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

Should you visit Granada or San Remo?

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

Should I visit Granada or San Remo? 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. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and museums.

San Remo

San Remo is a relaxing, beautiful, and scenic coastal city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food, beaches, and shopping.

Granada and San Remo: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Granada or San Remo?

You'll generally find more things to do in Granada than San Remo. Granada is bigger than San Remo, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Granada is better known for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, hiking, and impressive beauty, while San Remo is more popular for its food and beaches. Granada is more touristy than San Remo and is known for its Islamic architecture, charming old town, and the stunningly impressive Alhambra. Also, Granada is famous for The Alhambra. San Remo is well known for its olives, lemons, and flower market.

How is Granada different from San Remo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Granada
San Remo

Granada is terrific for its museums and history. However, San Remo 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.

San Remo does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Granada
San Remo

San Remo 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 San Remo. The local restaurants are charming and sell a number of local specialties. Many traditional dishes are made with rabbit or chicken. There are also vegetable pies and sardenaira, which is a type of pizza that's made with tomatoes, garlic, and anchovies. Also make sure you pick up Baci di Sanremo, which are soft chocolate biscuits that are available in local bakeries.

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 San Remo Better for Nightlife?

Granada
San Remo

Granada is a very popular place for its evening party scene. Also, San Remo is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Granada has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

San Remo has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The city has a number of clubs and bars where you can enjoy a drink or hang out late into the evening. It's a pretty mellow nightlife scene, but there's still plenty of places to go as well as a local vibe that doesn't have the influx of tourists that you find in many of other Italian cities.

Is Granada or San Remo Better for Beaches?

Granada
San Remo

San Remo is an excellent place to visit for its beaches. However, Granada is not a beach destination.

San Remo is considered a top beach destination. The beautiful sandy beaches are nice to visit and it's possible to rent chairs and umbrellas in many places. The main beach in town is Spiaggia dei Porti. Other popular nearby beaches include Spiaggia dei tre ponti, which is a large public beach, and Cala degli Orsi, which is one of the most beautiful public beaches in the area.

Granada is not a beach destination.


Is Granada or San Remo Better for its Old Town?

Granada
San Remo

Granada is terrific for its historic old town charm. Also, San Remo is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its historic old town.

Granada has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. The Old Town spills out around the Granada Cathedral and is filled with charming pedestrian streets, lively plazas, and many great shops.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of San Remo. The old quarter of Pigna is a Medieval area with narrow streets that feel as if they're frozen in time. The hills offer impressive city views and the area has a unique historic character.

Is Granada or San Remo Better for Hiking?

Granada
San Remo

Granada is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, San Remo is not a hiking destination.

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.

San Remo is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Granada or San Remo?

Granada
San Remo

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

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.

San Remo offers some nice shopping areas. There are local and international brands as well as a shopping mall and outlets where you can enjoy shopping.


Is Granada or San Remo Better for Families?

Granada
San Remo

San Remo 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.

San Remo is a very family-friendly destination. The area offers plenty of outdoor activities that the whole family will enjoy. There's horseback riding, hiking, rowing, snorkeling, cooking classes, farm tours and more. There are also a number of hotels in the area that have kid-friendly activities.

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 San Remo Better for Couples?

Granada
San Remo

With fun activities for couples, both Granada and San Remo make for a high quality 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 San Remo frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It's known as the city of flowers, and the many beautiful gardens make this a truly romantic place to visit. Couples will enjoy soaking up the city's history and enjoy the vibrant culture and outdoor activities that are available.

Is Granada or San Remo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Granada
San Remo

Granada is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, San Remo is lacking in good options 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.

San Remo is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There aren't many hostels in town, and most backpackers head to more popular Italian destinations. If you're looking for a more off-the-beaten path destination, then this may be your style.


Is Granada or San Remo Better for Students?

Granada
San Remo

Granada is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, San Remo is not popular with students.

Granada is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. 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.

San Remo is not popular with students.

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

Granada
San Remo

Visitors will find notable public transit in both Granada and San Remo.

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 San Remo, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are local buses around town.

Is Granada or San Remo a more walkable city?

Granada
San Remo

Granada and San Remo are high quality 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.

San Remo is a very walkable city. The old quarter is fun to explore on foot and there are a number of walking tours through town.


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

Should I spend more time in San Remo or Granada?

How long in Granada or San Remo?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Granada than San Remo. 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 San Remo 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 San Remo? Ideal Length of Stay
    Granada 2-4 
    San Remo 1-2

One day in Granada or San Remo?

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 San Remo, you'll find shopping and nightlife. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This coastal 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 San Remo?

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 San Remo, you'll find nightlife 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 San Remo has to offer.

Five days in Granada or San Remo?

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.

San Remo is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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 San Remo?

