4-Day Adventure: Granada, Spain's Best Attractions

Discover the charm and history of Andalusia's crown jewel, Granada.

22 April 2023

Granada is a stunning city situated at the base of Sierra Nevada mountains in Spain that is popular among tourists. The city is famous for its numerous attractions, including the Alhambra, a stunning Moorish palace built in the 14th century. Visitors can also explore the fascinating street markets, sample delicious Spanish cuisine, and experience the vibrant nightlife.

Travel plan

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Day 1

Arrival and Exploration

  • Check-in at the charming and centrally located Hotel Casa del Capitel Nazarí.
  • Start exploring the city's Moorish legacy by visiting the Alhambra Palace and its magnificent Nasrid Palaces.
  • Stroll around the Generalife Gardens, where water features, trees, and flowers blend in harmony.
  • Learn about Granada's history and culture at the Casa-Museo de Federico García Lorca, the famous poet and playwright from the city.
  • Have dinner at Los Diamantes, a no-frills seafood bar where locals flock for the freshest seafood and the crispest wines.
Day 2

Tapas and Art

  • Start the day with a coffee and a pastry at Café Fútbol, an iconic Granada café that has been serving patrons for over a century.
  • Visit the Museo de Bellas Artes de Granada, a lovely museum housed in a 16th-century palace, featuring impressive paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts.
  • Wander through the alleys of the Albayzín, the historic Muslim quarter of Granada, with its white-washed houses, narrow streets, and cozy squares.
  • Taste some of the best tapas in Granada at Bodegas Castañeda, a traditional taberna that keeps the essence of Andalusian gastronomy alive.
  • Try a local specialty for dessert: piononos, a sweet cake made with cinnamon, cream, and sugar.
Day 3

Mountains and Caves

  • Take a day trip to the Sierra Nevada National Park, a stunning mountain range that towers over Granada.
  • Go hiking or skiing, depending on the season, and enjoy the breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea and the Alpujarras.
  • Explore the Cueva de las Ventanas, a cave complex with spectacular stalactites and stalagmites, and an underground river.
  • Stop by the picturesque town of Lanjarón, famous for its natural springs and spas, to rest and recharge.
  • Have a rustic dinner at Mesón El Ladrillo, a family-owned restaurant that serves delicious meat and vegetable dishes, roasted in a wood-fired oven.
Day 4

Romance and History

  • Visit the Monasterio de San Jerónimo, a beautiful Renaissance church and convent that showcases the best of Spanish religious art.
  • Walk hand in hand with your loved one through the Carmen de los Mártires, a romantic park with lush gardens, fountains, and gazebos.
  • Have a last lunch in Granada at La Oliva, a trendy bistro that blends Mediterranean and global flavors with style.
  • Shop for souvenirs in the Alcaicería, a colorful market that sells ceramics, textiles, leather goods, and spices.
  • Say goodbye to Granada with a cocktail at La Tertulia, a trendy bar with a retro vibe that attracts musicians, artists, and bohemians.

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

Granada, Spain: The 3-Day Adventure Guide

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.

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.

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.