A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Granada vs. Galway for Attractions, Nightlife, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Granada or Galway?

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

Should I visit Granada or Galway? 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 historic, beautiful, and charming city. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and hiking.

Galway

Galway is a vibrant, lively, and friendly 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 Galway: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Granada or Galway?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Granada than Galway, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Granada is more popular for its museums, historical sights, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Galway is known for its big city activities. Granada is more touristy than Galway and is popular for its Islamic architecture, charming old town, and the stunningly impressive Alhambra. It is also home to The Alhambra. Galway is popular for its many festivals, its traditional pubs, and its live Irish folk music.

How is Granada different from Galway?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Granada is an unbeatable place for its sights and museums. Also, Galway is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Granada that are not to be missed. 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.

Galway offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Popular landmarks and sights in town include Eyre Square, St. Nicholas' Church, the Galway Cathedral, and the Galway City Museum.

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

Foodies will find both Granada and Galway both to be good 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 Galway. There are local pubs and traditional restaurants offering authentic Irish dishes. Popular options include Irish Stew, Cockles and Mussels, and Galway Oysters.

Is Granada or Galway Better for Nightlife?

Both Granada and Galway have excellent 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 Galway know how to have a good time. The nightlife scene is among the best in Ireland. The city embraces the friendly Irish hospitality and there are laid back pubs and bars around town as well as a few trendy nightclubs.

Is Granada or Galway Better for its Old Town?

Granada is an unbeatable place for its historic old town. However, Galway does not have a historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Granada offers plenty to see. The Old Town spills out around the Granada Cathedral and is filled with charming pedestrian streets, lively plazas, and many great shops.

Galway does not have a historic old town.

Is Granada or Galway Better for Hiking?

Granada is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Galway is not a hiking destination.

Granada is a popular spot for hiking. 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.

Galway is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Granada or Galway?

Shoppers can find a variety of good stores in both Granada and Galway.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in 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.

Galway offers some nice shopping areas. You'll find shopping both in the city center as well as at suburban shopping malls. For some of the best shopping head to The Latin Quarter, The Westend or the outdoor market which is found in Church lane by St Nicholas' Church.

Is Granada or Galway Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Granada or Galway.

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 Galway. Kids will enjoy the National Aquarium Galway or simply wandering around the Latin Quarter. About 15 minutes outside of the city is the Wildlands Adventure Park which has ziplines, ropes courses, and other adrenaline filled activities. Brigit's Garden is another fun place to let kids stretch their legs.

Is Granada or Galway Better for Couples?

Granada is notable for romance. Also, Galway is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Granada is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Galway makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are nice restaurants, beautiful walks, and a few parks to explore. There are also several romantic places just outside of town that make for a great day trip.

Is Granada or Galway Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Granada and Galway are both excellent 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.

Galway is a great city to visit for backpackers. There are plenty of hostels in the area and it's easy to meet other travelers.

Is Granada or Galway Better for Students?

Granada is notable for students. Also, Galway is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

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.

Plenty of students visit Galway. The city has a solid student population with a number of activities and entertainment options.

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

Visitors will find good public transit in both Granada and Galway.

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 Galway, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are two bus companies in Galway, Bus Eireann and City Direct.

Is Granada or Galway a more walkable city?

Granada and Galway are excellent 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.

Galway is a very walkable city. If you stay in central Galway, the area is generally compact and walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Galway or Granada?

How long in Granada or Galway?

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

Families should spend more time in Granada than Galway. 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 Galway. 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 Galway 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 Galway?

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 Galway, you'll find nightlife and food. 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 Galway?

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 Galway, 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 Galway has to offer.

Five days in Granada or Galway?

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.

Galway 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 Galway?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historic 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 Galway. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Galway. 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 Budget Tours to Ireland, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Ireland.

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

Which is Bigger, Granada or Galway?

Granada has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Galway. When comparing the sizes of Granada and Galway, 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 Galway?

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 Galway in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Granada as well as Galway. Many visitors come to Granada in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Galway for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Granada is much warmer than Galway in the summer. The daily temperature in Granada averages around 25°C (77°F) in July, and Galway fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Granada this time of the year. In the summer, Granada often gets more sunshine than Galway. Granada gets 348 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Galway receives 142 hours of full sun.

Granada usually gets less rain in July than Galway. Granada gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Galway receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Granada or Galway in the Autumn?

Both Galway and Granada are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Granada for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Galway because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Granada is much warmer than Galway. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Granada in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Galway averages at about 11°C (52°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Granada. Granada usually receives more sunshine than Galway during autumn. Granada gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Galway receives 96 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Galway. In October, Granada usually receives less rain than Galway. Granada gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Galway receives 142 mm (5.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Granada or Galway in the Winter?

Both Galway and Granada during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Granada because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Galway this time of year.

In January, Granada is generally much warmer than Galway. Daily temperatures in Granada average around 12°C (54°F), and Galway fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

In the winter, Granada often gets more sunshine than Galway. Granada gets 171 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Galway receives 59 hours of full sun.

Galway gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Granada usually gets less rain in January than Galway. Granada gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Galway receives 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Granada or Galway in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Granada and Galway. The natural beauty are the main draw to Granada this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Galway for the activities around the city.

Granada is much warmer than Galway in the spring. The daily temperature in Granada averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Galway fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

In Granada, it's very sunny this time of the year. Granada usually receives more sunshine than Galway during spring. Granada gets 220 hours of sunny skies, while Galway receives 153 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Granada usually receives less rain than Galway. Granada gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Galway receives 52 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Galway and Granada