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Exploring Granada in just two days? Here’s how to do it right.
Granada blends ancient charm with vibrant energy, where Moorish palaces, steep cobbled streets, and sizzling tapas bars all exist side by side. With just two days, you’ll want to make the most of every moment, and after multiple visits, we’ve crafted the perfect itinerary to help you do exactly that.
From watching the sunrise over the Alhambra to diving into flamenco culture and discovering hidden corners of the Albayzín, this guide is packed with our favorite experiences. Whether it’s your first time or a return visit, we’ll show you how to make two days in Granada feel unforgettable, without feeling rushed.
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did in Granada was this guided tour of the Alhambra and Generalife Gardens. Exploring this UNESCO site was a bucket-list activity, and learning from our guide made it that much better!
Check out the 2,300+ 5-star reviews and book this tour here!
Day 1
Morning – Tour the Alhambra and Generalife Gardens
There’s no better way to kick off two days in Granada than with this skip-the-line tour of the Alhambra. We booked the 9 am option, and it was the best way to start the day—cool morning air, fewer crowds, and more time to soak in the details of this historic hilltop complex.
We began in the Generalife Gardens, a peaceful summer retreat for Granada’s rulers, with shaded courtyards, fountains, and panoramic views. From there, we wandered through the Alhambra Medina, a quieter, atmospheric corner of the complex that was once home to palace staff and artisans.
Next, we climbed the towers of the Alcazaba fortress for sweeping views of the Albaicín and the snowy Sierra Nevada. But the real highlight was the Nasrid Palaces. From intricate stucco walls to the iconic Court of the Lions, every detail was more impressive than the last.
Plus, our guide, Christian, was incredible! His stories brought centuries of Muslim, Christian, and Jewish history to life. And with just 20 people in the group, we never felt rushed.
The tour meets right at the Alhambra entrance, making it super easy to find. It’s about a 30-minute uphill walk from Plaza Nueva, or you can save your legs by hopping on the C30 or C32 bus from Plaza Isabel la Católica.
From the smooth skip-the-line entry to the expert guiding, it’s the most enjoyable and informative way to experience the Alhambra. But don’t just take our word for it—read the five-star reviews here and see why travelers consistently rave about this tour!
Book this guided Alhambra tour here and secure skip-the-line entry!
Lunch – Papas Elvira
After your Alhambra tour wraps up at the Generalife Gardens, take the scenic 22-minute walk back into town for lunch—it’s downhill and full of charming views, making it far more enjoyable than driving. That said, if your legs are feeling the morning climb, you can always grab a quick taxi or bus to save some energy for the afternoon.
Head to Papas Elvira, a casual local favorite just steps from the Alcaicería bazaar. This no-fuss spot serves up flavorful Andalusian dishes like crispy potatoes, grilled meats, and seasonal tapas, with outdoor seating perfect for a relaxing break.
Once you’ve recharged, wander over to the Alcaicería to explore Granada’s old Moorish market. It’s a maze of narrow alleys packed with vibrant ceramics, leather goods, spices, and souvenirs. Formerly a bustling silk exchange, the area still holds onto its historic charm, making it a fun, low-key way to ease into your afternoon.
Afternoon – Explore Albaicin and Sacramonte on an e-bike
Exploring Granada’s steep hills on a regular bike sounded like a hard pass, but this small-group electric bike tour made it effortless. We booked the 3:30 to 5:30 pm slot, which leaves from Centro (just a five-minute walk from the Alcaicería), and it ended up being one of our favorite parts of the trip.
We met our guide, Pedro, in Plaza Nueva, where he gave a quick intro before we cruised along Carrera del Darro, a cobbled riverside street that felt like stepping back in time. With the Alhambra towering above and Pedro sharing stories as we rode, it was the perfect mix of history and fun.
The ride took us through Sacromonte, known for its flamenco caves and deep Romani roots. Even with the motor assist, we slowed down just to soak in the atmosphere—whitewashed cave homes, locals chatting from doorways, and music echoing through the hills.
Then came the climb into the Albayzín, where narrow alleys and hillside views make every turn feel like a postcard. The finale? Mirador de San Nicolás, where the Alhambra glows in the afternoon light with the Sierra Nevada behind it. Stunning doesn’t even begin to cover it!
If you’re looking for the most fun and scenic way to see the city, this is it. It was active without being exhausting, rich in history without ever feeling like a lecture, and hands-down one of the most memorable ways to experience Granada’s layered charm.
Check out the rave reviews here and see why travelers love this tour!
Related Read: If you’re continuing your travels through Spain, see our three-day Valencia itinerary here!
