2 Days in Granada, Spain (Perfect Itinerary for First Timers!)

Granada feels like a dream! You’ll notice it as soon as you stroll down those winding streets with their Moorish setting.

No place on Earth feels the same, and that’s exactly why I loved preparing this itinerary for spending 2 days in Granada, Spain.

This wasn’t my first time in Spain, but it was my first in Granada. Trust me when I say I quickly fell in love! The authentic environment, sipping sweet tea in a cozy teteria, and oh, the incredible Alhambra!

Two days in Granada here give you just enough time to enjoy the popular attractions and discover some local gems.

Ready to discover your ultimate guide to spending 48 hours in Granada? Let’s get right into it!

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Granada 2-Day Itinerary

Let’s map out your visit so you can hit all the highlights. Day one focuses on the Alhambra and a taste of downtown life.

Day two is more about the unique neighborhoods and a bit of local flair. Move at your own pace. After all, enjoying Granada means pausing to soak in every detail.

Day 1 in Granada: Alhambra and Granada City

Start strong with the Alhambra in the morning. Then spend your afternoon exploring the cathedral area. Prepare for sipping tea in a traditional tetería and shopping for souvenirs in tiny shops.

Wrap up the day with a breathtaking sunset from one of Granada’s famous viewpoints. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a fairytale.

Morning: Visit the Alhambra

The hilltop Alhambra of Granada Spain, noted for its Moorish architecture, is one of the top attractions in Granada.
The Alhambra is definitely one of the top tourist attractions in Granada Spain — and for good reason!

The Alhambra Palace complex is a total showstopper and the reason why Granada is so famous around the world. You’ll feel the magic as soon as you step past the gates.

Definitely book your tickets ahead, because they often sell out weeks in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.

Make sure to arrive early (around 8:30 or 9:00 AM) so you can beat the biggest crowds and enjoy a bit of calm.

I personally visited on my own because that’s my travel style. However, going with a tour guide is better in a way because you’ll learn about the history of the complex and hear stories you’d never know otherwise. It’s all about your personal perspective.

The Alhambra's nterior courtyard with reflecting pool is one of the most instagrammable places in Granada Spain.
Keep your camera ready! The Alhambra is filled with some of the best Instagram spots in Granada!

The Alhambra consists of three main parts: the Nasrid Palaces, the Alcazaba fortress, and the Generalife Gardens. You’ll need separate entry slots for each, so check your ticket time carefully.

Once you pass the first gate (probably the Nasrid Palaces), your passport becomes your ticket, so make sure you take it. There are lockers near the Nasrid Palaces, but do not store your passport there.

Plan at least three hours to do it justice, but four or more can be even better if you love taking photos or enjoying each courtyard. The Nasrid Palaces easily steal the show with ornate ceilings, beautiful arches, and courtyards like the famous Patio de los Leones (Lion Courtyard).

The ornate carvings decorating the walls and ceilings of the Nasrid Palace in the Alhambra in Granada are breathtaking!
The Nasir Palaces are one of the most beautiful things to see in Granada– and one of the best photo places in Granada as well!

I recommend going there first as it gets very crowded later in the day.

The Alcazaba, on the other hand, feels more rugged. It was the original fortress, and from the top, you get incredible views of Granada and the Sierra Nevada mountains.

Do yourself a favor and wear shoes that can handle a bit of climbing, because you’ll head up and down towers and stairs.

Generalife gardens in the Alhambra in Granada Spain.
The Generalife Gardens are one of the must-see Granada attractions! Relax and enjoy the beauty of these gardens during your Alhambra visit.

The Generalife gardens is a nice way to end the visit. Think lush greenery, beautifully made fountains, and flowers that burst with color all year round. We visited in the winter and everything looked gorgeous.

By the time you finish at the Alhambra, you’ll see why so many people return just to see the palace again!

Afternoon: Granada Cathedral, Tea at a Tetería, Shop for Memories

The interior of the Granada Cathedral features an airy nave with white columns, gilded decor, and a checkerboard stone floor.
One of the best things to do in Granada is to visit the Granada Cathedral. Take the time to go inside, it’s stunning!

After a busy morning, head to the city center. The Granada Cathedral is right in the heart of the city with its grand façade and bright interior.

You won’t need a long time here, but 30 to 45 minutes is enough to take photos, maybe pray if you’re religious, and appreciate the gorgeous architecture. The cathedral was built in December 1704, and it’s very well maintained.

If you have some energy left, consider paying a short visit to the Royal Chapel of Granada, which is right next door.

To be honest, I loved the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, and that’s easily one of the most beautiful cathedrals in Europe, but Granada’s is gorgeous too. (And not as crowded.)

