Granada in 3 Days – Alhambra & Nasrid Palace included!

Granada, a city of history, culture, and beauty, is a must-visit for any traveler to Spain. With its stunning Moorish architecture, vibrant flamenco scene, and delicious tapas, Granada has something to offer everyone even in only 3 days.

This post will provide a suggested itinerary for a 3-day trip to Granada, with recommendations for the best things to see and do in the city. The itinerary is designed to be flexible, so you can tailor it to your interests and time constraints.

Day 1:

• Start your day with a visit to the Alhambra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is considered one of the most beautiful and important Moorish palaces in the world. You’ll need to purchase tickets in advance, as the Alhambra is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Spain. Get more information here.
• After visiting the Alhambra, take a stroll through the forest that is surrounding the monument untill you get to the Puerta de las Granadas.
• Continue to Plaza Nueva, is the oldest square in Granada, located in the heart of the old city, at the meeting point of the Albaicín, Realejo, and city center.
• The cobblestones will lead you to the Paseo de los Tristes, a picturesque walkway that runs along the Darro River, offering stunning views of the Alhambra.
• A few minutes after, the Bañuelo is waiting for you. It is the only hammam in Granada, outside the Alhambra, which has been restored and made accessible to the public. It is one of the oldest and best-preserved hammams in Muslim Spain, dating back to the 11th century.
• At this point, only a few meters separate us from the Albaicín quarter, a historic neighborhood that is home to narrow streets, whitewashed houses, and stunning views of the Alhambra from the Mirador de San Nicolás.
• There is a mandatory stop for all Granada locals and it is Casa Pasteles, a pastry shop / bakery where you can enjoy a sweet treat and a coffee or tea.
• BONUS: Close to the Mirador de San Nicolás, the Max Moureau Carmen offers a free visit of a traditional construction built around the 11th century where the house is typically surrounded by gardens and orchard because of the arab influence.
• Finish this amazing day with a flamenco show in the Sacromonte quarter. The history of flamenco in the Sacromonte dates back to the 15th century, when the first gypsies settled in the area. The gypsies brought their own musical traditions with them, which eventually blended with the local Andalusian music to create flamenco.

Don’t miss all the wide range of restaurants and bars that the Albaicín has to offer. Take the opportunity to enjoy the tapas, the outdoor terraces and the sun. Here is a list of the best places to eat in the Albaicín.

Day 2:

• Start your day with a visit to the Catedral de Granada, a Gothic cathedral that is one of the largest in Spain.
• After visiting the cathedral, visit the Capilla Real, a royal mausoleum that houses the tombs of Queen Isabella I and King Ferdinand II, the Catholic Monarchs.
• Close to the Cathedral, there is a tourism office located in Palacio de Niñas NoblesIn the afternoon, take a walk through the Carrera del Darro, a charming street that is lined with shops, restaurants, and cafes.
• In the evening, enjoy a tapas crawl in the Albaicín.

Day 3:

• Start your day with a visit to the Generalife, a beautiful garden complex that is located within the Alhambra complex.
• After visiting the Generalife, visit the Sacromonte, a gypsy neighborhood that is home to cave dwellings and flamenco shows.
• In the afternoon, visit the Monasterio de la Cartuja, a Carthusian monastery that is located outside of the city center.
• In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner in the Albaicín.

This itinerary is just a suggestion, and you can customize it to fit your interests and time constraints. Here are a few additional tips for your trip to Granada:

• Book your Alhambra tickets in advance, especially if you are traveling during the peak season (June-August).
• Wear comfortable shoes, as you will be doing a lot of walking.
• Pack sunscreen, as the sun can be strong in Granada.
• Learn a few basic Spanish phrases, as this will help you communicate with locals.

I hope you have a wonderful time in Granada!

Alhambra Guided Tour Quote