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15 Fun things to do during a 3-day city break to Granada

Wow! What a surprisingly beautiful city Granada is!

When you think of a city trip, Granada may not be the first city that comes to mind.

But man, how can we recommend this special city for a city trip.

When you enter Granada, this city immediately gives you a nice and relaxed feeling. If you have ever been to Ibiza, you can compare it with the Ibiza feeling.

What makes this city give you this feeling?

Maybe it's because of the hippies playing guitar on the many terraces in Granada or because of the fairytale feeling that the Alhambra gives you... Or maybe it's because Granada doesn't feel like Europe, because of the many Eastern influences...

Unique is in any case the best way to describe this special Spanish city in Andalusia.

Read our complete travel guide to this city below; 15 fun things to do during a 3-day city trip to Granada.

We share the best sights and travel tips with you, so that you can plan the perfect city trip to Granada.

Day 1, explore the surprising center of Granada

The first day of this city trip to Granada we explore the center of this city. Soak up the atmosphere of this unique city and visit the special sights.

Did you know that in Andalusia you get a tapas with your drink on almost all terraces? So hopping on terraces is definitely recommended in this Spanish city.

Albaicin, Eastern influences in this Moorish quarter in Granada

Albaicin is the old Moorish quarter in Granada. Due to the still visible Moorish influences, this district has an Eastern appearance.

Albaicin is located on a hill, right in front of the Alhambra. The river Darro runs between the Albaicin district and the Alhambra. A few picturesque bridges cross the river, which only give the Albaicin district in Granada even more atmosphere.

Albaicin is especially nice to stroll through the small streets, to shop in the Arab tourist shops and to drink a cup of tea at one of the beautiful tea houses.

1. Plaza Nueva, renaissance in Albaicin, Granada

We start our first day in Granada on the pleasant square, Plaza Nueva. Plaza Nueva is the oldest square in Granada.

This square is centrally located in Granada, between the new shopping center on one side and the old center on the other.

There is much to see in this square, but the main attraction is the Royal Chancellery, the Supreme Court of Andalusia. Another attraction is the Casa de los Pisa.

This square is also a good spot to start the day with a nice cup of coffee and breakfast.

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2. Al Banuelo, oriental bathing in Albaicin, Granada

From Plaza Nueva it is only a few minutes walk to Al Banuelo. Al Banuelo is an old Arab bathhouse.

From the road you don't see anything special about this bathhouse and you may doubt why you would go in here.

Nevertheless, we advise you to do so, because the inside of this Arabic bathhouse is certainly special. It is a small bathhouse, but the way in which light has been used here makes it an absolute must-see during your Granada city trip.

Address: Carrera del Darro, 31, 18010 Granada

BUY YOUR TICKETS HERE TO VISIT THE VARIOUS MONUMENTS IN ALBAICIN.

2. Casa de Castril, the legend of the white lady in Granada

Casa de Castril is just a few houses away from the Arab bathhouse, al Banuelo on Granada's famous street, Carrera del Daro.

When you walk through this street and the Albaicin district, everything is beautiful and photo worthy.

But this mansion is an extra striking appearance in this neighborhood, especially the blind balcony on this house, which has a special story.

Casa de Castril was built by a secretary to the monarchs, Hernando Zafra, where he lived with his daughter Elvira.

Elvira fell in love with Alfonso de Quintanilla, the son of a hostile family from Zafra. With the help of a servant, they met in her bedroom. Until the night they were caught by her father. Her lover just managed to escape through the balcony, so her father assumed that the servant had dishonored his daughter.

He executed the man by hanging him from the balcony. Then the balcony was closed so that his daughter could no longer receive anyone through this balcony and the text Waiting it from Heaven was written on the wall.

A reference to the servant begging for forgiveness.

Eventually, the daughter could no longer cope with being locked in her room and took her own life.

She is known as the legend of the white lady.

Address: Carrera del Darro, 41, 43, 18010 Granada

3. Paseo de los Tristes, a square overlooking Granada's most extraordinary landmark

Paseo de los Tristes is a special piece of street in Granada. It is also described as the most romantic street in Granada. Because of the beautiful trees, the location along the river and the most romantic view of Granada, we understand why this street is described as the most romantic street in Granada.

What view are we talking about then? The Alhambra of course. Granada's most spectacular landmark.

From this street you have a perfect view of this Andalusian palace.

Another little tip. Under the name Paseo de los Tristes, you may not find this street. The official name of this street is Paseo del Padre Manjón.

4. El Mirado de San Nicolas, to the next beautiful viewpoint in Granada

From Paseo de los Tristes you walk to El Mirador de San Nicolas. El Mirador de San Nicolas gives you a beautiful view of the Alhambra from the Albaicin district. The sunset here also seems to be really unforgettable, although many tourists seem to gather here around this time. However, that does not make the sunset any less special. This is the place to be for a special sunset during your Granada city trip.

Address: Plaza Cementerio de San Nicolas, 8, 18010 Granada

FOOD TIPS

You are probably already quite full from all the tapas that you get with your drinks here on the terrace. But if you are still looking for a nice restaurant for lunch? Below are some suggestions.

