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

Should you visit Granada or Geneva?

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

Should I visit Granada or Geneva? 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. It's also known for food, hiking, and shopping.

Geneva

Geneva is a international, professional, and classy city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Granada and Geneva: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Granada or Geneva?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Geneva than Granada. While Granada is larger than Geneva, Geneva has more sights and attractions for tourists. Geneva is more popular for its food, shopping, and big city activities, while Granada is known for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, hiking, and impressive beauty. Granada is more touristy than Geneva and is popular for its Islamic architecture, charming old town, and the stunningly impressive Alhambra. Geneva is popular for its role as a global hub for the United Nations, the Red Cross, and the World Health Organization. It is also home to The Geneva Water Fountain (The Jet d'Eau).

How is Granada different from Geneva?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Granada is an unbeatable place for its museums and landmarks. Also, Geneva is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

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.

Geneva offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Famous sights and landmarks include the spectacular Water Jet, St Pierre Cathedral, and the Palais des Nations. There are also impressive art and history museums in the city.

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

Geneva 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 Geneva. The city has an amazing mix of traditional Swiss restaurants as well as diverse ethnic options. Traditional dishes include fondue and raclette, both of which involve the decadent Swiss cheese.

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 Geneva Better for Nightlife?

Granada is a great destination for nightlife. Also, Geneva is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

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.

If you're looking for night time activities Geneva has a few options to choose from. During the day the city is all business, but at night the professionals, interns, students, and NGO workers all come together to enjoy a drink at a bar or dance at one of the city's diverse clubs.

Is Granada or Geneva Better for its Old Town?

Granada is an unbeatable place for its historic old town. Also, Geneva is still popular, but not quite as popular for its 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Geneva. The Old Town offers a number of charming streets where you can wander as well as historical buildings including St. Pierre Cathedral.

Is Granada or Geneva Better for Hiking?

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

Geneva is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Granada or Geneva?

Geneva is a world-class destination for shopping. Also, Granada is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Geneva. Famous for its posh shops and luxury brands, this city is a popular shopping destination. From chic boutiques to deluxe toy stores, you'll find something for everyone. In particular, the city is known for its Swiss watches, Swiss Army knives, chocolate, and wine.

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 Geneva Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Granada or Geneva.

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 Geneva. This diverse city has a number of chocolate shops, toy stores, and parks where kids can play. They'll be impressed by the Water Jet and there are few places where you can swim in the lake when the weather is warm.

Is Granada or Geneva Better for Couples?

Granada is a great destination for romance. Also, Geneva is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

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.

Geneva makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Wandering Old Town, sampling Swiss chocolate, and enjoying one of the many ethnic restaurants around town all make for great date activities. Fondue in a traditional restaurant is also a not to be missed experience.

Is Granada or Geneva Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Granada is a great destination for backpackers. However, Geneva is a city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to 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.

Geneva is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. The city is often overlooked by backpackers as it is pretty expensive. Many hotels cater to the business traveler crowd, but there are a few hostels to choose from.

Is Granada or Geneva Better for Students?

Both Granada and Geneva are superb destinations for students.

Granada is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. 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.

Geneva is very popular with students. The University of Geneva attracts many international students and the city is quite diverse. It feels like a mixing bowl of cultures, so students will feel very welcomed and comfortable here.

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

Geneva is a world-class destination for times when you don't have a car. Also, Granada is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

With a huge network, the transit system in Geneva can get you around easily. The very comprehensive system includes trams, buses, and boats.

You'll find some public transit in Granada, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. 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.

Is Granada or Geneva a more walkable city?

Granada and Geneva 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.

Geneva is a very walkable city. Most areas where visitors spend their time can be easily explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Geneva or Granada?

How long in Granada or Geneva?

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

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

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.

Because Geneva is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. 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 Geneva?

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.

Because Geneva is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Geneva has to offer.

Five days in Granada or Geneva?

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.

Geneva 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 Geneva?

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 Geneva. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Geneva. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. 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, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Switzerland, and The Best Adventure Tours to Switzerland.

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

Which is Bigger, Granada or Geneva?

Granada has a larger population, and is about 29% larger than the population of Geneva. When comparing the sizes of Granada and Geneva, 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 Geneva?

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 Geneva in the Summer?

Both Geneva and Granada during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Granada for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Geneva because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Granada is a little warmer than Geneva in the summer. The daily temperature in Granada averages around 25°C (77°F) in July, and Geneva fluctuates around 22°C (71°F).

In Geneva, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Granada. In the summer, Granada often gets more sunshine than Geneva. Granada gets 348 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Geneva receives 285 hours of full sun.

Granada usually gets less rain in July than Geneva. Granada gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Geneva receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Granada or Geneva in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Granada and Geneva. The autumn months attract visitors to Granada because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Geneva this time of year.

In the autumn, Granada is a little warmer than Geneva. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Granada in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Geneva averages at about 14°C (56°F).

In Granada, it's very sunny this time of the year. Granada usually receives more sunshine than Geneva during autumn. Granada gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Geneva receives 127 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Granada usually receives less rain than Geneva. Granada gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Geneva receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Granada or Geneva in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Granada as well as Geneva. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Granada this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Geneva for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Geneva. In January, Granada is generally much warmer than Geneva. Daily temperatures in Granada average around 12°C (54°F), and Geneva fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

In the winter, Granada often gets more sunshine than Geneva. Granada gets 171 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Geneva receives 62 hours of full sun.

Granada usually gets more rain in January than Geneva. Granada gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Geneva receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Granada or Geneva in the Spring?

Both Geneva and Granada are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Granada for the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Geneva in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Granada is a little warmer than Geneva in the spring. The daily temperature in Granada averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Geneva fluctuates around 11°C (53°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Granada. Granada usually receives more sunshine than Geneva during spring. Granada gets 220 hours of sunny skies, while Geneva receives 174 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Granada usually receives less rain than Geneva. Granada gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Geneva receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Geneva and Granada