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

Should you visit Granada or Salzburg?

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

Should I visit Granada or Salzburg? 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 museums, nightlife, and food.

Salzburg

Salzburg is a musical, cultural, and recognizable city. 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 food, shopping, and museums.

Granada and Salzburg: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Granada or Salzburg?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Salzburg than Granada. While Granada is larger than Salzburg, Salzburg has more sights and attractions for tourists. Salzburg is better known for its food, music, shopping, and quaint atmosphere, while Granada is more popular for its museums, nightlife, and hiking. Salzburg is more touristy than Granada and is popular for its elegant breakfasts, its classical music scene, and its role in the Sound of Music. Also, Salzburg is famous for The Salzburg Old Town. Granada is well known for its Islamic architecture, charming old town, and the stunningly impressive Alhambra.

The Salzburg Old Town

How is Granada different from Salzburg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Granada is terrific for its sights and museums. Also, Salzburg is not as famous, but is still a good city 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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Salzburg. There are many historic sights to explore including Mozart's birthplace, the Mozart Residence, the Salzburg Museum, and the many stunning churches and concert halls.

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

Salzburg is an excellent place to visit for its restaurants. Also, Granada is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Salzburg. The old town is filled with charming restaurants that serve local specialties including schnitzel, tafelspitz, and strudel. The city is also known for it's impressive breakfast spread that is often served on a three tiered cake stand and includes cheeses, salami, fresh fruit, pastries, olives, jams and more.

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 Salzburg Better for Nightlife?

Granada is a well-known place for its evening party scene. Also, Salzburg is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

Granada offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Salzburg. The city has a number of trendy bars, pubs, and clubs where you can enjoy music and a lively atmosphere.

Is Granada or Salzburg Better for Music?

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

Salzburg is known as a music capital around the world. Although most people think of Mozart and the Sound of Music when they think of this city, there are also many music festivals, including the famous Salzburg Music Festival, as well as concert venues and an independent music scene that is excellent.

Granada is not a live music destination.

Is Granada or Salzburg Better for its Old Town?

It's fun to wander around the fantastic old towns in both Granada and Salzburg.

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, Salzburg offers plenty to see. This beautiful old town is filled with cafes, restaurants, and churches. You can enjoy local music performed by street performers as you soak in the atmosphere and the regular chime of the church bells really gives the city personality. There are also frequent markets and shops to explore.

Is Granada or Salzburg Better for Hiking?

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

Salzburg is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Granada or Salzburg?

Salzburg 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 Salzburg. The city's historic heart is filled with boutique shops, chocolate markets, and charming local vendors. It's fun to peruse the many shops that line the streets while you shop for local souvenirs.

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 Salzburg Better for Families?

Salzburg 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.

Salzburg is a very family-friendly destination. Kids who know the Sound of Music will enjoy visiting the setting of a number of scenes from the movie. There are even popular Sound of Music tours that take you to the gardens where they sang "Do Re Mi" and out of town to the church where Maria married the Captain. The city also offers Marionette Puppet shows, cooking classes, castles and more around town that everyone can enjoy.

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 Salzburg Better for Couples?

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

Salzburg makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. The town offers a romantic setting with elaborate breakfasts, beautiful architecture, live shows, and plenty that couples can enjoy. You can simply wander around old town or explore the many gardens around town. Couples will also enjoy the concerts and music that the city is so famous for.

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 Salzburg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Granada and Salzburg are both very good destinations 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.

Salzburg is a great city to visit for backpackers. This is a popular city to visit, so there are plenty of amenities for backpackers. If you want to save a little money, you can stay and eat outside of old town where the prices are a little less.

Is Granada or Salzburg Better for Students?

Salzburg 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 Salzburg. International students appreciate the high quality of life, excellent educational opportunities and unique European setting that makes this city special. There are also a number of beautiful places just outside of town that you can explore, as well as many travel connections to other popular cities in Europe.

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

Salzburg is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Granada is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Public transit in Salzburg is fairly effecient and thorough. Trolleys and buses make it easy to get around town.

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 Salzburg a more walkable city?

Granada and Salzburg 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.

Salzburg is a very walkable city. The old town is very walkable, but if you stay outside of the main tourist areas, you'll likely want to take a bus.

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

Should I spend more time in Salzburg or Granada?

How long in Granada or Salzburg?

In either Granada or Salzburg, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Salzburg than Granada because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Granada, and 3-5 days is enough time in Salzburg.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Salzburg 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 Salzburg.

One day in Granada or Salzburg?

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.

In Salzburg, you'll find shopping and museums. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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 Salzburg?

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.

In Salzburg, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 Salzburg?

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.

Salzburg is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Salzburg has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Granada or Salzburg?

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 Salzburg. Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Salzburg. 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in Austria, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Austria.

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

Which is Bigger, Granada or Salzburg?

Granada has a larger population, and is about 59% larger than the population of Salzburg. When comparing the sizes of Granada and Salzburg, 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 Salzburg?

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 Salzburg in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Granada as well as Salzburg. Many travelers come to Granada for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Salzburg in the summer for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Granada is generally a little warmer than Salzburg. Daily temperatures in Granada average around 25°C (77°F), and Salzburg fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Salzburg. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Granada this time of the year. In the summer, Granada often gets more sunshine than Salzburg. Granada gets 348 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Salzburg receives 227 hours of full sun.

Granada usually gets less rain in July than Salzburg. Granada gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Salzburg receives 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Granada or Salzburg in the Autumn?

Both Salzburg and Granada are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. 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 Salzburg for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Granada is much warmer than Salzburg in the autumn. The daily temperature in Granada averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Salzburg 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 Salzburg during autumn. Granada gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Salzburg receives 108 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Granada usually receives around the same amount of rain as Salzburg. Granada gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Salzburg receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Granada or Salzburg in the Winter?

Both Salzburg and Granada during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Granada for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Salzburg because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Salzburg can be very cold. In the winter, Granada is much warmer than Salzburg. Typically, the winter temperatures in Granada in January average around 12°C (54°F), and Salzburg averages at about -0°C (31°F).

In the winter, Granada often gets more sunshine than Salzburg. Granada gets 171 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Salzburg receives 44 hours of full sun.

Granada usually gets more rain in January than Salzburg. Granada gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Salzburg receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Granada or Salzburg in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Granada and Salzburg. The spring months attract visitors to Granada because of the natural beauty. Furthermore, the natural beauty are the main draw to Salzburg this time of year.

In April, Granada is generally much warmer than Salzburg. Daily temperatures in Granada average around 16°C (60°F), and Salzburg fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In Granada, it's very sunny this time of the year. Granada usually receives more sunshine than Salzburg during spring. Granada gets 220 hours of sunny skies, while Salzburg receives 155 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Granada usually receives less rain than Salzburg. Granada gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Salzburg receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Salzburg and Granada