A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Arachova vs. Granada for Attractions, Old Town, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Arachova or Granada?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Arachova or Granada, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Arachova

Arachova is a beautiful, outdoorsy, and bustling town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Granada

Granada is a charming, cultural, and historic city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and food.

Arachova and Granada: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Alhambra


Is there more to do in Arachova or Granada?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Arachova. Although Arachova and Granada are both popular with visitors, Arachova has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Arachova is more popular for its skiing, food, and small town charm, while Granada is known for its museums, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Arachova is popular for its surrounding mountain beauty, festive Christmas atmosphere, and nearby winter skiing. It is also home to Mount Parnassus Ski Resort. Granada is popular for its Islamic architecture, charming old town, and the stunningly impressive Alhambra.

How is Arachova different from Granada?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Arachova or Granada Better for Skiing?

Arachova
Granada

Arachova is a popular place for skiing and snowboarding. However, Granada is not a skiing destination.

Arachova is a great destination for skiing with plenty areas to explore. The Parnassos Ski Resort is located just 24 kilometers from town and offers skiing that is beautiful and fun. There are spectacular views and the area has gained popularity in recent years. There are lessons for kids and many other fun winter activities nearby.

Granada is not a skiing destination.


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

Arachova
Granada

Granada is an unbeatable place for its museums and landmarks. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Granada that are not to be missed. 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.

Arachova offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are some interesting sights in the surrounding area, as well as the unique Ai Giorgis Church near town.

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

Arachova
Granada

Arachova 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 Arachova. The town is filled with old tavernas that serve up traditional local cuisine. You'll find a lot of the local cheese, formaela, as well as a local noodle dish called hilopites. Pork ribs and delicate desserts are also popular.

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 Arachova or Granada Better for Nightlife?

Arachova
Granada

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Arachova and Granada.

Arachova is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. There are many charming bars around town that stay open late into the night. During the popular winter months, you'll find the streets filled with people that come for the unique winter atmosphere.

Many people head to Granada for the nightlife scene. 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 Arachova or Granada Better for its Old Town?

Arachova
Granada

Granada is an unbeatable place for its historic old town. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular for its old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Granada offers plenty to see. The Old Town spills out around the Granada Cathedral and is filled with charming pedestrian streets, lively plazas, and many great shops.

Arachova is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The charming old town is at its best during the Christmas season when there are decorations around the town square and the streets are filled with people.

Is Arachova or Granada Better for Hiking?

Arachova
Granada

Arachova and Granada are both places where visitors can find very good hiking trails.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Arachova. For the best outdoor activities, head to nearby Mount Parnassos, where there's skiing and snowboarding during the winter months and beautiful hikes through the mountainous terrain during the summer months.

Many visitors go to Granada for the hiking trails. 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Arachova or Granada?

Arachova
Granada

Shopping is a popular activity in both Granada and Arachova.

Arachova is a great destination for shopping. The charming town has many unique shops that sell carpets, woven goods, and local food items.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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 Arachova or Granada Better for Families?

Arachova
Granada

Arachova is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Granada is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Arachova is a very family-friendly destination. The charming town has long served as a winter escape for those living in Athens. There's plenty for kids to do including and ice skating rink, a horse ranch, and even nearby skiing.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Granada. 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 Arachova or Granada Better for Couples?

Arachova
Granada

Arachova and Granada are both very good to visit as a couple.

Couples visit Arachova frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It's a romantic setting with nice accommodation, delicious local taverns, and plenty of unique activities that couples can enjoy.

Granada is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. 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 Arachova or Granada Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Arachova
Granada

Granada is well known for backpackers. However, Arachova is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Granada. 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.

Arachova is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most backpackers don't think to visit this area on their trip to Greece. There are some guesthouses, but not a lot of hostels, so you might find a limited number of social activities.


Is Arachova or Granada Better for Students?

Arachova
Granada

Granada is well known for students. However, Arachova is not popular with students.

Granada is a great city to visit as a student. 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.

Arachova is not popular with students.

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

Arachova
Granada

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

You'll find some public transit in Arachova, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are some public buses in the area.

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 Arachova or Granada a more walkable city?

Arachova
Granada

Granada is well known for its walkability. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

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

Arachova is a somewhat walkable place. The town has many walkable streets that are fun to explore on foot.


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

Should I spend more time in Granada or Arachova?

How long in Arachova or Granada?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Granada than Arachova. 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 Arachova 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.


  • How many days in Arachova or Granada? Ideal Length of Stay
    Arachova 2-3 
    Granada 2-4

One day in Arachova or Granada?

In Arachova, you'll find shopping and museums. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The beautiful city of Granada offers food and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Arachova or Granada?

In Arachova, you'll find museums and skiing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Arachova has to offer.

Granada is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Granada, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Arachova or Granada?

