The Perfect 3 Day Itinerary in Granada, Spain

Three days in Granada gives you enough time to see the main sights without feeling rushed. From the Alhambra to local tapas bars, this city is easy to enjoy whether you're visiting as part of a longer trip through Andalusia or just here for a short break. A well-planned Granada itinerary should include a mix of history, viewpoints, and food spots. You don’t need to pack every hour with activities, but it helps to know what’s worth prioritising and when to book in advance! The city’s landscape is a blend where rugged peaks meet intricate Moorish architecture, creating a unique atmosphere that feels both timeless and alive. Granada holds a special place in history as the last Moorish kingdom on the Iberian Peninsula. This legacy is most vividly embodied by the Alhambra, a stunning palace and fortress complex that stands as the city’s crown jewel and a must-see landmark for any visitor. This practical three-day plan is designed to help you experience the best of Granada without feeling rushed or missing the city’s soul. It balances iconic sights with local flavours and cultural moments, making sure you leave with a genuine sense of what makes Granada special.

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• Spain, Granada
• Spain, Granada

Granada has a long and layered history that explains why the city feels so different from others in Spain. It was under Islamic rule for over 700 years, and the most famous period was during the **Nasrid dynasty**. This is when the Alhambra was built, now the city’s most iconic site! After the Reconquista in 1492, Granada became part of Catholic Spain, and new buildings like the Cathedral and Royal Chapel were added to reflect the shift in power. Walking through Granada today, you’ll still see traces of these overlapping histories. The **Albayzín** district reflects the city’s Moorish past, while grand churches and monasteries mark the Christian era that followed. If you’re planning three days in Granada, understanding this mix of influences will help you appreciate what you’re seeing. The name “Granada” actually means **pomegranate** in Spanish. You’ll spot the fruit carved into stone, on signs and even in the city’s official emblem!

Granada is accessible through several practical routes depending on your starting point and travel preferences. The city has its own airport, **Federico García Lorca Granada-Jaén Airport** (GRX), which mainly connects to domestic destinations and some European cities. Flights here are convenient if you find a direct connection. Flying into **Málaga Airport** (AGP) is a popular alternative, especially if you’re coming from international locations with more flight options. From Málaga, you can take a bus, train, or rent a car for the roughly 1.5-hour journey east to Granada. This option often balances cost and convenience well. Train travel is another solid choice. The train is a good middle ground if you want to avoid flying or driving and prefer a relaxed pace. For budget travellers, buses are efficient and affordable. ALSA is the main bus carrier serving Granada, with frequent routes from major cities like Madrid, Málaga, and Seville. Buses can take longer than trains but often cost less and have flexible schedules. Driving to Granada is straightforward via the A-92 highway, which connects the city to the rest of Andalusia and beyond. - **From international destinations:** - **Granada** has few direct flights to international airports, but does have a few weekly flights to destinations such as **Amsterdam** (Transavia) and **Paris** (Vueling) - **Málaga** has many more international flight options from a variety of countries, including the UK, France, Portugal, Germany, Poland, Morocco, and even further afield like Qatar, United Arab Emirates, Turkey, USA and Canada - **From across Spain:** - **Fly to Granada (GRX):** Granada airport connects to a variety of destinations, such as Madrid, Barcelona, Melilla, Oviedo/Asturias, Las Palmas, Palma de Mallorca, Tenerife, Bilbao - **Fly to Málaga (AGP):** Malaga is connected to lots of Spanish destinations, from the Balearic Islands and Canary Islands to Barcelona, Madrid, and cities along the north coast like Santiago de Compostela, San Sebastián, Bilbao, and more - **By Train**: There are multiple trains that link Granada to destinations around Spain, including Málaga, Seville, Almería, Madrid, and Barcelona - **By Bus:** - **From Málaga Airport to Granada:** - The easiest and most affordable way to get from Málaga Airport to Granada is to take the **ALSA bus** directly from the airport to Granada's bus station. This takes around 2h50. - For a quicker journey, you can take the Cercanías from the airport to **Málaga Maria Zambrano**, and take a train from there straight to Granada. This involves more changes and is more expensive, but is a faster option compared to the bus.

