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

Should you visit Granada or Paris?

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

Should I visit Granada or Paris? 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. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Paris

Paris is a energetic, beautiful, and iconic city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and theater.

Granada and Paris: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Granada or Paris?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Paris than Granada, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Paris is more popular for its theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Granada is known for its historical sights and hiking. Paris is more touristy than Granada and is known for its world-renowned cuisine, iconic landmarks, trendsetting fashion, and dynamic markets. It is also home to The Eiffel Tower. Granada is popular for its Islamic architecture, charming old town, and the stunningly impressive Alhambra.

The Eiffel Tower

How is Granada different from Paris?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Spend time exploring the first-rate sights and museums in either Granada or Paris.

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.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Paris are among the most recognizable in the world. One of the most world famous landmarks is the Eiffel Tower. The city is also home to the world renowned Louvre, Notre-Dame, and Palais Garnier Opera House. In addition to the many iconic sights, there are beautiful buildings and hidden gems throughout the city.

Is Granada or Paris Better for Theater?

Paris is a world-class destination for theatre. However, Granada is not a theatre destination.

The theater and performance venues in Paris draw crowds from around the world. There are world class theaters as well as smaller local venues where you can enjoy a show.

Granada is not a theatre destination.

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

Paris 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, Paris is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. There are countless local restaurants, markets, and patisseries to explore. Make sure you try the steak tartare, pate, and macarons.

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 Paris Better for Nightlife?

Paris is a world-class destination for nightlife. Also, Granada is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

People head to Paris just to party. Head to Pigalle or the Latin Quarter for some of the city's best nightlife. There are all-night parties, cabarets, and exclusive night clubs that you can experience.

The people in Granada know how to have a good time. 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.

Is Granada or Paris Better for Music?

Paris is a world-class destination for live music. However, Granada is not a live music destination.

Paris is known as a music capital around the world. Some of the most famous music venues include Le Pop In, La Mécanique Ondulatoire, and Les Disquaires. You'll also find many small bars where you can enjoy live music in a quaint setting.

Granada is not a live music destination.

Is Granada or Paris Better for its Old Town?

Granada is terrific for its historic old town. However, Paris does not have a historic old town.

Granada has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. The Old Town spills out around the Granada Cathedral and is filled with charming pedestrian streets, lively plazas, and many great shops.

Paris does not have a historic old town.

Is Granada or Paris Better for Hiking?

Granada is great for hiking. However, Paris 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.

Paris is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Granada or Paris?

Paris 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 Paris. Some of the best areas for shopping are Boulevard Haussmann and the Grands Boulevards, the Marais, and Avenue Montaigne and the Champs-Elysées. The city is iconic for its fashion scene and world class shopping venues.

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 Paris Better for Christmas?

Paris is a world-class destination for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Granada does not offer Christmas activities.

Known for its popular Christmas activities, Paris draws large crowds. The city of lights really proves itself around the holiday season. In addition to checking out the Christmas lights, it's fun to go window shopping or check out one of the city's Christmas markets.

Granada does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Granada or Paris Better for Families?

Paris is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Granada is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Paris is a very family-friendly destination. Check out Jardin du Luxembourg, or one of the city's many playgrounds. Also grab a treat at one of the city's many patisseries. And of course, there's Disneyland Paris.

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 Paris Better for Couples?

Paris is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Granada is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Paris makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. A city filled with romance, you really can't find a more ideal destination for a European honeymoon or a couple's getaway.

Couples visit Granada frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Is Granada or Paris Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Paris is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Granada is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Paris. It's a big city, so it's easy to get lost in the chaos, but there are many hostels and other backpacker hangouts around town.

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.

Is Granada or Paris Better for Students?

Paris 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 Paris. The city is one of the most popular destinations for international and study abroad students.

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 Paris Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Paris is a world-class destination for times when you don't have a car. Also, Granada is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

With a huge network, the transit system in Paris can get you around easily. The city's metro system is very comprehensive. There's also a bus system that you can use to get around.

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 Paris a more walkable city?

Granada and Paris are high quality 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.

Paris is a very walkable city. Some streets can feel a bit overwhelming, but there are many parts of the city that are easily explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Paris or Granada?

How long in Granada or Paris?

Both Granada and Paris have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Paris than in Granada. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Granada, and 3-7 days is enough time in Paris.

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

Couples should spend more time in Paris than Granada. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Paris that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Paris than Granada 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 Paris.

One day in Granada or Paris?

In Granada, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this historic 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.

Because Paris is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Granada or Paris?

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.

Because Paris is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Granada or Paris?

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.

Paris is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Paris has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Granada or Paris?

You'll find food and shopping around the historic 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 Paris. Because Paris is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

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 Historical Tours in France, and The Best 10-Day Tours in France.

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

Which is Bigger, Granada or Paris?

Paris has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Granada. When comparing the sizes of Granada and Paris, 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 Paris?

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 Paris in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Granada and Paris. The summer months attract visitors to Granada because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Paris this time of year.

Granada is a little warmer than Paris in the summer. The daily temperature in Granada averages around 25°C (77°F) in July, and Paris fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

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

In July, Granada usually receives less rain than Paris. Granada gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Paris receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Granada or Paris in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Granada as well as Paris. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Granada this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Paris for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Granada is a little warmer than Paris. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Granada in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Paris averages at about 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 Paris. Granada gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Paris receives 127 hours of full sun.

Granada usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Paris. Granada gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Paris receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Granada or Paris in the Winter?

Both Paris and Granada are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Granada for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Paris in the winter for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

Paris can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Granada is generally much warmer than Paris. Daily temperatures in Granada average around 12°C (54°F), and Paris fluctuates around 5°C (40°F).

Granada usually receives more sunshine than Paris during winter. Granada gets 171 hours of sunny skies, while Paris receives 62 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Granada usually receives more rain than Paris. Granada gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Paris receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Granada or Paris in the Spring?

Both Paris and Granada during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Granada in the spring for the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Paris for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

Granada is a little warmer than Paris in the spring. The daily temperature in Granada averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Paris fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

It's quite sunny in Granada. In the spring, Granada often gets more sunshine than Paris. Granada gets 220 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Paris receives 172 hours of full sun.

Granada usually gets less rain in April than Paris. Granada gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Paris receives 50 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Paris and Granada