3-Day Local Family Adventure: Granada's Cuisine and Outdoor Fun

Granada, Spain

3 days

Architecture closeup
Natural landscape of a river
Cathedral details
Hall in Alhambra
Cathedral of the Incarnation

About Granada, Spain

Experience the rich history and vibrant culture of Granada, Spain. Nestled at the foot of the Sierra Nevada mountains, this city is a treasure trove of Moorish architecture, most notably the Alhambra, a stunning palace and fortress complex. Wander through the narrow, winding streets of the Albaicín, the old Muslim quarter, and enjoy panoramic views from the Mirador de San Nicolás. Sample traditional Andalusian cuisine in local tapas bars and explore the city's thriving flamenco scene. Visit the Royal Chapel, the final resting place of the Catholic Monarchs Ferdinand and Isabella. With its blend of cultures, Granada offers a unique and unforgettable travel experience.

3-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring the Alhambra and Albayzin

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the Alhambra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This palace and fortress complex is a must-see for its stunning Islamic architecture and beautiful gardens.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Spanish lunch in a local restaurant. Try local specialties such as tapas and paella.

Afternoon

Take a leisurely stroll through the Albayzin, Granada's old Muslim quarter. Its narrow winding streets, white-washed houses, and stunning views of the Alhambra make it a charming place to explore.

Dinner

Have dinner in a local restaurant, where you can try more local dishes and wines.

Evening

End your day with a Flamenco Show. Granada is known for its vibrant flamenco scene, and watching a performance is a must-do.

Morning

Visit the Granada Cathedral, a magnificent example of Spanish Renaissance architecture. Then, explore the Royal Chapel, where the Catholic Monarchs are buried.

Lunch

Have lunch in a local restaurant. Try some Andalusian cuisine, which is known for its fresh ingredients and delicious flavors.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon in the Science Park, a place where both adults and children can learn about science through interactive exhibits.

Dinner

Enjoy dinner in a local restaurant. Try some local dishes, such as gazpacho or salmorejo.

Evening

Take a walk along the Carrera del Darro, one of the most beautiful streets in Granada. It's a perfect place to enjoy the evening and see the city lit up at night.

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the Sierra Nevada National Park. Enjoy the stunning landscapes and take a hike or a bike ride.

Lunch

Have a picnic lunch in the park. Enjoy the fresh air and the beautiful surroundings.

Afternoon

Continue exploring the Sierra Nevada. There are many trails to choose from, suitable for all levels of fitness.

Dinner

Have dinner in a local restaurant in the city. Try some local dishes, such as migas or piononos.

Evening

End your day with a relaxing stroll through the city. Enjoy the beautiful architecture and the vibrant atmosphere.

Attractions in Itinerary (8)

Alhambra

1
Alhambra

A stunning palace complex and fortress that was originally constructed as a small fortress in AD 889 and then largely ignored until its ruins were renovated and rebuilt in the mid-13th century by the Nasrid emir Mohammed ben Al-Ahmar of the Emirate of Granada.

Attractions
Monuments
Landmarks
Cultural Experiences
Architecture
Albayzin

2
Albayzin

Albayzin is a district of Granada, that retains the narrow winding streets of its Medieval Moorish past. It was declared a world heritage site in 1984, along with the Alhambra. It's known for its stunning old-world architecture, vibrant nightlife, and panoramic views of the Alhambra and the city of Granada.

Neighborhoods
Cultural Experiences
Architecture
Flamenco Show

3
Flamenco Show

A passionate and emotional dance performance that is a significant part of Andalusian culture.

Entertainment
Cultural Experiences
Granada Cathedral

4
Granada Cathedral

Granada Cathedral, or the Cathedral of the Incarnation, is a Roman Catholic church in the city of Granada. The cathedral is noted for its stunning architecture, particularly its grand façade and the ornate chapel.

Monuments
Religious Sites
Architecture
Royal Chapel

5
Royal Chapel

The Royal Chapel of Granada is a mausoleum that houses the remains of the Catholic Monarchs Queen Isabella I and King Ferdinand II. It is known for its impressive architecture and historical significance.

Monuments
Religious Sites
Architecture
Science Park

6
Science Park

The Science Park is an interactive museum of science and technology located in Granada. It features a planetarium, a butterfly house, and exhibits on a wide range of scientific topics.

Museums
Parks
Carrera del Darro

7
Carrera del Darro

One of the most beautiful streets in Granada, Carrera del Darro is lined with historic buildings and offers stunning views of the Alhambra. It runs along the Darro River, which adds to its charm.