**Day 1: Alhambra and Central Granada** Start your first day early with a visit to the **Alhambra**. You’ll need to book tickets in advance, and try to get your time slot for the **Nasrid Palaces** between 8:30 and 9:30. This gives you plenty of time to explore the palaces, **Alcazaba** and **Generalife gardens** at a comfortable pace. You’ll want at least three hours for the Nasrid Palaces, and then an hour for the Alcazaba and one or two hours for the gardens. It's such an extensive place to explore!

After your visit, head back into the city for lunch at **Los Manueles**, a small local chain known for traditional Andalusian dishes. They have a restaurant close to the Cathedral, which is your next stop. The **Catedral de Granada** is one of Spain’s finest examples of Renaissance architecture and worth seeing even if you’re not usually into churches. The light in the cathedral is stunning! Just outside the Cathedral, you’ll find **La Alcaicería**, a small area of narrow streets with market stalls. It’s a good spot to pick up local crafts or spices. For an afternoon break, walk to **La Finca Coffee** and recharge with something cold or a flat white. If you still have time (and it’s not the weekend), visit the **Jardín Botánico de la Universidad de Granada**. Entry is free, and it’s a quiet place to walk through before heading back to where you're staying.

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• Spain, Granada
• Spain, Granada
• Spain, Granada

Products

• Granada: Crossroads of Arab and Christian cultures
• Granada: Royal Chapel guided walking tour
• Granada City Center and Albaicin Private Tour
• Stroll through Granada: historic center and Albayzín

**Top tips for visiting the Alhambra:** - **Buy your tickets WELL in advance!** Especially during school holidays and public holidays (I visited Granada for Easter/Semana Santa one year and tickets were completely sold out over a month in advance) - **Decide whether you want to do a guided tour or explore by yourself**. If you're really keen to learn all about the history and architecture of the Alhambra, then doing a guided tour is a must. If you're like me and want to spend a lot of time taking in the beauty and photographing every spot of the Nasrid Palaces and other parts of the Alhambra, I highly recommend just buying a ticket without a tour! - **Choose your Nasrid Palaces time slot wisely**. For the Alcazaba (fortress) and the Generalife Gardens, you can visit them at any time with your ticket. The Nasrid Palaces are the only place that you need to book a time slot, and you need to be there on time! I recommend choosing 8:30 to 9:30 if you're able to, as these will be the least busy. - **Take a water bottle with you**. Particularly if you're visiting in summer, a lot of the Alhambra is out in the open so you'll get pretty warm. You can't take outside food and drink into the Nasrid Palaces, but you can take in a water bottle. There are also a variety of spots where you can buy cold drinks or refill your water. - **Wear sunscreen!** See above, especially when visiting in summer! - **Wear comfortable shoes.** I forget exactly how many steps we did when visiting the Alhambra, but it was a LOT. Wearing comfy shoes is a must! The below options from Viator are ideal whether you want to go by yourself (the first option is perfect, as you'll get an audio guide with your entrance ticket) or if you want to go on a guided tour and hear all about the Alhambra from a local guide.

Products

• Alhambra Ticket with Audio Guide in Granada
• Alhambra, Nasrid Palaces, Generalife & Alcazaba Private Tour
• Premium Private Tour of the Alhambra of Granada (includes tickets)

POIs

• Palacios Nazaríes
• Generalife Gardens
• Palace of Charles V
• Alcazaba

**Day 2: Albayzín Views and Local Flavours** Start the day with breakfast at **Jerusalem Books Cafe**, a quiet spot serving Palestinian dishes and strong coffee. I highly recommend getting the 'Palestinian Breakfast' to share! After eating, take the **tourist train** up to **Mirador de San Cristóbal** for one of the best panoramic views over the city. It's a bit of a hidden gem but it's so worth stopping for a while to enjoy the views. From there, walk downhill through the Albayzín and stop at the **Palacio de Dar al-Horra**, a small but interesting historic site that’s often overlooked. The views from here over the city and across to the Alhambra are nothing short of spectacular. As you make your way down through the cobbled streets of Albayzín (take care as you go!), grab a coffee at **Bonnevie** or pause for tea at **Kasbah**, depending on what you feel like. If you're visiting during summer, I can't recommend the iced Moroccan mint tea at Kasbah more, it's so refreshing! For lunch, you can grab a bite at Bonnevie or Kasbah, or pop into one of the many excellent restaurants in the Albayzín area.