Silver tea service with a blue cup at a teteria (tea house) in Granada Spain.
Take time to experience Granada like a local and enjoy a cup of tea and a snack at a tea house.

Next, hunt down a tetería!

These tea houses serve aromatic brews, often with a Moorish twist and some sweet pastries. Relax there for a bit; it’s one of the authentic local experiences to enjoy when spending 2 days in Granada.

Then, discover the side streets and back alleys. You can find local shops selling handcrafted ceramics, beautiful scarves, or simply some souvenirs to take back home.

Remember to haggle a little if you’re shopping in La Alcaiceria, as that’s part of the fun. Strolling these old lanes gives you a real sense of Granada’s layered history.

Alleyway lined with clothing shops, with patterned fabrics hung overhead to block the sun.
Take time to look for the perfect Granada souvenir when you’re shopping in shopping in La Alcaiceria!

You’ll bump into street musicians, hidden courtyards, and friendly locals who might point you toward a tasty tapas bar.

Evening: Sunset at Mirador de San Nicolás

The Alhambra in Granada Spain at sunset as seen from a hilltop viewpoint.
Enjoy sunset views of the Alhambra from the Mirador de San Nicolás viewpoint!

Time to watch the sky light up (and a short-ish hike!). The Mirador de San Nicolás in the Albayzín neighborhood ranks as one of the best (if not the best), Granada’s viewpoints.

You’ll see the Alhambra lighten up with the Sierra Nevada right behind it. Get there 30 minutes to 1 hour before sunset to grab a good spot. It does get very busy, so keep that in mind.

Street performers and musicians gather here, and it gives the evening a lively vibe. Bring a camera, obviously, but also pause to just soak it all in.

If you travel as a couple, you can grab dinner at one of the nearby restaurants for even better views. I recommend Restaurante Carmen De Aben Humeya, which serves delicious food with incredible views. It’s expensive for this part of Spain though, but totally worth it.

Day 2 in Granada: Arab Baths, Sacromonte, Flamenco

Day two goes beyond the usual. You’ll dig deeper into Granada’s culture and neighborhoods. It’s time for something a bit off the beaten path in the morning, a visit to Sacromonte in the afternoon, and then a flamenco show to spice up your evening.

Morning: Breakfast and Arab Baths

Traditional baths at the Hammam Al Ándalus in Granada.
Enjoy a traditional Arab bath at the Hammam Al Ándalus, a relaxing way to recover from all that walking you did on your visit to the Alhambra!

Start the day with a simple but tasty breakfast. Head to a local café near Plaza Nueva, where you can try churros dipped in thick chocolate or a tostada with fresh tomato and olive oil. It’s classic and as Andalucian as it gets.

Then, make your way to the Arab Baths in Granada (Hammam Al Ándalus is the most popular).

Book in advance, because slots can fill up quickly. Picture yourself soaking in warm pools under soft lantern light, sipping mint tea. That’s exactly what the Arab baths are about.

Choose a massage if you want extra pampering. You’ll emerge relaxed and recharged, ready to explore the most traditional area of Granada…Sacromonte!

Afternoon: Discover Sacromonte

The hillside neighborhood of Sacromonte is a great way to explore more of Granada.
Explore the Sacromonte neighborhood of Granada, known for its intriguing caves.

Sacromonte is all about the caves. This hillside neighborhood has cave dwellings where people have lived for centuries. Nowadays, they often decorate them with vibrant colors and personal flair.

You’ll find little flamenco venues built into the rock and small museums explaining the area’s Roma heritage. Stroll along the Camino del Sacromonte for scenic glimpses of the Alhambra and the valley below.

If you’re up for it, pop into the Sacromonte Abbey at the top to explore more history. Please note: Wear comfy shoes because the walk can be steep in places.

Take your time looking at the whitewashed cave homes. Some still house families, while others have become charming cafés or art galleries. It’s a slice of Granada that feels refreshingly different.

Grab a tea with a snack and get ready for yet the most exciting moment of this 2 days Granada itinerary, a live Flamenco show!

Evening: Flamenco Show

Stage in Tablao Flamenco before the performance, with a video projecting on the wall.
Seeing a Flamenco performance is one of the best things to do in Granada at night!

Granada thrives on flamenco, and this itinerary wouldn’t be complete without a live show. End your second day by heading to a local tablao or cave setting (La Cueva de la Rocío in Sacromonte and La Alboreá are very famous).

You’ll watch performers dance, sing, and play guitar with a fiery passion. Book a seat in advance, especially during busy seasons.

These shows typically last about an hour, and you can add on a drink or dinner, which is made of several tapas.

If you’re tired from walking all day, catching a show close to your hotel might be better. Flamenco here isn’t just a tourist attraction; it’s a heartbeat of Andalucian culture.

