A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Graz vs. Barcelona for Nightlife, Old Town, Backpackers, and Attractions

Should you visit Graz or Barcelona?

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

Should I visit Graz or Barcelona? 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.

Graz

Graz is a cultural, historical, and beautiful city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Barcelona

Barcelona is a high energy, youthful, and colorful city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the live music, food, and beaches.

Graz and Barcelona: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Graz or Barcelona?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Barcelona than Graz. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Barcelona is very popular for its nightlife, music, beaches, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Graz attracts visitors for its historical sights. Barcelona is more touristy than Graz and is popular for its landmarks designed by Antoni Gaudí, its wild nightlife, and its urban beaches. It is also well known for Basilica Sagrada Familia. Graz is famous for its many cultural activities, its impressive old town, and its beautiful Baroque architecture.

How is Graz different from Barcelona?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Barcelona and Graz. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Graz or Barcelona?

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Graz and Barcelona.

Graz offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The old town is among the largest in Europe and it's filled with sights and museums. The Schlossberg and the Clock Tower are among the most iconic sights but other highlights include the GrazMuseum, the Mohren Apotheke's Theriak Museum, a Gothic Franciscan Church, and the Robert Stolz Museum.

Many visitors head to Barcelona specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Architecture and history all contribute to the city's impressive sights and museums. Famous landmarks include the Basílica de la Sagrada Família, Casa Milà, and the Palace of Catalan Music. In addition to Casa Milà, there are several other landmarks that are designed by Gaudi. You can expect a crowd outside any of his creations.

Is the Food Better in Graz or Barcelona? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at excellent restaurants in both Graz and Barcelona.

Graz has a huge number of terrific restaurants. There's a huge focus on sustainable dining in town, so you'll find many restaurants that use a farm to table approach. Local ingredients are heavily valued and it's fun to sample the many local flavors. Backhendl is a classic fried chicken dish that you must try.

Dining out in Barcelona is an experience not to be missed. With easy access to fresh produce, there are many food markets around town. You'll also find great fresh local dishes at the many restaurants. While some restaurants are more touristy, particularly along Las Ramblas, there are also many local options that offer higher quality dishes. Make sure you try the paella, croquettes, and jamon iberico. Many visitors enjoy taking a cooking class while they're in town as well.

Is Graz or Barcelona Better for Nightlife?

Barcelona is renowned for nightlife and partying. Also, Graz is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its evening party scene.

Barcelona is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. The city offers an amazing nightlife at a much more affordable price than many places in Europe. There are beach parties, boat parties, and bars that stay packed late into the night. The city also hosts many street fiestas and music festivals.

Graz has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The large student population means that there's an active nightlife scene that is diverse and fun. There's a wide variety of bars and pubs with almost any music genre you could want. There are also dance clubs for those who are looking for a party.

Is Graz or Barcelona Better for Music?

Barcelona is renowned for its live music scene. However, Graz is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Barcelona. Popular music venues include Tablao de Carmen, Razzmatazz, and Jamboree.

Graz is not a live music destination.

Is Graz or Barcelona Better for Beaches?

Barcelona is a popular place for the beache. However, Graz is not a beach destination.

Barcelona is a good option for a beach vacation. The city features long sandy beaches where you can soak up the Mediterranean sun right in the heart of town. Many of the beaches can get crowded during the warmer months, but if you're looking for a party, then this is the place. These are urban beaches, so don't expect the pristine coastal setting that you might find in a more remote areas. Popular beaches include Bogatell Beach, Barceloneta Beach, and Nova Icària.

Graz is not a beach destination.

Is Graz or Barcelona Better for its Old Town?

Graz is renowned for its historic old town. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its old town.

The old town of Graz is one of the most recognized in the world. The medieval city center is very well preserved and one of the largest in Europe. The city has a lot of hidden charm and quaint streets to explore.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Barcelona. Dating back 2,000 years the Gothic Quarter remains a hub of life and activity. It's fun to explore the wandering streets or people watch in one of the plazas. There are also many fascinating boutique shops and restaurants. Many people consider the Gothic Quarter to be one of the best parts of Barcelona.

Is the Shopping Better in Graz or Barcelona?

Barcelona is renowned for its shopping opportunities. Also, Graz is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Barcelona draws large crowds to its stores. Head to Portal De L'Angel, Rambla de Catalunya, or Passeig De Gracia for some of the city's best shopping districts.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Graz. You'll find a lot of shopping around both Jakominiplatz and Hauptplatz Squares. There are also a number of shopping streets in town including Herrengasse which is filled with shops, restaurants, and more.

Is Graz or Barcelona Better for Families?

Graz is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Graz is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will love the fairytale train and there's also a 4D cinema that is fun for the whole family. In Schlossberg Hill, families should check out The Slide, which is the largest underground slide in the world. Other highlights include a Children's Museum, a Folklife Museum, and a Natural History Museum.

Barcelona is a family-friendly city. The city has a bit of a party vibe, but there are also kid-friendly activities everyone. With a number of museums, an aquarium, and lots of parks, the whole family can stay entertained. There's also a playground with a great view right by Sagrada Familia. Also make sure you check out the Magic Fountain Show near Plaça d'Espanya, wander through the aquarium, or sample some chocolate at the Chocolate Museum.

