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

Should you visit Granada or Positano?

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

Should I visit Granada or Positano? 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.

Positano

Positano is a stunning, luxurious, and charming Mediterranean village. Since it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors, too. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. Other reasons to visit include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Granada and Positano: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Granada or Positano?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Positano than Granada, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Positano is better known for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere, while Granada is more popular for its museums and nightlife. Positano is more touristy than Granada and is known for its beautiful cliffside setting, its colorful buildings, and its quintessential Amalfi atmosphere. Also, Positano is famous for The Church of Santa Maria Assunta. Granada is well known for its Islamic architecture, charming old town, and the stunningly impressive Alhambra.

How is Granada different from Positano?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Granada is a must-visit destination for its historical sights. However, Positano does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Positano does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Positano 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, Positano is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Seafood is the obvious choice along the Amalfi Coast but Positano is also famous for its salami, chestnuts, cheese, and figs.

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 Positano Better for Nightlife?

Granada is great for its evening party scene. However, Positano is not a good destination for nightlife.

Many people head to Granada for the nightlife scene. 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.

Most people don't head to Positano specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. The town has a relaxing nightlife that is usually centered around the clubs found at nearby resorts.

Is Granada or Positano Better for Resorts?

Positano is a world-class destination for its luxury resorts. However, Granada is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Positano is a great choice. The town has a number of luxury resorts including Le Sirenuse, Il San Pietro di Positano, and Hotel Le Agavi.

Granada is not a resort destination.

Is Granada or Positano Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Positano is a decent place to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Granada is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's possible to go snorkeling in Positano. There are snorkeling boat trips that you can book to enjoy exploring the undersea world.

Granada is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Granada or Positano Better for Beaches?

Positano is a popular place for its beaches. However, Granada is not a beach destination.

Positano is a good option for a beach vacation. Like the rest of the Amalfi Coast, beaches near Positano tend to be pebbly instead of sandy. They can also get a bit crowded during the summer months. Still, the picturesque setting makes these beaches truly amazing. The main beach at the edge of town is Spiaggia Grande, but there are several others nearby as well.

Granada is not a beach destination.

Is Granada or Positano Better for its Old Town?

It's fun to wander around the amazing old towns in both Granada and Positano.

The historic old town of Granada is revered around the world. The Old Town spills out around the Granada Cathedral and is filled with charming pedestrian streets, lively plazas, and many great shops.

With a famous historical old-town, Positano offers plenty to see. Exploring the old town, soaking up the atmosphere, and simply enjoying the colorful buildings is what a trip to Positano is all about.

Is Granada or Positano Better for Hiking?

If you're looking to go hiking, Granada and Positano both have superb trails.

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.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Positano. The best way to explore the area out of town is on foot. There are a number of foot paths and trails that will take you through the stunning landscapes.

Is the Shopping Better in Granada or Positano?

Positano 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 Positano. The main street in town is lined with quaint shops that sell local lemon products, ceramics, clothing, and more.

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 Positano Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Granada or Positano.

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 Positano. Fun activities include boat rides, eating gelato, and hanging out at the beach. Some of the best family-friendly beaches are Spiaggia Grande, Fornillo Beach, and Arienzo Beach.

Is Granada or Positano Better for Couples?

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

Positano makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. It is a picturesque coast town that is both romantic and fun. Wandering through the streets and sampling Italian food make this the perfect honeymoon 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 Positano Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Granada is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Positano is not as popular, but is still a nice Mediterranean village 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Positano. The town has a handful of great hostels that make the Amalfi Coast accessible to backpackers on a budget.

Is Granada or Positano Better for Students?

Granada is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Positano 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.

Positano is not popular with students.

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

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

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 Positano, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. You can walk everywhere once you arrive, and the SITA bus travels to and from the town.

Is Granada or Positano a more walkable city?

Positano is a world-class destination for its walkability. Also, Granada is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Positano. The town is best explored on foot. You can wander the quaint streets or take the foot path to the beach or nearby castles.

Granada is a very walkable city. Most of the touristy areas are easy to explore on foot, but there are some steep hills so put on your walking shoes.

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

Should I spend more time in Positano or Granada?

How long in Granada or Positano?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Granada than Positano 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 Positano?

The beautiful city of Granada offers food and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Positano is a small town with plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the food. This Mediterranean village 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 Positano?

Granada is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Granada, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Positano 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. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the food. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Positano has to offer.

Five days in Granada or Positano?

Granada is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Positano is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Positano has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Granada or Positano?

Granada is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Positano. Positano is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and food. One reason most visitors come is for the food. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Italy, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Granada or Positano?

Granada has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Positano. When comparing the sizes of Granada and Positano, 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 Positano?

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 Positano in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Granada and Positano. Most visitors come to Granada for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Positano because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Granada is generally around the same temperature as Positano. Daily temperatures in Granada average around 25°C (77°F), and Positano fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Positano this time of the year. In Granada, it's very sunny this time of the year. Granada usually receives more sunshine than Positano during summer. Granada gets 348 hours of sunny skies, while Positano receives 313 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Granada usually receives less rain than Positano. Granada gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Positano receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Granada or Positano in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Granada as well as Positano. The autumn months attract visitors to Granada because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Positano this time of year.

Granada is a little warmer than Positano in the autumn. The daily temperature in Granada averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Positano fluctuates around 17°C (63°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 Positano. Granada gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Positano receives 189 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Positano. Granada usually gets less rain in October than Positano. Granada gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Positano receives 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Granada or Positano in the Winter?

Both Positano 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 Positano for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

In the winter, Granada is much warmer than Positano. Typically, the winter temperatures in Granada in January average around 12°C (54°F), and Positano averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Granada usually receives more sunshine than Positano during winter. Granada gets 171 hours of sunny skies, while Positano receives 115 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Positano. In January, Granada usually receives less rain than Positano. Granada gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Positano receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Granada or Positano in the Spring?

Both Positano and Granada during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Granada for the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Positano in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In April, Granada is generally a little warmer than Positano. Daily temperatures in Granada average around 16°C (60°F), and Positano fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

It's quite sunny in Granada. In the spring, Granada often gets more sunshine than Positano. Granada gets 220 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Positano receives 189 hours of full sun.

Granada usually gets less rain in April than Positano. Granada gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Positano receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Positano and Granada