Evening – Taste your way through Granada on a tapas and wine tour
After a full afternoon of exploring Granada’s hills, we took some time to relax and recharge before heading out again, because dinner here isn’t just a meal, it’s an experience. We joined this small-group tapas tour, and it was easily one of the highlights of our trip.
The meeting point was just a 12-minute walk from where our bike tour ended, and once we arrived, our guide, Katia, welcomed us like old friends. We recommend booking the 6:30 or 7 pm slot—it gives you just enough time to unwind after the afternoon while still catching the city as it comes alive for the evening.
Over the next few hours, we wandered from one cozy, family-run tavern to the next, tasting everything from classic Andalusian tapas to bold local reds. Plus, there’s no fixed itinerary, so it’s completely spontaneous and tailored to your group’s tastes.
One of the highlights was an olive oil tasting that gave us a whole new appreciation for its flavor, depth, and technique. And throughout the night, Katia shared stories that tied Granada’s food to its Moorish and Spanish roots, all while making sure everyone felt included (dietary needs? No problem).
By the end, we were full in every sense—great food, great company, and a deeper appreciation for Granada’s culinary soul. If you want to eat like a local while soaking up stories and flavors, this is the tour to book. It’s the perfect way to wrap up our first day in Granada!
Reserve this top-rated food tour here and taste the best of Granada!
Day 2
Breakfast – I Need Coffee
After a full first day, we kept things simple on the morning of day two with a quick breakfast at I Need Coffee, a spot as aptly named as it is convenient. Just a 7-minute walk from the morning tour’s meeting point, it opens daily at 8 am and is perfect for grabbing a strong espresso, fresh pastries, or a light toast to start the day.
It’s a relaxed café with a clean, modern vibe and plenty of cozy corners if you want to sit for a moment before the day gets going. Whether you’re a flat white fan or a cortado kind of traveler, their coffee definitely delivers. We didn’t linger long, but it gave us just the right boost before diving into another day of exploring Granada’s historic heart.
Morning – Explore the Sierra Nevada Mountains
After breakfast, we joined this full-day 4×4 tour through Sierra Nevada National Park, and it ended up being the most off-the-beaten-path experience of our trip. The tour runs from 9 am to 4 pm, giving you a full day to explore Spain’s largest national park without the hassle of figuring out logistics or routes.
Right from the start, it felt like an adventure. Instead of cruising down paved roads, we bounced along centuries-old trails, winding through pine forests, rocky ridges, and quiet mountain valleys. The 4×4 handled it all with ease, climbing steep paths, navigating rugged terrain, and taking us deep into areas that are completely inaccessible to large vehicles or day hikers.
Our guide was incredibly knowledgeable, weaving together stories about local history, geology, and wildlife. We even spotted a rare plant species that only grows in this region! But the real showstopper was the view of Mulhacén, the highest peak in mainland Spain, towering over the landscape like something out of a postcard.
We ended the day at a remote mountain hut with a cold drink and golden light spilling across the peaks. It was the kind of experience that made us feel small in the best way.
What we loved most about it was how remote and untouched everything felt. It showed us a completely different side of Granada that we wouldn’t have found on our own. Just read the glowing reviews here and you’ll see why hundreds of travelers call this the highlight of their trip!
Experience Granada’s wild side and book this safari tour here!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
Evening – Mirador de San Nicolás and tapas
After getting back from the Sierra Nevada tour, we headed to our hotel to freshen up and take a short break before venturing out again. For one last panoramic view, we made our way up to the Mirador de San Nicolás—a spot that deserves its reputation, even if the timing for sunset is a bit tricky.
While it’s known as the place to watch the sun go down over the Alhambra, keep in mind that the actual sunset here often feels like it’s running late. Thanks to Spain being one time zone ahead of where it geographically “should” be, golden hour lingers longer than expected. So, although we missed the official sunset, the soft, golden light across the Alhambra and Sierra Nevada was more than worth the climb.
From there, we walked back down into Centro for tapas before our 8 pm flamenco show. We stopped at Bar La Riviera, a casual local favorite just 10 minutes from the performance venue. It was the perfect pre-show snack—cold drinks, generous tapas, and a lively atmosphere that made the evening feel special without being too formal.
Dinner/Night – See a Flamenco show
To close out our time in Granada, we went all in on dinner and a show, and this traditional Flamenco performance absolutely delivered. The intimate cave venue is tucked into the hills of the Albayzín, and walking there felt like stepping into another world. We booked the 8 pm show, which lasts about an hour, and opted for the dinner package—highly recommended!
Inside, the space is low-lit and atmospheric, with curved stone walls and a layout that draws you right up to the performers. Even before the show began, the place buzzed with energy, like something special was about to happen.