Is Graz or Barcelona Better for Couples?

Graz is a well-known place for romance. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Graz is a very popular place to visit for couples. It's filled with culture, history, and amazing food. Couples will appreciate the romantic old town and the many world class sights around town.

Barcelona makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's an active city with a party atmosphere, so young couples will enjoy their time here. Couples can take a sunset cruise or enjoy a Flamenco show. There are also many great viewpoints around town.

Is Graz or Barcelona Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Barcelona is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Graz is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Barcelona is extremely popular for backpackers. There are many hostels around town, each with its own personality. Many of the hostels also organize activities or dinners for guests so it's easy to meet other travelers. Backpackers will also appreciate the young vibe and late night party venues that keep the city fun and entertaining.

Graz is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are hostels and budget-friendly hotels around town that make this a nice town to explore as a backpacker.

Is Graz or Barcelona Better for Students?

Barcelona is renowned for its student-friendly activities. Also, Graz is not as popular, but is still a nice city for students.

Many students frequent Barcelona. This is a popular study abroad destination and you'll find international students from around the world. It's a beautiful city with plenty to see and do. It's also a lively city, but do expect the price tag to be higher than other Spanish cities.

Graz is very popular with students. It's long been an education center in Austria and students make up a significant portion of the population. It's also a chill city with a relaxed and student-friendly vibe.

Is Graz or Barcelona Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Graz and Barcelona both offer excellent public transit to get you around.

The public transit in Graz can get you around easily. There are buses and trams that travel around the town.

Barcelona offers a very effecient public transportation network. There's a metro, bus, and tram system that navigates the city. It's a huge city, and while many places are accessible by public transit, sometimes the trip can be hot and frustrating.

Is Graz or Barcelona a more walkable city?

Graz is renowned for its walkability. However, Barcelona is not a good city for its high level of walkability.

It is easy to get around Graz on foot. You'll find everything you'd want to see in the old town, which is large, but still compact enough to explore on foot.

Barcelona is generally not a very walkable city. The city is more spread out than many other major European cities and you'll find wide roads with lots of car traffic. There are some neighborhoods and plazas that are fun to explore on foot and the city has designed "superilles," which are areas where car traffic has been directed around pedestrian-friendly plazas so visitors can explore, relax, or play.

For even more information, also check out Is Graz Worth Visiting? and Is Barcelona Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Barcelona or Graz?

How long in Graz or Barcelona?

Both Graz and Barcelona have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Barcelona than in Graz. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Graz, and 3-7 days is enough time in Barcelona.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Barcelona than Graz 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 Barcelona.

One day in Graz or Barcelona?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Graz. 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.

Barcelona is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Graz or Barcelona?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the medieval destination of Graz. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

Barcelona is a fun place to experience. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Graz or Barcelona?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historical city of Graz. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Barcelona is a high energy big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in Graz or Barcelona?

Graz 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.

Barcelona is a historic city where you can fill many days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Christmas Market Tours in Austria, The Best Bicycle Tours in Austria, The Best Contiki Tours to Spain, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Spain.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Graz and Barcelona, we can see that Barcelona is more expensive. And not only is Graz much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Graz would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Graz 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 Barcelona would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Barcelona than you might in Graz.

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

Which is Bigger, Graz or Barcelona?

Barcelona has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Graz. When comparing the sizes of Graz and Barcelona, 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 Graz or Barcelona?

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 Graz or Barcelona in the Summer?

Both Barcelona and Graz during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Graz in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Barcelona for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Graz is generally around the same temperature as Barcelona. Daily temperatures in Graz average around 23°C (73°F), and Barcelona fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

In Barcelona, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Graz. In the summer, Graz often gets less sunshine than Barcelona. Graz gets 236 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Barcelona receives 308 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Graz. Graz usually gets more rain in July than Barcelona. Graz gets 126 mm (5 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 22 mm (0.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Graz or Barcelona in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Graz and Barcelona. Most visitors come to Graz for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Barcelona because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Graz is cooler than Barcelona in the autumn. The daily temperature in Graz averages around 13°C (55°F) in October, and Barcelona fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

Graz usually receives less sunshine than Barcelona during autumn. Graz gets 139 hours of sunny skies, while Barcelona receives 181 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Graz usually receives less rain than Barcelona. Graz gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Graz or Barcelona in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Graz as well as Barcelona. The winter months attract visitors to Graz because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Barcelona this time of year.

The weather in Graz can be very cold. In the winter, Graz is much colder than Barcelona. Typically, the winter temperatures in Graz in January average around 1°C (34°F), and Barcelona averages at about 9°C (48°F).

In the winter, Graz often gets less sunshine than Barcelona. Graz gets 95 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Barcelona receives 146 hours of full sun.

Graz usually gets less rain in January than Barcelona. Graz gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Graz or Barcelona in the Spring?

Both Barcelona and Graz are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The natural beauty are the main draw to Graz this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Barcelona for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In April, Graz is generally around the same temperature as Barcelona. Daily temperatures in Graz average around 13°C (55°F), and Barcelona fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

It's quite sunny in Barcelona. Graz usually receives less sunshine than Barcelona during spring. Graz gets 158 hours of sunny skies, while Barcelona receives 204 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Graz usually receives around the same amount of rain as Barcelona. Graz gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Barcelona and Graz