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 San Remo. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting San Remo. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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 Sightseeing Tours in Italy, and The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, San Remo 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 San Remo is €152. 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 San Remo in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Granada 59
    San Remo 80
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Granada 118
    San Remo 160
Compare Hotels in Granada and San Remo

Looking for a hotel in Granada or San Remo? 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 San Remo


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 San Remo Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Granada 22
    San Remo 46
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 Granada downtown to Málaga airport (Agp): $288
  • Private Transfer from Playa Granada to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $209
  • Private Transfer from Molvízar to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $188
  • Private Transfer from Granada City Center to Granada Airport(GRX): $31
  • Private Transfer from Granada Airport(GRX) to Granada City Center: $31
  • Private Transfer from Granada Airport to Granada by Luxury van: $76
  • Private Transfer from Carchuna to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $207
  • One-Way Private Transfer From/To Granada Airport: $50
  • Via Ferrata Moclín with Transfers: $80
  • Private Transfer IN or OUT in Upscale Vehicle with Professional Driver: $132
  • Granada to Malaga Airport Private Transfer: $229
  • Granada to Cordoba Private Transfer: $265

Is it cheaper to fly into Granada or San Remo?

Prices for flights to both San Remo 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
    San Remo 44
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
    San Remo 23

Tours and Activities in Granada

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

  • 2-hour Tour of the Alhambra and Albaicín Bajo: $65
  • Adventure Cahorros, Monachil/ Climbing and abseiling Granada: $91
  • Albaicín & Sacromonte Walking Tour: $17
  • Albaicín & Sacromonte: Tour with Flamenco Show: $34
  • Albaicín and Sacromonte’s Iconic Sights: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $8.99
  • Albaicin & Sacramonte Electric Bike Tour in Granada : $38
  • Albaicin and Sacromonte Evening Walking Tour: $15
  • Albaicin and Sacromonte Private Tour : $93
  • Albayzin Express Electric Bike Tour with Play Granada: $38
  • Albayzin and Sacromonte Electric Bike Tour in Granada: $60
  • Albayzin and Sacromonte Guided Walking Tour in Granada: $15
  • Albayzin and Sacromonte Private Tour at Sunset: $152

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Granada 24
    San Remo 14

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 San Remo, we can see that San Remo 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 San Remo would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in San Remo 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 San Remo Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Granada or San Remo?

Granada has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of San Remo. When comparing the sizes of Granada and San Remo, 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 San Remo?

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 San Remo in the Summer?

Both San Remo and Granada are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Granada because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to San Remo this time of year.

In July, Granada is generally around the same temperature as San Remo. Daily temperatures in Granada average around 25°C (77°F), and San Remo fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

It's quite sunny in San Remo. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Granada. Granada usually receives more sunshine than San Remo during summer. Granada gets 348 hours of sunny skies, while San Remo receives 295 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Granada usually receives less rain than San Remo. Granada gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while San Remo receives 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Granada 25°C (77°F) 
    San Remo 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Granada or San Remo in the Autumn?

Both San Remo and Granada during the autumn are popular places to visit. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Granada this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to San Remo for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Granada is a little warmer than San Remo in the autumn. The daily temperature in Granada averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and San Remo fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

It's quite sunny in Granada. In the autumn, Granada often gets more sunshine than San Remo. Granada gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Remo receives 183 hours of full sun.

San Remo gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Granada usually gets less rain in October than San Remo. Granada gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while San Remo receives 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Granada 19°C (67°F) 
    San Remo 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Granada or San Remo in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Granada and San Remo. Many travelers come to Granada for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to San Remo in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

In the winter, Granada is a little warmer than San Remo. Typically, the winter temperatures in Granada in January average around 12°C (54°F), and San Remo averages at about 9°C (48°F).

Granada usually receives more sunshine than San Remo during winter. Granada gets 171 hours of sunny skies, while San Remo receives 127 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Granada usually receives around the same amount of rain as San Remo. Granada gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while San Remo receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Granada 12°C (54°F) 
    San Remo 9°C (48°F)

Should I visit Granada or San Remo in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Granada as well as San Remo. Many visitors come to Granada in the spring for the natural beauty. Additionally, most visitors come to San Remo for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Granada is generally a little warmer than San Remo. Daily temperatures in Granada average around 16°C (60°F), and San Remo fluctuates around 13°C (56°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 San Remo. Granada gets 220 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Remo receives 198 hours of full sun.

Granada usually gets less rain in April than San Remo. Granada gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while San Remo receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Granada 16°C (60°F) 
    San Remo 13°C (56°F)

Typical Weather for San Remo and Granada

Granada San Remo
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 12°C (54°F) 83 mm (3.3 in) 9°C (48°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Feb 13°C (55°F) 75 mm (3 in) 9°C (49°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Mar 14°C (57°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 11°C (51°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 13°C (56°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
May 19°C (66°F) 24 mm (0.9 in) 16°C (62°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Jun 22°C (72°F) 13 mm (0.5 in) 20°C (68°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Jul 25°C (77°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 23°C (73°F) 16 mm (0.6 in)
Aug 25°C (78°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 23°C (73°F) 31 mm (1.2 in)
Sep 23°C (74°F) 15 mm (0.6 in) 21°C (69°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 17°C (63°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
Nov 15°C (60°F) 115 mm (4.5 in) 12°C (54°F) 104 mm (4.1 in)
Dec 13°C (55°F) 102 mm (4 in) 10°C (49°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)