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

Should you visit Granada or Oxford?

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

Should I visit Granada or Oxford? 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 beautiful, charming, and cultural city. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Oxford

Oxford is a collegiate, beautiful, and historic college town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Granada and Oxford: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Granada or Oxford?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Granada than Oxford, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Granada is more popular for its museums, historical sights, and hiking, while Oxford is known for its small town charm. Granada is more touristy than Oxford and is known for its Islamic architecture, charming old town, and the stunningly impressive Alhambra. It is also home to The Alhambra. Oxford is popular for being home to one of the world's most notable universities.

How is Granada different from Oxford?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Granada is very popular for its museums and history. Also, Oxford is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Granada from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. 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 Oxford. This town is filled with culture, history, and world class museums. Check out the Oxford University Museum of Natural History, The Museum of Modern Art, Ashmolean Museum, or the Museum of Oxford.

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

Foodies will find both Granada and Oxford both to be good 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 Oxford. In addition to the typical British pubs and fish and chips shops, you'll find a wide diversity of ethnic food around town. Thai, sushi, Indian, and more are common dining options. Head to the Oxford Covered Market to try a traditional British breakfast or have some delicious ice cream.

Is Granada or Oxford Better for Nightlife?

Both Granada and Oxford 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 Oxford know how to have a good time. As a college town, you'll find an active nightlife scene with trivia nights and plenty of parties. There are pubs around town where you can grab a drink or find out if there's a concert while you're in town.

Is Granada or Oxford Better for its Old Town?

Granada is very popular for its historic old town. However, Oxford does not have a 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.

Oxford does not have a historic old town.

Is Granada or Oxford Better for Hiking?

Granada is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Oxford is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting 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.

Oxford is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Granada or Oxford?

Shoppers can find a variety of good stores in both Granada and Oxford.

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.

Oxford offers some nice shopping areas. Shops around town offer the perfect opportunity to pick up some Oxford gear or by a few items from the Harry Potter franchise.

Is Granada or Oxford Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Granada or Oxford.

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 Oxford. Families will enjoy taking a paddle boat out on the water and exploring the beautiful setting. There are also a number of sights that were influential in the making of Harry Potter. In particular, you'll find the inspiration for the "Great Hall" if you take a tour of Christ Church College. The tour must be booked in advance and they often sell out. Older kids will also enjoy exploring the Oxford University Museum of Natural History.

Is Granada or Oxford Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Granada and Oxford 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 Oxford frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The beautiful campus and striking architecture make this a great destination for romance. Hire a boat and explore the water or wander through one of the impressive gardens.

Is Granada or Oxford Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Granada is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Oxford is lacking in good options 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.

Oxford is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a couple of hostels around town that offer affordable accommodation. As a college town, Oxford also has an active nightlife scene and a young crowd that keeps things affordable and fun.

Is Granada or Oxford Better for Students?

Oxford is a world-class destination for its student-friendly activities. Also, Granada is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Many students frequent Oxford. At its heart, Oxford is a college town and students are at the heart of the city and its culture.

Granada is very popular with students. 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.

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

Visitors will find good public transit in both Granada and Oxford.

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 Oxford, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses available if your legs get tired.

Is Granada or Oxford a more walkable city?

Granada and Oxford 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.

Oxford is a very walkable city. The best way to explore most of the town is on foot, so you can soak up the full collegiate atmosphere.

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

Should I spend more time in Oxford or Granada?

How long in Granada or Oxford?

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

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

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.

Oxford is a small town with plenty to do. This college 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 Oxford?

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.

Oxford might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. 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 Oxford has to offer.

Five days in Granada or Oxford?

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.

Oxford 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 Oxford?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the cultural 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 Oxford. Since Oxford is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. 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 United Kingdom, and The Best 3-Day Tours in United Kingdom.

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

Which is Bigger, Granada or Oxford?

Granada has a larger population, and is about 54% larger than the population of Oxford. When comparing the sizes of Granada and Oxford, 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 Oxford?

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 Oxford in the Summer?

Both Oxford and Granada are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Granada for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Oxford in the summer for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

Granada is a little warmer than Oxford in the summer. The daily temperature in Granada averages around 25°C (77°F) in July, and Oxford fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Granada. Granada usually receives more sunshine than Oxford during summer. Granada gets 348 hours of sunny skies, while Oxford receives 195 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Granada usually receives less rain than Oxford. Granada gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Oxford receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Granada or Oxford in the Autumn?

Both Oxford and Granada during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Granada in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Oxford for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Granada is much warmer than Oxford. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Granada in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Oxford averages at about 11°C (52°F).

It's quite sunny in Granada. In the autumn, Granada often gets more sunshine than Oxford. Granada gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Oxford receives 107 hours of full sun.

Granada usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Oxford. Granada gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Oxford receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Granada or Oxford in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Granada and Oxford. Most visitors come to Granada for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Oxford because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Oxford can be very cold. In January, Granada is generally much warmer than Oxford. Daily temperatures in Granada average around 12°C (54°F), and Oxford fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

Granada usually receives more sunshine than Oxford during winter. Granada gets 171 hours of sunny skies, while Oxford receives 52 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Granada usually receives more rain than Oxford. Granada gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Oxford receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Granada or Oxford in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Granada as well as Oxford. The spring months attract visitors to Granada because of the natural beauty. Additionally, the small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Oxford this time of year.

Granada is much warmer than Oxford in the spring. The daily temperature in Granada averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Oxford fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Granada this time of the year. In the spring, Granada often gets more sunshine than Oxford. Granada gets 220 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Oxford receives 147 hours of full sun.

Granada usually gets less rain in April than Oxford. Granada gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Oxford receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Oxford and Granada