Arachova is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

Granada is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


A week in Arachova or Granada?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Arachova. Many people enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting Arachova. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Granada is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Greece, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Greece, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Madrid, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Barcelona.


Which place is cheaper, Granada or Arachova?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Arachova is €112, while the average daily cost in Granada is €123. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Arachova and Granada in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Arachova 50
    Granada 59
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Arachova 100
    Granada 118
Compare Hotels in Arachova and Granada

Looking for a hotel in Arachova or Granada? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Arachova


Hotels in Granada


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Granada Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Arachova 51
    Granada 22

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Granada

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Granada are as follows:


  • 7 Trip Bus Pass
    5.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Granada

Also for Granada, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Cordoba and its Mosque from Granada with Private Transfer: $262
  • From Transfer to Seville with Cordoba Guided Tour: $749
  • From Granada; Private transfer to Sierra Nevada (all hotels): $171
  • Granada - Jaén Airport Transfers in a VIP coach: $235
  • Granada Airport Private Arrival Transfer: $45
  • Granada Luxury Private Airport Transfer: $214
  • Granada Private Intercity Transfer to Malaga: $175
  • Granada Private Transfer from the city centre to Granada Airport: $55
  • Granada airport private arrival transfer, Mercedes Sedan: $142
  • Granada airport private arrival transfer, Mercedes minivan: $218
  • Granada to Cordoba Private Transfer: $265
  • Granada to Malaga Airport Private Transfer: $229

Is it cheaper to fly into Arachova or Granada?

Prices for flights to both Granada and Arachova change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Arachova 29
    Granada 37

Typical Food Prices in Granada

For Granada, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Sangria
    2.50
  • Sandwich to go
    3.00
  • Bocadillo & Drink
    6.25

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Granada

For Granada, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Sacromonte Caves Flamenco Show with Dinner: $62
  • Dinner and Show flamenco in the Albayzin Granada: $62
  • Walking Food Tour: $75
  • 2-Day Geopark Desert, Ancient Culture and Food Tour: $169

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Arachova 28
    Granada 28

Tours and Activities in Granada

For Granada, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $3.21
  • Sacromonte Caves Museum Admission Ticket: $5.35
  • Granada City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.42
  • Sacromonte Abbey Entry Ticket with Audio Guide: $6.42
  • Granada Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.55
  • Granada City Train 1 or 2-Day Hop-On Hop-Off Ticket: $7.49
  • Self-Guided City Exploration Smartphone Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $8.75
  • Granada (Alhambra): Scavenger Hunt and Self-Guided Tour: $8.75
  • Albaicín and Sacromonte’s Iconic Sights: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $8.99
  • Historic Center and Lower Albaicin Walking Tour: $9.62

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Arachova 6.43
    Granada 24

Sample the Local Flavors in Granada

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Granada:

  • Granada Traditional Tapas and Wine Tour - by Oh My Good Guide!: $77
  • BEST OF Flamenco, Tapas and Wine Tour: $100


When comparing the travel costs between Arachova and Granada, we can see that Granada is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Arachova or Granada?

Granada has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Arachova. When comparing the sizes of Arachova 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 Arachova 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 Arachova or Granada in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Arachova as well as Granada. Many visitors come to Arachova in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Granada for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Arachova is around the same temperature as Granada in the summer. The daily temperature in Arachova averages around 27°C (81°F) in July, and Granada fluctuates around 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 Arachova this time of the year. In the summer, Arachova often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Granada. Arachova gets 357 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Granada receives 348 hours of full sun.

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


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Arachova 27°C (81°F) 
    Granada 25°C (77°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Granada in the Autumn?

Both Granada and Arachova are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Arachova for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the small town atmosphere during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Granada because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

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

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

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


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Arachova 19°C (67°F) 
    Granada 19°C (67°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Granada in the Winter?

Both Granada and Arachova during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Arachova because of the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Granada this time of year.

In January, Arachova is generally cooler than Granada. Daily temperatures in Arachova average around 10°C (51°F), and Granada fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

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

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


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Arachova 10°C (51°F) 
    Granada 12°C (54°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Granada in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Arachova and Granada. The small town charm are the main draw to Arachova this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Granada for the natural beauty.

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

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

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


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Arachova 16°C (60°F) 
    Granada 16°C (60°F)

Typical Weather for Granada and Arachova

Arachova Granada
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 12°C (54°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 13°C (55°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 14°C (57°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in) 16°C (60°F) 40 mm (1.6 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 19°C (66°F) 24 mm (0.9 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 22°C (72°F) 13 mm (0.5 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 25°C (77°F) 2 mm (0.1 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 25°C (78°F) 5 mm (0.2 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 23°C (74°F) 15 mm (0.6 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 19°C (67°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in) 15°C (60°F) 115 mm (4.5 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 13°C (55°F) 102 mm (4 in)