A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Granada vs. Stratford-upon-Avon for Attractions, Old Town, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Granada or Stratford-upon-Avon?

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

Should I visit Granada or Stratford-upon-Avon? 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. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Stratford-upon-Avon

Stratford-upon-Avon is a idyllic, peaceful, and park-filled town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. Other reasons to visit include food and theater.

Granada and Stratford-upon-Avon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Granada or Stratford-upon-Avon?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Granada. Although Granada and Stratford-upon-Avon are popular destinations, Granada has more sights and attractions for tourists. Granada is very popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Stratford-upon-Avon attracts visitors for its theatre productions and small town charm. Granada is more touristy than Stratford-upon-Avon and is known for its Islamic architecture, charming old town, and the stunningly impressive Alhambra. It is also well known for The Alhambra. Stratford-upon-Avon is famous for its status as the birthplace of William Shakespeare.

How is Granada different from Stratford-upon-Avon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Stratford-upon-Avon 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 Stratford-upon-Avon?

Granada is an unbeatable place for its museums and history. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Granada are world-renowned. 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.

Stratford-upon-Avon offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Many visitors make a point of seeing Shakespeare's Birthplace, Hall's Croft, and Anne Hathaway's Cottage.

Is Granada or Stratford-upon-Avon Better for Theater?

Stratford-upon-Avon is a world-class destination for theatre. However, Granada is not a theatre destination.

The theater and performance venues in Stratford-upon-Avon draw crowds from around the world. Shakespeare enthusiasts must check out a Shakespeare play at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre. There are often tickets available the day of for a reduced price.

Granada is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Granada or Stratford-upon-Avon? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Granada and Stratford-upon-Avon both to be nice 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 Stratford-upon-Avon. The town center has a few nice restaurants including seafood, Italian food, Indian food, and cafes where you can enjoy high tea.

Is Granada or Stratford-upon-Avon Better for Nightlife?

Granada is a very popular place for nightlife and partying. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is not a destination with noteworthy 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.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Granada or Stratford-upon-Avon Better for its Old Town?

Granada is an unbeatable place for its old town. Also, Stratford-upon-Avon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its historic old town charm.

With a famous historical old-town, Granada offers plenty to see. The Old Town spills out around the Granada Cathedral and is filled with charming pedestrian streets, lively plazas, and many great shops.

Stratford-upon-Avon offers a nice historic old town area. The old town has a few highlights including Shakespeare's birthplace, and several museums.

Is Granada or Stratford-upon-Avon Better for Hiking?

Granada is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Stratford-upon-Avon 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.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Granada or Stratford-upon-Avon?

Granada is very good for its shopping opportunities. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Granada or Stratford-upon-Avon Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Granada or Stratford-upon-Avon.

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 Stratford-upon-Avon. This small town has a ferris wheel that offers beautiful views. There's also a the Stratford Butterfly Farm, which is a beautiful setting and if you stand still enough, you might even be lucky enough to have one land on your shoulder. You can also check out Tudor World, the MAD Museum, or one of the playgrounds around town.

Is Granada or Stratford-upon-Avon Better for Couples?

Granada is a very popular place for its romantic activities. Also, Stratford-upon-Avon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

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.

Stratford-upon-Avon is a good city for couples to visit. The charming town offers a few nice restaurants where you can enjoy a meal. For a lovely date night, check out a Shakespeare play at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre. During the day, wander around the old town or stroll down the river and enjoy the beautiful outdoor setting. Many residents have converted properties into Bed and Breakfasts, so there are a number of cute and affordable places where couples can stay.

Is Granada or Stratford-upon-Avon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Granada is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Many 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.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. Most backpackers skip this town for the more lively cities. There are affordable places to stay, but no real hostels in town.

Is Granada or Stratford-upon-Avon Better for Students?

Granada is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is not popular with students.

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.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not popular with students.

Is Granada or Stratford-upon-Avon Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Granada is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is lacking in good options for its public transit.

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.

Public transit is generally limited in Stratford-upon-Avon. The train station is a bit removed from the town center, but because the town is so small, it's still possible to reach it on foot from most places.

