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

Should you visit Granada or Florence?

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

Should I visit Granada or Florence? 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 museums, nightlife, and food.

Florence

Florence is a historical, artistic, and iconic city. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Granada and Florence: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Granada or Florence?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Florence than Granada. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Florence is very popular for its food and shopping, while Granada attracts visitors for its nightlife and hiking. Florence is more touristy than Granada and is known for its iconic beauty, world-renowned Renaissance art and architecture, and beautifully maintained gardens. It is also well known for The Duomo (Santa Maria del Fiore). Granada is famous for its Islamic architecture, charming old town, and the stunningly impressive Alhambra.

How is Granada different from Florence?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Spend time exploring the fantastic sights and museums in either Granada or Florence.

Travelers visit Granada from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. 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.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Florence are among the most recognizable in the world. Because of it's important role in the Renaissance, the city has many world-renowned museums that you can visit. Famous sights and landmarks include the Uffizi Gallery, the Duomo, and the Academy Gallery.

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

Florence is a world-class destination for its restaurants. Also, Granada is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

For foodies, Florence is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Once you've worked up an appetite exploring museums and churches, you'll find many amazing local restaurants around town. Local dishes incorporate a lot of hearty vegetables and meats. Famous dishes include a Florentine steak dish, rabbit, and a bean bed and cabbage soup.

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 Florence Better for Nightlife?

Granada is a great city for nightlife and partying. Also, Florence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Granada has something for everybody. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Florence. You'll find the most active nightlife in the Santa Croce neighborhood. The area attracts study abroad students as well as tourists who party late into the night.

Is Granada or Florence Better for its Old Town?

It's fun to wander around the fantastic old towns in both Granada and Florence.

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.

With a famous historical old-town, Florence offers plenty to see. The historic center of the city is where you'll find many of the most beautiful buildings, art works, and quaint streets. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it was at the heart of the Renaissance period.

Is Granada or Florence Better for Hiking?

Granada is a great city for hiking. However, Florence 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.

Florence is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Granada or Florence?

Florence 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 Florence. There are many shops in the tourist heart of the city. Most are geared specifically to tourists so you may have to search to find a more authentic shopping experience. Famous items available in the city include gold jewelry, ceramics, leather, and perfume.

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 Florence Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Granada or Florence.

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 Florence. Most famous for its art and history, the city also has a number of activities that kids will enjoy. There's a carousel and a park that are perfect to let the little ones run around. There are a few kid-friendly museums, as well as a historic city center that will mesmerize the old and young alike.

Is Granada or Florence Better for Couples?

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

Florence makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Art and history lovers will enjoy a visit to this truly beautiful city. Couples who enjoy museums, historic buildings, and world-renowned art, will find plenty to do in this city.

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 Florence Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Florence 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 Florence. The city is part of a popular route through Italy, and you'll find many backpackers and students in town. There are also many hostels, so you should have no trouble meeting other young 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 Florence Better for Students?

Florence 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 Florence. Many students visit this city as part of a short term study abroad program, or for the entire length of their studies. The city is beautiful, and whether your focus is art, history, or culture, this city will not disappoint.

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 Florence Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

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

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

Is Granada or Florence a more walkable city?

Florence 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 Florence. Most people explore the city 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 Florence Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Florence or Granada?

How long in Granada or Florence?

Both Granada and Florence have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Florence than in Granada. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Granada, and 2-7 days is enough time in Florence.

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

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

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

One day in Granada or Florence?

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.

In Florence, you'll find nightlife and food. 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 Florence?

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.

In Florence, you'll find food and shopping. 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 Florence has to offer.

Five days in Granada or Florence?

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.

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

A week in Granada or Florence?

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 Florence. In Florence, you'll find museums and nightlife. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

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 Luxury Tours to Italy, and The Best Budget Tours to Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Granada or Florence?

Florence has a larger population, and is about 56% larger than the population of Granada. When comparing the sizes of Granada and Florence, 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 Florence?

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 Florence in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Granada and Florence. Many travelers come to Granada for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Florence in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Florence this time of the year. In Granada, it's very sunny this time of the year. Granada usually receives more sunshine than Florence during summer. Granada gets 348 hours of sunny skies, while Florence receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Granada usually receives less rain than Florence. Granada gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Florence receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Granada or Florence in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Granada as well as Florence. 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 Florence for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Granada is generally a little warmer than Florence. Daily temperatures in Granada average around 19°C (67°F), and Florence fluctuates around 16°C (61°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 Florence. Granada gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Florence receives 177 hours of full sun.

Granada usually gets less rain in October than Florence. Granada gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Florence receives 96 mm (3.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Granada or Florence in the Winter?

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

Granada is much warmer than Florence in the winter. The daily temperature in Granada averages around 12°C (54°F) in January, and Florence fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

Granada usually receives more sunshine than Florence during winter. Granada gets 171 hours of sunny skies, while Florence receives 105 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Granada usually receives more rain than Florence. Granada gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Florence receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Granada or Florence in the Spring?

Both Florence and Granada during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Granada because of the natural beauty. Furthermore, the natural beauty are the main draw to Florence this time of year.

In the spring, Granada is a little warmer than Florence. Typically, the spring temperatures in Granada in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Florence averages at about 14°C (57°F).

It's quite sunny in Granada. In the spring, Granada often gets more sunshine than Florence. Granada gets 220 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Florence receives 192 hours of full sun.

Granada usually gets less rain in April than Florence. Granada gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Florence receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Florence and Granada