that the beaches in Crete are more varied, which isn’t to say that the ones in Cyprus won’t be perfect for you as well. Still, Crete has plenty of Blue Flag beaches, the pink sands on Elafonisi and the stunning Balos Lagoon. We’re going to have to go with Crete.
Cyprus vs Crete: which one is better for holidays with children?
Family holidays
Going to both Crete and Cyprus with your child is a great idea, as long as you have the right hotel and conditions. Therefore, in both our opinion and that of the many people we know, the most important thing here is not the island, but the hotel. The beaches for kids are adequately equipped and protected on both islands. If you’re flying with a teenager over 16 and they’re the party-sort, they may have more fun on Cyprus.
Cyprus vs Crete: which one is cheaper?
Which is the better island for budget holidays?
For an even playing field, let’s compare Paphos with Khania. General prices in restaurants and cafes suggest Cyprus as the winner. This is felt especially strongly in terms of cheap diners and in regards to beer. Shops are generally comparable, not much of a difference between the two. Hotels and flats are pretty much completely the same as well, you can find the whole plethora of price ranges on both islands. Honestly, both are comparable and decently priced. If you’re more focused on the price of the trip, we’d recommend being on the lookout for bargain offers and choosing based on them.
Cyprus vs Crete: summary
So which one should you choose? Well, it depends on what you need:
If you’re coming over for a weekend and want to explore: Crete
If you’re coming over for longer: Cyprus
If you’re focused on beaches: Crete
If you want the warmest experience possible: Cyprus
If you’re into hiking and admiring beautiful nature: Cyprus with its national parks
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