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

Should you visit Granada or Dublin?

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

Should I visit Granada or Dublin? 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. And you can't forget about the museums, nightlife, and food.

Dublin

Dublin is a welcoming, fun, and laid-back 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 and Dublin: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Granada or Dublin?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Dublin than Granada. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Dublin is very popular for its nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Granada attracts visitors for its museums, historical sights, hiking, and impressive beauty. Granada is famous for its Islamic architecture, charming old town, and the stunningly impressive Alhambra. Dublin is famous for its friendly and social nightlife, its local pubs, and its role as the birthplace of Guinness. It is also well known for The Guinness Storehouse.

How is Granada different from Dublin?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Granada is terrific for its museums and landmarks. Also, Dublin 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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Dublin. There are a number of museums around town including the National Museum of Ireland, the Little Museum of Dublin, and the National Gallery of Ireland.

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

Foodies will find both Granada and Dublin both to be nice 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 Dublin. Seafood has become popular around town, but you can also try traditional favorites like stew, pancakes, or coddle.

Is Granada or Dublin Better for Nightlife?

Dublin is a world-class destination for nightlife. Also, Granada is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

People head to Dublin just to party. Temple Bar is where you'll find the greatest concentration of pubs and nightlife. The city is among the friendliest and most welcoming, and this is seen even in the vibe around town at night.

The people in Granada know how to have a good time. 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.

Is Granada or Dublin Better for Music?

Dublin is an excellent place to visit for live music. However, Granada is not a live music destination.

Whether you like big venues or smaller artists, Dublin has diverse options. The best places to hear live music around town are the back street pubs that feature local groups.

Granada is not a live music destination.

Is Granada or Dublin Better for its Old Town?

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

Dublin is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. On the south side of the River Liffey are three different historic parts to the city. The Medieval Quarter is the oldest. To the east is Temple Bar, and further east is the Georgian Quarter.

Is Granada or Dublin Better for Hiking?

Granada is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Dublin 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.

Dublin is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Granada or Dublin?

Dublin 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 Dublin. Head to Grafton Street to see a number of brand name and local shops. It's a pedestrian street that is fun to wander around.

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 Dublin Better for Families?

Dublin is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Granada is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Dublin is a very family-friendly destination. Explore the waterways with the viking splash, learn about the vikings at the museum Dublina, or visit any of the other kid-friendly museums around town, or see a show at The Gaiety.

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 Granada or Dublin Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Granada and Dublin make for a very good 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 Dublin frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It's laid-back vibe and countless pubs make it a fun weekend getaway for couples.

Is Granada or Dublin Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Granada and Dublin are both very good destinations for backpackers.

Granada is very popular with the backpacker crowd. 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.

Dublin is a great city to visit for backpackers. There are a number of popular backpacker hostels around town. The pub scene is also popular with the young crowd.

Is Granada or Dublin Better for Students?

Granada is a great destination for students. Also, Dublin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Granada is a great city to visit as a student. 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.

It's common for students to visit Dublin. While student accommodation can be a bit expensive in town, the nightlife and social aspect of living in the city center makes it well worth it.

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

Visitors will find nice public transit in both Granada and Dublin.

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 Dublin, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a comprehensive bus system around town.

Is Granada or Dublin a more walkable city?

Dublin 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 Dublin. Because it is so compact and flat, it is easy to explore the city center on foot.

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 Dublin Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Dublin or Granada?

How long in Granada or Dublin?

In either Granada or Dublin, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Dublin 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 Dublin.

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

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

One day in Granada or Dublin?

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.

In Dublin, you'll find shopping and museums. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. 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 Dublin?

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.

In Dublin, you'll find museums and nightlife. 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. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Dublin has to offer.

Five days in Granada or Dublin?

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.

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

A week in Granada or Dublin?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the cultural 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 Dublin. Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Dublin. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. 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 Walking Tours in Ireland, and The Best Luxury Tours to Ireland.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Granada and Dublin, we can see that Dublin 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 Dublin would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Dublin 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 Granada Expensive? and Is Dublin Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Granada or Dublin?

Dublin has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Granada. When comparing the sizes of Granada and Dublin, 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 Dublin?

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 Dublin in the Summer?

Both Dublin and Granada during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Granada for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Dublin in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Granada is much warmer than Dublin. Typically, the summer temperatures in Granada in July average around 25°C (77°F), and Dublin averages at about 16°C (60°F).

It's quite sunny in Granada. In the summer, Granada often gets more sunshine than Dublin. Granada gets 348 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dublin receives 166 hours of full sun.

Granada usually gets less rain in July than Dublin. Granada gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Dublin receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Granada or Dublin in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Granada and Dublin. Many visitors come to Granada in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Dublin for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene during these months.

In October, Granada is generally much warmer than Dublin. Daily temperatures in Granada average around 19°C (67°F), and Dublin fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In Granada, it's very sunny this time of the year. Granada usually receives more sunshine than Dublin during autumn. Granada gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Dublin receives 97 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Granada usually receives less rain than Dublin. Granada gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Dublin receives 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Granada or Dublin in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Granada as well as Dublin. Most visitors come to Granada for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Dublin because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Granada is much warmer than Dublin in the winter. The daily temperature in Granada averages around 12°C (54°F) in January, and Dublin fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

In the winter, Granada often gets more sunshine than Dublin. Granada gets 171 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dublin receives 56 hours of full sun.

Granada usually gets more rain in January than Dublin. Granada gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Dublin receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Granada or Dublin in the Spring?

Both Dublin and Granada are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Granada because of the natural beauty. Also, the activities around the city are the main draw to Dublin this time of year.

In the spring, Granada is much warmer than Dublin. Typically, the spring temperatures in Granada in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Dublin averages at about 8°C (47°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Granada. Granada usually receives more sunshine than Dublin during spring. Granada gets 220 hours of sunny skies, while Dublin receives 157 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Granada usually receives less rain than Dublin. Granada gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Dublin receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Dublin and Granada