Granada, Spain, is a beautiful, ancient city filled with Islamic architecture. There’s more to Alhambra, a palace in Granada, Spain, that this place can offer. It has a rich multicultural history with influences such as Roman, Greek, Phoenician, and Visigothic. But it is the Moorish groups who made the most significant influence with the Islamic heritage being portrayed in the city up to this day. Aside from its history and culture, visiting the Nasrid Palaces, and Jewish quarter, there are plenty of things to do in Granada, Spain. Check out our Granada City Guide here. This article is a guide to day trips from granada.
Because this South Spain city is set at the foot of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, skiing in Granada, Spain, becomes one of the easiest and most enjoyable activities visitors can do here. If you are going in the summer or Skiing is not your thing, you can enjoy time hiking in the beautiful Sierra Nevada National Park. It contains the highest mountain range in Spain with Mulhacén towering 11,141 feet (3,479 meters) above sea level.
The Granada, Spain beaches are also not to be missed. If you’re looking to experience water sports, La Herradura is the beach for you. Meanwhile, if you prefer family-friendly beaches, you can go to Calahonda Beach or Playa Calabajio. There are other tourist attractions in Granada, Spain, worth visiting, such as Generalife Gardens, Granada Cathedral, Parque de las Ciencias, and many more. Don’t forget to hop in bars or restaurants to enjoy a serving of tapas in Granada, Spain.
While there’s already an abundance of tourism in Granada, Spain, the nearby cities also promise vacationers a pleasurable time. Maximize your holidays to Granada, Spain, by arranging day trips or a guided tour to some of Spain’s finest cities. We’ve listed down some recommendations you may want to consider.
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Where to go from Granada, Spain
Ronda
The third most visited spot in southern Spain is Ronda. The birth of the modern Spanish bullfight is in this town. Here, you can see one of the oldest bullrings in Spain, which is the Plaza de Toros. Moreover, this city takes pride in its delicious wines. When you visit Granada, Spain, squeeze in a trip to Ronda to marvel at the famous Puente Nuevo or take in panoramic views from the cliffside of Alameda del Tajo gardens.
Córdoba
Looking to have a Granada city break for a moment? Head over to Córdoba. This fascinating city boasts of having a historic old town which is a World Heritage site, courtyards full of flowers, lively taverns, and more. The city’s Mosque-Cathedral is unique to this town as it represents two cultures that have shaped Andalusia, the Moorish and Christian rule. Aside from tapas, they devour their local cuisines like flamenquín or pork roll fried in breadcrumbs, salmorejo or cold tomato soup, and mazamorra or cold almond soup. Make your visit even more special by indulging in an Arab bath.
Úbeda and Baeza
In the heart of the province of Jaén are the cities Úbeda and Baeza. These cities belong to the autonomous region of Andalusia and exemplify Renaissance influence. The Renaissance beauty is on display in different stately houses, churches, palaces, and other monuments. The main feature of Úbeda is the Vasquez de Molina square. Here, you’ll find notable buildings such as the Sacred Chapel of El Salvador and the Palace of the Marquis of Mancera. Meanwhile, there are two main squares to visit in Baeza, the Plaza del Pópulo and the Plaza Santa Maria. You can easily see this twin Roman city in Spain renting a car in Granada, Spain, or taking a Granada bus there.
Nerja Caves
Explore the world’s longest and largest stalactite at the limestone Nerja Caves. It is next to the border of Granada, making a Granada day trip from Malaga and vice versa easy. If not for the group of young travelers who discovered this wonder in 1959, we wouldn’t have access to this cultural interest. The caves feature galleries and pieces of evidence of human activity from 40,000 years ago. This underworld heaven is declared by the Spanish government as a Heritage of Cultural Interest. It would be best if you didn’t miss your chance to visit.
Frigiliana
After exploring places to visit in Granada, discover the Hidden Gem of Andalusia, Frigiliana. Its white-washed small towns are gorgeous and often recognized as one of the most beautiful villages in Spain. The old Moorish quarter and attractive cobbled streets complemented by the bright shades of bougainvillea trees are what make this city a feast in the eyes. Most of the restaurants in the area are situated above the small town or on rooftop terraces. These terraces offer visitors a culinary experience with spectacular city views. The place also has plenty of artisan shops to bring home handmade mementos, artistic items, and other kinds of souvenirs.
Alpujarras
Las Alpujarras is a region of mountain villages found in the southern flanks of Sierra Nevada. Just rent a car in Granada, Spain, so that you can discover the natural charm of this area. You will be welcomed by picturesque, white-washed villages in this magnificent location. All the towns are connected by footpaths leading to various routes, making Alpujarras perfect for nature enthusiasts. Hike to Trevélez, Spain’s highest village, to be amazed by scenic views. Also, if your visit falls on June 23rd, be ready to join a giant water fight in Lanjarón as part of their Fiesta del Agua.
Seville
If you can’t stay in Seville for a few days then you must visit. One of the best day trips from Granada Spain is having a tour of Seville. It is Andalusia’s capital and largest city. You’ll never run out of things to explore in this place, from the city’s Moorish buildings up to the high-spirited flamenco shows. Another UNESCO World Heritage site of Spain can be visited here, the Seville Cathedral. Just like any Spain city, your visit to Seville wouldn’t be complete without sampling tapas and wines.
Tabernas Desert
An incredible nature reserve located in Spain’s Almeria Province is the Tabernas Desert. This place was labeled as ‘The Hollywood of Spain’ because it has been the filming location of many iconic Western movies. Indiana Jones, Lawrence of Arabia, Once Upon a Time in the West, and other famous spaghetti westerns of the 60s and 70s are all shot in this area. It is the only natural desert in Europe with about 280 square kilometers in size. The government makes sure that this unique landscape remains protected. Make sure to include this historic film location and natural wonder a part of your Spain day trips.
Río Verde
Level up your holiday to Granada, Spain, by having a thrilling adventure at Río Verde. It is the ideal alternative if you want to get some action but don’t want to be on crowded beaches. Here, you can jump, rappel, or slide through the Río Verde canyon. End your trip by dipping in its refreshing waters. Be sure to book managed excursions to ensure a safe and fun experience in this majestic place.
Antequera
Another beautiful Spanish town to visit is Antequera. It is not a popular holiday base for travelers, but this hidden jewel of Andalusia shouldn’t be underestimated. Throughout the city, you will discover monuments of historical wealth and significant architectural developments. One of Spain’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites is located in this place which is the Dolmen Tombs. The city is also full of natural wonders, including Torcal de Antequera, Caminito Del Rey, and Ardales Lakes. Indeed, Antequera is not just a stopover as it is a town worthy of having a vacation aside from Granada, Spain city.
More to Explore Aside from Granada
Indeed, Spain has a lot to offer to aspiring vacationers. If you have already gone through all the top things to do in Granada, don’t fret because you can arrange day trips to nearby cities as suggested above. Just make sure to book your trips in accredited tours for your safety. Check out our City Guide to Seville and you can also check out our City Guide to Malaga here.