A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Albufeira vs. Granada for Nightlife, Couples, Backpackers, and Food

Should you visit Albufeira or Granada?

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

Should I visit Albufeira 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.

Albufeira

Albufeira is a touristy, popular, and activity-filled resort town. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Granada

Granada is a charming, cultural, and historic city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Albufeira and Granada: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Albufeira or Granada?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Albufeira. Although Albufeira and Granada are popular destinations, Albufeira has more sights and attractions for tourists. Albufeira is very popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and big city activities, while Granada attracts visitors for its museums, historical sights, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty. Albufeira is more touristy than Granada and is popular for its golden beaches and limestone cliffs. It is also well known for Praia da Falesia. Granada is famous for its Islamic architecture, charming old town, and the stunningly impressive Alhambra.

How is Albufeira different from Granada?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Granada is a world-class destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Albufeira does not have museums and landmarks.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Granada are among the most recognizable in the world. 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.

Albufeira does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Albufeira is an excellent place to visit for its restaurants. Also, Granada is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Albufeira. As the largest resort town in the Algarve, the city also has the widest selection of restaurants. There are traditional options that serve up classic dishes like grilled sardines, as well as international restaurants with traveler favorites. As expected, you'll find a lot of seafood, but you'll also find inland influences from local farms in the area.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in 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 Albufeira or Granada Better for Nightlife?

Albufeira is a world-class destination for nightlife. Also, Granada is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

People head to Albufeira just to party. It's probably the most infamous party destination in the Algarve and it won't disappoint. During the peak summer months you'll find the streets around the popular "Strip" filled with tourists and party-goers. There are hen and stag parties, backpackers, and drunken travelers out for a good time. The Strip has become so popular that there are now bars and clubs on the adjacent streets as well. If you're not staying in the area, you'll likely want to take a taxi, as it's a couple kilometers outside of the town center.

The people in Granada know how to have a good time. 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 Albufeira or Granada Better for Resorts?

Albufeira is a world-class destination for its luxury resorts. However, Granada is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Albufeira is a great choice. As the largest resort town in the Algarve, you'll find a wide selection of hotels to choose from. Party-goers will want to stay near the Strip while families will prefer the old town or resorts in Olhos de Agua.

Granada is not a resort destination.

Is Albufeira or Granada Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Albufeira is an excellent place to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Granada is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting Albufeira. There are countless vendors who will take you by boat to explore the underwater world, either by snorkeling or scuba diving. The marine life is impressive and the water is generally clear.

Granada is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Albufeira or Granada Better for Beaches?

Albufeira is a world-class destination for its beaches. However, Granada is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Albufeira. With their golden sands and blue waters, the beaches are world class. The area also has a diversity of beaches that are perfect for all types of vacationers. For water sports, head to Praia dos Alemaes but for relaxation and catching some rays check out Praia da Falesia. You'll find some interesting rock formations at Praia dos Olhos de Agua. One of the most convenient beaches to town is Praia dos Pescadores. For nightlife you'll want to head to Praia da Oura.

Granada is not a beach destination.

Is Albufeira or Granada Better for its Old Town?

Granada is a world-class destination for its old town. However, Albufeira does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Granada is revered around the world. The Old Town spills out around the Granada Cathedral and is filled with charming pedestrian streets, lively plazas, and many great shops.

Albufeira does not have a historic old town.

Is Albufeira or Granada Better for Hiking?

Granada is a great destination for its hiking experiences. Also, Albufeira is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

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.

Many people include a hike when visiting Albufeira. There are countless coastal walks that are perfect for all skill levels. Many offers stunning views along the rocky coast and pass through natural settings. Popular trails in the area include Praia Grande Interpretation Trail and Paderne Castle Trail.

Is the Shopping Better in Albufeira or Granada?

Granada is a popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Albufeira is a resort town with minimal options for its shopping areas.

Granada offers some nice shopping areas. 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.

Albufeira has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. You'll find most of the shops are geared toward souvenirs or beach items, particularly near the beach and marina. If you look hard you might find some nice ceramics or items made of cork.

