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

Should you visit Cape Sounion or Granada?

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

Should I visit Cape Sounion 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.

Cape Sounion

Cape Sounion is a spectacular, iconic, and impressive destination. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include food, beaches, and museums.

Granada

Granada is a beautiful, charming, and cultural city. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Cape Sounion and Granada: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Home to the Temple of Poseidon
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • 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 Cape Sounion or Granada?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Granada than Cape Sounion, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Granada is better known for its nightlife, historical sights, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Cape Sounion is more popular for its beaches. Granada is more touristy than Cape Sounion and is known for its Islamic architecture, charming old town, and the stunningly impressive Alhambra. Also, Granada is famous for The Alhambra. Cape Sounion is well known for its link to Greek mythology and its stunningly beautiful sunsets.

How is Cape Sounion different from Granada?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cape Sounion or Granada?

Cape Sounion
Granada

You'll find a number of first-rate museums and attractions in both Granada and Cape Sounion.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Cape Sounion has many famous sights for visitors. The Temple of Poseidon is the main attraction here, but also nearby you'll find the Temple of Athena. The views, history, and connection to mythology fascinates most visitors who consider this to be a spectacular sight.

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 Cape Sounion or Granada? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cape Sounion
Granada

Both Cape Sounion and Granada offer notable local cuisine and restaurants.

Cape Sounion is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are cafes as well as fine dining restaurants which are mostly located in hotels. Seafood is the cuisine of choice with many delicious Greek dishes available.

Granada offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. 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 Cape Sounion or Granada Better for Nightlife?

Cape Sounion
Granada

Granada is an excellent place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Cape Sounion is lacking in options for nightlife.

Granada has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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.

Cape Sounion is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. There are some bars and lounges that are connected to hotels. If you're spending the night, these are nice places to enjoy a drink in a beautiful setting.

Is Cape Sounion or Granada Better for Beaches?

Cape Sounion
Granada

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

Cape Sounion is a good option for a beach vacation. If you allow enough time, there are a couple of beaches where you can swim while enjoying views of the temple.

Granada is not a beach destination.


Is Cape Sounion or Granada Better for its Old Town?

Cape Sounion
Granada

Granada is very popular for its historic old town charm. However, Cape Sounion does not have a historic old town.

Granada has a world-famous historical area. The Old Town spills out around the Granada Cathedral and is filled with charming pedestrian streets, lively plazas, and many great shops.

Cape Sounion does not have a historic old town.

Is Cape Sounion or Granada Better for Hiking?

Cape Sounion
Granada

Granada is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Cape Sounion is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting 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.

Cape Sounion is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cape Sounion or Granada?

Cape Sounion
Granada

Granada is a popular place for its shopping areas. However, Cape Sounion is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Cape Sounion is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Cape Sounion or Granada Better for Families?

Cape Sounion
Granada

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Cape Sounion or Granada.

Cape Sounion is a family-friendly destination. Kids who like mythology will appreciated a trip to the famed Temple of Poseidon. It dates back to the 5th century and is dedicated to the God of the Sea. Also nearby is the Temple of Athena.

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 Cape Sounion or Granada Better for Couples?

Cape Sounion
Granada

Granada is an excellent place to visit for couples. Also, Cape Sounion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Granada makes for a fun place to visit for 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.

Cape Sounion is a nice destination for couples. Couples should definitely stay for the stunning sunset which provides dramatic oranges, pinks, and reds at the sun dips below the horizon.

Is Cape Sounion or Granada Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cape Sounion
Granada

Granada is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Cape Sounion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers 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.

Cape Sounion is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. The Temple of Poseidon is an iconic site about an hour and a half outside of Athens. It appeals to all types of travelers, including backpackers and budget travelers.


Is Cape Sounion or Granada Better for Students?

Cape Sounion
Granada

Granada is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Cape Sounion 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.

Cape Sounion is not popular with students.

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

Cape Sounion
Granada

Visitors will find notable public transit in both Cape Sounion and Granada.

Cape Sounion has some public transit options. There are local buses that travel from Athens to Cape Sounion and take between 2 and 3 hours.

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 Cape Sounion or Granada a more walkable city?

Cape Sounion
Granada

Granada is an excellent place to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, Cape Sounion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Cape Sounion is somewhat walkable. You can walk around the archeological site and the bus stops close enough that it is accessible.


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

Should I spend more time in Granada or Cape Sounion?

How long in Cape Sounion or Granada?

It's fun to spend time in either Cape Sounion 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 Cape Sounion, and 2-4 days is enough time in Granada.

