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

Should you visit Granada or Budapest?

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

Should I visit Granada or Budapest? 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.

Granada

Granada is a cultural, historic, and beautiful city. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Budapest

Budapest is a bustling, cultural, and artistic city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, shopping, and museums.

Granada and Budapest: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Granada or Budapest?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Budapest than Granada. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Budapest is very popular for its shopping and big city activities, while Granada attracts visitors for its museums, food, historical sights, hiking, and impressive beauty. Granada is famous for its Islamic architecture, charming old town, and the stunningly impressive Alhambra. Budapest is famous for its thermal hot springs, European spas, rich culture, and wild nightlife scene. It is also well known for The Hungarian Parliament Building.

How is Granada different from Budapest?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Granada is terrific for its historical sights. Also, Budapest is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

The museums and tourist attractions in Granada are world-renowned. 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.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Budapest can be an interesting and educational experience. Famous sights include the Buda Castle and Castle Hill, the Hungarian Parliament Building, and St. Stephen's Basilica.

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

Granada is very good for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Budapest is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Granada has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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.

Budapest may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Traditional dishes tend to be heavy on the meat and bread. They make good comfort food and are very filling meals. The city also has many great pastry shops. Make sure you check out the stuffed cabbage, goulash, and chimney cake.

Is Granada or Budapest Better for Nightlife?

Both Granada and Budapest have great vibes after the sun sets.

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.

The people in Budapest know how to have a good time. The city's active nightlife includes dance clubs, local pubs, and cultural festivals throughout the year.

Is Granada or Budapest Better for its Old Town?

Granada is terrific for its old town. Also, Budapest is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its historic old town charm.

Granada has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. The Old Town spills out around the Granada Cathedral and is filled with charming pedestrian streets, lively plazas, and many great shops.

Many visitors go to Budapest to see the historical old town. The city grew from the merging of two towns, Buda and Pest, which were divided by the Danube River. Buda is the more historical part of town and Pest is more modern.

Is Granada or Budapest Better for Hiking?

Granada is great for hiking. However, Budapest 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.

Budapest is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Granada or Budapest?

Budapest is an excellent place to visit for shopping. Also, Granada is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Budapest. The city has a diverse shopping scene that you can experience by visiting the Central Market or Váci Street.

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.

Is Granada or Budapest Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Granada or Budapest.

Granada is a family-friendly city. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Budapest. The city has the typical trampoline parks and playgrounds, but kids will also enjoy the baths and pools around town. Do take note that most of the museums are less hands on than kids prefer.

Is Granada or Budapest Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Granada and Budapest make for a great place to visit.

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.

Couples visit Budapest frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. With it's many beautiful neighborhoods, and unique entertainment options including the opera, this is a fun city for couples. The baths and spas also make for a great experience for couples.

Is Granada or Budapest Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Budapest 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 Budapest. The city is more affordable than many large cities and it has a number of fun hostels to choose from. There's a good backpacker vibe around town with many places to meet and hang out with other 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.

Is Granada or Budapest Better for Students?

Budapest is a world-class destination for its student-friendly activities. Also, Granada is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Many students frequent Budapest. The city has a great international vibe with several good universities that are welcoming to international students that are studying abroad.

Granada is very popular with students. 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 Granada or Budapest Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Budapest is a world-class destination for times when you don't have a car. Also, Granada is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

With a huge network, the transit system in Budapest can get you around easily. The metro, trams, and buses make it easy to get around town.

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 Granada or Budapest a more walkable city?

Budapest is a world-class destination for its walkability. Also, Granada is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Budapest. Pest is very flat, making for an easy stroll, while Buda is more hilly.

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.

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

Should I spend more time in Budapest or Granada?

How long in Granada or Budapest?

In either Granada or Budapest, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Budapest than Granada because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Granada, and 2-5 days is enough time in Budapest.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Budapest 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 Budapest.

One day in Granada or Budapest?

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.

Because Budapest 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.

A weekend in Granada or Budapest?

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.

Because Budapest 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. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Budapest has to offer.

Five days in Granada or Budapest?

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.

Budapest 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 Budapest has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Granada or Budapest?

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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Budapest. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Budapest. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Madrid, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Barcelona, The Best 10-Day Tours from Budapest, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Budapest.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Granada and Budapest, we can see that Granada is more expensive. And not only is Budapest much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Budapest would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Budapest 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 Granada would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Granada than you might in Budapest.

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

Which is Bigger, Granada or Budapest?

Budapest has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Granada. When comparing the sizes of Granada and Budapest, 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 Granada or Budapest?

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 Granada or Budapest in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Granada is a little warmer than Budapest. Typically, the summer temperatures in Granada in July average around 25°C (77°F), and Budapest averages at about 21°C (70°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Budapest this time of the year. In Granada, it's very sunny this time of the year. Granada usually receives more sunshine than Budapest during summer. Granada gets 348 hours of sunny skies, while Budapest receives 278 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Granada usually receives less rain than Budapest. Granada gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Budapest receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Granada or Budapest in the Autumn?

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

In October, Granada is generally much warmer than Budapest. Daily temperatures in Granada average around 19°C (67°F), and Budapest fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Granada this time of the year. In the autumn, Granada often gets more sunshine than Budapest. Granada gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Budapest receives 152 hours of full sun.

Granada usually gets more rain in October than Budapest. Granada gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Budapest receives 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Granada or Budapest in the Winter?

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

Budapest can be very cold during winter. Granada is much warmer than Budapest in the winter. The daily temperature in Granada averages around 12°C (54°F) in January, and Budapest fluctuates around -1°C (31°F).

Granada usually receives more sunshine than Budapest during winter. Granada gets 171 hours of sunny skies, while Budapest receives 61 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Granada usually receives more rain than Budapest. Granada gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Budapest receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Granada or Budapest in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Granada is a little warmer than Budapest. Typically, the spring temperatures in Granada in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Budapest averages at about 12°C (53°F).

It's quite sunny in Granada. In the spring, Granada often gets more sunshine than Budapest. Granada gets 220 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Budapest receives 178 hours of full sun.

Granada usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Budapest. Granada gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Budapest receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Budapest and Granada