Granada

Planning a trip to Granada? Find out everything you need to know about this amazing city here…

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About Granada

Granada is a beautiful city located in the heart of Andalusia, known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture.

Famous for its Moorish influences, the city offers an enchanting blend of the past and present. The Alhambra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the main attraction in Granada and showcases exquisite Islamic architecture. With a lively atmosphere filled with tapas bars, flamenco performances, and scenic views of the Sierra Nevada mountains, Granada is a city not to be missed.

view over Granada city with mountains in the background

Where is Granada?

Granada is situated in southern Spain, nestled at the foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains. Located approximately 100 km from the Mediterranean coast, Granada is surrounded by picturesque landscapes, making it an ideal location for anyone interested in history and outdoor adventures. Granada is well situated for visits to and from major Andalusian cities like Seville (about 250 km) and Cordoba (about 130 km).

Is there an airport?

Granada does have its own airport, Federico García Lorca Granada-Jaén Airport (GRX), located about 17 km from the city center however it mainly serves domestic flights. For more options, the larger Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport (AGP) is approximately 125 km away and offers international flights.

How to get to Granada

If you’re visiting Granada, there are various different ways to get there:

By Air: Fly into Federico García Lorca Airport or Málaga Airport and take a bus, taxi, or shuttle to Granada. Find flights to Granada at Expedia.

By Train: Renfe operates trains connecting Granada with major cities like Madrid and Seville, with the journey taking around 3-4 hours. Find deals on train fares at Rail Europe.

By Car: Drive to Granada via the A-44 or A-92 highways. The journey from Málaga is about 1.5 hours, while from Seville, it takes around 2.5 hours. You can rent a car at Rentalcars.com

By Bus: Numerous bus companies offer services to Granada from various cities, including Alsa, which provides comfortable options. Buy bus tickets to Granada at Busbud.

Travelling Around Granada

Granada is compact and pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to explore the city on foot. There’s also a reliable public transport system, including regular buses to all of the main tourist attractions.

To see the city on two wheels, you can rent a bike to get around the city. The historic districts, like the Albayzín and Sacromonte, are best explored on foot.

Is Granada worth visiting?

Definitely! Granada is a must-visit destination for its unique blend of history, architecture, and culture. The stunning Alhambra palace, rich Moorish heritage, and bustling lifestyle make it a a fantastic city for everyone.

Spanish city breaks - Granada Alhambra windows

When is the best time to visit Granada?

The ideal times to visit Granada are in spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November). During these months, the weather is pleasant, perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Summer can be hot, with temperatures often exceeding 35°C, while winters are mild but can be chilly, especially in the mountains where you can even find snow.

Snow in Sierra Nevada Spain during Winter

Tourist Attractions in Granada

There’s so much to see in Granada you won’t be short of things to keep you busy. Some of the top attractions include the breathtaking Alhambra palace and fortress complex, the beautiful Generalife gardens, and the Renaissance Cathedral of Granada.

Things to do in Granada

Granada has experiences for all visitors. Start your adventure at the Alhambra, before taking a wander through the enchanting streets of the historic Moorish neighborhood of Albayzín. For a taste of local culture, enjoy a flamenco show in the cave homes of Sacromonte or take part in a tapas tour around the city. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can go for a hike in the nearby Sierra Nevada National Park.