A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Ho Chi Minh City vs. Granada for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Ho Chi Minh City or Granada?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Ho Chi Minh City and Granada can help you decide which place is right for you.

Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City is a busy, diverse, and cultural city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and theater. See Ho Chi Minh City travel costs.

Granada

Granada is a cultural, historic, and beautiful city. Many visitors also come to Granada because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Granada travel costs.

Ho Chi Minh City and Granada: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Ho Chi Minh City or Granada?

You'll generally find more things to do in Ho Chi Minh City than Granada. Ho Chi Minh City is bigger than Granada, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Ho Chi Minh City is better known for its theatre productions, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Granada is more popular for its historical sights, hiking, and impressive beauty. Ho Chi Minh City is well known for its motorbike-filled streets, bustling markets, world-class cuisine, and diverse shopping opportunities. Also, Ho Chi Minh City is famous for the War Remnants Museum. Granada is well known for its Islamic architecture, charming old town, and the stunningly impressive Alhambra.

How is Ho Chi Minh City different from Granada?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Ho Chi Minh City or Granada?

You'll find a number of world-class museums and attractions in both Granada and Ho Chi Minh City.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Ho Chi Minh City has many famous sights for visitors. It's a day trip outside of town, but the Cu Chi Tunnels are a must-see stop for any visitor. The War Remnants Museum is also a not-to-be-missed spot. Other highlights of the city include Thiên Hau Temple, the Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica, the Saigon Opera House, and the Reunification Palace.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Granada that are not to be missed. 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.

Is Ho Chi Minh City or Granada Better for Theater?

Ho Chi Minh City is a popular place for theatre. However, Granada is not a theatre destination.

You'll find a nice selection of shows in Ho Chi Minh City. Water puppetry is a traditional art form that originated in the rural areas and was brought to the city. It is a fun cultural experience that kids and adults both enjoy. You can see it at The Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theatre.

Granada is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Ho Chi Minh City or Granada? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Ho Chi Minh City is a world-class destination for its restaurants. Also, Granada is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

For foodies, Ho Chi Minh City is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. This city, arguably, has some of the best food in Vietnam. You'll find everything from food stalls selling mouthwatering street food to luxury restaurants preparing traditional dishes with a modern twist. Banh Mi (a Vietnamese sandwich) and Pho (Vietnamese soup) are the most well known dishes around town, but also try the Bún mắm (a noodle dish) and Bún bò Huế (a beef based soup).

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit 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 Ho Chi Minh City or Granada Better for Nightlife?

Ho Chi Minh City is a world-class destination for nightlife. Also, Granada is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

People head to Ho Chi Minh City just to party. The city never settles down and you'll find all night parties and dance clubs open into the early hours. Backpackers keep the energy high, but there are also luxury clubs and more relaxed places where you can have a good night out if the backpacker thing isn't your scene.

The people in Granada know how to have a good time. 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.

Is Ho Chi Minh City or Granada Better for its Old Town?

Granada is a world-class destination for its historic old town charm. However, Ho Chi Minh City 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.

Ho Chi Minh City does not have a historic old town.

Is Ho Chi Minh City or Granada Better for Hiking?

Granada is great for hiking. However, Ho Chi Minh City is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Granada for the hiking trails. 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.

Ho Chi Minh City is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Ho Chi Minh City or Granada?

Ho Chi Minh City 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 Ho Chi Minh City. The city is filled with a mix of modern shopping centers and local shops selling traditional items. You'll find international brands as well as uniquely Vietnamese products. The city also has some of the best boutique shopping opportunities in Southeast Asia.

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 Ho Chi Minh City or Granada More Beautiful?

Granada is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Ho Chi Minh City is not a destination known for its beauty.

Many visitors also come to Granada because of it's amazing beauty. It's a truly beautiful city that maintains a lot of its historical charm. There are beautiful views and charming neighborhoods that are fun to explore.

Ho Chi Minh City is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Ho Chi Minh City or Granada Better for Families?

Ho Chi Minh City is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Granada is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Ho Chi Minh City is a very family-friendly destination. Kids may feel overwhelmed at first, but they're sure to fall in love with the energy and kid-friendly activities in this city. There are traditional water puppet shows, kid-friendly restaurants, and fun parks. There's also the Suoi Tien Theme Park, smaller water parks, zoos, and art museums to explore.

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 Ho Chi Minh City or Granada Better for Couples?

Both Ho Chi Minh City and Granada are great destinations to visit as a couple.

Ho Chi Minh City is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. If you're looking for a vibrant cultural scene with excellent restaurants, great parks, and countless day trips, this is the ultimate couple's getaway.

Granada is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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 Ho Chi Minh City or Granada Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ho Chi Minh City is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Granada is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Ho Chi Minh City. It's well established on the Southeast Asian backpacker's circuit and you'll find no shortage of hostels in town. You'll find a good number of backpackers in District 1 of the city, near Ben Thanh Market. Many backpackers also arrange trips to the Mekong Delta or elsewhere in Thailand while they're here.

Granada is a great city to visit for backpackers. 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.

Is Ho Chi Minh City or Granada Better for Students?

Granada is great for its student-friendly activities. Also, Ho Chi Minh City is not as popular, but is still a nice city for 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.

Ho Chi Minh City is a good city to visit for students. Study abroad students appreciate the city's energy and plethora of activities. It also makes a good base for trips to other parts of Southeast Asia.

Is Ho Chi Minh City or Granada 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, Ho Chi Minh City is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Granada offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. 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 Ho Chi Minh City. There are public buses around town but motorbike taxis and regular taxis are likely your best bet for getting around.

Is Ho Chi Minh City or Granada a more walkable city?

Granada is great for its ease of walking around. Also, Ho Chi Minh City is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its walkability.

Granada is a very walkable destination. Most of the touristy areas are easy to explore on foot, but there are some steep hills so put on your walking shoes.

Ho Chi Minh City is somewhat walkable. In certain neighborhoods it's fairly walkable, but you may have to dodge a motorbike here or there.

For even more information, also check out Is Ho Chi Minh City Worth Visiting? and Is Granada Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Granada or Ho Chi Minh City?

How long in Ho Chi Minh City or Granada?

It's fun to spend time in either Ho Chi Minh City or Granada. Both can be explored in comparable amounts of time. In general, 3-4 days is a good amount of time for Ho Chi Minh City, and 2-4 days is enough time in Granada.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Ho Chi Minh City 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 Ho Chi Minh City.

One day in Ho Chi Minh City or Granada?

Because Ho Chi Minh City is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

You'll find food and shopping around the cultural destination of Granada. Hikers are also drawn to this area. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in Ho Chi Minh City or Granada?

Because Ho Chi Minh City is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

You'll find shopping and museums around the historic city of Granada. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the museums. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Five days in Ho Chi Minh City or Granada?

Ho Chi Minh City 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. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

A week in Ho Chi Minh City or Granada?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Ho Chi Minh City. Many people enjoy the food and shopping when visiting Ho Chi Minh City. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Granada is a great place to explore. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people head to the area for the museums. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Ho Chi Minh City, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Vietnam, The Best 10-Day Tours from Barcelona, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Madrid.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Ho Chi Minh City and Granada, we can see that Granada is more expensive. And not only is Ho Chi Minh City much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Ho Chi Minh City is in Asia and Granada is in Europe, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Ho Chi Minh City would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Ho Chi Minh City 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 Granada would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Granada than you might in Ho Chi Minh City.

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

Which is Bigger, Ho Chi Minh City or Granada?

Ho Chi Minh City has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Granada. When comparing the sizes of Ho Chi Minh City 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.