Travel Guide Budget and Itinerary for Granada, Spain

I was in Andalusia and decided to explore some of its more popular and famous cities. One of the places included in my itinerary was Granada. The main reason for visiting was to see and explore the one and only Alhambra.

Granada has a few other interesting places you can add to your itinerary.

Travel Guide Budget and Itinerary for Granada

Granada is a fascinating city in Andalusia. It has a rich culture and storied past that mixes Spanish and Moorish influences. It was a stronghold of the Moors for several centuries before the Monarchs Isabella I and Ferdinand II took it in the late 15th century. Both the Spanish Catholics and Muslims left an indelible mark on the city's architecture and art. You'll find the magnificent Catedral Santa María de la Encarnación and the Alhambra looming large over Granada's history and culture. The Albaicin and Sacromonte are lovely neighborhoods that have retained their old world charm.

How to Get a Schengen Visa

You might need a Schengen visa to enter Spain. As a Filipino passport holder, I need to secure a visa first. Spain and several other countries are members of the Schengen zone, which means once you get a visa from one of its member states, you can enter all of them. The requirements are similar but some embassies might ask for more when you send in your application.

You can read more about my experience here: how to get a Schengen visa

How to Get to Granada

You have different transportation options when it comes to getting to Granada.

By Plane

You can get to Granada by plane from Madrid or Barcelona. However, the airport is quite far from the city center. You can take the bus to save money.

By Bus

Your budget option is to take the bus to Granada. Alsa (bus company) provides multiple trips throughout the day and from various cities in Spain. It's easy to buy bus tickets if you're traveling from Madrid or other places in Andalusia such as Seville or Cordoba.

Things to Do in Granada

When planning you budget and itinerary for Granada, these are some of the things you can do and the attractions you can visit.

The Alhambra

One of the most spectacular places I've been to is the Alhambra. The history echoing within its walls and the beautiful architecture make it a premier destination not just in Granada, but in Spain. You'll need an entire day (and then some) to explore the complex.

This centuries old complex is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and was the Nasrid Dynasty's residence for more than two centuries. The palaces and its defensive walls were the Moors' last lines of defense when the Christian Spaniards gained ground and eventually toppled the last dynasty. From a distance, the Alhambra looks impervious as it sits atop a hill.

The combination of picturesque landscaped grounds and ancient buildings are quite a sight to behold. The Alcazaba is the oldest part of the complex. The Nasrid Palaces showcase the opulence of the Nasrid Dynasty through elaborate accommodations, courtyards, and sophisticated furnishings. Sultans used the Generalife Palace as their rest and relaxation spot. It has patios, gardens, and beautiful overlooking views. The Palace of Charles V dates to the 16th century. You'll have to buy your ticket in advance if you want to visit the Alhambra on a specific date. I recommend going straight to the Nasrid Palaces first then explore the other places after.

You can book a tour and/or get tickets to the Alhambra here: visit the Alhambra

Capilla Real de Granada

This chapel contains elaborate royal tombs, one of which is the Tomb of Ferdinand and Isabella. Inside you'll find paintings by Alonso Cano. You can also find the tombs of other kings and princes and/or drop by the Sacristy Museum during your visit.

Catedral Santa María de la Encarnación

This grand cathedral and its stunning facade will draw you in. Queen Isabella had this cathedral built centuries ago. She wanted to commemorate the victory of the Christians over the Muslims. The beautiful Renaissance-inspired interior will wow visitors with its details such as the elaborate nave and chapels.

Albaicin

Europe has plenty of lovely neighborhoods you wouldn't mind wandering around in, Albaicin is one of those places. The distinct whitewashed houses add to its old world charm. You can spend hours exploring the narrow streets and taking several photos of the Alhambra. The best viewpoint to see the Alhambra is from the Mirador of San Nicolas.

Sacromonte

You'll want to explore the lovely Gypsy quarter of Sacromonte because of its distinct atmosphere, architecture and history. The Gypsies have been in Granada for centuries. Some of them have carved homes in the hillside caves. You can also check out flamenco performances and buy some of the handcrafted ceramics while you're here. The most famous venue for flamenco is the Cueva de la Rocío.

La Alcaicería

This traditional bazaar is a reconstruction of a much older market that a fire destroyed more than a century ago. You can find and buy all sorts of items here as souvenirs. Use your negotiating skills to get the best price.

Other places of interest include:

El Bañuelo
Parque de las Ciencias
Monasterio de la Cartuja
Basílica San Juan de Dios

I would describe Granada as an atmospheric place to visit with its distinct architecture and the mix of Islamic and Christian influences (which is emblematic of Andalusia as a whole).

I loved exploring on foot and weaving in and out of the quaint streets and alleys. I could spend hours just walking around here, especially in Albaicin and Sacromonte. Granada is also the place to be when it comes to festivals. I might want to return during that time.

Getting around Granada

The best way to explore and experience Granada is to go on foot. However, you have a number of public transportation options. The city's extensive bus network makes it a convenient option for travelers. Some routes take you within walking distance to an attraction. You can get a Credibus card and top it up if you're planning to use the bus extensively. You can also get on a tourist train or use the metro/tram to explore the city.

Where to Stay in Granada

You can find all sorts of accommodations in Granada. You can go on a budget trip or splurge. I often browse www.booking.com for deals on places to stay wherever I go. I often choose a bed in a hostel dorm because of their budget-friendliness.

Budget for Granada

Granada isn't exactly a cheap place to visit, but it's manageable. A budget of roughly €70 a day covers a bed in a hostel dorm, use of public transportation, budget meals or supermarket food with the occasional splurge on a nicer restaurant, and a few paid attractions. You can spend as much or as less as you want depending on your travel style.

You might want to read my other posts about Europe: