What to See and Things to Do in Granada - Essential Places for 3-Day Visits (2024)

If you're wondering what to do in Granada when you only have 1, 2 or 3 days available, this Local's guide to Granada will answer all your questions. Nobody knows the city better than the locals.

If your visit to Granada is going to be brief, you'll need to organize your time well to explore the best sites in three days without it feeling like a marathon.

What can I do in Granada in one, two, or three days? We've gathered information on the main monuments, beauty spots, attractions, and the best things to do during your short stay in Granada.

What to Do in Granada - Day 1

The most important monuments and beauty spots of Granada are located within 5 to 15 minutes of each other.

If you're heading to this wonderful city for a short break, this suggested itinerary will help you make the most of your time.

To get off to a good start, don't hesitate for a moment: the Alhambra is the starting point.

On this map, you can see the first-day itinerary that starts in the Alhambra.

Walk up to the Alhambra through the Realejo neighborhood, where you'll discover many lovely places for breakfast and hidden gems, such as the Church of Santo Domingo and the Plaza del Realejo.

It's approximately a 30-minute walk from the Fuente de las Batallas. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Plaza Isabel Católica.

The approximate visiting times shown below include the time taken to move between palaces.

The Alhambra and the Generalife

Every year, more than two million tourists from all over the world come to Spain to visit this monument.

The Alhambra monumental complex, of indescribable beauty, served as the residence of the Nasrid sultans between 13th and 15th centuries.

It is a small medieval city with its palaces, gardens, baths and mosques.

It also served as a watchtower of Granada, which is why it is surrounded by walls and defensive towers.

All of this is now located within the city of Granada, very close to the centre, allowing you to walk or take the city bus.

The gardens of the Generalife, along with its palaces and royal apartments, portray the splendor of Granada during the Nasrid dynasty.

It's essential to visit the Alhambra without rushing, to contemplate its details and marvel at the views from the viewpoints. Listen to the sound of the water and take a stroll through the surroundings.

The Alhambra opens its doors at 8:30 in the morning every day of the week. If you're an early riser, you can complete your visit by lunchtime.

Remember that the entrance time to the Nasrid Palaces determines your visiting hours. If your visit is scheduled for the afternoon, you'll need to follow this itinerary in reverse.

If you were unlucky and tickets to the Alhambra were sold out, check out our section: What to do if Alhambra is sold out.

For additional information, please visit our page dedicated to: the Alhambra

The Alhambra Museum

Even if you only have one day to see Granada, we recommend visiting the Alhambra Museum and saving everything else for another time.

The Alhambra Museum is a must-see. Your Alhambra experience isn't complete until you visit it, as many of the original pieces of the monument are on display here.

This museum conserves the best collection of Nasrid Art in the world, along with an extraordinary display of Hispano-Muslim art.

It is located inside the Charles V Palace, right next to the entrance to the Nasrid palaces, and admission is free.

For additional information, please visit our page dedicated to: the Alhambra Museum.

Time to Eat and Rest

If it's already lunchtime, before continuing your touristic itinerary we recommend enjoying the dishes offered by Granada's traditional restaurants near the Alhambra, such as Jardines Alberto (Alberto Gardens).

It is a family-run business that has been serving food for several generations and is conveniently located, near the entrance to the Alhambra (Paseo de la Sabica 1).

You can also dine in the city center, near Plaza Nueva, or within the Realejo.

From the Alhambra you can walk down Cuesta de Gomerez leading to Plaza Nueva. It’s a wonderful stroll through the Alhambra Forest.

After passing through the Gate of Justice and the Pilar de Carlos V, the road will lead you to the Washington Irving Fountain and the Granadas Gate.

It's an easy and pleasant downhill walk that takes about 10 minutes.

If you prefer to use public transport, any Alhambra Bus will get you closer to Plaza Nueva.

After enjoying a meal and some rest, your next stop is Plaza Nueva, the Bañuelo, Carrera del Darro and Paseo de los Tristes.

