Granada, Spain: The 3-Day Adventure Guide

Discover the Moorish heart of Spain in Granada.

03 May 2023

A trip to Granada, Spain as a tourist is an opportunity to explore the rich culture and history of this Southern European city. Visitors can marvel at the stunning architecture of the Alhambra, take a stroll through the charming neighborhoods of the Albayzín, and indulge in delicious tapas and local wines. With so much to see and do, Granada is a must-see destination for anyone looking to experience the beauty of Spain.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Discovering Granada

  • Check into your hotel: The charming Hotel Villa Oniria, located in the heart of the city, will transport you to an oasis of peace.
  • Visit the Alhambra: Explore the incredible architecture and stunning gardens of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Take a stroll through the Albayzín neighborhood: Get lost in its narrow, winding streets and admire the views of the Alhambra from various miradores.
  • Enjoy a tapas crawl: Savor delicious food and local drinks like tinto de verano at spots like Casa Torcuato or La Tana.
  • End the day with a flamenco show: Let the passionate rhythms and moves of this traditional dance captivate you at a venue like El Tablao de Ana Maria.
Day 2

Natural Beauty and Culinary Delights

  • Head to the Sierra Nevada: Soak in the fresh air and stunning views on a hike or bike ride through this majestic mountain range.
  • Stop by the Carmen de los Mártires: This hidden gem boasts landscaped gardens, fountains and grottoes.
  • Satisfy your sweet tooth: Head to Café Futbol to try their famous piononos, a traditional dessert made with cinnamon, sugar and brandy.
  • Visit the San Agustín Market: Sample local cheeses, meats and other delicacies from local vendors.
  • Dine at Iberico Meat Bar: Savor their mouth-watering meats and innovative dishes, like the duck magret with cherries.
Day 3

Gardens and Culture

  • Visit the Generalife: Take a stroll through the beautiful gardens that surround this summer palace of the Nasrid rulers.
  • Explore the Cathedral and Royal Chapel: Admire the impressive architecture and learn about the history of these important religious sites.
  • Get a taste of Granada's culture: Visit the Centro Federico García Lorca and immerse yourself in the art, literature and music of the region.
  • Shop for souvenirs: Browse for unique gifts like hand-painted ceramics and leather goods at the Alcaicería market.
  • End your stay with a rooftop view: Relax with a drink and soak up the panoramic views of Granada's cityscape from the Mirador de San Nicolás.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Granada, Spain by plane is to fly into Granada-Jaén Airport (GRX). Airlines such as Ryanair, Vueling, and easyJet offer flights from various European cities to Granada. From the airport, you can take a taxi, bus, or rent a car to get to your final destination in Granada.

Car

Driving to Granada is a great option if you have access to a car. The city is located on the A-92 motorway, which connects Malaga and Seville. There are also major highways from Madrid and Barcelona. However, be aware that parking in the city center can be difficult and expensive, so it's best to park outside the city and take public transport into the city center.

Train

There is a train station in Granada, but it is primarily used for regional trains. If you are coming from other parts of Spain, the best way to get to Granada is to take a high-speed train (AVE) to the nearby city of Malaga, and then take a bus or rent a car to Granada.

Boat

Unfortunately, there are no boat connections to Granada as it is an inland city. The closest ports are Almeria and Malaga, which are both approximately 130km away from Granada. From there, you can take a bus or rent a car to get to Granada.

Bus

The best way to get to Granada by bus is to take a bus from major cities in Spain such as Madrid, Barcelona, and Malaga. The main bus station in Granada is the Estación de Autobuses de Granada, which is located in the city center. There are also international bus connections from Portugal and Morocco to Granada.

More travel plans

Uncover Granada's Treasures in a Day

Granada, Spain is a popular tourist destination, renowned for its rich culture and history. Visitors are drawn to the stunning Alhambra Palace and Gardens, which offer breathtaking views of the city. The vibrant neighborhood of Albayzin is a must-visit, with its winding streets and traditional architecture.

Two Days of Tapas and Hidden Gems in Granada

Granada is a vibrant city with a rich history. Even on a limited budget, one can experience the amazing culture of this Spanish city by visiting its landmarks such as the famous Alhambra Palace and the ancient Albaicín neighborhood. Affordable accommodations and street food can be found throughout the city, providing budget-friendly travel options.

Granada on a Budget: Alhambra Adventure

Travelers on a limited budget can still enjoy the beauty and history of Granada, Spain. The city offers affordable accommodations, delicious local food, and many free attractions such as the Alhambra gardens and the San Jeronimo Monastery. Visitors can also take advantage of walking tours and public transportation to explore the city's beautiful streets and landmarks without breaking the bank.

A Romantic Long Weekend in Granada

A romantic trip to Granada, Spain would be a perfect escape with your partner as it offers scenic views along with an awe-inspiring artefacts of Moorish-era architecture. A must-visit spot would be the Alhambra castle, which boasts of beautiful halls, fountains, and gardens that would take you through the Nasrid dynasty. You could also go for a leisurely walk in the Albayzín quarter to take the perfect view of the city at sunset.