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

Should you visit Beijing 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 Beijing 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.

Beijing

Beijing is a jam-packed, cultural, and fascinating city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Beijing is a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums. See Beijing travel costs.

Granada

Granada is a charming, cultural, and historic city. The famous beauty of Granada is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and hiking. See Granada travel costs.

Beijing and Granada: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Beijing or Granada?

You'll generally find more things to do in Beijing than Granada. Beijing is bigger than Granada, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Beijing is better known for its food, shopping, and big city activities, while Granada is more popular for its historical sights, hiking, and impressive beauty. Beijing is more touristy than Granada and is popular for its rich culture, many historical landmarks, its long running history, and its world class cuisine. Also, Beijing is famous for The Forbidden City. Granada is well known for its Islamic architecture, charming old town, and the stunningly impressive Alhambra.

How is Beijing different from Granada?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Beijing or Granada.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Beijing on the map. The city is filled with iconic landmarks including the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, and The Temple of Heaven. It's also essential that you plan a trip outside of town to the world renowned Great Wall of China. The trip takes about an hour and you can organize a tour through almost any hotel or tour company.

Travelers visit Granada from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. 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 Beijing or Granada? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Beijing 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, Beijing is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The city has a number of iconic dishes that have put it on the culinary map. The most notable dish is Peking Duck, which is a delectable crispy roast duck that is usually served with cucumber, scallions, sweet bean sauce and pancakes or other steamed buns. Hot pots are another must-try experience in the city, and, of course, you have to experience the dumplings. A huge part of a visit to Beijing is experiencing its long running culinary history.

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 Beijing or Granada Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Beijing or Granada has a better nightlife scene.

The people in Beijing know how to have a good time. Live performances are popular in the city, and range from concerts to magic shows and acrobatics. There is also an active bar scene around town. Some of the most popular nightlife areas include Sanlitun and Houhai.

The nightlife in Granada has something for everybody. 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 Beijing or Granada Better for its Old Town?

Granada is an unbeatable place for its historic old town charm. However, Beijing does not have a historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Granada offers plenty to see. The Old Town spills out around the Granada Cathedral and is filled with charming pedestrian streets, lively plazas, and many great shops.

Beijing does not have a historic old town.

Is Beijing or Granada Better for Hiking?

Granada is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Beijing is not a hiking destination.

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.

Beijing is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Beijing or Granada?

Beijing 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 Beijing. There are many unique handicrafts that you can purchase around town. Popular souvenirs include silk, pearls, and snuff bottles with pictures inside. The city has many shopping streets as well as markets and shopping malls that are worth visiting.

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 Beijing or Granada More Beautiful?

Granada is an unbeatable place for its scenery and beauty. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

The famous beauty of Granada is one of the main draws. 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.

Beijing is a gorgeous place to visit. The parks, gardens, palaces, and temples all offer a glimpse into the past, while also letting you enjoy the city and culture that exists today.

Is Beijing or Granada Better for Families?

Both Beijing and Granada are notable to visit with kids.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Beijing. The city offers a unique cultural immersion that kids and adults can enjoy. Wander through the Forbidden City or watch your kids be mesmerized by a Chinese acrobatics show. It's also fun to get lost in the Hutongs or test their culinary palates by visiting a snack street.

Granada offers lots of family activities. 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 Beijing or Granada Better for Couples?

Granada is a great destination for couples. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

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.

Beijing is a nice destination for couples. The culture, history, and food all make this a stunning place to visit. While romance doesn't immediately spring to mind when you think of Beijing, there are shows and fine dining restaurants that couples will enjoy. There are also many luxury hotels with spas and other amenities.

Is Beijing or Granada Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Beijing and Granada are excellent places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Beijing is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. The city has many hostels and budget-friendly options. There isn't the backpacker community vibe that you may get in other Asian cities, but if you organize an excursion through your hostel, you're sure to make a few friends along the way.

Granada is very popular with the backpacker crowd. 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 Beijing or Granada Better for Students?

Beijing and Granada are excellent places to visit for students.

Students come from all over to stay in Beijing. Students will enjoy the culture, food, and academic opportunities that the universities offer. There is also a decent nightlife scene and affordable places where students can live.

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

Beijing 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 Beijing is fairly effecient and thorough. The system can be crowded and confusing at first, but it's one of the most convenient and affordable ways to get around town. There's a subway system as well as buses, trolleybuses, and suburban rail.

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 Beijing or Granada a more walkable city?

Granada is a great destination for its ease of walking around. However, Beijing is a city with minimal options 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.

Beijing is generally not a very walkable city. While parts of the city are fun to explore on foot, the city itself is very large with long blocks that aren't pedestrian-friendly.

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

Should I spend more time in Granada or Beijing?

How long in Beijing or Granada?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Granada than Beijing. 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.

One day in Beijing or Granada?

Because Beijing 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.

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 Beijing or Granada?

Because Beijing 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.

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 Beijing or Granada?

Beijing is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Beijing 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 Beijing or Granada?

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

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 The Best 2-Week Tours from Beijing, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to China, 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 Beijing and Granada, we can see that Granada is more expensive. And not only is Beijing much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Beijing 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 Beijing would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Beijing 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 Beijing.

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

Which is Bigger, Beijing or Granada?

Beijing has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Granada. When comparing the sizes of Beijing 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 Beijing or Granada?

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 Beijing or Granada in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Beijing as well as Granada. Many travelers come to Beijing for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Granada in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Beijing is around the same temperature as Granada. Typically, the summer temperatures in Beijing in July average around 27°C (80°F), and Granada averages at about 25°C (77°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Granada. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Beijing this time of the year. In the summer, Beijing often gets less sunshine than Granada. Beijing gets 224 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Granada receives 348 hours of full sun.

Beijing receives a lot of rain in the summer. Beijing usually gets more rain in July than Granada. Beijing gets 176 mm (6.9 in) of rain, while Granada receives 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Beijing or Granada in the Autumn?

Both Granada and Beijing are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Beijing in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Granada for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Beijing is generally cooler than Granada. Daily temperatures in Beijing average around 14°C (56°F), and Granada fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).

It's quite sunny in Granada. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Beijing. Beijing usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Granada during autumn. Beijing gets 227 hours of sunny skies, while Granada receives 213 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Beijing usually receives less rain than Granada. Beijing gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Granada receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Beijing or Granada in the Winter?

Both Granada and Beijing during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Beijing for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Granada because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Beijing can be very cold during winter. Beijing is much colder than Granada in the winter. The daily temperature in Beijing averages around -4°C (26°F) in January, and Granada fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

It's quite sunny in Beijing. In the winter, Beijing often gets more sunshine than Granada. Beijing gets 201 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Granada receives 171 hours of full sun.

Beijing usually gets less rain in January than Granada. Beijing gets 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Granada receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Beijing or Granada in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Beijing and Granada. The spring months attract visitors to Beijing because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Granada this time of year.

In the spring, Beijing is cooler than Granada. Typically, the spring temperatures in Beijing in April average around 14°C (57°F), and Granada averages at about 16°C (60°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Granada this time of the year. In Beijing, it's very sunny this time of the year. Beijing usually receives more sunshine than Granada during spring. Beijing gets 247 hours of sunny skies, while Granada receives 220 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Beijing usually receives less rain than Granada. Beijing gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Granada receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Granada and Beijing