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

Should you visit Helsinki or Granada?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Helsinki and Granada can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Helsinki

Helsinki is a environmentally conscious, waterfront, and active city. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

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 nightlife, food, and hiking.

Helsinki and Granada: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Helsinki or Granada?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Granada than Helsinki. While Helsinki is larger than Granada, Granada has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Granada is very popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, and hiking, while Helsinki attracts visitors for its shopping. Granada is more touristy than Helsinki and is known for its Islamic architecture, charming old town, and the stunningly impressive Alhambra. It is also well known for The Alhambra. Helsinki is famous for its rich culture that includes traditional elements as well as an active subculture scene.

How is Helsinki different from Granada?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Helsinki or Granada?

Granada is a world-class destination for its museums and history. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Helsinki. Many of the city's sights and attractions center around nature and the water. Major hightlights of the city include the Fortress of Sveaborg, Seurasaari open-Air Museum, and Temppeliaukio Rock Church. The city is also home to The National Museum of Finland.

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

Foodies will find both Helsinki and Granada both to be nice destinations.

Helsinki has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. Food in town is all about local flavors and simple ingredients. The dishes let the flavor speak for itself without fancy cooking techniques or complex flavor combinations. Many of the restaurants are locally sourced with traditional ingredients. You'll find a lot of seafood, herring, grilled sausages, pancakes, and desserts.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Granada area. 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 Helsinki or Granada Better for Nightlife?

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

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.

Helsinki has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The nightlife scene is at its best on weekends when the city center comes to life with parties, dance clubs, and student activities. Many of the best clubs and bars are concentrated in the city center. Weekends are a bit calmer and things quiet down a lot.

Is Helsinki or Granada Better for its Old Town?

Granada is a world-class destination for its old town. However, Helsinki does not have a historic old town.

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.

Helsinki does not have a historic old town.

Is Helsinki or Granada Better for Hiking?

Granada is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Helsinki 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.

Helsinki is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Helsinki or Granada?

Helsinki is an excellent place to visit for shopping. Also, Granada is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Helsinki. The city is great for shopping, with many brands focused on sustainability. There are local boutiques as well as name brands. Flea markets and vintage shops are also popular.

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 Helsinki or Granada Better for Families?

Helsinki 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.

Helsinki is a very family-friendly destination. The coastal setting offers many activities that kids and adults alike will enjoy. This capital city has a calm atmosphere with plenty of parkland to explore. The shoreline is dotted by islands where you'll also find a zoo and a fort. Kids will also enjoy exploring the islands by boat.

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 Helsinki or Granada Better for Couples?

Both Helsinki and Granada are excellent destinations for a couple's getaway.

Helsinki makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city's many parks offer the perfect setting for a picnic or a walk. There are also botanical gardens, evening boat rides, and saunas that will help you enjoy a romantic trip away.

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 Helsinki or Granada Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Granada is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Helsinki. With its active nightlife scene, vibrant atmosphere, and inclusive personality, this city is a fun place for backpackers, but you should expect to pay a premium for the experience. Many backpackers avoid the city because they have heard how expensive it is. There are a few hostels around that will help you keep costs a bit more manageable.

Is Helsinki or Granada Better for Students?

Both Helsinki and Granada are excellent destinations for students.

Students come from all over to stay in Helsinki. The city has an active student life with plenty of culture and nature. It's active nightlife scene and beautiful natural areas make it a wonderful place to study.

Many students visit Granada. 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 Helsinki or Granada Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Helsinki 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 Helsinki is fairly effecient and thorough. Transit options include bus, tram, metro, commuter train and ferry services.

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 Helsinki or Granada a more walkable city?

Granada is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. Also, Helsinki 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.

Helsinki is a somewhat walkable city. Many neighborhoods are easy to explore on foot. The air is also clean and the setting is refreshing.

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

Should I spend more time in Granada or Helsinki?

How long in Helsinki or Granada?

It's fun to spend time in either Helsinki or Granada. In our opinion, Granada has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Granada than Helsinki. However, 2-4 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Granada than Helsinki 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 Helsinki or Granada?

In Helsinki, you'll find nightlife and food. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

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.

A weekend in Helsinki or Granada?

In Helsinki, 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 Helsinki has to offer.

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.

Five days in Helsinki or Granada?

Helsinki 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.

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.

A week in Helsinki or Granada?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Helsinki. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Helsinki. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Finland, The Best Tours for Seniors to Finland, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Madrid, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Barcelona.

When comparing the travel costs between Helsinki and Granada, we can see that Helsinki is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Helsinki or Granada?

Helsinki has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Granada. When comparing the sizes of Helsinki and Granada, 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 Helsinki or Granada?

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 Helsinki or Granada in the Summer?

Both Granada and Helsinki are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Helsinki for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Granada in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Helsinki is generally cooler than Granada. Daily temperatures in Helsinki average around 17°C (62°F), and Granada fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

It's quite sunny in Granada. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Helsinki. Helsinki usually receives less sunshine than Granada during summer. Helsinki gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Granada receives 348 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Helsinki usually receives more rain than Granada. Helsinki gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Granada receives 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Helsinki or Granada in the Autumn?

Both Granada and Helsinki during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Helsinki in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Granada for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Helsinki is much colder than Granada in the autumn. The daily temperature in Helsinki averages around 6°C (42°F) in October, and Granada fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).

In Granada, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Helsinki often gets less sunshine than Granada. Helsinki gets 90 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Granada receives 213 hours of full sun.

Helsinki usually gets more rain in October than Granada. Helsinki gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Granada receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Helsinki or Granada in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Helsinki and Granada. Most visitors come to Helsinki for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Granada because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Helsinki can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Helsinki is much colder than Granada. Typically, the winter temperatures in Helsinki in January average around -6°C (21°F), and Granada averages at about 12°C (54°F).

Helsinki usually receives less sunshine than Granada during winter. Helsinki gets 39 hours of sunny skies, while Granada receives 171 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Helsinki usually receives less rain than Granada. Helsinki gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Granada receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Helsinki or Granada in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Helsinki as well as Granada. The spring months attract visitors to Helsinki because of the natural beauty. Additionally, the natural beauty are the main draw to Granada this time of year.

The weather in Helsinki can be very cold. In April, Helsinki is generally much colder than Granada. Daily temperatures in Helsinki average around 3°C (37°F), and Granada fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Granada. In the spring, Helsinki often gets less sunshine than Granada. Helsinki gets 183 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Granada receives 220 hours of full sun.

Helsinki usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Granada. Helsinki gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Granada receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Granada and Helsinki