Families should spend more time in Granada than Cape Sounion. 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 Cape Sounion. 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 Cape Sounion 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 Cape Sounion or Granada? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cape Sounion 1-2 
    Granada 2-4

One day in Cape Sounion or Granada?

In Cape Sounion, you'll find food and museums. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. This destination offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

In Granada, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this cultural city offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Cape Sounion or Granada?

In Cape Sounion, you'll find museums and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cape Sounion has to offer.

Granada is a fun place to experience. Visiting the old town is also a must. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the museums. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Cape Sounion or Granada?

Cape Sounion 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the cultural destination of Granada. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the museums. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.


A week in Cape Sounion or Granada?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cape Sounion. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Cape Sounion. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Granada is a popular place to visit. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Coach Bus Tours in Greece, The Best Adventure Tours to 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 Cape Sounion?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Cape Sounion is €158, 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 Cape Sounion and Granada in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cape Sounion 99
    Granada 59
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cape Sounion 198
    Granada 118
Compare Hotels in Cape Sounion and Granada

Looking for a hotel in Cape Sounion 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 Cape Sounion


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.
    Cape Sounion 26
    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:

  • Private transfer Granada downtown to Málaga airport (Agp): $288
  • Private Transfer from Playa Granada to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $209
  • Private Transfer from Molvízar to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $188
  • Private Transfer from Granada City Center to Granada Airport(GRX): $31
  • Private Transfer from Granada Airport(GRX) to Granada City Center: $31
  • Private Transfer from Granada Airport to Granada by Luxury van: $76
  • Private Transfer from Carchuna to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $207
  • One-Way Private Transfer From/To Granada Airport: $50
  • Via Ferrata Moclín with Transfers: $80
  • Private Transfer IN or OUT in Upscale Vehicle with Professional Driver: $132
  • Granada to Malaga Airport Private Transfer: $229
  • Granada to Cordoba Private Transfer: $265

Is it cheaper to fly into Cape Sounion or Granada?

Prices for flights to both Granada and Cape Sounion 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
    Cape Sounion 41
    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.
    Cape Sounion 19
    Granada 28

Tours and Activities in Granada

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

  • 2-hour Tour of the Alhambra and Albaicín Bajo: $65
  • Adventure Cahorros, Monachil/ Climbing and abseiling Granada: $91
  • Albaicín & Sacromonte Walking Tour: $17
  • Albaicín & Sacromonte: Tour with Flamenco Show: $34
  • Albaicín and Sacromonte’s Iconic Sights: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $8.99
  • Albaicin & Sacramonte Electric Bike Tour in Granada : $38
  • Albaicin and Sacromonte Evening Walking Tour: $15
  • Albaicin and Sacromonte Private Tour : $93
  • Albayzin Express Electric Bike Tour with Play Granada: $38
  • Albayzin and Sacromonte Electric Bike Tour in Granada: $60
  • Albayzin and Sacromonte Guided Walking Tour in Granada: $15
  • Albayzin and Sacromonte Private Tour at Sunset: $152

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cape Sounion 23
    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 we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cape Sounion and Granada, we can see that Cape Sounion 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 Cape Sounion would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Cape Sounion 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 Cape Sounion Expensive? and Is Granada Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Cape Sounion or Granada?

Granada has a larger population, and is about 240 times larger than the population of Cape Sounion. When comparing the sizes of Cape Sounion 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 Cape Sounion 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 Cape Sounion or Granada in the Summer?

Both Granada and Cape Sounion are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Cape Sounion because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Granada this time of year.

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

It's quite sunny in Granada. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cape Sounion. Cape Sounion usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Granada during summer. Cape Sounion gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while Granada receives 348 hours of full sun in the summer.

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


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

Should I visit Cape Sounion or Granada in the Autumn?

Both Granada and Cape Sounion during the autumn are popular places to visit. The natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Cape Sounion 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, Cape Sounion is generally around the same temperature as Granada. Daily temperatures in Cape Sounion average around 19°C (67°F), and Granada fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).

In Granada, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Cape Sounion. In the autumn, Cape Sounion often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Granada. Cape Sounion gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Granada receives 213 hours of full sun.

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


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

Should I visit Cape Sounion or Granada in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Cape Sounion and Granada. Many travelers come to Cape Sounion for the museums and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Granada in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

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

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

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


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

Should I visit Cape Sounion or Granada in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Cape Sounion as well as Granada. Many visitors come to Cape Sounion in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Granada for the natural beauty during these months.

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

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Granada. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cape Sounion this time of the year. In the spring, Cape Sounion often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Granada. Cape Sounion gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Granada receives 220 hours of full sun.

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


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

Typical Weather for Granada and Cape Sounion

Cape Sounion 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)