Granada on a Budget: The Ultimate 5 Day Adventure

Experience the charm of Granada without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

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.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Arrival in Granada

  • Check-in at Shine Albayzín Hostel, a cozy hostel in the heart of the historic Albayzín neighborhood
  • Explore the winding streets and stunning views of the Albayzín, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Visit the Mirador de San Nicolás for a panoramic view of the Alhambra palace
  • Stop by the Plaza Nueva for some tasty tapas and cool drinks
  • Take a stroll through the colorful Alcaicería, a bazaar with an Arab flavor
Day 2

Discovering the Alhambra

  • Get an early start and head to the Alhambra palace, one of the most visited sites in Spain
  • Wander through the Generalife gardens with stunning views of the palace
  • Visit the Nasrid Palaces with exquisite Moorish architecture and decoration
  • Explore the Alcazaba fortress and towers with panoramic views of the city
  • Chill out and relax at the Hammam Al Ándalus Arab baths, a hidden gem in the heart of the city
Day 3

Exploring the City of Granada

  • Have a leisurely breakfast at Cafetería La Finca, known for its delicious coffee and baked goods
  • Visit the impressive Cathedral of Granada and the Royal Chapel with tombs of Queen Isabella and King Ferdinand
  • Take a walk through the picturesque Albaicín neighborhood and learn about its Moorish and Jewish heritage
  • Check out the colorful and artistic street art scene in the Realejo neighborhood
  • Enjoy a traditional Flamenco show at La Casa del Arte Flamenco, a must-see in Granada
Day 4

Day trip to the Sierra Nevada Mountains

  • Take a bus or drive to the Sierra Nevada National Park, only one hour away from Granada
  • Go hiking up the Mulhacén peak, the highest mountain in continental Spain
  • Visit the Sierra Nevada Observatory and marvel at the starry sky at night
  • Have a picnic lunch in the fresh mountain air and scenic views
  • Take a dip in the crystal-clear mountain streams and lakes
Day 5

Last day in Granada

  • Enjoy some shopping at the trendy Calle Recogidas, lined with high-end shops and boutiques
  • Visit the Monasterio de San Jerónimo and appreciate its majestic Baroque architecture
  • Try the famous dishes of Granada, such as the Andalusian Gazpacho or the Paella Valenciana, at Restaurante Los Manueles
  • Take a final walk through the charming streets of Granada and soak up the vibrant and lively atmosphere
  • Catch a night bus or train from the Granada bus station or train station, with unforgettable memories of this magical city.

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

A Romantic 5-Day Getaway to Granada, Spain

Granada, Spain is a perfect destination for a romantic trip. You can explore the city's Moorish history and architecture, enjoy the delicious Spanish cuisine and fall in love with the colorful streets and alleys. Take a stroll in the Alhambra Gardens or watch the sunset from the Mirador San Nicolas and let the city's charm captivate you.

Granada, Spain: A Whirlwind of Family Adventure

A family-friendly trip to Granada, Spain offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and outdoor adventures. Explore the enchanting Alhambra Palace, where kids can imagine the stories of sultans and princesses amidst stunning architecture and gardens. Embark on thrilling hikes in Sierra Nevada National Park or embark on a family bike tour through the charming streets of the Albayzín neighborhood, followed by indulging in delicious tapas and delectable churros con chocolate.

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.

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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.