A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Granada vs. Reykjavik for Hiking, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Granada or Reykjavik?

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

Should I visit Granada or Reykjavik? 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.

Reykjavik

Reykjavik is a green, safe, and friendly city. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, hiking, and shopping.

Granada and Reykjavik: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Granada or Reykjavik?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Granada than Reykjavik, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Granada is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, and historical sights, while Reykjavik is known for its hiking. Granada is popular for its Islamic architecture, charming old town, and the stunningly impressive Alhambra. It is also home to The Alhambra. Reykjavik is popular for its proximity to natural beauty and many thermal pools, as well as its active nightlife scene and many festivals.

How is Granada different from Reykjavik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Granada is an amazing city to visit for its museums and history. However, Reykjavik does not have 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.

Reykjavik does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Granada is a nice place to visit for its restaurants. However, Reykjavik is lacking in options for its restaurant scene.

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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Reykjavik. Traditional Icelandic food may not have the best reputation, but restaurants these days are pretty good with a variety of dishes to choose from. Popular foods in the area include fish, lamb, and Icelandic skyr (a type of yogurt).

Is Granada or Reykjavik Better for Nightlife?

Granada is an excellent place to visit for nightlife. Also, Reykjavik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

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.

Reykjavik has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The city offers the best nightlife in Iceland and you'll be surprised at the number of clubs, bars, and craft breweries that you can choose from. Almost all of the popular nightlife spots are around Laugavegur, a major shopping street in town.

Is Granada or Reykjavik Better for its Old Town?

Granada is an amazing city to visit for its historic old town. However, Reykjavik does not have a historic old town.

Granada offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. The Old Town spills out around the Granada Cathedral and is filled with charming pedestrian streets, lively plazas, and many great shops.

Reykjavik does not have a historic old town.

Is Granada or Reykjavik Better for Hiking?

Reykjavik is a world-class destination for its hiking trails. Also, Granada is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

People visit Reykjavik specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. The city offers easy access to some of the world's most spectacular scenery. There are many hikes that you can easily reach from town. They pass through diverse landscapes that include waterfalls, mountains, glaciers, and beaches.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Granada or Reykjavik?

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

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.

Reykjavik offers some nice shopping areas. The city's main shopping street is Laugavegur, which is where you'll find the most activity around town as well as a bustling atmosphere.

Is Granada or Reykjavik Better for Families?

Reykjavik 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.

Reykjavik is a very family-friendly destination. With its many outdoor activities and hands on museums, the city is great for kids. The cafes and restaurants are family-friendly and their are plenty of entertainment options for the whole family.

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 Reykjavik Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Granada and Reykjavik 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 Reykjavik frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are museums, outdoor activities, and even the northern lights that make this city very romantic. The cafes are laid-back and the atmosphere is friendly.

Is Granada or Reykjavik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Granada is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Reykjavik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Reykjavik is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are a number of hostels around town, but they can be pretty expensive. Transportation can also be pretty challenging for backpackers.

Is Granada or Reykjavik Better for Students?

Granada is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. Also, Reykjavik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Granada is a great city to visit as a student. 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.

Reykjavik is popular with students. Students will enjoy a unique experience in this city. There are good academic programs as well as beautiful outdoor settings that you can explore.

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

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

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 Reykjavik, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a fairly comprehensive bus system around town.

Is Granada or Reykjavik a more walkable city?

Granada and Reykjavik 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.

Reykjavik is a very walkable city. The city is small and compact, so it's easy to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Reykjavik or Granada?

How long in Granada or Reykjavik?

In either Granada or Reykjavik, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Reykjavik than Granada because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Granada, and 1-5 days is enough time in Reykjavik.

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

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

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Granada. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Reykjavik, you'll find nightlife and shopping. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. 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 Reykjavik?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the charming destination of Granada. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In Reykjavik, you'll find shopping and nightlife. 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 hiking. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Reykjavik has to offer.

Five days in Granada or Reykjavik?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historic city of Granada. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Most people head to the area for the museums. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

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

A week in Granada or Reykjavik?

Granada is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Reykjavik. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Reykjavik. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Budget Tours to Iceland, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Iceland.

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

Which is Bigger, Granada or Reykjavik?

Granada has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Reykjavik. When comparing the sizes of Granada and Reykjavik, 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 Reykjavik?

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 Reykjavik in the Summer?

Both Reykjavik 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 Reykjavik in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Granada is much warmer than Reykjavik in the summer. The daily temperature in Granada averages around 25°C (77°F) in July, and Reykjavik fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Granada. Granada usually receives more sunshine than Reykjavik during summer. Granada gets 348 hours of sunny skies, while Reykjavik receives 171 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Granada usually receives less rain than Reykjavik. Granada gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Granada or Reykjavik in the Autumn?

Both Reykjavik 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. Also, most visitors come to Reykjavik for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Reykjavik can be very cold during autumn. In the autumn, Granada is much warmer than Reykjavik. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Granada in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Reykjavik averages at about 5°C (41°F).

It's quite sunny in Granada. In the autumn, Granada often gets more sunshine than Reykjavik. Granada gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reykjavik receives 83 hours of full sun.

Granada usually gets less rain in October than Reykjavik. Granada gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 86 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Granada or Reykjavik in the Winter?

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

The weather in Reykjavik can be very cold. In January, Granada is generally much warmer than Reykjavik. Daily temperatures in Granada average around 12°C (54°F), and Reykjavik fluctuates around -0°C (32°F).

Granada usually receives more sunshine than Reykjavik during winter. Granada gets 171 hours of sunny skies, while Reykjavik receives 27 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Granada usually receives more rain than Reykjavik. Granada gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Granada or Reykjavik in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Granada as well as Reykjavik. The spring months attract visitors to Granada because of the natural beauty. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Reykjavik this time of year.

It's quite cold in Reykjavik in the spring. Granada is much warmer than Reykjavik in the spring. The daily temperature in Granada averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Reykjavik fluctuates around 3°C (38°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 Reykjavik. Granada gets 220 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reykjavik receives 140 hours of full sun.

Granada usually gets less rain in April than Reykjavik. Granada gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Reykjavik and Granada