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

Lovebirds' Guide to Granada's Romance & Culture

A trip to Granada, Spain for a romantic getaway would be a perfect escape with your partner. Explore the beautiful Alhambra palace with stunning gardens and intricate mosaics, stroll through the charming historic streets of the Albaicín neighborhood, and indulge in delicious tapas and wine at one of the many cozy restaurants in the city. Don't miss out on the breathtaking views from the Mirador San Nicolas, a favorite spot for couples to watch the sunset over the picturesque city.

Granada, Spain: A 2-Day Budget-Friendly Family Adventure

Granada, located in the heart of Andalusia, Spain, offers a perfect family-friendly escape with its rich cultural heritage and stunning attractions. Start your journey with a visit to the Alhambra, a magnificent Moorish palace complex that will leave you in awe. Explore the winding streets of the Albayzín neighborhood, indulge in delicious tapas, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of this enchanting city.

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.

3 Days of Romance and Flamenco in Granada

A romantic trip to Granada, Spain, would be an unforgettable experience. Get lost in the winding streets of the old quarter and revel in the stunning Islamic architecture of the Alhambra fortress. Dine on delicious tapas, sip wine at a rooftop bar, and immerse yourself in the city's vibrant flamenco scene.