Products

• Granada City Tour Hop on and Hop off Train

POIs

• Jerusalem Books Cafe
• Mirador de San Cristóbal
• Palacio de Dar al-Horra
• Iglesia de san Nicolás

Later in the afternoon (maybe take a siesta if you fancy), take the tourist train or walk up to **Mirador de San Nicolás**. It’s one of the most iconic viewpoints in Granada, especially at sunset. Order a drink at **El Balcón de San Nicolás** and enjoy the view across to the Alhambra. The tables with the best views do get popular, but wherever you sit on the terrace you'll be able to enjoy the view. While you’re in the area, visit the **Garden of the Mezquita Mayor** and enjoy the spectacular views over to the Alhambra and the mountains behind. It's much less busy than the Mirador de San Nicolás but the view is just as good. Next, climb the tower of **Iglesia de San Nicolás** and don't miss seeing the inside of the church itself and its stunning stained glass ceiling. Walk back through the Albayzín and finish the evening with dinner at **Restaurante Sirio Castillo de Aleppo**. Their food is absolutely delicious! If you’re up for it, grab a drink at **Bar Chaplin** to end the day. Their selection of craft beer is excellent, and it's a great choice to end your second of three days in Granada.

POIs

• Iglesia de san Nicolás
• Mezquita Mayor de Granada
• Bar Chaplin
• Restaurante Sirio Castillo de aleppo

**Day 3: Monasteries, Markets and Riverside Walks** Start your day at **Vega’s Cafe Bar** with coffee and something simple to eat. Then hop on the **tourist train** to visit the **Monasterio de la Cartuja**, one of Granada’s lesser-known spots with ornate chapels and quiet courtyards. After that, take the train back towards the centre and stop at the **Basílica de San Juan de Dios**, then walk a couple of minutes to the **Real Monasterio de San Jerónimo**, which is just as impressive.

POIs

• 𝙑𝙚𝙜𝙖'𝙨 café 𝘽𝙖𝙧
• Monasterio de Nuestra Señora de la Asunción "La Cartuja"
• Basílica de San Juan de Dios
• Real Monasterio de San Jerónimo

For lunch, head to **Bodegas Castañeda**, a lively spot known for its traditional Andalusian plates and local wines. In the afternoon, walk along **Carrera del Darro**, one of the prettiest streets in the city. Stop in at **Patio de los Perfumes** for a browse, and make sure to visit **Iglesia de San Pedro y San Pablo** and climb the tower if it’s open. If you’re in the mood for a drink, try a beer at **La Hermosa Craft Beer**, just around the corner. Then stroll up to **Paseo de los Tristes** for one last look at the Alhambra before dinner. For your final evening in Granada, book a table at **La Nonna Carmela**, a relaxed restaurant with good food and service.

POIs

• Bodegas Castañeda
• Patio de los Perfumes
• Carrera del Darro
• Iglesia Parroquial de San Pedro y San Pablo
• La Hermosa Craft Beer
• Paseo de los Tristes
• La Nonna Carmela

Looking for the best place to stay depends a lot on what kind of experience you want. Granada’s neighborhoods each have their own vibe and perks. **Centro** and **Realejo** are perfect if you want to be in the heart of things. You’ll be close to the Cathedral, plenty of shops, and tapas bars, making it super convenient for first-timers or anyone who prefers easy access to city life. If romance and history are your priorities, Albayzín is the spot. It’s full of charm with stunning views over the Alhambra, but be ready for some steep, cobbled streets that might challenge your luggage or walking pace. Lastly, the area around the train station is a practical choice if you’re on a budget or want easy transport links. It’s less picturesque but very functional, and usually has more budget options as it's further from the city centre. - For first-timers who want convenience and nightlife: Centro/Realejo - For couples or history buffs seeking atmosphere and views: Albayzín - For budget-conscious or practical travelers: near the train station My personal top choice is **Barceló Carmen Granada**, which has a stunning rooftop pool and bar. It's centrally located and good value for a 4 star hotel.

