A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Aegina vs. Granada for Attractions, Nightlife, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Aegina or Granada?

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

Should I visit Aegina or Granada? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Aegina

Aegina is a vibrant, fun, and active island. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums.

Granada

Granada is a charming, cultural, and historic city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Aegina and Granada: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Aegina or Granada?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Granada than Aegina, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Granada is better known for its museums, historical sights, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Aegina is more popular for its beaches and small town charm. Aegina is well known for its local pistachio nuts, its nice seaside setting, and its easy access from Athens. Granada is well known for its Islamic architecture, charming old town, and the stunningly impressive Alhambra. Also, Granada is famous for The Alhambra.

How is Aegina different from Granada?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Aegina or Granada?

Granada is an amazing city to visit for its museums and landmarks. Also, Aegina is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Granada on the map. Many visitors head to Granada specifically to visit the famed Alhambra. The palace and fortress complex will not disappoint. The gardens are beautifully maintained and the palace is filled with intricate details. It's easy to spend hours wandering around. In addition to The Alhambra, the Granada Cathedral is also impressive to visit. If you have kids or extra time to fill, head to Parque de las Ciencias, which is the city's Science Park.

Many visitors head to Aegina specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There are several temples on the island such as the Temple of Athena Aphaia and the Temple of Apollo. There's also and Archeological Museum that is nice to visit.

Is the Food Better in Aegina or Granada? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Aegina and Granada can be difficult as they are each notable in their own way.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Aegina area. There's a vibrant restaurant scene that includes traditional eateries serving seafood and refreshing ice cream shops where you can cool off with a scoop of your favorite flavor.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Granada. It's a very touristy city so restaurants can be hit or miss. There are some amazing local eateries, but you'll also find a number of places with lower quality, overpriced food. Classic local dishes include Churros, Plato Alpujarreño, and Habas con Jamón. Tapas are very popular and many restaurants provide free tapas with drink orders. There are also a number of Moroccan restaurants around town.

Is Aegina or Granada Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Aegina or Granada has a better nightlife scene.

The people in Aegina know how to have a good time. There's a great nightlife scene on the island. Most of the dance clubs are found in Agia Marina and you'll find more relaxing lounges around Aegina Town and other villages on the island.

The nightlife in Granada has something for everybody. The nightlife scene kicks off around 11 pm, when most people have finished up a late dinner. There's a laid-back atmosphere with pubs, live music, and dance clubs that stay open late into the night. There are several popular streets at night including Calle Elvira, Calle Reyes Católicos, and the Realejo District.

Is Aegina or Granada Better for Beaches?

Aegina is a popular place for its beaches. However, Granada is not a beach destination.

Aegina is a good option for a beach vacation. While most of the beaches are small and crowded, they do offer a number of tourist facilities such as nearby bars and restaurants, as well as hotels. The most popular beaches on the island are Souvala and Agia Marina.

Granada is not a beach destination.

Is Aegina or Granada Better for its Old Town?

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

Granada offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. The Old Town spills out around the Granada Cathedral and is filled with charming pedestrian streets, lively plazas, and many great shops.

Aegina does not have a historic old town.

Is Aegina or Granada Better for Hiking?

Granada is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Aegina is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Granada. Ruta de Los Cahorros is a great hike about 25 minutes outside of Granada that begins in the town of Monochil. It crosses many bridges and weaves through dramatic canyons. There are places where you can wade in the water or check out a hidden waterfall. It's well worth the time and can be reached by taxi or public bus.

Aegina is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Aegina or Granada?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Granada and Aegina.

Many visitors go to Aegina to go shopping. You'll find the standard souvenir shops around town where you can buy trinkets or other items you may have forgotten.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Granada. The town is filled with souvenir shops and places to buy local items. It's fun to wander through the old town and pop into the many different shops.

Is Aegina or Granada Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Aegina or Granada.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Aegina. Kids will enjoy the ferry ride from Athens as well as the pirate stories they'll hear throughout their trip. There are places that the whole family can swim and great restaurants with kid-friendly food.

Granada offers lots of family activities. While the highlight of the city is the Alhambra, kids will likely enjoy exploring the shops or seeing a Flamenco show a bit more. Just outside of town is a wonderful hike, Ruta de Los Cahorros. It begins near the town of Monachil which is easily accessible by taxi or public bus. The hike goes through canyons and across bridges and its a wonderful activity for the whole family.

Is Aegina or Granada Better for Couples?

Granada is a great destination for couples. Also, Aegina is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Couples visit Granada frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It is a beautiful city that is filled with charm and history. Couples will enjoy exploring the Alhambra, taking in a Flamenco show, or sipping Sangria with tapas. The city is incredibly beautiful with stunning views and many great restaurants.

Aegina is a nice destination for couples. Couples will appreciate the beauty and great restaurants that this beautiful island offers. It's a charming day trip from Athens that is filled with impressive historical sights and a nice atmosphere.

Is Aegina or Granada Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Granada is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Aegina is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Granada is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. It's a touristy city and it's a popular destination for backpackers as well. There are plenty of hostels around town and the city has social atmosphere with many opportunities to meet other travelers.

Aegina is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Like most visitors, backpackers can hop on a ferry in Athens and visit the island as a day trip. It makes a nice excursion with many affordable restaurants and fun activities.

Is Aegina or Granada Better for Students?

Granada is a great destination for students. However, Aegina is not popular with students.

Granada is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. It's a popular study abroad destination. Accommodation for students is usually affordable and this is also a great city for integrating into the local culture. You may even end up with a Spanish roommate.

Aegina is not popular with students.

Is Aegina or Granada Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Aegina and Granada.

You'll find some public transit in Aegina, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. You'll find the central bus station in Aegina Town and there you can catch buses that travel around the island.

While Granada offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a comprehensive bus system around town that many tourists take advantage of. Taxis are also very affordable, so for many visitors, that is an easy option.

Is Aegina or Granada a more walkable city?

Granada is a great destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Aegina is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.

Granada is a very walkable destination. Most of the touristy areas are easy to explore on foot, but there are some steep hills so put on your walking shoes.

Aegina is somewhat walkable. The town is walkable, but to explore elsewhere on the island, it's easiest to have your own vehicle.

For even more information, also check out Is Aegina Worth Visiting? and Is Granada Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Granada or Aegina?

How long in Aegina or Granada?

It's fun to spend time in either Aegina or Granada. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Granada due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Aegina, and 2-4 days is enough time in Granada.

Families should spend more time in Granada than Aegina. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Granada, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Granada than Aegina 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 Granada.

One day in Aegina or Granada?

In Aegina, you'll find nightlife and food. This island offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Granada. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Aegina or Granada?

In Aegina, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Aegina has to offer.

Granada is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Aegina or Granada?

Aegina is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Granada. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

A week in Aegina or Granada?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Aegina. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Aegina. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the charming destination of Granada. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Honeymoon Tours in Greece, The Best Luxury Tours to Greece, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Madrid, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Barcelona.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Aegina or Granada?

Granada has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Aegina. When comparing the sizes of Aegina and Granada, 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 Aegina or Granada?

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 Aegina or Granada in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Aegina as well as Granada. The summer months attract visitors to Aegina because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Granada this time of year.

In the summer, Aegina is around the same temperature as Granada. Typically, the summer temperatures in Aegina in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Granada averages at about 25°C (77°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Granada. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Aegina this time of the year. In the summer, Aegina often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Granada. Aegina gets 357 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Granada receives 348 hours of full sun.

Aegina usually gets more rain in July than Granada. Aegina gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Granada receives 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Aegina or Granada in the Autumn?

Both Granada and Aegina are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The shopping scene and the small town atmosphere are the main draw to Aegina this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Granada for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Aegina is generally around the same temperature as Granada. Daily temperatures in Aegina average around 19°C (67°F), and Granada fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).

It's quite sunny in Granada. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Aegina. Aegina usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Granada during autumn. Aegina gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Granada receives 213 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Aegina usually receives less rain than Granada. Aegina gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Granada receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Aegina or Granada in the Winter?

Both Granada and Aegina during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Aegina for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Granada in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Aegina is cooler than Granada in the winter. The daily temperature in Aegina averages around 10°C (51°F) in January, and Granada fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In the winter, Aegina often gets less sunshine than Granada. Aegina gets 143 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Granada receives 171 hours of full sun.

Aegina usually gets less rain in January than Granada. Aegina gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Granada receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Aegina or Granada in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Aegina and Granada. Many visitors come to Aegina in the spring for the beaches and the small town charm. Also, most visitors come to Granada for the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Aegina is around the same temperature as Granada. Typically, the spring temperatures in Aegina in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Granada averages at about 16°C (60°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Granada this time of the year. In Aegina, it's very sunny this time of the year. Aegina usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Granada during spring. Aegina gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Granada receives 220 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Aegina usually receives less rain than Granada. Aegina gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Granada receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Granada and Aegina