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

Should you visit Granada or Piazza Armerina?

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

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

Piazza Armerina

Piazza Armerina is a authentic, historic, and charming town. Other reasons to visit include food and museums.

Granada and Piazza Armerina: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Alhambra
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Granada or Piazza Armerina?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Granada. Although Granada and Piazza Armerina are popular destinations, Granada has more sights and attractions for tourists. Granada is more touristy than Piazza Armerina and is popular for its Islamic architecture, charming old town, and the stunningly impressive Alhambra. It is also well known for The Alhambra. Piazza Armerina is famous for it's local atmosphere and its premiere historic sight - the Villa Romana del Casale.

How is Granada different from Piazza Armerina?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Granada
Piazza Armerina

Granada is an unbeatable place for its sights and museums. Also, Piazza Armerina is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit 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.

Piazza Armerina offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Most people head to town specifically to visit Villa Romana del Casale, which is a few kilometers away. It's a beautiful Roman villa that can be explored in a few hours. Also in town is an Aragonese Castle and an 18th century Duomo.


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

Granada
Piazza Armerina

Foodies will find both Granada and Piazza Armerina both to be nice 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 Piazza Armerina. Most visitors pass through town, stopping to visit Villa Romana del Casale. There are some pizzerias and other casual restaurants where you can grab a bite to eat.

Is Granada or Piazza Armerina Better for Nightlife?

Granada
Piazza Armerina

Granada is notable for nightlife and partying. However, Piazza Armerina is a mediocre town for its evening party scene.

Granada has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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.

Piazza Armerina doesn't offer many options. While many tourists pass through town with the intent of visiting the Villa Romana del Casale, most don't linger long enough appreciate the town at night.

Is Granada or Piazza Armerina Better for its Old Town?

Granada
Piazza Armerina

Granada is an unbeatable place for its old town. Also, Piazza Armerina is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its historic old town charm.

With a famous historical old-town, Granada offers plenty to see. 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 Piazza Armerina. The old town has a bit of authenticity that is missing from some of the more popular Sicilian cities. While it may feel a little worn to some people, those who like to get away from the souvenir shops will appreciate a visit.


Is Granada or Piazza Armerina Better for Hiking?

Granada
Piazza Armerina

Granada is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Piazza Armerina 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.

Piazza Armerina is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Granada or Piazza Armerina?

Granada
Piazza Armerina

Granada is a good destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Piazza Armerina is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Piazza Armerina is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Granada or Piazza Armerina Better for Families?

Granada
Piazza Armerina

Granada is a good destination for its family-friendly activities. However, Piazza Armerina is a mediocre town 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.

Piazza Armerina is not always a place people visit with their families. Most people head to the town to explore the Villa Romana del Casale. The beauty and history may not thrill all kids, but if your kids enjoy a bit of history they will likely appreciate a visit. The town also has an Aragonese Castle that you can visit.


Is Granada or Piazza Armerina Better for Couples?

Granada
Piazza Armerina

Granada is notable for its romantic activities. Also, Piazza Armerina is not as famous, but is still a good town 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.

Piazza Armerina is a good city for couples to visit. For history enthusiasts, this is a popular place to visit. Like most visitors, couples will appreciate a visit to the town's main attraction Villa Romana del Casale.

Is Granada or Piazza Armerina Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Granada
Piazza Armerina

Granada is notable for backpackers. However, Piazza Armerina is a mediocre town 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.

Piazza Armerina is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Although it's a popular tourist destination, there are a limited number of hostels in town.

Is Granada or Piazza Armerina Better for Students?

Granada
Piazza Armerina

Granada is notable for students. However, Piazza Armerina is not popular with 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.

Piazza Armerina is not popular with students.


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

Granada
Piazza Armerina

Visitors will find nice public transit in both Granada and Piazza Armerina.

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 Piazza Armerina, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. You can reach the town by bus and once there it's possible to explore on foot.

Is Granada or Piazza Armerina a more walkable city?

Granada
Piazza Armerina

Granada and Piazza Armerina are superb 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.

Piazza Armerina is a very walkable city. You can explore most of the old and new towns on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Piazza Armerina or Granada?

