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

Should you visit Granada or Caltagirone?

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

Should I visit Granada or Caltagirone? 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 charming, cultural, and historic city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and hiking.

Caltagirone

Caltagirone is a charming, quaint, and friendly city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Granada and Caltagirone: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Granada or Caltagirone?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Granada than Caltagirone, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Granada is better known for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Caltagirone is more popular for its shopping. Granada is more touristy than Caltagirone and is popular for its Islamic architecture, charming old town, and the stunningly impressive Alhambra. Also, Granada is famous for The Alhambra. Caltagirone is well known for its pottery and ceramic industry as well as the Scalinata di Santa Maria del Monte staircase.

How is Granada different from Caltagirone?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Caltagirone 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 Caltagirone?

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

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Granada on the map. 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.

Caltagirone is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Many visitors come to see the famed Scalinata di Santa Maria del Monte, which is a 142 step staircase that connects the upper and lower parts of the city. The staircase highlights the city's ceramic and pottery industry, as every step is decorated with tiles.

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

Foodies will find both Granada and Caltagirone both to be notable destinations.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around 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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Caltagirone. There are some great local restaurants that serve seafood and other local specialties.

Is Granada or Caltagirone Better for Nightlife?

Granada is well known for its evening party scene. However, Caltagirone is not particularly known for nightlife.

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.

Caltagirone doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. Many people visit as a day trip and the town isn't known for its nightlife scene.

Is Granada or Caltagirone Better for its Old Town?

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

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.

Caltagirone is a good destination for visiting its old town. It is known for its pottery and ceramics, which have been incorporated into many of the architectural elements around town.

Is Granada or Caltagirone Better for Hiking?

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

Caltagirone is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Granada or Caltagirone?

Caltagirone 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 Caltagirone. Pottery and ceramic shopping is a highlight of a visit to town.

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 Caltagirone Better for Families?

Granada is a city with good options for its family-friendly activities. However, Caltagirone 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, Caltagirone is not always the best place to visit. Kids may enjoy running up and down the famous Scalinata di Santa Maria del Monte staircase. The town also hosts some fun festivals throughout the year, and if you're traveling with kids, these would be the times to visit.

Is Granada or Caltagirone Better for Couples?

Granada is well known for couples. Also, Caltagirone is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

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.

Caltagirone is a nice destination for couples. Pottery shopping and exploring the town make this a nice option for a day trip or overnight visit.

Is Granada or Caltagirone Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Granada is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Caltagirone is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Many people pass in and out of the town on a day trip or stopover, so you won't find many hostels.

Is Granada or Caltagirone Better for Students?

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

Students come from all over to stay in 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.

Caltagirone is not popular with students.

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

Visitors will find notable public transit in both Granada and Caltagirone.

Granada has some public transit options. 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.

You'll find some public transit in Caltagirone, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Buses travel in and out of town.

Is Granada or Caltagirone a more walkable city?

Granada is well known for its ease of walking around. Also, Caltagirone is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Caltagirone is somewhat walkable. Parts of the town are steep, but many people choose to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Caltagirone or Granada?

How long in Granada or Caltagirone?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Granada or Caltagirone to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Granada than Caltagirone because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Granada, and 1-2 days is enough time in Caltagirone.

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

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historic city of Granada. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Most people visit for the museums. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

In Caltagirone, you'll find museums 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.

A weekend in Granada or Caltagirone?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the charming destination of Granada. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

In Caltagirone, 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 Caltagirone has to offer.

Five days in Granada or Caltagirone?

The cultural city of Granada offers shopping and museums. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Caltagirone 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.

A week in Granada or Caltagirone?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Granada. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people visit for the museums. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Caltagirone. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Caltagirone. 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in Italy, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Italy.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Granada and Caltagirone, we can see that Granada is more expensive. And not only is Caltagirone much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Caltagirone would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Caltagirone 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 Caltagirone.

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

Which is Bigger, Granada or Caltagirone?

Granada has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Caltagirone. When comparing the sizes of Granada and Caltagirone, 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 Caltagirone?

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 Granada or Caltagirone in the Summer?

Both Caltagirone and Granada during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Granada in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Caltagirone for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Granada is generally around the same temperature as Caltagirone. Daily temperatures in Granada average around 25°C (77°F), and Caltagirone fluctuates around 26°C (79°F).

In Caltagirone, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Granada. In the summer, Granada often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Caltagirone. Granada gets 348 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Caltagirone receives 325 hours of full sun.

Granada usually gets less rain in July than Caltagirone. Granada gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Caltagirone receives 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Granada or Caltagirone in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Granada and Caltagirone. Most visitors come to Granada for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Caltagirone because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Granada is around the same temperature as Caltagirone in the autumn. The daily temperature in Granada averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Caltagirone fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).

In Granada, it's very sunny this time of the year. Granada usually receives more sunshine than Caltagirone during autumn. Granada gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Caltagirone receives 189 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Granada usually receives less rain than Caltagirone. Granada gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Caltagirone receives 75 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Granada or Caltagirone in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Granada as well as Caltagirone. The winter months attract visitors to Granada because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Caltagirone this time of year.

In the winter, Granada is a little warmer than Caltagirone. Typically, the winter temperatures in Granada in January average around 12°C (54°F), and Caltagirone averages at about 10°C (51°F).

In the winter, Granada often gets more sunshine than Caltagirone. Granada gets 171 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Caltagirone receives 153 hours of full sun.

Granada usually gets more rain in January than Caltagirone. Granada gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Caltagirone receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Granada or Caltagirone in the Spring?

Both Caltagirone and Granada are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The natural beauty are the main draw to Granada this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Caltagirone for the natural beauty.

In April, Granada is generally around the same temperature as Caltagirone. Daily temperatures in Granada average around 16°C (60°F), and Caltagirone fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

It's quite sunny in Caltagirone. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Granada. Granada usually receives more sunshine than Caltagirone during spring. Granada gets 220 hours of sunny skies, while Caltagirone receives 204 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Granada usually receives more rain than Caltagirone. Granada gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Caltagirone receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Caltagirone and Granada