Plaza Nueva, Carrera del Darro and Paseo de los Tristes

The narrow cobblestone street, named Carrera del Darro and the Paseo de los Tristes (which means 'the promenade of sad people'), are some of the most beautiful places in Granada.

Situated in the Darro river valley, they offer stunning views of the Alhambra.

Begin your walk at Plaza Nueva, the oldest square in Granada.

Access to this area is restricted for private transport. The only available modes of transportation are by foot, bus, or taxi.

There are several bars with terraces in the area, where you can have 'tapas' (snacks) or coffee, and soak in the beautiful views of the Alhambra.

For additional information, please visit our pages dedicated to: Carrera del Darro,Paseo de los Tristes and Plaza Nueva.

On your way from Plaza Nueva to Paseo de los Tristes, in the midst of Carrera del Darro, you will encounter the Bañuelo.

The Bañuelo, Ancient Arab Baths

The Bañuelo is located right next to the Carrera del Darro, on your way to the Paseo de los Tristes.

In the Bañuelo you will see some impressive Arab baths dating back to the 11th century.

They are one of the most complete and preserved ancient Arab baths in Spain, and they are located at the foot of the Alhambra.

The Bañuelo has miraculously survived, despite once having a private house built over them. It received the designation as a National Monument in 1918.

For additional information, please visit our page dedicated to: The Bañuelo.

We recommend ending your day by witnessing the sunset and enjoying a refreshing drink on the terrace of the Hotel Alhambra Palace, where you can savor one of the city's best and most romantic views.

Have a dinner in the Realejo area.

In the Evening - Authentic Traditional Arab Baths

After a lengthy stroll through the city, what better way to unwind than indulging in an Arab bath?

Visit Hammam Arab Baths, an authentic oasis of tranquillity, resembling traditional Moorish design.

You have the option to immerse yourself in a variety of hot and cold pools, and enjoy a diverse range of relaxing massages.

There's a selection of massage packages to choose from, relaxing foaming, deep tissue massages to the traditional Kessa method.

For additional details and reservations: Hammam Arab Baths

Things to Do in Granada - Day 2

If you're staying in Granada for two days, consider visiting the Cathedral and the Royal Chapel on the second day. The visiting hours are from 10:00 to 18:30, but please note that these hours may change on Sundays and public holidays.

Following your visit to the Cathedral, take a stroll through the historic center of the city, where you'll encounter other significant monuments and emblematic places of Granada.

In the afternoon, you can enjoy a relaxed walk along the streets of the old Albaicin district, where you can enjoy the city's best sunsets and savor a beer with a tapa.

In the evening, you can also relax and rejuvenate at the Arab Baths (Hammam Arab Baths) or immerse yourself in the passionate rhythms of a flamenco show (Flamenco Tablao Jardines de Zoraya).

The Cathedral and the Royal Chapel

If the monumental complex of the Alhambra represents the splendour of Granada in the Nasrid period, the Royal Chapel and the Cathedral reveal the immense importance of the city for the Catholic Monarchs.

Royal Chapel

The Royal Chapel was built at the express wish of the Catholic Monarchs,who began its construction in 1504, preceding the construction of the Cathedral.

They had chosen it as their burial place, and Queen Isabella declared in her will how she wished it to be built.

Her grandson, Emperor Charles V, completed it and also designated it as the dynastic pantheon for the entire Spanish royal family.

The Royal Chapel is one of the last Gothic structures to be built in Spain, whereas the Cathedral of Granada was the first Spanish Renaissance temple.

Granada Cathedral

In this monumental complex, the transition from the Gothic to the Renaissance style, from the Catholic Monarchs to Emperor Charles V, can be seen unlike anywhere else.

The Cathedral began as a Gothic temple and evolved into a masterpiece of the Spanish Renaissance.

A Renaissance temple constructed on a Gothic layout, something truly unique in the world.

The first stone of the Cathedral of Granada was laid in 1523, but it was not finished until 181 years later, in 1704.