Attractions
Landmarks
Sierra Nevada National Park

8
Sierra Nevada National Park

A vast mountainous region with the highest point of continental Spain, Veleta. Popular for hiking, skiing, and mountaineering.

Parks
Sports
Tours

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Tapas

Tapas

A variety of small, savory Spanish dishes, often served with drinks at bars. Granada is famous for its free tapas culture, where every drink order is accompanied by a free tapa.

Paella

Paella

A traditional Spanish dish from Valencia. It's a rice dish that can have meat, fish, seafood, and vegetables and is cooked in a large pan. Paella is very popular in Granada.

Gazpacho

Gazpacho

A cold soup made of raw, blended vegetables. A classic of Andalusian cuisine, it's particularly popular in Granada during the hot summer months.

Churros con Chocolate

Churros con Chocolate

A popular Spanish dessert, churros are fried-dough pastry served with a cup of thick hot chocolate for dipping. It's a common breakfast or snack in Granada.

Piononos

Piononos

Named after Pope Pius IX, or 'Pio Nono' in Spanish, these small pastries are a specialty of Granada. They consist of a thin layer of pastry rolled into a cylinder, fermented with different kinds of syrup and topped with toasted cream.

Jamón ibérico

Jamón ibérico

A type of cured ham produced in Spain, particularly popular in Granada. It's made from the Iberian pig and often served as a tapa.

Albóndigas

Albóndigas

Spanish meatballs, often served in a tomato sauce. A common dish in Granada's tapas bars.

Tortilla Española

Also known as Spanish omelette, it's a traditional dish made with eggs and potatoes, sometimes also with onion. A common tapa in Granada.

Sangria

Sangria

A popular drink in Granada, Sangria is a punch made with red wine and chopped fruit, often with other ingredients such as orange juice or brandy.

Tinto de Verano

Tinto de Verano

A cold, wine-based drink similar to sangria but simpler. It's very popular in Granada, especially in the summer.

Cerveza Alhambra

A local beer named after Granada's famous Alhambra palace. It's a popular choice in the city's bars and restaurants.

Granada Mollar Pomegranate Juice

A juice made from the Mollar pomegranate, a variety native to Granada. The city is known for its pomegranates, even featuring one in its coat of arms.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Granada, Spain is during the spring months of April and May, or during the fall in September and October. During these periods, the weather is typically warm and pleasant, perfect for exploring the city's numerous outdoor attractions. The summer months can be quite hot, and the winter can be chilly, especially at night. Also, these off-peak seasons often mean fewer tourists, so you'll have a more relaxed experience exploring the city's rich history and culture.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

January 6

Sat

Epiphany

February 13

Tue

Carnival Tuesday (Extremadura)

February 28

Wed

Day of Andalucía (Andalusia)

March 1

Fri

Day of the Balearic Islands (Balearic Islands)

March 28

Thu

Maundy Thursday (regional holiday)

March 29

Fri

Good Friday

April 1

Mon

Easter Monday (regional holiday)

April 10

Wed

Eid al-Fitr (Melilla)

April 23

Tue

Castile and León Day (Castile-Leon)

April 23

Tue

Day of Aragón (Aragon)

May 1

Wed

Labor Day / May Day

May 2

Thu

Day of Madrid (Madrid)

May 17

Fri

Galicia Literature Day (Galicia)

May 30

Thu

Day of the Canary Islands (Canary Islands)

May 31

Fri

Day of Castile-La Mancha (Castile-La Mancha)

June 9

Sun

Day of La Rioja (La Rioja)

June 10

Mon

Day off for Day of La Rioja (La Rioja)

June 13

Thu

San Antonio (Ceuta)

June 17

Mon

Eid al-Adha (regional holiday)

June 24

Mon

Saint John the Baptist Day (regional holiday)

July 25

Thu

Feast of Saint James the Apostle (regional holiday)

August 5

Mon

The Day of Our Lady of Africa (Ceuta)

August 15

Thu

Assumption of Mary

September 2

Mon

Day of the Independent City of Ceuta (Ceuta)

September 8

Sun

Virgin of the Victory (Melilla)

September 8

Sun

Day of Asturias (Asturias)

September 9

Mon

Virgin of the Victory observed (Melilla)

September 9

Mon

Day off for Day of Asturias (Asturias)

September 11

Wed

National Day of Catalonia (Catalonia)

September 15

Sun

Nuestra Señora de la Bien Aparecida (Cantabria)

September 17

Tue

Day of Melilla (Melilla)

October 9

Wed

Day of the Valencian Community (Valencia)

October 12

Sat

Hispanic Day

November 1

Fri

All Saints' Day

December 3

Tue

Day of Navarre (Navarre)

December 6

Fri

Constitution Day

December 9

Mon

Immaculate Conception observed (regional holiday)

December 25

Wed

Christmas Day

December 26

Thu

St Stephen's Day (Catalonia)

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

Granada is a compact city with many of its main attractions located close together, making walking a viable and enjoyable way to explore. The city's historic Albaicín and Sacromonte neighborhoods are particularly well-suited to pedestrian exploration.

