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

Should you visit Bucharest 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 Bucharest 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.

Bucharest

Bucharest is a cultural, charming, and historical city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

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 food, hiking, and shopping.

Bucharest and Granada: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bucharest or Granada?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Granada than Bucharest. While Bucharest is larger than Granada, Granada has more sights and attractions for tourists. Granada is very popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Bucharest attracts visitors for its big city activities. Granada is more touristy than Bucharest and is popular for its Islamic architecture, charming old town, and the stunningly impressive Alhambra. It is also well known for The Alhambra. Bucharest is famous for its wide avenues and longstanding religious institutions.

How is Bucharest different from Granada?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Granada is renowned for its museums and landmarks. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Bucharest. The city is rich in landmarks and historical buildings. Popular sights include the Romanian Athenaeum, the Palace of the Parliament, Stavropoleos Church, and Curtea Veche.

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at nice restaurants in both Bucharest and Granada.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Bucharest. Many Romanian recipes have been passed down through the generations and they still use traditional flavors. You'll see some German or Hungarian influences, but the flavors are still uniquely Romanian. Popular dishes include ciorba (tripe soup), cabbage rolls, and mici (grilled meat rolls).

Granada is becoming an appealing option for foodies. 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 Bucharest or Granada Better for Nightlife?

Granada is well known for nightlife and partying. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Granada is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Bucharest has a few options to choose from. The city has come to life with its party scene, with many bars and clubs that you can choose from. There are rooftop bars, chic dance clubs, and cozy pubs where you can pass the evening. You'll find most of the upscale clubs in the northern part of the city, with a more casual scene found in the downtown areas around Universitate and Romanā.

Is Bucharest or Granada Better for its Old Town?

Granada is renowned for its old town. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

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

Bucharest has an old town worth visiting. The old town dates back to the 15th and 16th centuries, with much of the historical charm seen in the architecture. Many of the buildings have been restored, but others are still awaiting repairs. This gives the area a sense of authenticity that you often miss in other old towns.

Is Bucharest or Granada Better for Hiking?

Granada is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Bucharest 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.

Bucharest is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Bucharest or Granada?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Granada and Bucharest.

Bucharest offers some nice shopping areas. The residents love fashion, and you'll find many shopping centers around town where you can find a good deal. In addition to the many malls, there are also antique shops, flea markets and boutique clothing stores where you might find a hidden gem.

Granada has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. 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 Bucharest or Granada Better for Families?

Granada is a good destination for its family-friendly activities. However, Bucharest is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

For families, Bucharest is not always the best place to visit. Kid-friendly activities include kid's play areas, museums such as the Museum of the Senses, and water centered activities like rowing in the park or visiting the wellness center Therme.

Is Bucharest or Granada Better for Couples?

Granada is well known for its romantic activities. However, Bucharest is not particularly known for couples.

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.

Bucharest is not always the best place to visit for a couple. The city has some romantic settings such as wandering down Victory Avenue or exploring the historic Cotroceni Neighbourhood. There are also several gardens and a number of nice cafes to explore.

Is Bucharest or Granada Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Granada is well known for backpackers. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Bucharest. The city is affordable, but it's often overlooked by backpackers. Part of the charm for many is the sense of authenticity that can often be hard to find in travel these days.

Is Bucharest or Granada Better for Students?

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

Many students visit Granada. 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.

Bucharest is not popular with students.

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

Bucharest 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 Bucharest is fairly effecient and thorough. Public transit options include trams, buses, and trolley buses.

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 Bucharest or Granada a more walkable city?

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

Bucharest is a somewhat walkable city. Many of the tourist attractions are within a walkable area.

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

Should I spend more time in Granada or Bucharest?

How long in Bucharest or Granada?

It's fun to spend time in either Bucharest or Granada. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Granada due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Bucharest, and 2-4 days is enough time in Granada.

Families should spend more time in Granada than Bucharest. 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 Bucharest. 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 Bucharest 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 Bucharest or Granada?

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

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 Bucharest or Granada?

In Bucharest, 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 Bucharest has to offer.

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 Bucharest or Granada?

Bucharest 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historic 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 Bucharest or Granada?

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

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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Bucharest, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Romania, 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 Bucharest and Granada, we can see that Bucharest 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 Bucharest Expensive? and Is Granada Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Bucharest or Granada?

Bucharest has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Granada. When comparing the sizes of Bucharest 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 Bucharest 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 Bucharest or Granada in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Bucharest as well as Granada. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Bucharest this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Granada for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Bucharest is generally around the same temperature as Granada. Daily temperatures in Bucharest average around 23°C (73°F), 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 Bucharest this time of the year. In the summer, Bucharest often gets less sunshine than Granada. Bucharest gets 289 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Granada receives 348 hours of full sun.

Bucharest usually gets more rain in July than Granada. Bucharest gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Granada receives 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bucharest or Granada in the Autumn?

Both Granada and Bucharest are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Bucharest for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Granada in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Bucharest is much colder than Granada in the autumn. The daily temperature in Bucharest averages around 13°C (55°F) in October, and Granada fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).

It's quite sunny in Granada. Bucharest usually receives less sunshine than Granada during autumn. Bucharest gets 177 hours of sunny skies, while Granada receives 213 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Bucharest usually receives less rain than Granada. Bucharest gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Granada receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Bucharest or Granada in the Winter?

Both Granada and Bucharest during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Bucharest in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Granada for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Bucharest can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Bucharest is much colder than Granada. Typically, the winter temperatures in Bucharest in January average around -1°C (29°F), and Granada averages at about 12°C (54°F).

In the winter, Bucharest often gets less sunshine than Granada. Bucharest gets 71 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Granada receives 171 hours of full sun.

Bucharest usually gets less rain in January than Granada. Bucharest gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Granada receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bucharest or Granada in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Bucharest and Granada. Most visitors come to Bucharest for the activities around the city during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Granada because of the natural beauty.

In April, Bucharest is generally cooler than Granada. Daily temperatures in Bucharest average around 12°C (54°F), and Granada fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Granada this time of the year. Bucharest usually receives less sunshine than Granada during spring. Bucharest gets 185 hours of sunny skies, while Granada receives 220 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Bucharest usually receives more rain than Granada. Bucharest gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Granada receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Granada and Bucharest