Its greatness and importance lie not only in its artistic wealth, but also in its historical and religious significance - the very significance that Catholic Monarchs sought to convey by selecting the Royal Chapel as their burial site.

For more detailed information, please also check out our page dedicated to: La Catedral y la Capilla Real.

The Madraza and the Alcaicería

Visit the Madraza, the only remaining Nasrid building located in the vicinity of the Great Mosque (now converted into the Cathedral of Granada).

It was the first university of Granada, founded by Yusuf I in 1349.

Few things remain from the Nasrid period, but it is worth seeing its oratory with a beautiful mihrab.

The original archway can be found at the Archaeological Museum, another place you should visit.

As you depart from Madraza, you can relish the ambiance of Bib Rambla Square and explore the bustling market the Alcaiceria filled with Arabic silk stalls.

There are many narrow streets leading to the Zacatin and Plaza Bib-Rambla, which have been commercial areas since ancient times.

From the Zacatín, cross Reyes Católicos street, go along Puente Lopez Rubio street and continue straight on Puente del Carbon street to reach the Corral del Carbon.

The Corral del Carbon

It is the best-preserved Andalusian citadel in Spain, also built by Yusuf I and dating from the same period as the Madraza, featuring the beautiful Moorish archway.

It's even more surprising to learn that this beautiful building was constructed for farmers to sell grain and store goods.

The interior is modest, with rooms that have been extensively renovated, offering little to admire except for the inner courtyard boasting an original fountain in the center and stone pillars.

The Corral del Carbón holds more historical significance than aesthetic appeal. Admission is free, and it is open every day.

It's only a 3-minute walk from the Cathedral.

After visiting the Corral del Carbón, take a stroll along Reyes Católicos street towards Plaza Nueva. Let's uncover the treasures hidden in one of Granada's most beautiful neighborhoods, the Albaicin.

The Albaicin

Once you enter the Carrera del Darro and Paseo de los Tristes, you will find yourself at the gates of Granada's oldest and most legendary neighbourhood: the Albaicín.

In the 11th century the Zirí dynasty built its royal palace here, surrounded by sumptuous palaces, significant Islamic buildings, and temples.

Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994, the Albaicín is a unique and well-preserved example of Spanish-Muslim architecture from the medieval period.

Along its narrow cobbled streets, you will find numerous cisterns, Moorish houses and hidden squares where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Alhambrafrom the Saint Nicolas, or others viewpoints.

In this ancient neighborhood, you will find reminders of ancient times not only in the architecture and the landscape but also in the local restaurants.

The mixture of cultures and flavors can also be experienced in its tapas bars, restaurants, and tea houses (tetarías).

For more detailed information, please refer to: the Albaicin, the Sacromonte and how to reach the Albaicin and the Sacromonte.

Tapas Bars in Granada

The real fun of eating in Granada begins later in the evening. It's tapas time!

Going for tapas ("Ir de tapas" - having a drink along with a free snack) in Granada is not just a tradition; it's a way of life.

This way, you can quickly sample the variety of Granada's cuisine, and the tapas are free (although you do have to pay for the drink!).

The best areas where you can enjoy a good tapa are: the Albaicin, the Realejo, Plaza Nueva, Paseo de los Tristes, Plaza de Toros, and Elvira and Navas streets.

For more detailed information, please refer to: Granada Restaurants and Tapas Bars.

What to Do in Granada - Day 3

If you are staying in Granada for three days, we recommend starting your exploration from the Cartuja Monastery. After lunch, consider visiting the San Jerónimo Monastery, Basilica of San Juan de Dios and Royal Hospital.

They are very close to the center, allowing you to stroll and appreciate the numerous other historic buildings in the area. Afterward, visit the Santa Cruz gypsy neighborhood.

Between the Cathedral and the Jardines del Triunfo, take a stroll through the neighborhood until you reach the San Juan de Dios, where you'll discover beautiful corners such as the Plaza de la Universidad or the Plaza de la Encarnación.

You will be able to discover the Botanical Garden, the Faculty of Law, the church of Saints Justus and Pastor and Perpetuo Socorro churches, among other sites.

