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

Budget-Friendly Adventures in Granada, Spain!

Explore the beautiful city of Granada on a limited budget with a trip to the Alhambra, a stunning palace and fortress. Take a stroll through the Sacromonte neighborhood, famous for its cave homes and flamenco shows. Enjoy local tapas and wine at small, family-run restaurants for an authentic taste of Andalusia without breaking the bank.

Granada on a Budget: The Ultimate 5 Day Adventure

A trip to Granada, Spain on a limited budget can be feasible by staying in budget hostels or guesthouses that offer affordable rates for accommodation. To further save on expenses, it is recommended to explore the city by foot or by taking advantage of the city's extensive public transportation system. Lastly, indulging in the local food scene may be a bit tight on budget, but there are budget-friendly options such as tapas bars that offer authentic Spanish dishes at reasonable prices.

The Ultimate Long Weekend in Granada, Spain

As a tourist in Granada, Spain, you will be captivated by its spellbinding history and intoxicating culture. You can marvel at the stunning Alhambra Palace, stroll through the charming streets of the Albaicin neighborhood, and indulge in authentic Spanish tapas. With its breathtaking scenery and rich heritage, Granada is a must-visit destination for any traveler.

Budget Bliss in Granada: 3 Day Cultural Escape

Granada is a great destination for budget travelers as there are plenty of affordable accommodations, food and activities. Visiting the Alhambra, a Moorish palace and fortress, is a must-see attraction, but make sure to book tickets in advance to avoid paying a premium. Strolling through the winding streets of the Albayzin neighborhood and enjoying tapas in the many traditional bars is a great way to experience the culture of Granada without breaking the bank.