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

Should you visit Athens or Granada?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Athens and Granada. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Athens

Athens is a ancient, vibrant, and energetic city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Granada

Granada is a cultural, historic, and beautiful city. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the food, hiking, and shopping.

Athens and Granada: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Athens or Granada?

You'll generally find more things to do in Athens than Granada. Athens is bigger than Granada, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Athens is better known for its food, nightlife, and big city activities, while Granada is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Athens is well known for its ancient temples and landmarks as well as its influence as the birthplace of democracy. Also, Athens is famous for The Acropolis. Granada is well known for its Islamic architecture, charming old town, and the stunningly impressive Alhambra.

The Acropolis

How is Athens different from Granada?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

You'll find a number of amazing museums and attractions in both Granada and Athens.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Athens has many famous sights for visitors. As a historical capital of the world, this city has countless museums and archeological sites including the famous Acropolis, the National Archaeology Museum, and the Ancient Agora.

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.

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

Athens is a world-class destination for its restaurants. Also, Granada is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

For foodies, Athens is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Make sure you try the souvlaki, moussaka, and dolmades at any of the many local restaurants throughout the city.

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 Athens or Granada Better for Nightlife?

Athens 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 Athens just to party. There are all-night dance clubs as well as local bars and chill live music venues.

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 Athens or Granada Better for its Old Town?

Visitors enjoy the amazing old town areas in both Athens and Granada.

With a famous historical old-town, Athens offers plenty to see. The city's "historic triangle" is between Syntagma, Omonia, and Monastiraki Squares. This area is also at the political and financial heart of the city.

The rich history of Granada can be explored in its historical center. The Old Town spills out around the Granada Cathedral and is filled with charming pedestrian streets, lively plazas, and many great shops.

Is Athens or Granada Better for Hiking?

Granada is great for hiking. However, Athens is not a hiking destination.

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.

Athens is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Athens or Granada?

If you're looking to go shopping, Athens and Granada both offer plenty of notable spots.

Athens has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Most neighborhoods have a shopping street but head to Ermou Street for some of the city's best shopping.

Granada is a great destination for shopping. 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 Athens or Granada Better for Families?

Athens 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.

Athens is a very family-friendly destination. With its rich history, beautiful outdoor activities, and kid-friendly food, Athens is a fun place to explore with the whole family.

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 Athens or Granada Better for Couples?

Granada is great for couples. Also, Athens is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Granada is a great city 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.

Athens is a nice destination for couples. The city is historical, fascinating, and romantic, making it a beautiful place to explore as a couple.

Is Athens or Granada Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Athens 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 Athens. The city has long been established as a backpackers destination with budget friendly food and plenty of hostels around town.

Granada is a great city 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 Athens or Granada Better for Students?

For students, both Athens and Granada are superb places to visit.

Many students visit Athens. International students will appreciate the rich history, archaeological ruins, and unique opportunities that are available here.

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.

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

Athens is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Granada is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Public transit in Athens is fairly effecient and thorough. The city's metro system has 3 lines that connect to bus, tram and commuter rail lines.

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.

Is Athens or Granada a more walkable city?

Athens and Granada are superb when it comes to walkability.

Athens is a very walkable destination. You'll find the city's most walkable area's in the historical heart, where there are many pedestrian only streets and shopping areas.

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.

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

Should I spend more time in Granada or Athens?

How long in Athens or Granada?

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

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

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

One day in Athens or Granada?

Because Athens is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

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 Athens or Granada?

Because Athens is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

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 Athens or Granada?

Athens is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Athens has to offer. 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 Athens or Granada?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Athens. Because Athens is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historic 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 10-Day Tours in Greece, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Greece, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Madrid, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Barcelona.

When comparing the travel costs between Athens and Granada, we can see that Athens 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 Athens Expensive? and Is Granada Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Athens or Granada?

Athens has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Granada. When comparing the sizes of Athens 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 Athens or Granada?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Athens or Granada in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Athens and Granada. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Athens this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Granada for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Granada this time of the year. In Athens, it's very sunny this time of the year. Athens usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Granada during summer. Athens gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while Granada receives 348 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Athens usually receives more rain than Granada. Athens gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Granada receives 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Athens or Granada in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Athens as well as Granada. Many travelers come to Athens for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Granada in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

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

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Granada. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Athens this time of the year. In the autumn, Athens often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Granada. Athens gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Granada receives 213 hours of full sun.

Athens usually gets less rain in October than Granada. Athens gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Granada receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Athens or Granada in the Winter?

Both Granada and Athens are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Athens in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Granada for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

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

Athens usually receives less sunshine than Granada during winter. Athens gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Granada receives 171 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Athens usually receives less rain than Granada. Athens gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Granada receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Athens or Granada in the Spring?

Both Granada and Athens during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Athens for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Granada because of the natural beauty.

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

In Granada, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Athens. In the spring, Athens often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Granada. Athens gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Granada receives 220 hours of full sun.

Athens usually gets less rain in April than Granada. Athens gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Granada receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Granada and Athens