A day trip to Granada from Malaga
If you fancy discovering one of the jewels in the Andalusian crown, then you’ll love a day trip to Granada from Malaga. Nestling in the foothills of Sierra Nevada, Granada is one of Spain’s most famous cities and a truly magical place.
As well as iconic monuments such as the Alhambra and atmospheric neighbourhoods like the Albaicín, the city offers fabulous views, stunning churches, a delicious foodie scene and great shopping. Here’s your complete guide to planning the perfect day trip to Granada from Malaga (with the caveat that it could turn into an overnight getaway if you simply can’t tear yourself away!).
When’s the best time of the year to visit Granada?
Unlike Malaga where temperatures are mild pretty much all year round, Granada has a continental climate. This translates to freezing cold early mornings and nights in the winter (one of the reasons why those mountains are covered in snow!) and scorching hot days in the summer.
We’d therefore recommending taking a day trip to Granada from Malaga in spring (March to June) or autumn (September to early November). You’ll enjoy milder temperatures, without the extremes.
Top tip – daytime temperatures vary hugely in Granada – it can be near freezing first thing and rise to 20 degrees by midday – so dress in light layers to cool down or warm up.
How long does it take to get there from Malaga?
Granada is about 125km (78 miles) northeast of Malaga, making it a very doable day trip. There are several convenient travel options:
- By train: there are several high-speed trains between Malaga and Granada, with the fastest taking around 1 hour 20 minutes. Granada mainline train station is about 25 minutes’ walk away. Expect to pay from €41 return. The RENFE website has more information.
- By bus: ALSA operates regular buses from Malaga’s main bus station to Granada. The journey typically takes between 1 hour 45 minutes and 2 hours, and costs from €14 return. Note that Granada bus station is some distance from the city centre, but the No 1 bus connects the two in about 30 minutes.
- By private car: hiring a car is a flexible option and gives you the chance to stop enroute. Allow about 1 hour 30 minutes for the journey, via the A92 dual carriageway. Factor in the cost of parking in Granada.
- By coach tour: several companies offer full-day guided day trips to Granada from Malaga, including transport and entry to the Alhambra. These tours usually last 10 to 12 hours. They’re a good option for stress-free sightseeing and don’t mind travelling with lots of strangers.
- By private tour: you can also take a private visit to Granada, usually in a mini-bus and customised to suit your tastes. Expect to pay at least € per person.
Top tip – book your train ticket well ahead of travel to get the best schedule and prices. Book a seat on the right-hand-side of the train and facing the direction of travel on the ongoing journey to get the best views of Sierra Nevada.
Highlights of things to see in Granada
Even if you’re just there for the day, Granada delivers a wealth of cultural gems and stunning views. Don’t miss:
- The Alhambra and Generalife: the absolute must-sees in Granada (more information below).
- The Albaicín: Granada’s ancient Moorish quarter is a labyrinth of whitewashed houses, narrow alleys, and hidden courtyards. It’s perfect for a wander and great views
- Mirador de San Nicolás: This viewpoint in the Albaicín offers an iconic view of the Alhambra with the Sierra Nevada in the background—especially magical at sunset.
- Granada Cathedral and Royal Chapel: This Renaissance masterpiece and the adjacent Royal Chapel (resting place of Catholic Monarchs Ferdinand and Isabella) are central to Spain’s Christian history.
- Carrera del Darro: A charming cobbled street running along the Darro River, lined with historic buildings, bridges, and artisan shops.
Top tip – to see a great view of the Alhambra, pop into the mosque gardens next door to the Mirador de San Nicolás. The vistas are just as lovely and it’s less crowded.
About the Alhambra and Generalife
No day trip to Granada from Malaga would be complete without visiting the Alhambra, one of the most exquisite examples of Moorish architecture in the world. This UNESCO World Heritage Site dates back to the Nasrid dynasty (construction began in 1238 and finished in 1391). Carlos V made major modifications and added the Renassisance Palace in the mid-16th century. b
Perched on a hilltop, the Alhambra is a sprawling complex of palaces, towers, courtyards, and gardens. Allow at least 4 hours for your visit – and you could easily spend the whole day in the complex.
