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

Should you visit Granada or Rijeka?

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

Should I visit Granada or Rijeka? 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 shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Rijeka

Rijeka is a coastal, accessible, and diverse town. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Granada and Rijeka: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Granada or Rijeka?

You'll generally find more things to do in Granada than Rijeka. Granada is bigger than Rijeka, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Granada is better known for its museums, historical sights, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Rijeka is more popular for its beaches and big city activities. Granada is more touristy than Rijeka and is popular for its Islamic architecture, charming old town, and the stunningly impressive Alhambra. Also, Granada is famous for The Alhambra. Rijeka is well known for being a transportation hub in Croatia with a ferry and cruise ship port.

How is Granada different from Rijeka?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Granada is renowned for its sights and museums. Also, Rijeka is not as famous, but is still a good town 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.

Rijeka is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Historical sights around town include Trsat Castle, the Petar Druzic Stairway, and Our Lady of Trsat. There are also museums such as PEEK&POKE Computer Museum and the Governor's Palace and Maritime and Historical Museum.

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

Foodies will find both Granada and Rijeka both to be notable 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 Rijeka. It's known for its Mediterranean cuisine which includes more than seafood. There are local vegetable specialties in the area as well including asparagus and white truffles. Codfish stew and cuttlefish risotto are also popular.

Is Granada or Rijeka Better for Nightlife?

Both Granada and Rijeka have great 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 Rijeka know how to have a good time. The city center has plenty of bars and clubs. Restaurants also stay open late and are popular places to hang out for locals and tourists alike.

Is Granada or Rijeka Better for Beaches?

Rijeka is a decent place to visit for its beaches. However, Granada is not a beach destination.

Rijeka is a good spot to see the beach. There are pebbly and gravelly beaches in the area, with the best beaches to the west of the city. You'll need to take a public bus to reach most of them.

Granada is not a beach destination.

Is Granada or Rijeka Better for its Old Town?

Granada is renowned for its historic old town charm. However, Rijeka does not have a historic old town.

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

Rijeka does not have a historic old town.

Is Granada or Rijeka Better for Hiking?

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

Rijeka is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Granada or Rijeka?

Shoppers can find a variety of notable stores in both Granada and Rijeka.

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.

Rijeka offers some nice shopping areas. There are many shopping centers, retail stores, and souvenir shops around town.

Is Granada or Rijeka Better for Families?

Rijeka 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.

Rijeka is a very family-friendly destination. The city has a number of outdoor activities for kids like nature parks and nearby beaches. There's also a puppet theater as well as the Astronomical Center of Rijeka.

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 Rijeka Better for Couples?

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

Rijeka is a nice destination for couples. It's a gateway to the Croatian islands. Many couples enjoy walking down the waterfront promenade or dining at a nice local restaurant. There are also beaches, parks, and historical sights to explore.

Is Granada or Rijeka Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

It's common for backpackers to visit Rijeka. There's no shortage of affordable hostels around town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Is Granada or Rijeka Better for Students?

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

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.

Plenty of students visit Rijeka. It's a laid back seaside city that makes a nice semester abroad destination. As a gateway to the Croatian islands, it also offers transportation connections to other points of interest.

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

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

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 Rijeka, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. KD Autrolej buses provide transit throughout the city.

Is Granada or Rijeka a more walkable city?

Granada is a well-known place for its ease of walking around. Also, Rijeka is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its walkability.

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

Rijeka is somewhat walkable. Parts of the city are more walkable than others.

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

Should I spend more time in Rijeka or Granada?

How long in Granada or Rijeka?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Granada or Rijeka to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Granada than Rijeka 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 Rijeka.

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

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

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Granada. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Rijeka, you'll find nightlife and food. 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 Rijeka?

Granada is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

In Rijeka, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Rijeka has to offer.

Five days in Granada or Rijeka?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Granada. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Rijeka is a great place to explore. 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 Rijeka?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the charming destination of Granada. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Rijeka. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Rijeka. 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 Adventure Tours to Croatia, and The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in Croatia.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Granada or Rijeka?

Granada has a larger population, and is about 69% larger than the population of Rijeka. When comparing the sizes of Granada and Rijeka, 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 Rijeka?

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 Rijeka in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Granada as well as Rijeka. The hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Granada this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Rijeka for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Granada is generally around the same temperature as Rijeka. Daily temperatures in Granada average around 25°C (77°F), and Rijeka fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Rijeka. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Granada this time of the year. In the summer, Granada often gets more sunshine than Rijeka. Granada gets 348 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rijeka receives 288 hours of full sun.

Granada usually gets less rain in July than Rijeka. Granada gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Rijeka receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Granada or Rijeka in the Autumn?

Both Rijeka and Granada are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Granada for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Rijeka in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Granada is a little warmer than Rijeka in the autumn. The daily temperature in Granada averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Rijeka fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Granada. Granada usually receives more sunshine than Rijeka during autumn. Granada gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Rijeka receives 167 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Granada usually receives less rain than Rijeka. Granada gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Rijeka receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Granada or Rijeka in the Winter?

Both Rijeka and Granada during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Granada in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Rijeka for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Granada is much warmer than Rijeka. Typically, the winter temperatures in Granada in January average around 12°C (54°F), and Rijeka averages at about 5°C (41°F).

In the winter, Granada often gets more sunshine than Rijeka. Granada gets 171 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rijeka receives 96 hours of full sun.

Granada usually gets more rain in January than Rijeka. Granada gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Rijeka receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Granada or Rijeka in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Granada and Rijeka. Most visitors come to Granada for the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Rijeka because of the beaches and the activities around the city.

In April, Granada is generally a little warmer than Rijeka. Daily temperatures in Granada average around 16°C (60°F), and Rijeka fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

In Granada, it's very sunny this time of the year. Granada usually receives more sunshine than Rijeka during spring. Granada gets 220 hours of sunny skies, while Rijeka receives 177 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Granada usually receives less rain than Rijeka. Granada gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Rijeka receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Rijeka and Granada