Granada in 5 days:
An itinerary covering the must-see sights
5 days to experience Granada at a leisurely pace
If your plan is to “see the Alhambra and Granada”, well, you’ll need more than a day. With five days, you can combine history, charming neighbourhoods, viewpoints, nature and a day trip… without having to rush around.
Here’s a realistic plan, with options to suit your pace.
Before you begin
3 tips to ensure your trip goes smoothly
1
Tickets for the Alhambra must be purchased and planned in advance
Tickets are issued in the holder’s name and you are usually asked to show your original ID; there is also a punctuality check for entry to the Nasrid Palaces.
2
Set aside half a day for the Alhambra
The average visit usually lasts around 3–4 hours (and longer if you stop to enjoy the gardens and take photos).
3
Leave some time to “wind down”
Granada is hilly and involves a fair bit of walking. The trick to making the most of your five days is not to pack every afternoon full: leave some time to rest, enjoy a leisurely dinner and recharge your batteries at the campsite.
Recommended itinerary:
Granada in 5 days
Day 1 — The historic centre ‘with a good atmosphere’
• A stroll through the town centre, the squares and soaking up the atmosphere.
• Take it easy this afternoon so you don’t get burnt on your first day.
• Bonus: an early dinner and some rest.
Day 2 — The Alhambra and the Generalife (highlight of the trip)
• Allow plenty of time and plan your visit around your appointment (especially the Nasrid Palaces).
• Allow at least 3 hours to explore the historic site.
• A leisurely stroll: this is the perfect day to round off with a dip in the pool (weather permitting).
Day 3 — Albaicín, viewpoints and sunset
• Tomorrow in the Albaicín.
• Sunset at the San Nicolás viewpoint (it’s a classic for a reason).
• A quiet night.
Day 4 — Nature: Sierra Nevada (or an easier alternative)
• Hiking, walking trails or viewpoints. The Sierra Nevada is a vast natural area very close to Granada.
• An alternative if you’d prefer something a bit more relaxed: a short walk + an afternoon to relax.
Day 5 — Day trip
Choose according to your style:
• Charming villages / countryside (ideal if you fancy doing a bit of driving and stopping often).
• Coast (if you fancy rounding off your trip with a spot of seaside and a stroll).
• Geopark / Gorafe Desert / viewpoints (if you fancy something a bit different and very photogenic).
The key to the 5-day plan isn’t ‘doing more things’...
...is to do them better and come home every day to get some proper rest
Quick options to suit your travel style
If you’re travelling with children
• Swap an afternoon ‘at the museum’ for a visit to the park, an ice cream and a view from a lookout point.
• Alhambra: go in early and leave the afternoon free.
If you’re travelling as a couple
• Sunset + dinner with views of the Alhambra in the Albaicín (one of the best “moments of the trip”).
• Make sure you include a day out in the countryside, whatever you do.
If you’re travelling with a dog
Prioritise the Albaicín, the viewpoints and nature; and plan your visit to the Alhambra with practical considerations in mind (it’s not always the most convenient place to visit with a pet).
How long does it take to visit the Alhambra?
On average, allow around 3–4 hours (and longer if you’re taking it very easy).
Is it compulsory to carry identification to enter?
Usually, yes: tickets are issued in the holder’s name and checks are carried out against the original ID card or passport.
Which viewpoint should I make sure not to miss?
The San Nicolás Viewpoint is the most iconic because of its views of the Alhambra, with the Sierra Nevada in the background.
Is five days enough to see Granada?
Yes: the Alhambra, the neighbourhoods, the viewpoints, the countryside and a day trip will keep you busy for five days without having to rush.