Did you know? The Alhambra gets its name from the Arabic al-Qal’ah al Hamra, meaning Red Citadel.
The Alcazaba – the working palace
The Alcazaba, the oldest part of the Alhambra, is a fortress on the western side. It housed troops and supplies for the palace. You get panoramic views of Granada from the walls and it’s worth climbing the watchtower for the best vistas of all.
The Nasrid Palaces – the pleasure palace
The highlight of the Alhambra is the Nasrid Palaces, where intricate stucco walls, delicate arabesques, ornate tilework and delicate fountains greet you at every turn. Particular treats are the Patio de los Leones, with its elegant marble columns and 12 lions around the central fountain; Sala de los Embajadores where Boabdil, the last king of Al Andalus surrendered to the Catholic Monarchs; and Sala de los Reyes, with a painted ceiling depicting the first Nasrid rulers.
(But it’s all gorgeous!)
The Generalife Gardens – the garden palace
Originally the summer palace of the Nasrid rulers, the Generalife is a peaceful retreat filled with fountains, flower beds, and manicured hedges. Its name means “Garden of the Architect,” and the tranquil surroundings are refreshingly simple after the grandeur of the Alhambra.
Top tips for getting Alhambra tickets in advance
- Book early – tickets often sell out weeks in advance, especially in spring and summer.
- Buy official tickets through the Alhambra website to avoid inflated prices and scams.
- Consider a guided tour, which often includes guaranteed access and a deeper historical context.
- If tickets are sold out, check for last-minute cancellations or guided tour availability.
Top tip – choose a morning entry ticket to the Nasrid Palaces to give you time to see the whole complex.
What to eat on your day trip to Granada from Malaga
Granada is famed for its free tapas—order a drink, and you’ll receive a complimentary dish. Try local specialties like berenjenas con miel (fried aubergines drizzled with honey) and habas con jamón (baby broad beans with ham) and remojón granaíno (cod, orange and potato salad). Finish with a pionono cake.
Top tip – buy your pionono where the locals go – from Pastelería López-Mezquita on Calle Reyes Católicos or from Isla on Plaza de Bib-Rambla. Or for some seriously delicious ice cream, pop into Los Italianos on the Gran Vía.
Where to eat in Granada
Granada comes packed to the brim with great foodie venues, ranging from classic Andalusian to cutting-edge nouvelle cuisine. Here are some suggestions:
Typically traditional
- Bodegas Castañeda near Plaza Nueva is a favourite for classic Andalusian dishes and a traditional vibe.
- Bar Los Diamantes on Plaza Bib-Rambla and Calle Navas is the place to go for fried fish and seafood.
- La Bodega de Antonio on Calle Jardines serves up generous portions of the most typically Spanish tapas and the wine comes in cute pig-shaped jugs).
- La Brujidera off Plaza Nueva has one of the longest wine lists in Spain, with a good choice of platters go with it.
More sophisticated
- El Mercader off Plaza Nueva combines local staples with innovative partners.
- El Trillo deep in the Albaicín offers fine dining and has a roof terrace with Alhambra views.
- Tinta Fina on Calle Angel Ganivet does steaks and fresh seafood to perfection, and gin lovers will love the gin menu.
- Restaurante Arriaga on the way to Sierra Nevada (get a taxi there) creates some of the best food in time and you get amazing views from the restaurant on the top floor of the Museo de la Memoria.
Top tip – if you’re planning to spend the day in the Alhambra, make yourself a picnic from goodies bought at San Agustín market near the Cathedral or buy takeaway treats at Pastelería López-Mezquita on Calle Reyes Católicos.
Where to stay in Granada if a day isn’t long enough
If you decide you can’t possibly ‘do’ Granada on the day trip from Malaga (and we wouldn’t be surprised), there are lots of great places to stay. We’ve listed some recommendations by price, quoted for the cheapest double room in shoulder season.
(Note that all links go to Booking.com because a) the reviews are from real people who have really stayed in the venues, b) we like the easy and transparent cancellation policy and c) Guide to Malaga gets a small commission if you book and stay, helping us maintain this free website. Thank you!)
