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

Should you visit Granada or Lille?

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

Should I visit Granada or Lille? 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. And you can't forget about the museums, nightlife, and food.

Lille

Lille is a cultural, culinary, and friendly city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Granada and Lille: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Granada or Lille?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Granada than Lille. While Lille is larger than Granada, Granada has more sights and attractions for tourists. Granada is very popular for its museums, historical sights, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Lille attracts visitors for its food and shopping. Granada is more touristy than Lille and is popular for its Islamic architecture, charming old town, and the stunningly impressive Alhambra. It is also well known for The Alhambra. Lille is famous for its beautiful architecture, excellent shopping, and world class food scene.

How is Granada different from Lille?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Granada is very popular for its sights and museums. However, Lille is a mediocre city for its museums and history.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Granada are among the most recognizable in the world. 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.

While most people don't head to Lille specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. The city offers an amazing atmosphere, with many of the most beautiful buildings near Place du Général de Gaulle (the main square). Top rated attractions in town include Palais des Beaux-Arts, Musée du Louvre-Lens, and Eglise Saint-Maurice.

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

Lille 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, Lille is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The city has a cuisine all its own. There are many local dishes that are recommended with some of the most popular being les moules (mussels), the Welsh (a beer and cheddar cheese dish), and la carbonade flamande (beef stew). Most dishes are served with a hearty side of fries. The mussels are a favorite and are served with various toppings including local cheese. You can expect your very own pot of mussels with each order. Many of the restaurants around the main square (General de Gaulle Square) offer these local specialties. Outside the old town you'll also find plenty of international restaurants including Asian street food.

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 Lille Better for Nightlife?

Both Granada and Lille have very good 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 Lille know how to have a good time. With its young population and countless places to hang out, there's rarely a dull night around town. The most popular nightlife areas are Rue Masséna and Rue Solférino. The city also offers plenty of theaters and shows that you can enjoy.

Is Granada or Lille Better for its Old Town?

Granada is very popular for its old town. Also, Lille is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its historic old town charm.

Granada has a world-famous historical area. The Old Town spills out around the Granada Cathedral and is filled with charming pedestrian streets, lively plazas, and many great shops.

Lille is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The old town (Le Vieux Lille) is charming to explore. Many of the buildings are from the 16th or 17th centuries and feature very ornate architecture. The area is filled with shops and restaurants and it stays active throughout the day. This is an area where locals and tourists alike live and play.

Is Granada or Lille Better for Hiking?

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

Lille is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Granada or Lille?

Lille 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 Lille. The city is filled with shopping opportunities. Almost any store you could want is in or around the old town and the two main shopping centers in town are McArthur Glen and A l'Usine. Also by the train station is a shopping mall.

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 Lille Better for Families?

Granada is a nice place to visit for its family-friendly activities. However, Lille is a mediocre city for its kid-friendly activities.

Granada is a family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Lille is not always a place people visit with their families. There are a handful of kid-focused activities like a small zoo, a small amusement park, several museums and even a puppet theater. Many of the restaurants also have kid's menus that are reasonably priced.

Is Granada or Lille Better for Couples?

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

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.

Lille is a good city for couples to visit. Couples who enjoy shopping, dining out, and exploring beautiful cities will enjoy a visit. There are many great restaurants worth experiencing, as well as beautiful architecture and fun shops.

Is Granada or Lille Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Granada is notable for backpackers. Also, Lille is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget 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.

Lille is a good city to visit for backpackers. This small city flies under the radar for most backpackers, but there are a handful of hostels and a great experience for those who venture here. It feels more off the beaten path than some French cities, but you'll find great food and a nice atmosphere.

Is Granada or Lille Better for Students?

Both Granada and Lille 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.

Lille is very popular with students. The city is home to a number of students, both local and international. It has a lower cost of living than many places in France as well as a youthful vibe with fun activities and plenty of shopping.

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

Lille 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 Lille is fairly effecient and thorough. There is a metro as well as trams and buses throughout the city.

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 Lille a more walkable city?

Lille 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 Lille. The old town in particular is compact and best explored on foot, but even outside of the old town, many areas are easily explored 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 Lille Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lille or Granada?

How long in Granada or Lille?

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

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

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 Lille, you'll find shopping and nightlife. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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 Lille?

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 Lille, you'll find nightlife and food. 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 Lille has to offer.

Five days in Granada or Lille?

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.

Lille 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.

A week in Granada or Lille?

You'll find food and shopping around the charming 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 Lille. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Lille. 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.

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 10-Day Tours from Paris, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris.

When comparing the travel costs between Granada and Lille, 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 Lille Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Granada or Lille?

Lille has a larger population, and is about 26% larger than the population of Granada. When comparing the sizes of Granada and Lille, 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 Lille?

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 Lille in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Granada as well as Lille. Many travelers come to Granada for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Lille in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Granada is a little warmer than Lille. Typically, the summer temperatures in Granada in July average around 25°C (77°F), and Lille averages at about 17°C (63°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lille. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Granada this time of the year. In the summer, Granada often gets more sunshine than Lille. Granada gets 348 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lille receives 202 hours of full sun.

Granada usually gets less rain in July than Lille. Granada gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Lille receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Granada or Lille in the Autumn?

Both Lille and Granada are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. 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 Lille for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Granada is generally much warmer than Lille. Daily temperatures in Granada average around 19°C (67°F), and Lille fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Granada. Granada usually receives more sunshine than Lille during autumn. Granada gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Lille receives 105 hours of full sun in the autumn.

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

Should I visit Granada or Lille in the Winter?

Both Lille and Granada during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Granada for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Lille because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Lille can be very cold. Granada is much warmer than Lille in the winter. The daily temperature in Granada averages around 12°C (54°F) in January, and Lille fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Granada often gets more sunshine than Lille. Granada gets 171 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lille receives 47 hours of full sun.

Granada usually gets more rain in January than Lille. Granada gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Lille receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Granada or Lille in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Granada and Lille. The spring months attract visitors to Granada because of the natural beauty. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Lille this time of year.

In the spring, Granada is much warmer than Lille. Typically, the spring temperatures in Granada in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Lille averages at about 8°C (47°F).

In Granada, it's very sunny this time of the year. Granada usually receives more sunshine than Lille during spring. Granada gets 220 hours of sunny skies, while Lille receives 158 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Granada usually receives less rain than Lille. Granada gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Lille receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Lille and Granada