From the Christian imprint to the Arab influence, Granada's multicultural world is a fascinating one. The Alhambra, the city's undisputed treasure, shares the stage with Sacromonte, the ancient gypsy quarter that some may have discovered in Lucinda Riley's 7 Sisters saga. More than just a pretty corner of Andalusia, it's a fascinating world you'll discover as you walk through the narrow streets of this city full of wonders. Several days won't be enough to discover it, so here are our itinerary tips for visiting Granada in 2 or 3 days.
Day 1: Visit the Alhambra, the wonder of Granada
If Granada is one of the 21 most beautiful places to see in Spain, it's largely thanks to the Alhambra. A marvel of the past, this palace-city immerses you in the city's Arab past with enchantment.
Morning: What to do in Granada in 3 days? Visit the Alhambra, a Moorish treasure
The first day of your visit to Granada begins with a visit to the Alhambra, the city's most emblematic monument and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We advise you to start early in the morning, to avoid the queues and the summer heat. Let's not forget that we're in Andalusia, very close to the Orient, and that summer is very hot! In fact, if you can, we advise you to travel in April, during the Easter vacations. The Alhambra actually comprises several parts:
- the Alcazaba
- the palace of Charles V,
- the Nasrid palaces,
- the Generalife,
- the baths of the mosque.
We'll come back to the last two for the afternoon's program, as the place takes several hours to visit. More than just a stroll, you'll be immersed in the history of the Nasrid kings and medieval Spain. A visit as fascinating as it is magnificent , book in advance right here. For those who prefer, you can also book this guided tour of the Alhambra Palace.
After around four hours of exploration, you can head into the city center for lunch. From picturesque alleyways to lively squares, immerse yourself in the local gastronomy.
To find out more, read our tips for a successful visit to the Alhambra.
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Afternoon: Royal residence and Arab baths
Take advantage of your visit to discover the Generalife, located on the slopes of the Cerro del Sol, just outside the Alhambra. This palace and its gardens, used as a royal residence by the sultans, are famous for their courtyard of irrigation canals. Surrounded by cloister-like arches, these lush gardens are a marvel to behold! Embellished with fountains and lined with elegant architecture, they are among the most beautiful gardens in Europe. Book your tickets your tickets for and the Generalife (including the Alhambra gardens!)
After this thirty-minute visit, we'll head for the Bañuelo, Spain's oldest Arab baths. Knowing that they date back to the XIᵉ century, you can't help but marvel at their remarkable preservation. Discreetly located in a private house near the Alhambra, these baths offer a valuable insight into Moorish culture of yesteryear.
Good to know: admission costs a few euros per person (sometimes with a ticket combining several visits), but is free on Sundays.
Day 2: Sacromonte to Albaicín
Did you know that Granada has been home to a gypsy community since the XVᵉ century? This is Sacromonte, the district that was long dedicated to them, outside the Alhambra.
Morning: Sacromonte, Granada's gypsy cave-houses
An astonishing world awaits you in Sacromonte : whitewashed caves where gypsies have lived for generations. A mecca for flamenco, it's a fascinating place that immerses visitors in a culture that is often little-known. In two of these caves, the Cueva de María la Canastera and the Cueva de La Rocío, you can enter into total immersion with this musical and dancing culture like no other. It's a magnificent sight to behold! Another white cave has been converted into a museum. This fascinating museum plunges you into a world where gypsies, Arabs, Jews and Castilians once lived in a multicultural melting pot. We recommend that you book this guided walking tour of the Albaicin and Sacromonte.
Finally, end your morning atSacromonte Abbey, also home to the Granada Art Museum. Overlooking the Darro Valley, it offers a remarkable visit, as much for its views as for its architecture.
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Afternoon: The Albaicín, the city within the city
You've already seen a small part of this district with the Bañuelo, but there's still plenty to see. The Albaicín is Granada's ancient Arab quarter, located on the hill opposite the Alhambra. In the XIIIᵉ century, it was prosperous with palaces and villas, but after the Reconquest of 1492, the mosques were replaced by churches. Today, the district is a labyrinth of alleyways and whitewashed houses, which retains some Moorish relics such as the Dar al-Horra palace and the El Bañuelo Arab baths. It's a pure pleasure to stroll around! You can also visit the church of San Nicoláschurch, whose vantage point offers a view of the city like no other.
After exploring the Albaicín district, take a short break at the pretty Placeta Cristo de las Azucenas, before continuing your tour.
Finally, end your little escapade on the Paseo de los Tristes, a lively shopping street. It's the perfect place to watch street performers dancing flamenco by the fountain! Although the street's name evokes the funeral processions of the XIXᵉ century, today's atmosphere is lively, full of life. You end this second day by following the carrera del Darro, which runs alongside the river. It's a nice walk back to your hotel!
Day 3: Granada Cathedral and the Alcaicería
Don't leave yet! You've still got a few treasures to see during your 3-day stay in Granada.
Morning: Cathedral and Royal Chapel
On your last day in Andalusia, start the morning with a visit to Granada's granada Cathedralthis imposing building is a symbol of Christianity after the Reconquest. You can admire the ancient Lonja and the Sagrario church, but the royal chapel is the main feature, as it is the burial place of the Catholic Monarchs. Book a tour of Granada Cathedral and the Royal Chapel witha guide who will tell you all about the history of the 2 monuments here. For enthusiasts, we recommend this guided walking tour of Granada's cathedrals and chapels.
Nearby, explore the Corral del Carbón, a medieval building dating from 1336, once used to house merchants. It is the only one of its kind still standing in Spain: a marvel of Andalusian architecture!
Finally, your last morning in Granada ends at the the Alcaiceríaan ancient Al-Andalus trade area specializing in silk. Located in the historic center, it retains its original function. Today, you can find a wide variety of handicrafts. The market is also an ideal place to buy souvenirs and other local products before concluding your visit to Granada!
Afternoon: Street art at the Monastery of San Jeronimo
Conclude your 3-day weekend in Granada in an unusual way. Head for the Realejo district, where you'll discover the street art of El Niño de las Pinturas, aka Raúl Ruiz. Take a stroll down Calle Molinos and pass his former home at number 44, decorated with several frescoes. Your visit continues at the Colegio de Santo Domingo de Vistillas, where the school's walls are also covered with a variety of frescoes. Similar works can also be seen in Joe Summer Square, Las Palmas Park and Baranco del Abogado Street.
Finally, round off your wonderful 3-day stay in Granada with a visit to the Monastery of San Jerónimo, one of the first buildings constructed after the Reconquest. While the interior is superb, the inner courtyard, with its 36 arches, is literally breathtaking.
Still have a little time left? Check out our other 16 must-see things to do in Granada!
See below for the hottest things to do on a two- or three-day weekend in Granada:
Where to stay in Granada for 3 days? Our selection of the best hotels
Each neighborhood has its own charm when it comes to staying in Granada. While Sacromonte offers an incredible view of the Alhambra and a picturesque setting, Realjo and Centro Sagrario have the advantage of being close to many sights.
- The most original
While most of theAnacapri 's rooms are fairly classic, the hotel's public areas are simply sublime! Palm trees, atypical decor, everything is there to transport you to another world. Book this comfortable Granada hotelhere .
- The most luxurious
Located in a palace, the Palacio de los Patos is a pure marvel. The outdoor space plunges you into an enchantment without a name, while the rooms are furnished with taste. From the spa to the excellent cuisine and the attentive service, this 5-star establishment deserves to be booked here .
- The quietest
Set back a little from Granada, La Almunia del Valle offers visitors a haven of peace. The view of the Sierra Nevada is simply unique! The charm of the setting is matched only by the comfort of the rooms and the friendliness of the staff. A real "coup de coeur", book it here with just one click.
The undisputed treasure of Andalusia, Granada stands out as the capital of flamenco. You can discover it on a road trip, for example, for which we give you our itinerary tips for visiting Spain. It's a destination that can be visited in summer, but also in spring or any other season, given the mild (or even very hot, mind you!) temperatures. Have you been seduced? Discover the must-sees in Andalusia to complete your stay!