Granada has an extensive bus network that covers most of the city and its outskirts. The buses are a reliable and convenient way to get around, especially for longer distances. There are also tourist buses that provide hop-on, hop-off services, ideal for sightseeing.

Taxis are readily available throughout Granada and can be hailed on the street, booked by phone, or picked up from taxi ranks. They offer a convenient, though more expensive, way to get around the city.

Ridesharing services like Uber and Cabify operate in Granada, offering a convenient and often cheaper alternative to traditional taxis. These services can be booked and paid for via smartphone apps.

Granada is a bike-friendly city with numerous bike lanes and bike rental services. Cycling can be a fun and eco-friendly way to explore the city, though be aware that Granada's hilly terrain can make for a challenging ride.

While driving in Granada is possible, it's not typically recommended due to the city's narrow, winding streets and limited parking. However, rental cars can be useful for trips outside the city.

Granada's Metro Ligero is a tram-like service that runs from Albolote to Armilla, passing through the city center. It's a modern and efficient way to travel across the city.

Electric scooters are becoming increasingly popular in Granada. They can be rented through various apps and are a quick and convenient way to get around, especially for short distances.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency€ EUR

Time zoneUTC+1

Driving sideRight

Emergency phone112

Drinking waterYes

Power sockets

Power socket type CPower socket type F

Voltage230 V

Things to know about Granada, Spain as a first time visitor

1

Granada is located in the southern region of Spain, known as Andalusia.

2

The official language is Spanish, but English is also widely spoken in tourist areas.

3

The local currency is the Euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's always good to have some cash on hand for smaller establishments.

4

Granada has a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters. Average summer temperatures range from 68°F to 95°F (20°C to 35°C), while winter temperatures range from 32°F to 59°F (0°C to 15°C).

5

Tipping is not mandatory in Spain, but it's customary to leave a small tip (around 10%) for good service in restaurants.

6

Granada is in the Central European Time Zone (CET), which is 1 hour ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+1).

7

Public transportation in Granada is reliable and affordable. The city has an extensive bus network and a light metro system.

8

Granada is a walkable city with many pedestrian-friendly areas. It's a great way to explore the city and soak in the local culture.

9

Tap water is safe to drink in Granada, but bottled water is widely available if you prefer.

10

Granada is known for its 'tapas' culture. When you order a drink in a bar, it's customary to receive a small dish of food (a tapa) for free.

11

Granada has a vibrant nightlife, with many bars and clubs staying open until the early hours of the morning.

12

The city is generally safe, but like any tourist destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings.

13

The siesta is a traditional Spanish practice where businesses close in the afternoon for a few hours. This usually happens between 2pm and 5pm.

14

Smoking is banned in all indoor public places and workplaces, on public transport, and in outdoor public places near hospitals and playgrounds.

15

Pharmacies in Granada are marked with a green cross. They are usually open from 9:30am to 2pm and from 5pm to 9:30pm.

16

The emergency number in Spain is 112. This number can be dialed for any type of emergency.

17

Granada has a rich history and is known for its Moorish architecture. It's worth taking a guided tour to learn more about the city's past.

18

The city has a number of traditional markets where you can buy fresh produce, local cheeses, and other regional specialties.

19

Granada is located near the Sierra Nevada mountains, which offer opportunities for hiking and skiing.

20

Remember to respect local customs and traditions. Spanish people are generally warm and friendly, and will appreciate your efforts to speak their language and understand their culture.

Basic Spanish to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

Hola

O-la

Greeting someone

Goodbye

Adiós

A-dee-os

Leaving someone

Please

Por favor

Por fa-vor

Making a request

Thank you

Gracias

Gra-see-as

Expressing gratitude

Yes

See

Agreeing to something

No

No

No

Disagreeing with something

Excuse me

Perdón

Per-don

Getting someone's attention

I'm sorry

Lo siento

Lo see-en-to

Apologizing

Do you speak English?

¿Hablas inglés?

Ab-las in-gles

Asking if someone speaks English

I don't understand

No entiendo

No en-tee-en-do

Expressing confusion

Where is...?

