Granada 5 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration of the Albaicín Neighborhood

  • Morning: Arrive in Granada and check-in at your hotel. We recommend staying in the city center or the historic neighborhood of Albaicín.
  • 10:00 AM: Start your day by visiting the iconic Mirador de San Nicolas, a viewpoint that offers breathtaking views of the Alhambra palace and the city. You can also walk around the picturesque streets of Albaicín, exploring its narrow alleys, charming shops, and cafes.
  • Lunch: Head to La Tertulia, a local restaurant serving traditional Andalusian cuisine. Try their famous gazpacho (cold soup) or paella.
  • Afternoon: Visit the San Nicolas Church, a beautiful example of Moorish architecture with stunning views of the Alhambra.
  • Evening: Enjoy a leisurely walk around the neighborhood, taking in the sights and sounds of the local life. For dinner, head to La Barra, a cozy restaurant serving Mediterranean-inspired dishes.

Where to Stay:

  • Hotel Casa 1800: A stylish hotel located in the heart of Albaicín, with elegant rooms and a charming courtyard.
  • Posada del Cielo: A family-run boutique hotel offering comfortable rooms and a warm atmosphere.

Things to Know:

  • Granada is a city with a strong Muslim heritage. Be respectful of local customs and traditions.
  • Don’t forget to try some traditional Andalusian sweets, like polvorones or torta de aceite.
  • The city has a vibrant nightlife, but be aware that some areas can get crowded and noisy.

Day 2: Alhambra Palace

  • Morning: Visit the breathtaking Alhambra palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore its stunning gardens, palaces, and courtyards. Be sure to book your tickets in advance to avoid long wait times.
  • Lunch: Pack a picnic lunch or grab something from one of the cafes near the Alhambra. Try their famous churros con chocolate.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Generalife Gardens, a peaceful oasis with beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at El Claustro, a restaurant located within the Alhambra walls, serving traditional Andalusian cuisine.

Getting Around:

  • The city has an efficient bus system. You can use the Granada Bus app to plan your route.
  • Taxis are widely available, but be aware that they may not speak English.
  • Walking is a great way to explore the city, especially in the historic neighborhoods.

Tips and Tricks:

  • Be prepared for crowds and long lines at popular attractions like the Alhambra.
  • Try to avoid visiting during peak tourist season (June-August).
  • Don’t forget to try some local street food, like torta de aceite or churros con chocolate.

Day 3: Granada Cathedral and Royal Chapel

  • Morning: Visit the stunning Granada Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Explore its beautiful chapels and admire the intricate stone carvings.
  • Lunch: Head to El Paseo, a charming street lined with cafes and restaurants. Try their famous tortilla española.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Royal Chapel, a small, yet impressive chapel built by King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella. Admire its stunning architecture and beautiful frescoes.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at La Trastienda, a cozy restaurant serving traditional Andalusian cuisine.

Day 4: Sierra Nevada National Park

  • Morning: Visit the breathtaking Sierra Nevada National Park, one of the most beautiful national parks in Spain. Take a scenic drive through its stunning landscapes and enjoy hiking or skiing (depending on the season).
  • Lunch: Pack a picnic lunch or grab something from one of the cafes near the park.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Monachil Waterfalls, a breathtaking waterfall surrounded by lush vegetation.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at La Bodega, a restaurant located in the heart of Granada, serving traditional Andalusian cuisine.

Day 5: Shopping and Relaxation

  • Morning: Spend some time shopping for souvenirs or browsing through local markets like El Alcaicería.
  • Lunch: Head to La Taberna, a cozy restaurant serving traditional Andalusian cuisine.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Granada Botanical Garden, a peaceful oasis with beautiful gardens and scenic views.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at La Casa de los Azulejos, a charming restaurant located in the heart of Granada, serving traditional Andalusian cuisine.

Additional Tips and Tricks:

  • Don’t forget to try some local wine or sherries from the Jerez region.
  • Be aware of pickpocketing and petty theft in crowded areas.
  • Try to learn some basic Spanish phrases to communicate with locals.