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

Should you visit Granada or Palermo?

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

Should I visit Granada or Palermo? 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 nightlife, food, and hiking.

Palermo

Palermo is a diverse, dynamic, and fun city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums.

Granada and Palermo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Granada or Palermo?

You'll generally find more things to do in Palermo than Granada. Palermo is bigger than Granada, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Palermo is better known for its food, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Granada is more popular for its museums, historical sights, hiking, and impressive beauty. Granada is more touristy than Palermo and is popular for its Islamic architecture, charming old town, and the stunningly impressive Alhambra. Palermo is well known for its mild climate, beautiful architecture, fun atmosphere, and fascinating culture. Also, Palermo is famous for The Cathedral.

How is Granada different from Palermo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Granada is very popular for its sights and museums. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city 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.

Palermo is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a number of grand buildings and impressive architectural buildings that you should visit. The cathedral, the Norman Palace, and Cappella Palatina are among the best.

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

Palermo 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 Palermo. The islands long history and occupation by a range of different groups means that the cuisine is heavily influenced by many different cultures. You'll see influences from Phonecians, Greeks, Arabs and Normans. Local dishes include Pasta alla Norma (pasta and vegetables), Arancine (rice balls), and Cannoli.

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 Palermo Better for Nightlife?

Both Granada and Palermo have excellent 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 Palermo know how to have a good time. The nightlife scene is surprisingly varied with everything from wine bars by the ocean to dance parties that flood into the street. Some of the most popular areas for nightlife include the old town, Politeama, and Mondello.

Is Granada or Palermo Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Palermo is a popular place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Granada is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Palermo has a few good snorkeling spots. The dive season lasts most of the year and there are many beautiful dive spots that are accessible from the city. The water is clear and there is a variety of flora and fauna to see.

Granada is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Granada or Palermo Better for Beaches?

Palermo is an excellent place to visit for its beaches. However, Granada is not a beach destination.

Palermo is considered a top beach destination. The city has a number of beautiful beaches, some of which are accessible by public transit. Mondello is a popular option with beautiful views. Capo Gallo is a relaxing option on a nature reserve that is good for divers and nature lovers. Addaura is a lively beach with a number of clubs.

Granada is not a beach destination.

Is Granada or Palermo Better for its Old Town?

Granada is very popular for its historic old town charm. However, Palermo 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.

Palermo does not have a historic old town.

Is Granada or Palermo Better for Hiking?

Granada is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Palermo 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.

Palermo is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Granada or Palermo?

Palermo 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 Palermo. The city offers a mix of high end shopping streets as well as colorful markets that have the feel of a traditional bazaar. Whether you're looking for European brands or local merchandise, this city has an eclectic mix with something for everyone.

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 Palermo Better for Families?

Palermo 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.

Palermo is a very family-friendly destination. The city has beaches where everyone can cool off and play in the relaxing waves. There's also a botanical garden and the fascinating Catacombs of the Capuchins. Kids will also enjoy exploring the many diverse markets throughout the city.

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 Palermo Better for Couples?

Granada is a well-known place for couples. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city 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.

Palermo is a nice destination for couples. The city is filled with fun adventures, unique markets, and relaxing beaches. It makes a great city escape for couples who enjoy spending time outdoors but also having access to an urban setting.

Is Granada or Palermo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Granada is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Palermo. There are a decent number of affordable hostels around town as well as plenty of backpackers that keep the scene fun and social.

Is Granada or Palermo Better for Students?

Granada is a well-known place for students. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Students come from all over to stay in 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.

Plenty of students visit Palermo. It's an affordable student destination with a relaxing and laid back vibe. There's enough activity to keep it interesting without a high pressure setting.

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

Granada is a city with good options for its public transit. However, Palermo is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

Granada has a few 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.

Public transit is mostly limited in Palermo. If you stick to the main city center then you can get around by city bus, but if you're headed anywhere else, you'll likely want to take a taxi or Uber.

Is Granada or Palermo a more walkable city?

Granada and Palermo are excellent 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.

Palermo is a very walkable city. The city is walkable with a number of streets closed to cars and pedestrian only.

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

Should I spend more time in Palermo or Granada?

How long in Granada or Palermo?

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

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

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

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 Palermo, you'll find shopping and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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 Palermo?

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 Palermo, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Palermo has to offer.

Five days in Granada or Palermo?

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.

Palermo is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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 Palermo?

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 Palermo. Many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting Palermo. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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 Luxury Tours to Italy, and The Best Budget Tours to Italy.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Granada and Palermo, we can see that Granada is more expensive. And not only is Palermo much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Palermo would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Palermo 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 Granada would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Granada than you might in Palermo.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Granada Expensive? and Is Palermo Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Granada or Palermo?

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

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 Palermo in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Granada as well as Palermo. Many visitors come to Granada in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Palermo for the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

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

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Palermo. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Granada this time of the year. In the summer, Granada often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Palermo. Granada gets 348 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Palermo receives 347 hours of full sun.

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

Should I visit Granada or Palermo in the Autumn?

Both Palermo and Granada are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Granada for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Palermo because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Granada is around the same temperature as Palermo in the autumn. The daily temperature in Granada averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Palermo fluctuates around 20°C (67°F).

It's quite sunny in Palermo. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Granada. Granada usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Palermo during autumn. Granada gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Palermo receives 204 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Granada usually receives less rain than Palermo. Granada gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Palermo receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Granada or Palermo in the Winter?

Both Palermo and Granada during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Granada because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Palermo this time of year.

In the winter, Granada is around the same temperature as Palermo. Typically, the winter temperatures in Granada in January average around 12°C (54°F), and Palermo averages at about 12°C (53°F).

In the winter, Granada often gets more sunshine than Palermo. Granada gets 171 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Palermo receives 133 hours of full sun.

Granada usually gets more rain in January than Palermo. Granada gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Palermo receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Granada or Palermo in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Granada and Palermo. The natural beauty are the main draw to Granada this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Palermo for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Palermo this time of the year. In Granada, it's very sunny this time of the year. Granada usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Palermo during spring. Granada gets 220 hours of sunny skies, while Palermo receives 219 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Granada usually receives more rain than Palermo. Granada gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Palermo receives 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Palermo and Granada