The Cartuja Monastery

Cartuja Monastery is one of the most beautiful buildings in Granada, unparalleled among other sites.

Though Cartuja Monastery is a fantastic destination deserving a spot on day one, its placement on day three is due to its location on the outskirts of the city.

The monastery looks simple from the outside, but once inside, the unexpected treasures of its chapels begin to reveal themselves.

It has an exquisite baroque interior, impressive architecture, and wonderful paintings. The Sacristy is overwhelminglyfilled with great art masterpieces, and the ceilings are absolutely stunning.

For more detailed information, please also check out our page dedicated to: The Cartuja Monastery

The Monastery of St. Jeromnimo

Let's start by visiting the wonderful San Jerónimo Monastery, another of the jewels of the Renaissance.

Built between 1504 and 1547, this architectural complex consites of the church and the monastery, It was declared a Heritage of Cultural Interest and Historic-Artistic Monument.

Important artists such as Diego de Siloé, Jacobo Florentino and Pablo de Rojas, among others, are linked to its creation.

It opens at 10:00 and you'll probably need a couple of hours to see it properly.

For detailed information, please also check: The Cartuja Monastery

When you leave the Monastery of St. Jeromnimo, don't stray too far, because right next door is a masterpiece of the Baroque period: the Basilica de San Juan de Dios.

Basilica of San Juan de Dios and Royal Hospital

Afterward, walk through the San Juan de Dios street until you reachJardines del Triunfo, a key location in Granada's history.

Here we invite you to explore the Royal Hospital of Granada.

Founded in 1504 by the Catholic Monarchs, it exhibits an interesting mix of styles that reflect the evolution of architecture between the 15th and 18th centuries.

It currently belongs to the University of Granada and serves as the location of the Rectorate.

We find ourselves facing yet another imposing monument declared a National Historic-Artistic Site for its outstanding value.

Sacromonte and Flamenco Caves

Next, we'll head to the Sacromonte, famous for its caves, gypsy 'zambras,' and the Abbey.

Walk towards the Plaza Isabel la Católica and Plaza Nueva and you can try one of the best ice creams in Granada at Heladeria Los Italianos (only in summer).

You can also get on a bus and get off at the Cathedral bus stop. The ice cream shop is just across the street.

Now you have to decide whether you want to walk up to Sacromonte or use the city bus. The C34 route will take you there.

In the Sacromonte neighborhood there are several caves, zambras and tablaos where the visitor can enjoy a flamenco show.

The Albaicín also has several bars and restaurants with flamenco shows.

For more information, please visit: The Sacromonte

In the Evening - Flamenco Shows

Finish the day with an authentic traditional Flamenco performance at one of Granada's best tablaos.

In the Sacromonte, there are several caves where you can experience the true taste of Spain through authentic flamenco shows.

Some restaurants in the Albaicin offer flamenco shows as well.

You should not miss the opportunity to experience of Andalusia's rich culture and traditions, through the captivating world of flamenco music.

These three tablaos offer unique flamenco performances:

1. Flamenco Show La Alboreá,

2. Flamenco Tablao Jardines de Zoraya,

3. Flamenco Show at La Soleá.

Other Alternatives

We hope you like the selection we've curated for the best places to visit in Granada in three days.

If you do, please share your opinion below; we truly appreciate it.

There are alternative options tailored to the interests, tastes, and ages of different individuals.

You might consider including a museum or child-oriented attraction, such as the Science Park, if you're traveling with your family, for example.

For those interested in art or literature, visiting the house-museum of Federico García-Lorca or the house-museum of Manuel de Falla, the Museum of Fine Arts or the Fundación Rodríguez-Acosta are a must.

If you are staying in Granada for just one day, the itinerary plan might be slightly more intense than usual.

For more detailed information, please also check out our page dedicated to: One Day in Granada.

It's advisable to stay in Granada for at least two or three days.You could also explore these attractions during your next visit to Granada.

Page Updated: Nov 27, 2023

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