Products

• Barceló Carmen Granada
• Boutique Hotel Luna Granada Centro
• Sercotel Palacio de los Gamboa
• Porcel Sabica
• Palacio Gran Vía, a Royal Hideaway Hotel
• Hotel Boutique Párraga Siete
• Seda Club Hotel - Small Luxury Hotels

For ultimate luxury, **Palacio Gran Vía**, **a Royal Hideaway Hotel** offers elegance right in the city center, while **Seda Club Hotel - Small Luxury Hotels** provides a high-end boutique experience with a modern touch. If boutique charm is what you want, **Hotel Boutique Párraga Siete** is a stylish choice with a personal feel, perfect for travellers who appreciate design and character. For a unique thematic stay, **Áurea Washington Irving by Eurostars** stands out with its literary inspiration and proximity to the Alhambra. If you prefer reliable, modern comfort, **Catalonia Granada** is an excellent choice. - **For ultimate luxury:** Palacio Gran Vía, a Royal Hideaway Hotel (from $285.99) and Seda Club Hotel - Small Luxury Hotels (from $298.27) - **For boutique charm:** Hotel Boutique Párraga Siete (from $45.25) - **For Alhambra proximity and unique theme:** Áurea Washington Irving by Eurostars (from $117.94) - **For reliable modern comfort:** Catalonia Granada (from $85.39)

Products

• Áurea Washington Irving by Eurostars Hotel Company
• Catalonia Granada

Navigating the Alhambra without a guide can be overwhelming due to its vast size and rich history. A **guided tour** helps you understand the significance of each palace, garden, and courtyard, making the visit far more meaningful. There are several types of Alhambra tours to choose from. Small-group tours offer a more intimate experience with a few fellow travellers, while private tours provide personalised attention and flexibility but come with a higher price tag. Some tours focus on specific themes, like the Nasrid dynasty's legacy or the blend of Arab and Christian cultures. A knowledgeable guide brings the stories of the Nasrid dynasty to life in a way that a guidebook simply cannot. Their insights and anecdotes will add to your understanding and appreciation of the complex! Booking these tours well in advance is crucial since they include the **often sold-out Alhambra entrance tickets**. One example of a themed tour is 'Granada: Crossroads of Arab and Christian cultures,' which dives deep into the historical fusion that shaped the site.

Products

• From Granada: Sierra Nevada Safari tour up to 2500 meters high
• Andalusia: The Beauties of Southern Spain Bus tour
• Highlights of Andalucia
• Granada: Crossroads of Arab and Christian cultures

Beyond the Alhambra, there are plenty of tours and activities that reveal the rich culture and history of the city and its surroundings. A guided walking tour of the Albayzín and Sacromonte neighbourhoods offers a deep dive into their unique heritage and stunning views. A **unique way of exploring the city is by Segway**, if you fancy a different way of seeing the city! Food lovers can enjoy guided **tapas tours** or **cooking classes** focused on Andalusian cuisine, providing a delicious way to connect with local traditions. For those wanting to venture further, day trips from the city open up the wider Andalusian region. Options include regional bus tours like 'Andalusia: The Beauties of Southern Spain' or 'Highlights of Andalucia,' which showcase the area's diverse landscapes and historic sites. A classic experience not to miss is a **flamenco show** in the caves of Sacromonte, where the passionate art form feels especially authentic and vibrant!

Products

• Flamenco Show in a Cave Restaurant in Granada
• Arabian Baths Experience at Granada's Hammam Al Ándalus
• Zooming Through Granada: A Fun-Filled Electric Bike Tour
• Segway Your Way Through Granada's History: The Ultimate Ride
• Private tour: 4 cultures, Granada in depth
• Albaicín and Sacromonte Sunset tour + Flamenco show

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