Granada, Spain-7-day-itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Granada
- Morning: Arrive at Granada Airport (GRX) or take a train/bus from nearby cities
- Afternoon: Check-in at your hotel (see below for recommendations)
- Visit the Albayzín neighborhood, a historic district with narrow streets, white houses, and stunning views of the Alhambra
- Dinner: Try traditional Andalusian cuisine at El Claustro, a cozy restaurant in the heart of Albayzín
Day 2: Alhambra
- Morning: Visit the breathtaking Alhambra palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site (buy tickets online in advance to avoid long lines)
- Explore the Generalife gardens, a peaceful oasis with stunning views
- Visit the Palacio Nazarí, a masterpiece of Islamic architecture
- Afternoon: Walk through the historic center and visit Granada Cathedral (Catedral de Granada), a beautiful Gothic church
- Dinner: Enjoy tapas at La Bodeguita, a lively bar with a wide selection of wines
Day 3: Nasrid Palaces
- Morning: Visit the Nasrid Palaces, a complex of palaces and gardens within the Alhambra complex (tickets included in Alhambra ticket)
- Explore the Carlos V Palace, a Renaissance-era palace built on top of an ancient Islamic fortress
- Visit the Partal Palace, another beautiful Nasrid palace with intricate stone carvings
- Afternoon: Relax at Plaza Larga, a charming square with cafes and shops
- Dinner: Try El Pimpi, a popular restaurant serving traditional Andalusian cuisine
Day 4: Sierra Nevada
- Morning: Take a bus to the Sierra Nevada National Park (about 30 minutes from Granada)
- Enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys
- Hike to the Mirador de la Reina, a viewpoint with stunning views of the Alhambra and Sierra Nevada
- Afternoon: Visit Monachil, a charming town in the Sierra Nevada foothills
- Dinner: Enjoy local cuisine at El Olivo, a cozy restaurant in Monachil
Day 5: Granada’s Historic Center
- Morning: Explore Granada’s historic center, including the Plaza del Carmen, Calle Elvira, and Plaza Larga
- Visit the Corral del Carbón, a medieval inn turned museum
- Browse shops selling local handicrafts and souvenirs
- Afternoon: Visit Casa de los Pisa, a beautiful 16th-century palace with stunning views of the Alhambra
- Dinner: Enjoy tapas at La Moraga, a popular bar with a wide selection of wines
Day 6: Camino del Sacromonte
- Morning: Take a hike on the Camino del Sacromonte, a scenic trail that winds through the hills above Granada
- Visit Cave of the Gypsies, a cave turned museum showcasing traditional Romani culture
- Enjoy stunning views of the Alhambra and Sierra Nevada
- Afternoon: Relax at your hotel or explore more of Granada’s historic center
- Dinner: Try El Abuelo, a popular restaurant serving traditional Andalusian cuisine
Day 7: Departure
- Morning: Check-out of your hotel
- Visit any last-minute sights or do some shopping
- Depart for the airport or next destination
Where to Stay
- Hotel Casa 1800: A luxurious boutique hotel in a restored 19th-century palace
- Hotel Palacio de los Navas: A modern hotel with stunning views of the Alhambra and Sierra Nevada
- Hostal La Santa Cruz: A cozy hostel with a relaxed atmosphere and easy access to Granada’s historic center
Things to Know
- Language: Spanish is the official language, but many locals speak some English.
- Currency: The Euro is the official currency.
- Weather: Granada has a Mediterranean climate, hot in summer and mild in winter.
- Tipping: 10% is standard for good service.
Transportation
- Airport: Granada Airport (GRX) receives flights from major European cities
- Trains: Trains connect Granada to nearby cities like Seville and Córdoba
- Buses: Buses run regularly between Granada and other cities in Andalusia
Tips
- Respect local customs: Dress modestly when visiting mosques or churches.
- Try tapas: Sample local cuisine at bars and restaurants.
- Explore on foot: Wander through Granada’s historic center to discover hidden gems.
I hope you enjoy your trip to Granada!