Granada-7-day-itinerary

7-Day Granada Itinerary: A Journey Through History, Culture & Flavor

Things to Know:

  • Best Time to Visit: Spring (April-May) and Fall (September-October) offer pleasant weather. Summers can be very hot.
  • Language: Spanish. Some English spoken in tourist areas.
  • Currency: Euro (€).
  • Transportation: Granada is walkable, but the bus network is efficient and affordable.

Where to Stay:

  • Budget: Hostal Casa de la Victoria, Albergue Oasis Backpackers Hostel
  • Mid-Range: Hotel Inglaterra, Vincci Palacio de los Olmos
  • Luxury: Parador de Granada, Hotel Alhambra Palace

Transportation:

  • Airport: Federico García Lorca Granada–Jaén Airport (GRX) with bus connections to the city center.
  • Bus: Alhambra Bus, EMT Granada for local transport.

Day 1: Arrival and Historical Immersion

  • Morning: Arrive in Granada, check into your accommodation.
  • Afternoon: Explore the historic Albaicín neighborhood - labyrinthine streets, stunning viewpoints (Mirador de San Nicolás), and charming squares (Plaza de San Miguel Bajo).
  • Evening: Tapas crawl in the Sacromonte caves area for traditional flamenco performances and authentic tapas.

Where to Eat:

  • Restaurante Jardines de Zoraya (flamenco dinner show)
  • Bar Casa Torcuato (traditional tapas)

Day 2: Alhambra Splendor

  • Morning: Pre-book tickets online! Explore the magnificent Alhambra Palace complex, including the Nasrid Palaces, Generalife Gardens, and Alcazaba fortress. Allow ample time.
  • Afternoon: Relax in the serene gardens of the Generalife, enjoying panoramic views of Granada.
  • Evening: Enjoy a flamenco show at Corral del Carbón or Casa del Arte Flamenco.

Where to Eat:

  • Restaurante El Trillo (traditional Andalusian cuisine)

Day 3: Art & Relaxation

  • Morning: Visit the Capilla Real, burial place of Ferdinand and Isabella.
  • Afternoon: Wander through the Carmen de los Mártires gardens, a peaceful oasis with Moorish influences.
  • Evening: Savor dinner at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the Alhambra.

Where to Eat:

  • Mirador de Morayma (rooftop dining)

Day 4: Day Trip to Córdoba

  • Morning: Take a scenic train ride to Córdoba, a UNESCO World Heritage city renowned for its Mezquita-Cathedral.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Mezquita-Cathedral, wander through the Jewish Quarter, and relax in the charming patios of the Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos.
  • Evening: Return to Granada.

Where to Eat:

  • Bodegas Campos (traditional Cordoba cuisine)

Day 5: Exploring the Albaicín Deeper

  • Morning: Take a cooking class and learn to prepare authentic Andalusian dishes.
  • Afternoon: Explore hidden corners of the Albaicín, visit artisan workshops, and enjoy panoramic views from the Mirador de San Nicolás.

Where to Eat:

  • La Tana (local favorite tapas)

Day 6: Sierra Nevada Adventure

  • Morning: Take a day trip to the Sierra Nevada National Park, Spain’s highest mountain range.
  • Afternoon: Enjoy hiking trails, breathtaking views, or skiing in winter.
  • Evening: Relax at a traditional “casa rural” (country house) in the mountains.

Day 7: Departure

  • Morning: Visit the Granada Science Park for interactive exhibits and stunning views of the city.
  • Afternoon: Last chance for shopping souvenirs, enjoying tapas, or revisiting your favorite spots.

Tips:

  • Book Alhambra tickets well in advance, especially during peak season.
  • Wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking involved.
  • Learn a few basic Spanish phrases – it will enhance your experience.
  • Embrace the “siesta” culture – many shops and businesses close for a couple of hours in the afternoon.

Enjoy your unforgettable journey through Granada!