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

Should you visit Granada or Imperia?

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

Should I visit Granada or Imperia? 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. Other popular activities here include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Imperia

Imperia is a authentic, charming, and undiscovered town. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Granada and Imperia: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Alhambra
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights


Is there more to do in Granada or Imperia?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Granada than Imperia, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Granada is more touristy than Imperia and is popular for its Islamic architecture, charming old town, and the stunningly impressive Alhambra. Also, Granada is famous for The Alhambra. Imperia is well known for its access to the Ligurian coastline.

How is Granada different from Imperia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Granada
Imperia

Granada is a must-visit destination for its sights and museums. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Granada on the map. 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.

Imperia is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several interesting buildings of importance around town.


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

Granada
Imperia

Foodies will find both Granada and Imperia both to be notable 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 Imperia. Food ranges from typical Italian dishes to local recipes that use local ingredients. Unique ingredients in the area include trumpet zucchini, flat breads, and anchovies.

Is Granada or Imperia Better for Nightlife?

Granada
Imperia

Granada is notable for its evening party scene. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for nightlife.

Granada has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Imperia. There are some bars and lively restaurants around town where you can spend an enjoyable evening.

Is Granada or Imperia Better for its Old Town?

Granada
Imperia

Granada is a must-visit destination for its historic old town charm. However, Imperia does not have a historic old town.

The rich history of Granada can be explored in its historical center. The Old Town spills out around the Granada Cathedral and is filled with charming pedestrian streets, lively plazas, and many great shops.

Imperia does not have a historic old town.


Is Granada or Imperia Better for Hiking?

Granada
Imperia

Granada is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Imperia 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.

Imperia is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Granada or Imperia?

Granada
Imperia

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

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.

Imperia offers some nice shopping areas. There are some shopping streets in town that have a mix of local brands and standard clothing shops.

Is Granada or Imperia Better for Families?

Granada
Imperia

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Granada or Imperia.

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 Imperia. There's some nice walking trails in the countryside that the kids will enjoy.


Is Granada or Imperia Better for Couples?

Granada
Imperia

Granada is notable for couples. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for romance.

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.

Imperia is a nice destination for couples. It's a beautiful town with a nice atmosphere that offers a nice break from the tourist crowds.

Is Granada or Imperia Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Granada
Imperia

Granada is notable for backpackers. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Granada is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Imperia is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Accommodation tends to be affordable and there's an off-the-beaten-path vibe that some backpackers will appreciate.

Is Granada or Imperia Better for Students?

Granada
Imperia

Granada is notable for students. However, Imperia is not popular with 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.

Imperia is not popular with students.


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

Granada
Imperia

Visitors will find notable public transit in both Granada and Imperia.

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 Imperia, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses that connect the city to different areas.

Is Granada or Imperia a more walkable city?

Granada
Imperia

Granada is notable for its ease of walking around. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its walkability.

Granada is a very walkable destination. Most of the touristy areas are easy to explore on foot, but there are some steep hills so put on your walking shoes.

Imperia is somewhat walkable. Parts of the town are convenient to walk around.

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

Should I spend more time in Imperia or Granada?

How long in Granada or Imperia?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Granada or Imperia to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Granada than Imperia because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Granada, and 1-2 days is enough time in Imperia.

Families should spend more time in Granada than Imperia. 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 Imperia. 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 Imperia 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.


  • How many days in Granada or Imperia? Ideal Length of Stay
    Granada 2-4 
    Imperia 1-2

One day in Granada or Imperia?

In Granada, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Imperia, you'll find nightlife and food. This town 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 Imperia?

In Granada, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Granada has to offer.

In Imperia, 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 Imperia has to offer.

Five days in Granada or Imperia?

Granada is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

Imperia 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 Imperia?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Granada. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Granada. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Imperia. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Imperia. 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 Italy, and The Best Luxury Tours to Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Imperia or Granada?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Granada is €123, while the average daily cost in Imperia is €108. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Granada and Imperia in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Granada 59
    Imperia 51
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Granada 118
    Imperia 102
Compare Hotels in Granada and Imperia

Looking for a hotel in Granada or Imperia? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Granada


Hotels in Imperia


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Granada Hotel Prices and Imperia Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Granada 22
    Imperia 36
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Granada

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Granada are as follows:


  • 7 Trip Bus Pass
    5.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Granada

Also for Granada, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer from Granada Airport(GRX) to Granada City Center: $31
  • Private Transfer from Granada City Center to Granada Airport(GRX): $31
  • Granada Airport Private Arrival Transfer: $45
  • One-Way Private Transfer From/To Granada Airport: $50
  • Granada Private Transfer from the city centre to Granada Airport: $55
  • Private Transfer from Granada Airport to Granada by Luxury van: $76
  • Via Ferrata Moclín with Transfers: $80
  • Private Transfer IN or OUT in Upscale Vehicle with Professional Driver: $132
  • Granada airport private arrival transfer, Mercedes Sedan: $142
  • From Granada; Private transfer to Sierra Nevada (all hotels): $171
  • Granada Private Intercity Transfer to Malaga: $175
  • Private Transfer from Molvízar to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $188

Is it cheaper to fly into Granada or Imperia?