¿Dónde está...?

Don-de es-ta

Asking for directions

Bathroom

Baño

Ban-yo

Looking for a bathroom

Help

Ayuda

A-yu-da

In case of emergency

Food

Comida

Co-mi-da

Looking for a place to eat

Water

Agua

A-gua

Ordering a drink

Beer

Cerveza

Ser-ve-za

Ordering a drink

Wine

Vino

Vee-no

Ordering a drink

How much does it cost?

¿Cuánto cuesta?

Cuan-to cues-ta

Asking for the price

I would like...

Me gustaría...

Me gus-ta-ria

Making a request

Good night

Buenas noches

Bwe-nas no-ches

Saying goodbye in the evening

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Underwear

  • Socks

  • T-shirts

  • Pants/Jeans

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Sweater or Jacket

  • Pajamas

  • Swimwear

  • Sunglasses

  • Hat

  • Toiletries

  • Toothbrush

  • Toothpaste

  • Floss

  • Deodorant

  • Shampoo and Conditioner

  • Body wash

  • Razor

  • Shaving cream

  • Sunscreen

  • Lip balm

  • First-aid kit

  • Prescription medications

  • Hand sanitizer

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport

  • Driver's license

  • Credit and Debit cards

  • Cash and coins

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Hotel and/or car rental reservations

  • Maps and guidebooks

  • Emergency contacts and important addresses

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger for smartphone

  • Headphones

  • Camera

  • Charger for camera

  • Universal power adapter

  • Portable power bank

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Travel pillow

  • Earplugs

  • Eye mask

  • Snacks

  • Water bottle

  • Books or e-books

  • Travel-sized laundry detergent

  • Ziplock bags

  • Tissues

  • Umbrella

Weather Conditions

Granada, Spain, is a city that experiences a wide range of weather conditions throughout the year, making it a great destination for tourists. However, it's essential to plan your visit according to the weather to make the most of your trip. The city experiences a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters. During the summer months (June to August), temperatures can reach up to 95°F (35°C), so it's advisable to pack light clothing, sunblock, hats, and sunglasses. Remember to stay hydrated, especially if you plan on exploring the city on foot. In contrast, the winter months (December to February) can be quite chilly with temperatures dropping to around 32°F (0°C). If you're visiting during this time, pack warm clothing, including a heavy coat, scarves, gloves, and hats. Despite the cold, winter can be a beautiful time to visit, especially if you're interested in skiing in the nearby Sierra Nevada mountains. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are considered the best times to visit Granada. The weather during these periods is generally mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 50°F to 70°F (10°C to 21°C). These seasons are perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Regardless of when you visit, remember that Granada is a city with a high altitude, so the sun can be stronger than you might expect. Always wear sunblock, even in the winter months. Also, the weather can change quickly, so it's a good idea to carry a light jacket or umbrella. Lastly, Granada is known for its occasional wind called "Terral." This hot, dry wind usually occurs in the summer and can significantly increase temperatures. So, be prepared for sudden changes in weather conditions. Enjoy your trip to Granada, and make sure to take advantage of the city's beautiful weather!

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

14° / 3°

January is the coldest month in Granada, Spain. It is advisable to bring warm clothing.

February

16° / 4°

February is still chilly, but the weather starts to warm up slightly. Warm clothing is still recommended.

March

20° / 6°

March sees a noticeable increase in temperature, but nights can still be cool. A mix of warm and light clothing is advisable.

April

22° / 8°

April is a pleasant month with moderate temperatures. Light clothing with a few warm pieces for the cooler evenings is recommended.

May

25° / 11°

May is the start of the warm season, with temperatures rising. Light clothing is suitable, but a light jacket may be needed for cooler evenings.

June

30° / 15°

June is a hot month, perfect for beach visits. Light, breathable clothing is recommended.

July

34° / 18°

July is the hottest month in Granada, Spain. Sunscreen, hats, and light clothing are essential.

August

34° / 18°

August is equally hot, with high temperatures throughout the day. Stay hydrated and wear light clothing.

September

30° / 15°

September remains warm, but temperatures start to drop slightly. Light clothing is still suitable.

October

25° / 11°

October sees a further drop in temperature, but it's still relatively warm. A mix of light and warm clothing is recommended.

November

20° / 6°

November is a cooler month, with temperatures dropping further. Warm clothing is advisable.

December

14° / 3°

December is a cold month, similar to January. Warm clothing is needed.

Did you know?

Did you know that Granada is home to the Alhambra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most visited attractions in Spain?

1 of 10

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Alhambra

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