Restaurante Carmen El Agua, a typical Spanish restaurant with spectacular views.

Address: Placeta del Aljibe de Trillo, 7, 18010 Granada

Restaurante El Ladrillo II, blue tiles with Spanish dishes, real Andalusia.

Address: C. Panaderos, 35, 18010 Granada

Kasbah, a special restaurant with an Arabic atmosphere.

Address: C. Caldereria Nueva, 4, 18010 Granada

5. Calle Calderia, a piece of Alladin in Albaicin, Granada

Did you enjoy the view from El Mirado de San Nicolas? Then walk to Calle Calderia. Calle Calderia is a part of Granada, which would not look out of place in the movie Alladin. In Calle Calderia you can shop to your heart's content in the cozy tourist shops. And you should not miss a cup of tea in one of the beautiful, colorful tea houses. This part of Albaicin is truly a unique part of Granada with its own unique atmosphere.

6. Sacromonte, discover the cave houses in Albaicin, Granada

From Albaicin it is only a short distance on paper to the Sacromonte district, known for its cave houses. But don't be fooled by this. It's only uphill so it's quite a tough walk. Especially with children difficult to achieve. Unfortunately, the Granada City tour does not go here.

But there are many taxis driving up. So you can walk slowly or take a taxi for a short distance. The short ride up is not very expensive. You can also see the cave houses of Sacromonte inside. Fun to do and to get an idea of how cozy such a cave house actually is.

BUY YOUR TICKETS FOR THE CAVE HOUSES OF SACROMONTE HERE

Address: Barranco de los Negros, s/n (acceder por, C. Verea de Enmedio, 18010 Granada

Day 2, the most magical part of our Granada city trip

Today we head to the most magical part of Granada. A place where it seems like you are really walking through a fairy tale. Our advice for this second day of our Granada is to take your time and take in every little bit of this place.

7. The Alhambra, magic in Granada

There are actually no words to describe the Alhambra. It's the most magical place we've ever been. This palace really seems to come straight out of a fairy tale. The Arabic elements, the colors in the gardens, the majesty of the palaces make the Alhambra a fairytale whole.

The Alhambra is divided into different parts, for which you need different tickets.

The Alhambra is actually a combination of several palaces surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens. You have the Nasrid Palace, a beautiful Arab palace, but also the palace of Charles V and Alcazaba.

As far as we are concerned, you should not miss anything from this castle and visit all parts, because they are all so different.

But when you choose to skip the main palace and only visit the General Life, you also feel all that magical feeling we talk about.

When you plan a city trip to Granada, it is important to book your tickets for the Alhambra early. Tickets sell out quickly, especially if you also want to visit the main palace. And make sure you are on time for your booked time slot, because too late is too late. They are very strict.

BUY YOUR TICKETS FOR THE ALHAMBRA PALACE IN GRANADA HERE

Address: C. Real de la Alhambra, s/n, 18009 Granada

In our travel guide for a 3-day city trip to Granada, we have allocated a whole day to visit the Alhambra. You probably don't need this, but you'll be busy here for 5 to 6 hours. To linger in the relaxed atmosphere of this city, we have therefore not planned the day more fully.

So time left? Especially enjoy the terraces and the tapas in Granada.

Day 3, back into the city for more Granada

Granada is a part, which you can basically visit completely in 2 days. However, we have chosen to keep a somewhat slower pace during this city trip, because this slow-pace pace also suits this Spanish city.

Today we head back into town to check off a few more sights and most of all just enjoy Granada.

8. Granada's grand cathedral

We start today at the Cathedral of Granada. A grand cathedral that you should not miss during a city trip to Granada.

The Cathedral of Granada is no less than 115 meters long and 67 meters wide, so it certainly impresses with its size.

According to the Spaniards, this building is one of the first Rennaissance buildings in Spain.

It took over 200 years to complete this Gothic-style cathedral.

Next to the cathedral is Capilla Real, where some Catholic kings are buried.

BUY YOUR TICKETS FOR GRANADA CATHEDRAL HERE

Address: C. Gran Vía de Colón, 5, 18001 Granada

9. Monastery of Jerome, a monastery in the heart of Granada

The Monasterio de Jéronimo is the monastery of Jerome in the center of the city Granada.

The construction of this sumptuous monastery started in the year 1504. The monastery follows the typical Augustinian architectural style, with a Latin cross, raised chancel and the altar at the top of a wide staircase.

The interior of this monastery feels lavish and a bit extravagant. It looks a bit like the Renaissance style, in which the cathedral was also built.

In any case, it is certainly not a sober monastery and therefore definitely worth a visit.

Address: C. Rector López Argüeta, 9, 18001 Granada

10. Plaza de Bib-Rambla, a lively square in Granada

Plaza de Bib-Rambla is a square in Granada, where there is always something to do. It is a square with a lot of history. For example, jousts were played, bullfights were held and executions were carried out. Nowadays it is just a nice and cozy square. There is a permanent flower market here and you will find street artists here every day who color the streetscape. This is certainly a lovely square for a snack and a drink.