Prices for flights to both Imperia and Granada change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Granada 37
    Imperia 35
Typical Food Prices in Granada

For Granada, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Sangria
    2.50
  • Sandwich to go
    3.00
  • Bocadillo & Drink
    6.25

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Granada

For Granada, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Sacromonte Caves Flamenco Show with Dinner: $62
  • Dinner and Show flamenco in the Albayzin Granada: $62
  • Walking Food Tour: $75
  • 2-Day Geopark Desert, Ancient Culture and Food Tour: $169

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Granada 28
    Imperia 13

Tours and Activities in Granada

For Granada, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $3.21
  • Sacromonte Caves Museum Admission Ticket: $5.35
  • Granada City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.42
  • Sacromonte Abbey Entry Ticket with Audio Guide: $6.42
  • Granada Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.55
  • Granada City Train 1 or 2-Day Hop-On Hop-Off Ticket: $7.49
  • Self-Guided City Exploration Smartphone Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $8.75
  • Granada (Alhambra): Scavenger Hunt and Self-Guided Tour: $8.75
  • Albaicín and Sacromonte’s Iconic Sights: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $8.99
  • Historic Center and Lower Albaicin Walking Tour: $9.62

Tours and Activities in Imperia

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Imperia are as follows:

  • Imperia - Old Town Private Historic Walking Tour: $428

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Granada 24
    Imperia 7.50

Sample the Local Flavors in Granada

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Granada:

  • Granada Traditional Tapas and Wine Tour - by Oh My Good Guide!: $77
  • BEST OF Flamenco, Tapas and Wine Tour: $100


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


Which is Bigger, Granada or Imperia?

Granada has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Imperia. When comparing the sizes of Granada and Imperia, 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 Imperia?

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 Imperia in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Granada as well as Imperia. The summer months attract visitors to Granada because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Imperia this time of year.

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

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Imperia. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Granada this time of the year. In the summer, Granada often gets more sunshine than Imperia. Granada gets 348 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Imperia receives 295 hours of full sun.

Granada usually gets less rain in July than Imperia. Granada gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Imperia receives 12 mm (0.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Granada 25°C (77°F) 
    Imperia 25°C (76°F)

Should I visit Granada or Imperia in the Autumn?

Both Imperia and Granada are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Granada this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Imperia for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Granada is around the same temperature as Imperia in the autumn. The daily temperature in Granada averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Imperia fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Granada. Granada usually receives more sunshine than Imperia during autumn. Granada gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Imperia receives 183 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Granada usually receives less rain than Imperia. Granada gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Imperia receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Granada 19°C (67°F) 
    Imperia 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Granada or Imperia in the Winter?

Both Imperia and Granada during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Granada for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Imperia in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

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

In the winter, Granada often gets more sunshine than Imperia. Granada gets 171 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Imperia receives 127 hours of full sun.

Granada usually gets more rain in January than Imperia. Granada gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Imperia receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Granada 12°C (54°F) 
    Imperia 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Granada or Imperia in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Granada and Imperia. Many visitors come to Granada in the spring for the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Imperia for the natural beauty during these months.

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

In Granada, it's very sunny this time of the year. Granada usually receives more sunshine than Imperia during spring. Granada gets 220 hours of sunny skies, while Imperia receives 198 hours of full sun in the spring.

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


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Granada 16°C (60°F) 
    Imperia 15°C (58°F)

Typical Weather for Imperia and Granada

Granada Imperia
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 12°C (54°F) 83 mm (3.3 in) 11°C (51°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Feb 13°C (55°F) 75 mm (3 in) 11°C (51°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Mar 14°C (57°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 12°C (54°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 15°C (58°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 19°C (66°F) 24 mm (0.9 in) 18°C (64°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Jun 22°C (72°F) 13 mm (0.5 in) 21°C (71°F) 33 mm (1.3 in)
Jul 25°C (77°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 25°C (76°F) 12 mm (0.5 in)
Aug 25°C (78°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 25°C (77°F) 34 mm (1.3 in)
Sep 23°C (74°F) 15 mm (0.6 in) 22°C (72°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 19°C (66°F) 97 mm (3.8 in)
Nov 15°C (60°F) 115 mm (4.5 in) 14°C (58°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Dec 13°C (55°F) 102 mm (4 in) 12°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)