Once the performance started, we were completely captivated. The dancers didn’t just follow the rhythm; they were the rhythm. From intense footwork to haunting vocals and live guitar, each piece, whether fast-paced bulerías or soul-stirring seguiriñas, felt raw, real, and electric.
The five-course tapas dinner was timed perfectly with the performance, arriving between sets so we could savor each dish without missing a beat. Expect Andalusian staples like jamón ibérico, fresh seafood, and bold flavors that match the intensity of the show.
Finding the venue is part of the adventure, since it’s nestled into the hillside, and the winding streets can be a bit confusing. So, give yourself plenty of time to arrive early and soak in the setting.
This wasn’t just a show, it was the perfect finale to two days in Granada—an unforgettable blend of passion, flavor, and atmosphere that left us completely spellbound.
See available options and reserve this unforgettable Flamenco night in Granada!
Related Read: Find yourself with extra time? Check out our list of the best things to do in Granada here – there’s plenty more to explore!
Where to Stay in Granada, Spain
Now that your Granada itinerary is set, it’s time to find the perfect place to stay! Granada has tons of hotel options, and choosing the right place to stay can make or break your trip. So to help you out, I’ve rounded up my top recommendations in the best parts of the city for every budget!
Luxury – $$$
Perched on a hill overlooking Granada, the Hotel Alhambra Palace offers the perfect blend of history and luxury just steps from the Alhambra. This 5-star hotel features Moorish-inspired decor, elegant rooms with stunning city views, and a rooftop terrace perfect for soaking in the scenery. With an on-site restaurant and bar, plus an unbeatable location, it’s an excellent choice for a high-end stay in Granada!
Prices vary depending on the time of year but usually range between €300 to €500 per night. You can check prices and book this stay on Booking.com.
Mid-range – $$
Bibo Real Chancillería is a stylish mid-range stay in the heart of Granada. These modern apartments feature sleek decor, fully equipped kitchens, and spacious layouts, perfect for those who want extra comfort. Located within walking distance of major sights, it’s a great base for exploring the city while enjoying a home-like stay!
Prices are usually around €150 per night, and you can book this stay on Booking.com.
Budget – $
La Perla Granada Suites is a great budget-friendly option with a prime location in the city center. The rooms are modern and comfortable and come with air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and private bathrooms. It’s a simple yet stylish stay, perfect for travelers who want an affordable base while exploring Granada’s top sights!
Rooms usually start as low as €40 per night. You can reserve your room here on Booking.com!
For more options, see all of the hotels in Granada here!
Renting a Car in Spain
Renting a car in Spain is the perfect way to explore beyond the cities—think small villages, coastal towns, and hidden gems impossible to reach by public transit! The roads are well-maintained, and driving here is generally pretty relaxed, making it ideal for a road trip.
We always use Discover Cars to book our rentals and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare prices, find automatic cars (which can be tricky in Europe!), and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.
Tips for Renting a Car in Spain
- Drive on the right: Like most of Europe, you’ll be driving on the right-hand side in Spain. And make sure you stick to the speed limit, speed cameras are common here!
- Pick the right car: Some of Spain’s smaller towns and villages have narrow streets and tight parking, so I recommend going for a compact car. Also, most rentals here are manual, so if you need an automatic (like me!), be sure to filter for it on Discover Cars when booking.
- Insurance is a must: I always add full coverage insurance, whether it’s a ding in a parking lot or a chipped windshield on a rural road, having full protection gives you peace of mind. Plus, it’s super affordable with Discover Cars!
- Toll roads: Spain has both toll and toll-free roads. Toll roads are usually marked with “AP” and can be paid using cash, credit card, or electronic devices like VIA-T. Plan your route accordingly and have a payment method ready.
- Parking tips: In urban areas, parking can be challenging. Look for designated parking zones and be aware of local regulations to avoid fines. Some areas may have restricted parking zones or require a resident permit.
What You Need to Rent a Car in Spain
- A valid driver’s license from your home country.
- If you’re from outside the EU, you’ll likely need an International Driving Permit (IDP).
- A credit card in the driver’s name is typically required for the security deposit.
- Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with a young driver surcharge applicable for those under 25. Some companies may have higher age requirements, so make sure you double-check.
Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring Spain on your own terms!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!
Two days in Granada were just enough time to take in the highlights – stunning architecture, gorgeous outdoor landscape, and amazing tapas! We loved seeing the Alhambra and Generalife Gardens up close, as well as pedaling around the historic streets and soaking in Spain’s vibrant culture. Stick to this itinerary and I know you’ll see the best of Granada!
If you need help planning more of your travels, check out the rest of our Europe blogs here. We have even more guides on top things to do, where to stay, and city itineraries to share with you! Here are a few related blogs to inspire your travels – cheers!
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