11. Palacio de Dar al-Horra, another Arab palace in Granada

From Plaza de Bib-Rambla it is about a 15 minute walk to Palacio de Dar al-Horra. If you can't get enough of all the Arab elements and influences in the city of Granada, then you shouldn't miss this Arab palace.

It is certainly not as impressive as the Alhambra, but it is a beautiful and special Arab palace.

Address: Cjon. de las Monjas Albayzin, s/n, 18008 Granada

12. Relax in Parque Federico Garcia Lorca, Granada

Parque Federico Garcia Lorca is the city park of Granada. Just 10 minutes from Granada center, this park is a wonderful place to escape the city for a while.

This park of no less than 72,000 m2 was opened in 1992. The park is divided into different styles, for example there is a rose garden, but also a romantic orchard.

It's just a wonderful place to relax. Moreover, there are also several playgrounds for children. So if you have booked a city trip to Granada with children, Parque Federico Garcia Lorca is a nice place to just let them play.

Address: C. Virgen Blanca, S/N, 18004 Granada

13. Souvenir shopping in Granada

Shopping in Granada is certainly an experience.

In the new center you can find all major retail chains. You will find these mainly on theGran Via de Colon.

If you prefer to shop in the smaller boutiques, you can go toCalle de los Mesones.

These large retail chains can also be found in the larger shopping centresSerrallo Plaza andCentro Commercial Neptune.

Calle Alcaiceria is the place to be to buy nice souvenirs. This street is near the cathedral. In the time of the Moors this was the silk market, now it is a very nice street where you can buy original souvenirs. When you walk through this street, it even feels a bit like you are walking through an Arab market in Morocco.

You can really buy everything here, many of which are also in Arabic style. You can buy dresses, shawls and bags with Arabic prints. But also beautiful colored lamps with that Arabic atmosphere.

Do you want to buy a souvenir typical of Granada? Then go for something from taracea, which is typical for this city. Taracea is a form of Mosaic which is inlaid in wood.

There are all kinds of different souvenirs for sale with mosaic, such as boxes, lamps, mirrors and even guitars.

FOOD TIPS

Hereby share some nice restaurant suggestions in Granada.

Apo Restaurante, a hip place with the best meat in Granada

Address: Pl. de San Lazaro, 15, 18012 Granada

Restaurante Palacio Andaluz Almona, tasty Spanish dishes

Address: C. San Jeronimo, 5, 18001 Granada

FARALA restaurante, dining in luxury

Address: Cta. de Gomérez, 11, 18009 Granada

La Piccola Carmela, a cheerful restaurant with an Italian menu

Address:Reyes Católicos, 63, 18010 Granada

If you are visiting Granada with children, there are also a number of fun activities and sights for children that you can add to your planning for your 3-day city break to Granada. Below our suggestions.

14. Parc de las Ciencas, exploring Granada

A visit to the museum;Parc de las Ciencas is an absolute must.

They have several nice exhibitions here.

In addition, they have a planetarium, a butterfly garden, an outdoor playground and, as icing on the cake, a biodome. A kind of mini zoo with an aquarium, crocodiles and monkeys. There is a birds of prey show on Tuesdays and Fridays. Although I personally don't really recommend this one. He is very informative and complete in Spanish. So listening to a story in Spanish for half an hour isn't very interesting if you can't understand it. The birds are nice.

We thought we would enjoy ourselves here for a few hours, but we actually ran out of time.

It is a really nice museum with lots of fun activities for children.

BUY YOUR TICKETS FOR PARC DE LA CIENCAS, GRANADA HERE

Address: Av. de la Ciencia, s/n, 18006 Granada

15. An amusement park in Granada, Isla Tortuga & Alhambra Bowling

Isla Tortuga & Alhambra Bowling is an indoor amusement park. Now amusement park is a bit of a big description. It is more like a very large indoor playground with extra activities, such as gaming and bowling. In any case, it is the perfect place for children to just release all their energy.

And it is located in a shopping center, so it is nice to combine it with a few hours of shopping.

Address: Centro Comercial Parque Nevada, 18100 Granada

visit Granada

Granada has its own airport about 17 kilometers outside the city. It is not a busy airport, but there are flights to this airport from most cities.

You can of course take a nice and luxurious taxi from the airport to the center for about 25 euros.

But there is also a direct bus line to the center, which is a lot cheaper.

Explore Granada

Granada is a big city, so most of the city can be explored on foot. A disadvantage of Granada is that it is situated against a hill. That means that for some hikes you have to do a tough hike up.

A nicer way to explore the city is with theHop on hop off train. This will take you past the most beautiful sights, without it taking too much effort.

BUY YOUR TICKETS FOR THE HOP ON HOP OFF TRAIN HERE

Best time to visit Granada

In the summer months it can get very hot in Granada. We therefore recommend that you visit Granada in the spring, in the months of April and May. Or to visit Granada in the autumn, in the months of September and October.