Cheaper accommodation in Granada
Hostal Rodri: bang in the centre, this hostal is one of the best in town and comes cheap, cheerful, squeaky clean and comfortable. And owners couldn’t be more friendly. Rooms are on the small size and you might find it a bit basic, but for value for money, you can’t go wrong. From €60. Book now
Hotel Párraga Siete: also in the heart of the old quarter and in a quiet street. Great value rooms – the loft suite is particularly spacious – and amenities that include a good onsite restaurant. From €110. Book now
Top tip – book your Granada accommodation well ahead if you’re visiting the city in spring or early autumn.
Mid-range accommodation
Hotel Palacio de Santa Inés: a rambling 16th-century palace in the Albaicin, with quirky interiors (including gorgeous original frescos in the central patio) and details. Some rooms have Alhambra views. There’s no lift, so not a very accessible hotel, but tons of atmosphere! From €160. Book now
Casa Morisca: tucked at the bottom of the Albaicin, this 15th century townhouse offers one of the best boutique hotels in the city. Rooms are small, but comfy and the best have views of the Alhambra – treat yourself to the Mirador where you can feast your eyes on the Alhambra even from the bathroom. From €180. Book now
Splurge accommodation
Hotel Casa 1800 Granada: slightly off the beaten track but within a few minutes’ walk of the city centre, this restored 17th century palace offers stunning accommodation. Rooms have opulent, comfy fittings with lots of extras – splurge on the deluxe suite for Alhambra views. And don’t miss the complimentary afternoon tea at 5pm. From €265. Book now
Alhambra Palace: immitating the Alhambra in neo-Moorish style, this giant ‘wedding cake’ hotel dates back to 1910. It’s a feast of Arabian nights decor with tons of azulejos, mosaics and plush furnishings. Rooms are bright and spacious with a slightly lower key vibe. From €350. Book now
Parador de Granada: this historic parador gives you the chance to stay at the heart of the Alhambra and some rooms have views of the Generalife gardens opposite (the best are from the Torre del Alba suite). Rooms are reasonably spacious and decorated in traditional style (some are quite dark). The hotel’s gardens are lovely and have great views of Granada and the Generalife, and the restaurant is good. Parking available. From €450. Book now
Start planning your upcoming trip to Andalusia!
Practical tips for your day trip to Granada from Malaga
Here are some essential tips to help you make the most of your visit to Granada:
- Book Alhambra tickets well in advance, especially in peak months.
- Wear comfortable shoes – many streets in the older parts of Granada (particularly the Albaicín) have cobblestones. And of course, you’ll walk miles during your day!
- Granada is a safe city, but as in any tourist destination, keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas and don’t visit the more remote parts of the Albaicín and Sacromonte districts on your own at night.
- Tapas come free with each drink, so take advantage and hop between bars.
- Carry water because there aren’t many drinking fountains and it gets hot from April to September.
- Public toilets are a bit thin on the ground, so use facilities in restaurants or tourist spots when available.
- Prices are reasonable compared to major Spanish cities like Madrid, Barcelona and Malaga, so be prepared for a pleasant surprise there. That said, avoid the tourist hotspots with their elevated prices.
- Layer your clothing—mornings and evenings can be cool even in warmer seasons.
- Learn a few Spanish phrases; locals appreciate the effort.
- Watch the clock – not many restaurants have all-day kitchens, with typical opening hours 1.30pm to 4pm for lunch and 8pm for dinner.
Even if you’re just visiting Granada for the day, its unique blend of Moorish heritage, fabulous views, Spanish history and cultural roots will leave their mark on you. We think a city you never forget and one you’ll want to return to again.
Top tip – we include a day trip to Granada in our Malaga on a Short Break ebook, the perfect guide to the best holiday in Malaga. Download your copy now for just €5.95 and get the absolute most out of your stay in the city.
Planning to visit Malaga?
All you need for a short break in Malaga!
Get Malaga at your fingertips quickly and easily with our handy ebook. Full and guided itineraries for a short break in the city whether you’re visiting for 2, 3 or 5 days. All you need to make the absolute most of your stay. And for just €4.95!