Granada Spain 7 Day Itinerary

Title: 7-Day Itinerary for Exploring Granada, Spain

Day 1 - Arrival & Alhambra Palace

  • Arrive at Federico García Lorca Airport (GRX) or José Cisneros Train Station.
  • Check-in at your hotel in the city center (Recommended: Casa La Judia or Casa 1800).
  • Visit Alhambra Palace and its stunning gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Book your tickets online in advance to avoid queues.
  • Enjoy dinner at a local tapas bar like Los Diamantes or El Aguardiente Viejo.
  • Tip: Dress appropriately for visiting Alhambra (no shorts, skirts below the knee, or sleeveless tops).

Day 2 - Albaicín & Sacromonte

  • Morning visit to Albaicín, Granada’s old Moorish quarter. Explore narrow streets and historic sites like Mirador de San Nicolás for a panoramic view of the Alhambra.
  • Lunch at Casa Morisca, offering traditional Andalusian cuisine with a Moroccan twist.
  • In the afternoon, explore Sacromonte, home to Granada’s cave houses and Gypsy flamenco shows.
  • Dinner at Casa González, a local favorite for flamenco and authentic Granadine dishes.
  • Tip: Purchase tickets for a flamenco show in advance.

Day 3 - Granada Cathedral & Royal Chapel

  • Visit the Granada Cathedral, an impressive example of Spanish Baroque architecture. Admission is free with a student ID.
  • Next door, explore the Royal Chapel, where several Spanish royalties are buried, including Christopher Columbus.
  • Lunch at Taberna Bodega Nuestra Señora del Rosario, offering traditional Andalusian dishes in a cozy atmosphere.
  • Spend the afternoon relaxing by the water in Generalife Gardens or shopping for souvenirs in Alcaicería.
  • Dinner at Casa de los Tiros, known for its excellent paella and friendly service.

Day 4 - Day Trip to Sierra Nevada National Park

  • Take a bus or drive to Sierra Nevada National Park. Enjoy hiking, skiing, or just admire the beautiful scenery.
  • Pack a picnic lunch or dine at Refugio Poqueira, located in the heart of the park.
  • Return to Granada for dinner and rest.
  • Tip: Check the weather forecast before planning your trip to Sierra Nevada.

Day 5 - Carmen de los Martires & Plaza Nueva

  • Spend the morning at Carmen de los Martires, an art museum located in a beautifully restored mansion.
  • Lunch at La Cueva de Nereida, offering traditional Andalusian dishes in a cave-like setting.
  • Afternoon stroll through Plaza Nueva and admire the Renaissance architecture.
  • Dinner at Los Diamantes, one of Granada’s best tapas bars.

Day 6 - Day Trip to Malaga (Optional)

  • Take a train from Granada Train Station to Malaga (approximately 1 hour).
  • Visit Malaga Cathedral, Picasso Museum, and Alcazaba.
  • Lunch at El Refectorio de Malaga, offering contemporary Spanish cuisine.
  • Return to Granada for dinner and rest.

Day 7 - Departure

  • Spend your last morning in Granada exploring any sights you may have missed or revisiting your favorites.
  • Check out of your hotel and depart from Federico García Lorca Airport (GRX) or José Cisneros Train Station.

Transportation:

  • Bus: EMT Granada operates city buses, while ALSA offers long-distance bus services to other Spanish cities.
  • Train: RENFE operates both local and high-speed AVE trains from Granada Train Station.
  • Taxis are available throughout the city, but prices can be expensive.

Tips:

  • Embrace the siesta culture by taking a midday break between 2 PM and 5 PM when many shops close.
  • Bring comfortable walking shoes as there’s plenty of exploring to do on foot.
  • Learn some basic Spanish phrases to make your experience more enjoyable.
  • Enjoy the local cuisine, including tapas, paella, and fresh seafood!