Budget Bliss in Jaén: Insider's 3-Day Guide
Experience the beauty and culture of Jaén without breaking the bank.
21 June 2023
Pablo Escudero
Spain Travel Writer
A budget trip to Jaén, Spain can be a delightful experience for travelers who wish to discover the city's rich history, mouth-watering cuisine, and stunning landscapes. The city offers numerous free attractions, such as the Jaén Cathedral, the Castle of Santa Catalina, and the Banos Árabes. To save on food expenses, travelers can try the local tapas, which are typically served with drinks at no extra cost.
Travel plan
Getting latest place information
- Stay at the affordable Hotel Xauen in the city centergreat value for its location and comfort.
- Begin the day with breakfast at the famous Cafe Barista, known for their delicious coffee and baked goods.
- Admire the stunning landscape from the imposing Santa Catalina Castle, a medieval fortress.
- Visit the fascinating Jaén Cathedral, an impressive Renaissance-style church with beautiful frescoes and carvings.
- Take a stroll through the charming old town, filled with narrow alleys and stunning buildings.
- Enjoy lunch at La Salamandra, a cozy spot with local specialties and a great atmosphere.
- Wrap up the day with a sunset view from the Parador de Jaén, a hilltop hotel where you can sip a drink while enjoying sweeping views of the city.
- Start the day with a hearty breakfast at Antiguo Café Central, a cozy spot with traditional Andalusian decor.
- Take a guided tour at the Oro Bailen Olive Oil Mill, where you will learn about the production process and taste some of the world's best olive oil.
- Enjoy lunch at Amador Flamenco, a lively restaurant serving both Spanish and international dishes.
- Head to the Iberian Museum, housing some of Spain's finest Iberian art and artifacts.
- Grab a drink at La Abacería, a local corner bar with a great selection of wine and beer.
- Have breakfast at Color Café, a cute little spot with great coffee and sandwiches.
- Take a scenic drive to the Sierra de Cazorla Natural Park, where you can enjoy stunning views and hiking trails.
- Stop by the nearby village of Cazorla, with its beautiful castle and a charming historic center.
- Have a picnic lunch at one of the park's many scenic spots.
- Visit the Cazorla Nature Interpretation Center, where you can learn about the wildlife, flora, and fauna of the region.
- Head back to Jaén for dinner at gastro pub El Pato Rojo, with creative tapas and a lively atmosphere.
- Jaén is a hidden gem in Andalusia with a rich history, delicious food, and stunning nature. Don't miss the chance to experience all it has to offer!
Length of stay
Type of trip
How to get there
Plane
The best way to get to Jaén by plane is to fly to Federico García Lorca Granada-Jaén Airport (GRX) and then take a bus or a car from the airport to Jaén. The journey by bus takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, while the journey by car takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Car
The best way to get to Jaén by car is to take the A-44 motorway from Granada. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Train
Unfortunately, there are no direct trains to Jaén. The closest railway station to Jaén is Linares-Baeza Station, which is approximately 25 kilometers away. From there, you can take a bus or a car to Jaén.
Boat
Unfortunately, there are no direct boats to Jaén as it is an inland city. The closest port is the Port of Algeciras, which is approximately 250 kilometers away. From there, you can take a bus or a car to Jaén.
Bus
The best way to get to Jaén by bus is to take a direct bus from Madrid to Jaén. The journey takes approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Granada, which takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.