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

Should you visit Lisbon or Granada?

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

Should I visit Lisbon or Granada? 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.

Lisbon

Lisbon is a vibrant, stunning, and picturesque city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums.

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.

Lisbon and Granada: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lisbon or Granada?

You'll generally find more things to do in Lisbon than Granada. Lisbon is bigger than Granada, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Lisbon is better known for its food, nightlife, music, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Granada is more popular for its hiking. Lisbon is well known for its hilltop vistos, beautiful old town, and lively Fado music. Also, Lisbon is famous for Castelo de São Jorge. Granada is well known for its Islamic architecture, charming old town, and the stunningly impressive Alhambra.

How is Lisbon different from Granada?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

You'll find a number of first-rate museums and attractions in both Granada and Lisbon.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Lisbon has many famous sights for visitors. World renowned landmarks include St. George's Castle, Jerónimos monastery, the Belém Tower, Santa Justa Lift, and countless world class museums.

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

Lisbon 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, Lisbon is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. There are many local restaurants as well as food tours and cooking classes that you can enjoy. Make sure you try the local favorites like bacalhau à brás, frango no churrasco, and pastel de nata. Given the beautiful climate, outdoor seating is also popular. Head into the less touristy neighborhoods to try some local dishes or hit up a seafood market. There are also many cafes that offer great breakfasts with fresh ingredients.

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 Lisbon or Granada Better for Nightlife?

Lisbon 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 Lisbon just to party. It is a bustling city with a lot of energy late into the night. There are countless bars, clubs, and music venues that cater to every personality type and style. Whether you want a more relaxed vibe or a raging party, there is likely an place for you.

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 Lisbon or Granada Better for Music?

Lisbon is a world-class destination for live music. However, Granada is not a live music destination.

Lisbon is known as a music capital around the world. The local folk music, fado, is popular here, but there are also venues that host almost any other style of music as well. You'll also find several fado museums around town.

Granada is not a live music destination.

Is Lisbon or Granada Better for Beaches?

Lisbon is a popular place for its beaches. However, Granada is not a beach destination.

Lisbon is a good option for a beach vacation. The beaches are often overlooked by visitors, but the coastline near the city is lined with beautiful sandy beaches that are arguably among the best in the area. If you want to get away from city life, head for the water.

Granada is not a beach destination.

Is Lisbon or Granada Better for its Old Town?

It's fun to wander around the first-rate old towns in both Lisbon and Granada.

With a famous historical old-town, Lisbon offers plenty to see. The city is famous for the Alfama area, which is where you find the traditional buildings, cobblestoned streets, wandering alleyways, and steep hills. Make sure you take in the stunning view from various parts of town.

The rich history of Granada can be explored in its historical center. The Old Town spills out around the Granada Cathedral and is filled with charming pedestrian streets, lively plazas, and many great shops.

Is Lisbon or Granada Better for Hiking?

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

Lisbon is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Lisbon or Granada?

Lisbon 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 Lisbon. For high end shopping, head to The Avenida da Liberdade. It's lined with designer brands and luxury boutiques.

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 Lisbon or Granada Better for Families?

Lisbon 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.

Lisbon is a very family-friendly destination. Popular family-friendly activities include exploring Castelo Sao Jorge, visiting the aquarium, hanging out on the beach, and of course, taking the funiculars. Kids of all ages will appreciate the intricate maze of streets and lively atmosphere that this city offers. There's also the famous Livraria Lello & Irmão, which is a beautiful bookshop that is said to be an inspiration for Harry Potter. Don't expect to simply walk in, as there is often a long line to enter.

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 Lisbon or Granada Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Lisbon and Granada make for a high quality place to visit.

Lisbon makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With it's colorful buildings and dramatic hills, this city offers a truly romantic setting for couples. There are many romantic viewpoints as well as world class restaurants that couples will enjoy.

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 Lisbon or Granada Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lisbon 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 Lisbon. Hostels are abundant, and you'll have no trouble finding other backpackers to hang out with. Many hostels even organize activities and group meals for travelers. Prices are also reasonable for a large and vibrant city.

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 Lisbon or Granada Better for Students?

Both Lisbon and Granada are high quality destinations for students.

Lisbon is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. It's a lively city with a lot to see and do for international 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.

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

Lisbon is a world-class destination for times when you don't have a car. Also, Granada is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

With a huge network, the transit system in Lisbon can get you around easily. The metro has four lines that go around the city. There are also trams, buses, and the funiculars.

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 Lisbon or Granada a more walkable city?

Lisbon is a world-class destination for its walkability. Also, Granada is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Lisbon. There are many walkable areas that aren't too hilly like Baixa, a stretch along the Tagus River, and Belém.

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.

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

Should I spend more time in Granada or Lisbon?

How long in Lisbon or Granada?

It's fun to spend time in either Lisbon or Granada. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Lisbon due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Lisbon, and 2-4 days is enough time in Granada.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lisbon 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 Lisbon.

One day in Lisbon or Granada?

Because Lisbon is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Granada. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Lisbon or Granada?

Because Lisbon 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. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Granada is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Lisbon or Granada?

Lisbon is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Lisbon has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Granada. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Lisbon or Granada?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lisbon. Because Lisbon is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the cultural destination of Granada. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Portugal, The Best 2-Week Tours in Portugal, The Best 10-Day Tours from Barcelona, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Madrid.

When comparing the travel costs between Lisbon and Granada, we can see that Lisbon 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 Lisbon Expensive? and Is Granada Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Lisbon or Granada?

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

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

In the summer, Lisbon is around the same temperature as Granada. Typically, the summer temperatures in Lisbon in July average around 23°C (73°F), and Granada averages at about 25°C (77°F).

It's quite sunny in Granada. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lisbon. Lisbon usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Granada during summer. Lisbon gets 352 hours of sunny skies, while Granada receives 348 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Lisbon usually receives more rain than Granada. Lisbon gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Granada receives 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Lisbon or Granada in the Autumn?

Both Granada and Lisbon during the autumn are popular places to visit. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Lisbon this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Granada for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Lisbon is generally around the same temperature as Granada. Daily temperatures in Lisbon average around 19°C (66°F), and Granada fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).

In Granada, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Lisbon. In the autumn, Lisbon often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Granada. Lisbon gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Granada receives 213 hours of full sun.

Lisbon usually gets more rain in October than Granada. Lisbon gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Granada receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lisbon or Granada in the Winter?

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

Lisbon is around the same temperature as Granada in the winter. The daily temperature in Lisbon averages around 12°C (53°F) in January, and Granada fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Lisbon usually receives less sunshine than Granada during winter. Lisbon gets 144 hours of sunny skies, while Granada receives 171 hours of full sun in the winter.

Lisbon gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Lisbon usually receives more rain than Granada. Lisbon gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Granada receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Lisbon or Granada in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Lisbon is around the same temperature as Granada. Typically, the spring temperatures in Lisbon in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Granada averages at about 16°C (60°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Granada. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Lisbon this time of the year. In the spring, Lisbon often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Granada. Lisbon gets 235 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Granada receives 220 hours of full sun.

Lisbon usually gets more rain in April than Granada. Lisbon gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Granada receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Granada and Lisbon