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

Should you visit Antalya or Granada?

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

Should I visit Antalya 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.

Antalya

Antalya is a cultural, vibrant, and high energy vacation spot. Antalya is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums. See Antalya travel costs.

Granada

Granada is a beautiful, charming, and cultural city. Granada is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and museums. See Granada travel costs.

Antalya and Granada: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Antalya or Granada?

You'll generally find more things to do in Antalya than Granada. Antalya is bigger than Granada, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Antalya is better known for its music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and quaint atmosphere, while Granada is more popular for its museums and attractions, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Antalya is more touristy than Granada and is known for its turquoise waters, hotel lined beaches, and nearby archeological sights. Also, Antalya is famous for Hadrian's Gate. Granada is well known for its Islamic architecture, charming old town, and the stunningly impressive Alhambra.

How is Antalya different from Granada?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Granada is an amazing city to visit for its museums and history. Also, Antalya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Granada has many famous sights for visitors. 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.

Many visitors head to Antalya specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city combines history with a relaxing resort vacation. Sights in the area include the Antalya Museum and the Yivli Minare.

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

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Antalya and Granada can be difficult as they are each high quality in their own way.

Antalya has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Food is excellent throughout Turkey and this city is no exception. The local cuisine offers a combination of fresh caught seafood as well as various grilled meats. Local specialties include meatball skewers, kulakli soup, and even lentil ice cream. The traditional Turkish breakfast is also popular, which usually includes hard boiled eggs, cheese, tomatoes, cucumber, olives, and Turkish breads or pastries. It's almost always served with Turkish tea.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Granada makes for a great culinary experience. 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 Antalya or Granada Better for Nightlife?

The high quality nightlife scene is relatively similar in Antalya and Granada.

Antalya has a large number of nightlife venues. The city has an insane nightlife scene with huge glamorous dance clubs that fill to the brink as well as low key bars and pubs that everyone can enjoy.

Granada is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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 Antalya or Granada Better for Music?

Antalya is a popular place for live music. However, Granada is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Antalya is active and vibrant. Live music ranges from rock concerts to symphonies as well as a number of local music venues.

Granada is not a live music destination.

Is Antalya or Granada Better for Resorts?

Antalya is a world-class destination for its luxury resorts. However, Granada is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Antalya is a great choice. The city is famous for its resorts that range from luxury to family-friendly. Some of the most popular resorts in the area include Xanadu Resort Hotel, Susesi, and Lara Barut, but there are many more.

Granada is not a resort destination.

Is Antalya or Granada Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Antalya is a popular place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Granada is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Antalya has a few good snorkeling spots. Outside of town, in the region of Antalya, you'll find some of the best snorkeling and scuba diving in Turkey.

Granada is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Antalya or Granada Better for Beaches?

Antalya is a world-class destination for its beaches. However, Granada is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Antalya. Beaches in Antalya are among the best in Turkey. They are sandy with warm water and a number of resorts nearby.

Granada is not a beach destination.

Is Antalya or Granada Better for its Old Town?

Granada is an amazing city to visit for its historic old town charm. Also, Antalya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its historic old town.

Granada offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. The Old Town spills out around the Granada Cathedral and is filled with charming pedestrian streets, lively plazas, and many great shops.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Antalya. The city has a beautiful old town area, Kaleiçi, that is known for its narrow streets and historic buildings. The area has many sights including Hadrian's Gate.

Is Antalya or Granada Better for Hiking?

If you're looking to go hiking, Antalya and Granada both have high quality trails.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Antalya. Outside of town you'll find coastal hikes with scenic views as well as trails that wander through historic ruins.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Antalya or Granada?

Antalya 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 Antalya. Antalya combines modern high end malls with more traditional bazaars. From luxury fashion brands to souvenirs and local trinkets, the area has everything.

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 Antalya or Granada More Beautiful?

Granada is an amazing city to visit for its scenery and beauty. Also, Antalya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its scenery and beauty.

Granada is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. 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.

Antalya is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It is a beautiful city with historic buildings and stunning beaches.

Is Antalya or Granada Better for Families?

Antalya 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.

Antalya is a very family-friendly destination. The city has beautiful beaches, historic ruins, and resorts that cater specifically to families. It's a popular family-friendly destination in Turkey.

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 Antalya or Granada Better for Couples?

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

Antalya makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Antalya is a top-rated honeymoon destination in Turkey. It's beautiful beaches, romantic resorts, and great shopping put it at the top of many couples' list.

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 Antalya or Granada Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Antalya and Granada are both high quality destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Antalya. Despite the many resorts in town, there are also budget accommodation options available including hostels. Backpackers appreciate Antalya's impressive old town as well as the area's stunning beaches.

Backpackers come from all over to 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.

Is Antalya or Granada Better for Students?

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

Granada is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. 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.

Antalya is not popular with students.

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

Antalya 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 Antalya is fairly effecient and thorough. Buses and minibuses will help you get around town.

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 Antalya or Granada a more walkable city?

Granada is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. Also, Antalya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Antalya is somewhat walkable. The historic area in particular is compact, filled with historic sights, and easy to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Granada or Antalya?

How long in Antalya or Granada?

It's fun to spend time in either Antalya or Granada. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Antalya due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Antalya, and 2-4 days is enough time in Granada.

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

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

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

One day in Antalya or Granada?

In Antalya, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This vacation spot offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Granada, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Antalya or Granada?

In Antalya, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Antalya has to offer.

In Granada, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Granada has to offer.

Five days in Antalya or Granada?

Antalya is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Antalya has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Granada is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Antalya or Granada?

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Granada. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Granada. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Turkey, The Best Anzac Day Tours in Turkey, 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 Antalya and Granada, we can see that Granada is more expensive. And not only is Antalya much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Antalya would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Antalya 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 Antalya.

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

Which is Bigger, Antalya or Granada?

Antalya has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Granada. When comparing the sizes of Antalya 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 Antalya 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 Antalya or Granada in the Summer?

Both Granada and Antalya are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Antalya because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, 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, Antalya is a little warmer than Granada. Typically, the summer temperatures in Antalya in July average around 28°C (83°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 Antalya. Antalya usually receives more sunshine than Granada during summer. Antalya gets 376 hours of sunny skies, while Granada receives 348 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Antalya usually receives more rain than Granada. Antalya gets 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Granada receives 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Antalya or Granada in the Autumn?

Both Granada and Antalya during the autumn are popular places to visit. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Antalya 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, Antalya is generally around the same temperature as Granada. Daily temperatures in Antalya average around 21°C (69°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 Antalya. In the autumn, Antalya often gets more sunshine than Granada. Antalya gets 251 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Granada receives 213 hours of full sun.

Antalya usually gets more rain in October than Granada. Antalya gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Granada receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Antalya or Granada in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Antalya and Granada. Many travelers come to Antalya 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.

Antalya is cooler than Granada in the winter. The daily temperature in Antalya averages around 11°C (51°F) in January, and Granada fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Antalya usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Granada during winter. Antalya gets 161 hours of sunny skies, while Granada receives 171 hours of full sun in the winter.

Antalya gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Antalya usually receives more rain than Granada. Antalya gets 239 mm (9.4 in) of rain, while Granada receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Antalya or Granada in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Antalya is around the same temperature as Granada. Typically, the spring temperatures in Antalya in April average around 16°C (62°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 Antalya this time of the year. In the spring, Antalya often gets more sunshine than Granada. Antalya gets 243 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Granada receives 220 hours of full sun.

Antalya usually gets more rain in April than Granada. Antalya gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Granada receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Granada and Antalya