You’ll leave with goosebumps and a deeper respect for Granada’s soul. Yes, you can see a flamenco show in different cities across the country, but experiencing one in Granada is simply special — and the shows are top-notch!

Granada Travel Tips

This city blends the past and present so smoothly you’ll think time paused here. The Alhambra is of course the big highlight, but there’s much more to see.

Historic architecture, little cute shops, and cafes filled with laughter. Here are some essential elements you should consider when planning your trip.

How to Get to Granada

You can fly straight into Federico García Lorca Granada Airport from multiple European airports.

However, many people land in Málaga or Madrid first, then take a bus or train. The train ride from Madrid is scenic and only takes around three hours. There are regular buses from Seville or Córdoba, which happen to be cheap, too.

If you rent a car, remember that Granada’s old town streets can be narrow. Plan where you’ll park, as some spots require advance booking. Also, I recommend getting here early as parking lots do fill up quickly during the day.

Getting Around Granada

Walking is the way to go. The streets in Granada are narrow, but that’s part of the charm. There’s a decent bus system that runs through the city, connecting spots like the Alhambra and the train station.

If you’re traveling around the region, consider renting a car but make sure your hotel has a parking lot or book one, especially in the summer.

Driving in central Granada isn’t recommended unless you really need to. Whatever you choose, wear comfy shoes because you’ll likely end up strolling a lot.

Where to Stay in Granada

Granada has something for every preference and budget. If you want a magical view, pick a small guesthouse in the Albayzín neighborhood, where the plazas point at the Alhambra.

For easier access to restaurants and shops, a hotel near the cathedral or Plaza Nueva is perfect. Don’t worry about finding modern amenities. Granada blends old-world charm with good Wi-Fi and comfortable beds, and you’re guaranteed a good night’s sleep.

However, some places can be lively at night, especially near tapas bars that stay open late, so check reviews if you’re a light sleeper. Either way, you’ll feel right at home.

Colorful lanterns hanging from the ceiling of one of the many shops in the La Alcaiceria area of Granada.
You’ve got lots of options when choosing a souvenir from Granada, from bright fabrics to colorful lanterns!

Granada Spain FAQ

Still have questions? Don’t worry. Granada does look straightforward on the surface, but planning those small details can make your trip smoother. Here are a few common queries you might have before going.

Is 2 Days in Granada Enough?

Yes, but you’ll want more. Two days give you a solid taste of the city though: a few hours at the Alhambra, the cathedral, sunset viewpoints, and some relaxing time wandering around.

You’ll have time to enjoy tapas, sip tea, and watch street performers, too. Still, you might leave wishing for another day to dig deeper. If you have more time available on your trip in the southern region of Spain, consider spending an extra day in Andalucìa and Granada.

If not, this 2 days in Granada itinerary covers a lot of ground and you won’t feel like missing out.

What Is the Best Time to Visit Granada?

Spring and autumn feel just right. You’ll avoid the scorching summer heat, and the city is busy without feeling too crowded.

April and May bring blooming flowers, plus the sunshine makes exploring a joy. That’s arguably the best time to visit the Alhambra too.

September and October also work well, with fewer tourists and cooler evenings. Winter stays mild compared to northern Europe, though it can get chilly, especially at night.

If you visit in July or August, expect high temperatures (sometimes around 45 degrees Celsius) and more tourists.

Is Granada Worth Visiting?

Absolutely! The Alhambra alone makes the trip worth it. But beyond that, Granada’s mix of old Moorish setting and more modern Spanish atmosphere is simply unique.

Tapas culture thrives here: you often get a free small plate with your drink. Traditional tea houses bring another layer of flavor to the city’s vibe. Plus, the setting at the foot of the Sierra Nevada adds natural beauty to the city.

Final Thoughts:

Granada is full of history and flavors, and that’s one of the most interesting places to visit in Spain.

Two days might feel too brief, but you can still fit in the Alhambra, a walk around the old town, and a taste of flamenco’s passion.

Make time for a sunset viewpoint and that sweet cup of tea in a hidden tetería!

Excited to explore more of Spain? Check out these posts for travel inspiration!

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Top:  Moorish architecture of the Alhambra features a courtyard with a reflecting pool.  Bottom:  Colorful patterned lanterns hanging from the ceiling of a shop in Granada Spain.  Text overlay reads 2 days in Granada Spain Itinerary Perfect for First-Timers.

About the Guest Authors

Stefan and Natalie are two travellers who visited countless countries for years but eventually fell in love with Spain, especially southern Spain – Andalucia.

Tricks and Trips is an Andalucia travel guide where you’ll find plenty of guides about Malaga, Granada, the white villages, and more.


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