3-Day Family Adventure: Sightseeing and Nightlife in Granada, Spain
Granada, Spain
3 days
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 2
Cathedral and Science Park Visit
Morning
Visit the Granada Cathedral and the Royal Chapel, two of the city's most important religious sites. The cathedral is a masterpiece of Spanish Renaissance architecture.
Lunch
Have lunch in a restaurant near the cathedral. Try some local dishes like gazpacho or paella.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon at the Science Park, an interactive museum that's fun for the whole family. It features a planetarium, a butterfly house, and many other exhibits.
Dinner
Dine in a restaurant in the Realejo district, known for its lively food scene and trendy bars.
Evening
Take a night tour of the Alhambra. The palace complex is beautifully lit up at night, offering a completely different experience from the daytime visit.
Day 3
Relaxing in the Gardens and Music Night
Morning
Start your day with a visit to the Generalife Gardens, a part of the Alhambra complex. These beautiful gardens are a perfect place for a leisurely stroll.
Lunch
Have lunch in a restaurant in the city centre. Try some local dishes like tortilla española or albondigas.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon exploring the Carmen de los Martires, a beautiful park with stunning views of the Alhambra and the city.
Dinner
Enjoy your last dinner in Granada in a restaurant offering a panoramic view of the city. Try some local wines to accompany your meal.
Evening
End your trip with a visit to a local music venue. Granada has a vibrant music scene, with many venues offering live performances.
Attractions in Itinerary (9)
1Alhambra
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.
2Albaicín
Known as the old Muslim quarter, the Albaicín is full of narrow winding streets and beautiful Moorish houses. It was declared a world heritage site in 1984, along with the Alhambra.
3Mirador de San Nicolas
The Mirador de San Nicolas is a famous viewpoint in the Albaicin neighborhood of Granada. It offers panoramic views of the Alhambra and the Sierra Nevada mountains.
4Sacromonte
Sacromonte is famous for its gypsy caves, where flamenco shows are still held. It is also home to the Sacromonte Abbey, which has stunning views of the Alhambra and the city of Granada.
5Granada 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.
6Royal 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.
7Science 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.
8Generalife Gardens
The Generalife Gardens are part of the Alhambra complex. They were the summer palace and gardens of the Nasrid rulers of the Emirate of Granada in Al-Andalus, offering beautiful landscapes, fountains, and pavilions.
9Carmen de los Martires
Carmen de los Martires is a beautiful 19th-century house and garden complex. It offers stunning views of the Alhambra, the city of Granada, and the Sierra Nevada mountains. The gardens are a mix of French, English and Spanish styles, and there's also a small lake, beautiful fountains, and a tower that you can climb for even better views.
Local Food and Drinks (12)
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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.
| Date | Day | Holiday 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) |
How to get around
Walk
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.
Bus
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.
Taxi
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
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.
Bicycle
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.
Car
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.
Tram
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.
Scooter
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.
Important information
Currency€ EUR
Time zoneUTC+1
Driving sideRight
Emergency phone112
Drinking waterYes
Power sockets
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 | Sí | 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!
| Month | Hi / 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?
Places near by Granada, Spain
Alhambra
A palace and fortress complex located in Granada, Spain
Generalife
Historic palace gardens located in Granada, Spain
Albaicin
A district of Granada, in the autonomous community of Andalusia, Spain
Cathedral of Granada
A Roman Catholic church in the city of Granada
Royal Chapel of Granada
A mausoleum located in the city of Granada
Sierra Nevada
A mountain range in the region of Andalucia in Spain
Costa Tropical
A coastal area in the province of Granada
Las Alpujarras
A mountainous district in the province of Granada
Guadix
A city known for its cave houses
Jaen
A city known for its olive oil production
Cordoba
A city known for the Mezquita, a mosque-cathedral
Malaga
A city known for its beaches and high-rise hotels
Seville
A city known for flamenco dancing
Almeria
A city known for the Alcazaba, a Moorish fortress
Marbella
A city known for its luxury resorts and nightlife
Ronda
A mountaintop city set dramatically above a deep gorge
Antequera
A city known for its ancient dolmens
Granada Science Park
An interactive museum dedicated to science
Sierra de Huetor
A natural park located in the province of Granada
Sierra de Baza
A mountain range in the province of Granada