Is Albufeira or Granada Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Albufeira or Granada.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Albufeira. Despite it's reputation as a party-hard city, there are actually a lot of family-friendly activities in the area. Because it's the largest resort town in the Algarve, it also has the most activities to choose from, including theme parks, water parks, dolphin watching, ropes courses, go karting, and more. The best area's for families are in the old town or the most of the family-friendly resorts outside of town. Families should avoid staying near "the Strip."

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 Albufeira or Granada Better for Couples?

Albufeira is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Granada is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Albufeira makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. For an active honeymoon or couple's retreat, this resort town has it all. Beautiful beaches, adventure-filled activities, a wild nightlife scene, and excellent resorts and restaurants all make for a memorable couple's getaway.

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.

Is Albufeira or Granada Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Many backpackers frequent Albufeira. If you're looking for a party, then you found it. The area is a top pick for European holidays, so you'll find plenty of energy and activities around town. There are also golden beaches and a decent selection of hostels to choose from.

Granada is a great resort town to visit for backpackers. 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.

Is Albufeira or Granada Better for Students?

Granada is a great destination for students. However, Albufeira 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.

Albufeira is not popular with students.

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

Granada is a popular place for its public transit. However, Albufeira is a resort town with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Granada, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. 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.

Public transit is mostly limited in Albufeira. There are regional buses and even trains, but do take note that many of the train and bus stations are a good distance outside of town.

Is Albufeira or Granada a more walkable city?

Granada is a great destination for its high level of walkability. However, Albufeira is a resort town with minimal options for its ease of walking around.

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

Albufeira is generally not a very walkable resort town. Most people prefer to hire a car, but if your hotel is near the beach and you're ok with walking to restaurants, then you may be able to get away without one. If you hope to travel into the countryside at all then a car is necessary.

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

Should I spend more time in Granada or Albufeira?

How long in Albufeira or Granada?

It's fun to spend time in either Albufeira or Granada. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Albufeira due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Albufeira, and 2-4 days is enough time in Granada.

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

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

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

One day in Albufeira or Granada?

In Albufeira, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This resort town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Granada. 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 Albufeira or Granada?

In Albufeira, you'll find nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Most people come for the beaches. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the beautiful destination of Granada. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Albufeira or Granada?

Albufeira is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Albufeira has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the cultural city of Granada. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Most people head to the area for the museums. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Albufeira or Granada?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Albufeira. In Albufeira, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Granada is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in Portugal, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Portugal, 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 Albufeira and Granada, we can see that Albufeira is more expensive. And not only is Granada much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Granada would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Granada 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 Albufeira would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Albufeira than you might in Granada.

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

Which is Bigger, Albufeira or Granada?

Granada has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Albufeira. When comparing the sizes of Albufeira 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 Albufeira 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 Albufeira or Granada in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Albufeira as well as Granada. The summer months attract visitors to Albufeira because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Granada this time of year.

In July, Albufeira is generally around the same temperature as Granada. Daily temperatures in Albufeira average around 25°C (78°F), and Granada fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

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

Should I visit Albufeira or Granada in the Autumn?

Both Granada and Albufeira are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Albufeira this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Granada for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Albufeira is around the same temperature as Granada in the autumn. The daily temperature in Albufeira averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Granada fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).

In October, Albufeira usually receives more rain than Granada. Albufeira gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Granada receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Albufeira or Granada in the Winter?

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

In the winter, Albufeira is around the same temperature as Granada. Typically, the winter temperatures in Albufeira in January average around 11°C (52°F), and Granada averages at about 12°C (54°F).

Albufeira usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Granada. Albufeira gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Granada receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Albufeira or Granada in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Albufeira and Granada. Many visitors come to Albufeira in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Granada for the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Albufeira is generally around the same temperature as Granada. Daily temperatures in Albufeira average around 15°C (60°F), and Granada fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

In April, Albufeira usually receives around the same amount of rain as Granada. Albufeira gets 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Granada receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Granada and Albufeira