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

Should you visit Granada or Cefalu?

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

Should I visit Granada or Cefalu? 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 beautiful, charming, and cultural city. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the food, hiking, and shopping.

Cefalu

Cefalu is a coastal, historic, and touristy fishing village. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include food, beaches, and hiking.

Granada and Cefalu: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Granada or Cefalu?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Granada. Although Granada and Cefalu are popular destinations, Granada has more sights and attractions for tourists. Granada is very popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, hiking, and shopping, while Cefalu attracts visitors for its food, resorts, beaches, and small town charm. Granada is famous for its Islamic architecture, charming old town, and the stunningly impressive Alhambra. It is also well known for The Alhambra. Cefalu is famous for its beautiful blue waters, relaxing atmosphere, and great local food.

How is Granada different from Cefalu?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Granada is a world-class destination for its museums and history. However, Cefalu is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

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.

Cefalu offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most visitors spend their time on the beach or getting lost in the town's charm, but if you're looking for specific sights and museums you can check out the Cathedral, Museo Mandralisca, or Tempio di Diana.

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

Cefalu is an excellent place to visit for its restaurants. Also, Granada is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Cefalu. Despite being a popular tourist hot spot, there are still charming restaurants around town that serve up local dishes made with local ingredients. Many seaside restaurants have a charming atmosphere and a unique Sicilian flare.

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 Granada or Cefalu Better for Nightlife?

Granada is a very popular place for nightlife and partying. However, Cefalu is lacking in good options for its evening party scene.

Granada has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Cefalu is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. The town is small and mellow without a huge party scene. There are some beach resorts with bars and clubs attached where you can enjoy a drink by the water.

Is Granada or Cefalu Better for Resorts?

Cefalu is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Granada is not a resort destination.

Cefalu is known as a popular and fun resort destination. There's a wide range of resorts to choose from including Club Med and even a nature hotel.

Granada is not a resort destination.

Is Granada or Cefalu Better for Beaches?

Cefalu is an excellent place to visit for its beaches. However, Granada is not a beach destination.

Cefalu is considered a top beach destination. The town has nice beaches with good swimming and kayaking opportunities. Some of the beaches can get quite crowded but the water is blue and the views are nice. Some of the best beaches near town include Cefalu Beach, Kalura Beach, and Lido Angeli Del Mare.

Granada is not a beach destination.

Is Granada or Cefalu Better for its Old Town?

Granada is a world-class destination for its old town. Also, Cefalu is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its historic old town charm.

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

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Cefalu. The town is charming and small, making it a nice place to explore.

Is Granada or Cefalu Better for Hiking?

Granada is a very popular place for its hiking trails. Also, Cefalu is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

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.

Cefalu is a good destination for hiking. There are a few walking trails outside of town but the most popular is hiking to the top of La Rocca. It's at least an hours walk to the top but from there you can enjoy one of the best views of the harbor.

Is the Shopping Better in Granada or Cefalu?

Granada is a good destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Cefalu is lacking in good options for its shopping areas.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Granada. 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.

Cefalu has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. It's a small, touristy town, so shopping isn't the main attraction. There are some interesting shops that are fun to pop into though.

Is Granada or Cefalu Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Granada or Cefalu.

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 Cefalu. Kids will enjoy beach time or wandering down the promenade, Lungomare. You can swim or simply relax by the water. Another fun activity is to climb the nearby mountain of La Rocca. The kids might even spot a local animal.

Is Granada or Cefalu Better for Couples?

Cefalu is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Granada is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Cefalu makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. It's natural beauty and Italian atmosphere make this a perfect couples destination. There are water activities for the adventurous as well as beautiful beaches and great restaurants.

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.

Is Granada or Cefalu Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Granada is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Cefalu is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Many 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.

Cefalu is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There's not a big backpacker vibe to the town, and you won't find tons of hostels, but there are affordable places that budget travelers can stay.

Is Granada or Cefalu Better for Students?

Granada is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Cefalu 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.

Cefalu is not popular with students.

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

Granada is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Cefalu is lacking in good options for its public transit.

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.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Cefalu. Public transit is limited but taxis are a good alternative for getting out of town and into the surrounding areas.

Is Granada or Cefalu a more walkable city?

Granada and Cefalu are superb when it comes to walkability.

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.

Cefalu is a very walkable city. The town is small enough to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Cefalu or Granada?

How long in Granada or Cefalu?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Granada and Cefalu. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Granada than in Cefalu. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Granada, and 1-3 days is enough time in Cefalu.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Granada than Cefalu 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 Cefalu?

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.

Cefalu is a small town with plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This fishing village 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 Cefalu?

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.

Cefalu might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. 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 Cefalu has to offer.

Five days in Granada or Cefalu?

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.

Cefalu is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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 Cefalu?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the beautiful 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cefalu. Since Cefalu is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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 Adventure Tours to Italy, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Granada or Cefalu?

Granada has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Cefalu. When comparing the sizes of Granada and Cefalu, 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 Cefalu?

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 Cefalu in the Summer?

Both Cefalu and Granada are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Granada for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Cefalu because of the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Granada is around the same temperature as Cefalu. Typically, the summer temperatures in Granada in July average around 25°C (77°F), and Cefalu averages at about 26°C (79°F).

It's quite sunny in Cefalu. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Granada. Granada usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Cefalu during summer. Granada gets 348 hours of sunny skies, while Cefalu receives 325 hours of full sun in the summer.

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

Should I visit Granada or Cefalu in the Autumn?

Both Cefalu and Granada during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Granada because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Cefalu this time of year.

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

It's quite sunny in Granada. In the autumn, Granada often gets more sunshine than Cefalu. Granada gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cefalu receives 189 hours of full sun.

Granada usually gets less rain in October than Cefalu. Granada gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Cefalu receives 75 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Granada or Cefalu in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Granada and Cefalu. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Granada this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Cefalu for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

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

Granada usually receives more sunshine than Cefalu during winter. Granada gets 171 hours of sunny skies, while Cefalu receives 153 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Granada usually receives more rain than Cefalu. Granada gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Cefalu receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Granada or Cefalu in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Granada as well as Cefalu. Many travelers come to Granada for the natural beauty. Additionally, many visitors come to Cefalu in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Granada is around the same temperature as Cefalu. Typically, the spring temperatures in Granada in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Cefalu averages at about 15°C (58°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cefalu. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Granada this time of the year. In the spring, Granada often gets more sunshine than Cefalu. Granada gets 220 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cefalu receives 204 hours of full sun.

Granada usually gets more rain in April than Cefalu. Granada gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Cefalu receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Cefalu and Granada