How long in Granada or Piazza Armerina?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Granada or Piazza Armerina to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Granada than Piazza Armerina because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Granada, and 1-2 days is enough time in Piazza Armerina.

Families should spend more time in Granada than Piazza Armerina. 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 Piazza Armerina. 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 Piazza Armerina 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.


  • How many days in Granada or Piazza Armerina? Ideal Length of Stay
    Granada 2-4 
    Piazza Armerina 1-2

One day in Granada or Piazza Armerina?

The charming destination of Granada offers nightlife and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Piazza Armerina, you'll find food and museums. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This 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 Piazza Armerina?

The city of Granada offers food and shopping. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

In Piazza Armerina, you'll find museums 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 Piazza Armerina has to offer.

Five days in Granada or Piazza Armerina?

Granada is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. This city offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Piazza Armerina 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 Piazza Armerina?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Granada. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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 Piazza Armerina. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Piazza Armerina. 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 Bicycle Tours in Italy, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Piazza Armerina or Granada?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Granada is €123, while the average daily cost in Piazza Armerina is €93. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Granada and Piazza Armerina in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Granada 59
    Piazza Armerina 56
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Granada 118
    Piazza Armerina 112
Compare Hotels in Granada and Piazza Armerina

Looking for a hotel in Granada or Piazza Armerina? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Granada


Hotels in Piazza Armerina


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Granada Hotel Prices and Piazza Armerina Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Granada 22
    Piazza Armerina 4.29
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Granada

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Granada are as follows:


  • 7 Trip Bus Pass
    5.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Granada

Also for Granada, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer from Granada Airport(GRX) to Granada City Center: $31
  • Private Transfer from Granada City Center to Granada Airport(GRX): $31
  • Granada Airport Private Arrival Transfer: $45
  • One-Way Private Transfer From/To Granada Airport: $50
  • Granada Private Transfer from the city centre to Granada Airport: $55
  • Private Transfer from Granada Airport to Granada by Luxury van: $76
  • Via Ferrata Moclín with Transfers: $80
  • Private Transfer IN or OUT in Upscale Vehicle with Professional Driver: $132
  • Granada airport private arrival transfer, Mercedes Sedan: $142
  • From Granada; Private transfer to Sierra Nevada (all hotels): $171
  • Granada Private Intercity Transfer to Malaga: $175
  • Private Transfer from Molvízar to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $188

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Piazza Armerina

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Piazza Armerina:

  • From Catania: Return Transfer to Piazza Armerina & Agrigento: $106

Is it cheaper to fly into Granada or Piazza Armerina?

Prices for flights to both Piazza Armerina and Granada change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Granada 37
    Piazza Armerina 33
Typical Food Prices in Granada

For Granada, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Sangria
    2.50
  • Sandwich to go
    3.00
  • Bocadillo & Drink
    6.25

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Granada

For Granada, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Sacromonte Caves Flamenco Show with Dinner: $62
  • Dinner and Show flamenco in the Albayzin Granada: $62
  • Walking Food Tour: $75
  • 2-Day Geopark Desert, Ancient Culture and Food Tour: $169

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Granada 28
    Piazza Armerina 4.29

Tours and Activities in Granada

For Granada, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $3.21
  • Sacromonte Caves Museum Admission Ticket: $5.35
  • Granada City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.42
  • Sacromonte Abbey Entry Ticket with Audio Guide: $6.42
  • Granada Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.55
  • Granada City Train 1 or 2-Day Hop-On Hop-Off Ticket: $7.49
  • Self-Guided City Exploration Smartphone Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $8.75
  • Granada (Alhambra): Scavenger Hunt and Self-Guided Tour: $8.75
  • Albaicín and Sacromonte’s Iconic Sights: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $8.99
  • Historic Center and Lower Albaicin Walking Tour: $9.62

Tours and Activities in Piazza Armerina

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Piazza Armerina are as follows:

  • From Catania: Agrigento-Piazza Armerina Audio-guided Tour: $128
  • Roman Villa del Casale Mosaics Tour: $241
  • Villa Romana del Casale Guided Tour: $42
  • Private Tour of Villa Romana del Casale & Valley of Temples: $225

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Granada 24
    Piazza Armerina 13

Sample the Local Flavors in Granada

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Granada:

  • Granada Traditional Tapas and Wine Tour - by Oh My Good Guide!: $77
  • BEST OF Flamenco, Tapas and Wine Tour: $100


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Granada and Piazza Armerina, we can see that Granada is more expensive. And not only is Piazza Armerina much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Piazza Armerina would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Piazza Armerina 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 Piazza Armerina.

