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

Should you visit Granada or Lucerne?

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

Should I visit Granada or Lucerne? 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 food, hiking, and shopping.

Lucerne

Lucerne is a scenic, active, and cultural city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Granada and Lucerne: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Granada or Lucerne?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Lucerne than Granada. While Granada is larger than Lucerne, Lucerne has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Lucerne is better known for its shopping and big city activities, while Granada is more popular for its museums, historical sights, hiking, and impressive beauty. Granada is well known for its Islamic architecture, charming old town, and the stunningly impressive Alhambra. Lucerne is well known for it's wooden bridge, its waterfront setting, and the many nearby alpine day trips. Also, Lucerne is famous for The Chapel Bridge.

The Chapel Bridge

How is Granada different from Lucerne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Granada is very popular for its historical sights. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice 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.

Lucerne offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Top sights in town include the famous Chapel Bridge, the Lion Monument and the town walls and towers. There are also a number of museums including the Swiss Transport Museum and Museum Sammlung Rosengart.

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

Foodies will find both Granada and Lucerne 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 Lucerne. Food is expensive around town, but there are some unique specialties like fondue, brätwurst, and of course, chocolate. It's nice to sit out by the river and enjoy a hearty meal while you soak up the view.

Is Granada or Lucerne Better for Nightlife?

Both Granada and Lucerne have superb 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 Lucerne know how to have a good time. The city has some of the best nightlife in Switzerland, with many lively clubs, bars, and pubs. There are also many local events that are hosted in town and bring in a crowd.

Is Granada or Lucerne Better for its Old Town?

Granada is very popular for its historic old town charm. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its historic old town.

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.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Lucerne. Sitting on the water's edge, this old town has a number of historic buildings and the beautiful Chapel Bridge.

Is Granada or Lucerne Better for Hiking?

Granada is great for hiking. However, Lucerne 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.

Lucerne is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Granada or Lucerne?

Lucerne is an excellent place to visit for shopping. Also, Granada is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Lucerne. The city is filled with high end shopping opportunities with everything from boutique shops to major chains. Popular items to purchase in town include chocolate, watches, jewelry, and Swiss army knives.

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 Lucerne Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Granada or Lucerne.

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 Lucerne. The city is filled with history and there are a number of playgrounds around town. Also make sure you pop in a chocolate shop so that everyone can enjoy a sweet treat. If the weather's warm, you can also take a swim in Lake Lucerne. Many kids enjoy escaping the city and doing a day trip to the amazing Mt. Titlis, or other peaks that are nearby.

Is Granada or Lucerne Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Granada and Lucerne make for a superb 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 Lucerne frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The city has many pleasant squares, excellent restaurants, and a romantic atmosphere that makes for a great couple's getaway. There are a number of nice hotels to choose from as well.

Is Granada or Lucerne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Granada is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Lucerne is not a good destination for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers 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.

Lucerne is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Prices are high everywhere in the area but there are a few hostels that attract backpackers. It's also possible to find free activities like swimming in the lake or simply wandering around town. Prices at restaurants are very high, so you'll do best to pick up food at supermarkets and prepare your own meals. Because it's a larger city, there are options that you might not find in smaller towns around Switzerland.

Is Granada or Lucerne Better for Students?

Granada is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Lucerne is not a good destination for students.

Many students visit 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.

Lucerne is a decent spot for students. Most people don't think of the city as a student town but there are some good opportunities for international students. The prices are high, but the city is surrounded by stunning natural beauty that is fun to explore.

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

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

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 Lucerne, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There's a comprehensive system of buses around town.

Is Granada or Lucerne a more walkable city?

Granada is great for its ease of walking around. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Lucerne is somewhat walkable. The major tourist areas are fairly walkable if your hotel is in a convenient location.

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

Should I spend more time in Lucerne or Granada?

How long in Granada or Lucerne?

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

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

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

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 Lucerne, you'll find food and shopping. 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 Lucerne has to offer.

Five days in Granada or Lucerne?

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.

Lucerne 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 Lucerne?

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 Lucerne. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Lucerne. 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in Switzerland, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Switzerland.

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

Which is Bigger, Granada or Lucerne?

Granada has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Lucerne. When comparing the sizes of Granada and Lucerne, 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 Lucerne?

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 Lucerne in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Granada and Lucerne. Most visitors come to Granada for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Lucerne because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Granada is generally a little warmer than Lucerne. Daily temperatures in Granada average around 25°C (77°F), and Lucerne fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Lucerne this time of the year. In Granada, it's very sunny this time of the year. Granada usually receives more sunshine than Lucerne during summer. Granada gets 348 hours of sunny skies, while Lucerne receives 241 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Granada usually receives less rain than Lucerne. Granada gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Lucerne receives 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Granada or Lucerne in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Granada as well as Lucerne. The autumn months attract visitors to Granada because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Lucerne this time of year.

Granada is a little warmer than Lucerne in the autumn. The daily temperature in Granada averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Lucerne fluctuates around 13°C (56°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 Lucerne. Granada gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lucerne receives 120 hours of full sun.

Granada usually gets less rain in October than Lucerne. Granada gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Lucerne receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Granada or Lucerne in the Winter?

Both Lucerne and Granada are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Granada this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Lucerne for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Lucerne. In the winter, Granada is much warmer than Lucerne. Typically, the winter temperatures in Granada in January average around 12°C (54°F), and Lucerne averages at about 3°C (37°F).

Granada usually receives more sunshine than Lucerne during winter. Granada gets 171 hours of sunny skies, while Lucerne receives 55 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Granada usually receives more rain than Lucerne. Granada gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Lucerne receives 77 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Granada or Lucerne in the Spring?

Both Lucerne and Granada during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Granada for the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Lucerne in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Granada is generally a little warmer than Lucerne. Daily temperatures in Granada average around 16°C (60°F), and Lucerne fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

It's quite sunny in Granada. In the spring, Granada often gets more sunshine than Lucerne. Granada gets 220 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lucerne receives 150 hours of full sun.

Granada usually gets less rain in April than Lucerne. Granada gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Lucerne receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Lucerne and Granada