Is Granada or Stratford-upon-Avon a more walkable city?

Granada is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. Also, Stratford-upon-Avon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

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.

Stratford-upon-Avon is a somewhat walkable city. It's easy to stroll around town on foot, but there aren't many pedestrian only areas. Head for the river for some of the nicest walking areas.

For even more information, also check out Is Granada Worth Visiting? and Is Stratford-upon-Avon Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Stratford-upon-Avon or Granada?

How long in Granada or Stratford-upon-Avon?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Granada than Stratford-upon-Avon. 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 Stratford-upon-Avon 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 Stratford-upon-Avon?

In Granada, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. Visiting the old town is also a must. Lots of people come for the museums. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Stratford-upon-Avon is a small town with plenty to do. One reason most visitors come is for the theater. 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 Stratford-upon-Avon?

Many people visit Granada for a weekend. Lots of people come for the museums. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.

Stratford-upon-Avon 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. One reason most visitors come is for the theater. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Stratford-upon-Avon has to offer.

Five days in Granada or Stratford-upon-Avon?

The beautiful destination of Granada offers shopping and museums. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Stratford-upon-Avon 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 Stratford-upon-Avon?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Granada. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers something for everyone. 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's hard to know how much time to spend in Stratford-upon-Avon. Since Stratford-upon-Avon is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. One reason most visitors come is for the theater. 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 Tours for Seniors to United Kingdom, and The Best 3-Day Tours from Edinburgh.

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

Which is Bigger, Granada or Stratford-upon-Avon?

Granada has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Stratford-upon-Avon. When comparing the sizes of Granada and Stratford-upon-Avon, 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 Stratford-upon-Avon?

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 Stratford-upon-Avon in the Summer?

Both Stratford-upon-Avon and Granada are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Granada this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Stratford-upon-Avon for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Granada is a little warmer than Stratford-upon-Avon. Typically, the summer temperatures in Granada in July average around 25°C (77°F), and Stratford-upon-Avon averages at about 17°C (63°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Granada. Granada usually receives more sunshine than Stratford-upon-Avon during summer. Granada gets 348 hours of sunny skies, while Stratford-upon-Avon receives 195 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Granada usually receives less rain than Stratford-upon-Avon. Granada gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Stratford-upon-Avon receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Granada or Stratford-upon-Avon in the Autumn?

Both Stratford-upon-Avon and Granada during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Granada for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Stratford-upon-Avon in the autumn for the small town atmosphere.

In October, Granada is generally much warmer than Stratford-upon-Avon. Daily temperatures in Granada average around 19°C (67°F), and Stratford-upon-Avon fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

It's quite sunny in Granada. In the autumn, Granada often gets more sunshine than Stratford-upon-Avon. Granada gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Stratford-upon-Avon receives 107 hours of full sun.

Granada usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Stratford-upon-Avon. Granada gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Stratford-upon-Avon receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Granada or Stratford-upon-Avon in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Granada and Stratford-upon-Avon. Many visitors come to Granada in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Stratford-upon-Avon for the museums, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months.

Stratford-upon-Avon can be very cold during winter. Granada is much warmer than Stratford-upon-Avon in the winter. The daily temperature in Granada averages around 12°C (54°F) in January, and Stratford-upon-Avon fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

Granada usually receives more sunshine than Stratford-upon-Avon during winter. Granada gets 171 hours of sunny skies, while Stratford-upon-Avon receives 52 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Granada usually receives more rain than Stratford-upon-Avon. Granada gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Stratford-upon-Avon receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Granada or Stratford-upon-Avon in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Granada as well as Stratford-upon-Avon. Most visitors come to Granada for the natural beauty during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Stratford-upon-Avon because of the small town charm.

In the spring, Granada is much warmer than Stratford-upon-Avon. Typically, the spring temperatures in Granada in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Stratford-upon-Avon averages at about 9°C (48°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 Stratford-upon-Avon. Granada gets 220 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Stratford-upon-Avon receives 147 hours of full sun.

Granada usually gets less rain in April than Stratford-upon-Avon. Granada gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Stratford-upon-Avon receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Stratford-upon-Avon and Granada