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


Which is Bigger, Granada or Piazza Armerina?

Granada has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Piazza Armerina. When comparing the sizes of Granada and Piazza Armerina, 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 Piazza Armerina?

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 Piazza Armerina in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Granada as well as Piazza Armerina. Most visitors come to Granada for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Piazza Armerina because of the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Granada is around the same temperature as Piazza Armerina. Typically, the summer temperatures in Granada in July average around 25°C (77°F), and Piazza Armerina averages at about 26°C (79°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Piazza Armerina. 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 Piazza Armerina. Granada gets 348 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Piazza Armerina receives 325 hours of full sun.

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


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Granada 25°C (77°F) 
    Piazza Armerina 26°C (79°F)

Should I visit Granada or Piazza Armerina in the Autumn?

Both Piazza Armerina and Granada are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Granada because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Granada is generally around the same temperature as Piazza Armerina. Daily temperatures in Granada average around 19°C (67°F), and Piazza Armerina fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Granada. Granada usually receives more sunshine than Piazza Armerina during autumn. Granada gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Piazza Armerina receives 189 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Granada usually receives less rain than Piazza Armerina. Granada gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Piazza Armerina receives 75 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Granada 19°C (67°F) 
    Piazza Armerina 19°C (67°F)

Should I visit Granada or Piazza Armerina in the Winter?

Both Piazza Armerina and Granada during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Granada this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Piazza Armerina for the museums and the cuisine.

Granada is a little warmer than Piazza Armerina in the winter. The daily temperature in Granada averages around 12°C (54°F) in January, and Piazza Armerina fluctuates around 10°C (51°F).

In the winter, Granada often gets more sunshine than Piazza Armerina. Granada gets 171 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Piazza Armerina receives 153 hours of full sun.

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


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Granada 12°C (54°F) 
    Piazza Armerina 10°C (51°F)

Should I visit Granada or Piazza Armerina in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Granada and Piazza Armerina. Many travelers come to Granada for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Granada is around the same temperature as Piazza Armerina. Typically, the spring temperatures in Granada in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Piazza Armerina averages at about 15°C (58°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Piazza Armerina this time of the year. In Granada, it's very sunny this time of the year. Granada usually receives more sunshine than Piazza Armerina during spring. Granada gets 220 hours of sunny skies, while Piazza Armerina receives 204 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Granada usually receives more rain than Piazza Armerina. Granada gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Piazza Armerina receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Granada 16°C (60°F) 
    Piazza Armerina 15°C (58°F)

Typical Weather for Piazza Armerina and Granada

Granada Piazza Armerina
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 12°C (54°F) 83 mm (3.3 in) 10°C (51°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Feb 13°C (55°F) 75 mm (3 in) 11°C (52°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 14°C (57°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 12°C (54°F) 30 mm (1.2 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 15°C (58°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
May 19°C (66°F) 24 mm (0.9 in) 19°C (65°F) 23 mm (0.9 in)
Jun 22°C (72°F) 13 mm (0.5 in) 23°C (73°F) 6 mm (0.2 in)
Jul 25°C (77°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 26°C (79°F) 2 mm (0.1 in)
Aug 25°C (78°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 26°C (79°F) 14 mm (0.5 in)
Sep 23°C (74°F) 15 mm (0.6 in) 24°C (74°F) 37 mm (1.5 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 19°C (67°F) 75 mm (2.9 in)
Nov 15°C (60°F) 115 mm (4.5 in) 15°C (59°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Dec 13°C (55°F) 102 mm (4 in) 12°C (53°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)