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

Should you visit Granada or Genoa?

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

Should I visit Granada or Genoa? 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. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Genoa

Genoa is a vibrant, colorful, and energetic port city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Granada and Genoa: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Granada or Genoa?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Granada than Genoa. While Genoa is larger than Granada, Granada has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Granada is better known for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Genoa is more popular for its food and beaches. Granada is well known for its Islamic architecture, charming old town, and the stunningly impressive Alhambra. Also, Granada is famous for The Alhambra. Genoa is well known for its maritime history, its vibrant cultural scene, and being the birthplace of Christopher Columbus.

How is Granada different from Genoa?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Granada is terrific for its historical sights. Also, Genoa is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its sights and museums.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Granada has many famous sights for visitors. 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 Genoa. The city has a long history and it is filled with monuments, palaces, and museums. Popular places to visit include the Via Garibaldi Palaces, the aquarium (one of the largest in Europe), the Cathedral of San Lorenzo, and Santi Ambrogio.

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

Genoa 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 Genoa. The city's maritime roots have influenced its cuisine and you'll find seafood in many local dishes. Other classic Genoese flavors include pesto, anchovies, fried squid, and focaccia and 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 Genoa Better for Nightlife?

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

Many people head to Granada for the nightlife scene. 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 Genoa. The city lights up at night and it's fun to experience the activity and energy. There's a nice evening atmosphere with many people out and about. You can grab drinks in Piazza Lavagna or see live music in Porto Antico. There are also many bars and clubs around town.

Is Granada or Genoa Better for Beaches?

Genoa is a decent place to visit for its beaches. However, Granada is not a beach destination.

Genoa is a good spot to see the beach. While many people head to other nearby towns to enjoy the beach, you will also find a beach just ten minutes from the old town by bus. Boccadasse is one of the closest beaches to town. It's also possible to do a day trip to other more famous beaches in the area, but you need to be prepared to travel a bit farther.

Granada is not a beach destination.

Is Granada or Genoa Better for its Old Town?

Granada is terrific for its historic old town charm. Also, Genoa is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its historic old town.

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.

Many visitors go to Genoa to see the historical old town. The old town is large and complex, with many different time periods represented in the architecture and development style.

Is Granada or Genoa Better for Hiking?

Granada is great for hiking. However, Genoa 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.

Genoa is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Granada or Genoa?

Shoppers can find a variety of notable stores in both Granada and Genoa.

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.

Genoa offers some nice shopping areas. You can pick up a number of different souvenirs around town including baskets, t-shirts, and local pesto. Popular shopping areas include Galleria Mazzini, Via Roma, and Via XX Settembr.

Is Granada or Genoa Better for Families?

Genoa 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.

Genoa is a very family-friendly destination. The city is home to the second biggest aquarium in Europe as well as the Galata Maritime Museum and the Nazario Sauro Submarine. In the port there's also Vascello Nettuno, which was a pirate ship that was used in the filming of the movie 'Pirates' by Roman Polanski. Other fun kid-friendly attractions include La Biosfera, The Children's Museum, and the Bigo Lift.

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 Genoa Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Granada and Genoa 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 Genoa frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It's a beautiful port city with charming neighborhoods and some great restaurants. Couples will enjoy exploring this beautiful city and visiting its palaces and cathedrals.

Is Granada or Genoa Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Granada and Genoa 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.

Genoa is a great city to visit for backpackers. There are a number of affordable hostels in the area, and while this isn't the top backpacker destination in Italy, it is a nice place to spend some time.

Is Granada or Genoa Better for Students?

Both Granada and Genoa are very good 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.

Genoa is very popular with students. It's a popular study abroad destination so you'll find a number of international students in the area. The city is also well connected for exploring the region.

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

Genoa is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Granada is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Public transit in Genoa is fairly effecient and thorough. There's a wide range of different public transit options that are all operated by AMT. The system includes buses, an underground (one line), funiculars (two), lifts (ten), a boat, cogwheel and narrow gauge railways.

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 Genoa a more walkable city?

Granada and Genoa are very good 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.

Genoa is a very walkable city. The old town, where most tourists spend the majority of their time, is easy to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Genoa or Granada?

How long in Granada or Genoa?

It's fun to spend time in either Granada or Genoa. Both can be explored in comparable amounts of time. However, 2-4 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Couples should spend more time in Granada than Genoa. 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 Genoa 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 Genoa?

In Granada, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this cultural destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the museums. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

In Genoa, you'll find nightlife and food. This port 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 Genoa?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Granada. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

In Genoa, 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 Genoa has to offer.

Five days in Granada or Genoa?

Granada is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Granada. Lots of people come for the museums. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Genoa 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 Genoa?

You'll find food and shopping around the cultural destination of Granada. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the museums. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Genoa. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Genoa. 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 Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy, and The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Granada or Genoa?

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

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 Genoa in the Summer?

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

In July, Granada is generally around the same temperature as Genoa. Daily temperatures in Granada average around 25°C (77°F), and Genoa fluctuates around 25°C (76°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Genoa this time of the year. In Granada, it's very sunny this time of the year. Granada usually receives more sunshine than Genoa during summer. Granada gets 348 hours of sunny skies, while Genoa receives 295 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Granada usually receives less rain than Genoa. Granada gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Genoa receives 12 mm (0.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Granada or Genoa in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Granada as well as Genoa. Many visitors come to Granada in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, most visitors come to Genoa for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Granada is around the same temperature as Genoa in the autumn. The daily temperature in Granada averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Genoa fluctuates around 19°C (66°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 Genoa. Granada gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Genoa receives 183 hours of full sun.

Granada usually gets less rain in October than Genoa. Granada gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Genoa receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Granada or Genoa in the Winter?

Both Genoa 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 Genoa because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Granada is a little warmer than Genoa. Typically, the winter temperatures in Granada in January average around 12°C (54°F), and Genoa averages at about 11°C (51°F).

Granada usually receives more sunshine than Genoa during winter. Granada gets 171 hours of sunny skies, while Genoa receives 127 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Granada usually receives more rain than Genoa. Granada gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Genoa receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Granada or Genoa in the Spring?

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

In April, Granada is generally around the same temperature as Genoa. Daily temperatures in Granada average around 16°C (60°F), and Genoa fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

It's quite sunny in Granada. In the spring, Granada often gets more sunshine than Genoa. Granada gets 220 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Genoa receives 198 hours of full sun.

Granada usually gets less rain in April than Genoa. Granada gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Genoa receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Genoa and Granada