19 Day Trips from Granada
Granada couples age-old architectural gems and postcard-worthy panoramas in the heart of Eastern Andalusia. If you tire of the historical hot spots and tasty tapas scene, venture to the outskirts on one of these top day trips from Granada.
Spain is home to a slew of stunning travel destinations, but here’s why Granada should be added to your bucket list. This city in Southern Spain boasts an eclectic mix of Islamic and Renaissance architectural and historical influences.
Tucked on the cusp of the Sierra Nevada mountains, opportunities await adventure and nature fanatics alike.
From the jaw-dropping Alhambra Complex to the whitewashed streets of Albayzín, Granada is steeped deep in character.
Having lived in Barcelona for the past six years, I’ve been fortunate enough to have travelled most of the country.
The diversity never ceases to amaze me, from the Balearic Islands to the Canary Islands. Granada is easily one of my favourite places to visit in Spain, without hesitation.
I spent my days in Granada sipping sangria, waltzing around the monuments and watching flamenco in traditional cave houses. If you’re looking for an all-inclusive guide, check out this post on How to Plan a Trip to Granada.
For the ultimate escape, add one of these day trips from Granada to your itinerary. A little bit of time in the surrounding mountains, beaches or vineyards could be exactly what you need to amp things up.
Best Day Trips from Granada
Granada is well worth visiting, thanks to its rich culture, culinary delights and architectural landmarks. The UNESCO World Heritage Sites will keep you entertained for days on end. Whether you choose to explore the nearby neighbourhoods or venture further out to bigger cities, a day trip is the perfect way to mix up your sightseeing itinerary.
Here’s a brief summary of the top day trips from Granada:
Gorafe
Guadix
Setenil de las Bodegas
Jaén City
Úbeda y Baeza
Soportujar
Nerja
Almería
Cordoba
Montefrío
Frigiliana
Zahara de la Sierra
Júzcar (Pueblo Pitufo)
Antequera
Malaga
Pampaneira
Caminito del Rey
Sierra Nevada
Ronda
19. Gorafe
Distance from Granada: 1 hour by car
Best Way to Get There: Car
Let’s kick off this list of Granada day trips with Gorafe, a unique site in the Andalusia region. The name Gorafe literally translates to ‘upper chambers’ in Arabic. Perfect for describing the huge haul of historical cave houses that are dotted throughout the area.
Dating back to the 12th century, these 150-metre excavations boast enough to keep you entertained for the entire day. Home to the largest makeup of prehistoric burial mounds in Spain, you can even hike around the 240 Neolithic dolmens that are spread across 10 necropolises. If you’re an active traveller, don’t miss the annual trail race, called “Trail Run Desierto de Gorafe”.
18. Guadix
Distance from Granada: 45 minutes by car
Best Way to Get There: Car
Guadix is a melting pot of cultural influences, with Roman, Jewish, Arabic, and Christian architectural styles. This town is well-known as the ‘European Capital of Caves’, thanks to its 2000-and-something inhabited underground caves. These ancient sites have been adapted to modern times and provide a striking contrast of experiences.
The natural constant temperature is 19ºC (66ºF) and there’s even noise reduction because of the clay. Hike through Guadix Geopark and get immersed in the lyrical landscape of the paleontological sites and colourful badlands (rugged terrain). Gaudix is one of the best day trips from Granada, especially if you’re interested in nature and the outdoors.
17. Setenil de las Bodegas
Distance from Granada: 2 hours by car
Best Way to Get There: Car
This hilltop-hugging white town is an absolute show-stopper. Setenil de las Bodegas is known for its architecture, with many of the houses and buildings being built into the rocks.
Wind through the labyrinth of saline-white streets that are overshadowed by plundering clifftops. Stop for an espresso in a cafe, admire the art that’s dotted around town and feel like you’ve stepped back in time. This Pueblo Blanco is just a 20-minute drive away from Ronda, a famous place to visit in Spain. Kill two birds with one stone and visit them both on a day trip from Granada.
16. Jaén
Distance from Granada: 1 hour by car
Best Way to Get There: Car or Bus
Jaén is located in the northern end of Andalusia. As the capital of the Jaén province, the city is surrounded by olive groves.
Jaen is famous for olive oil production, and it’s even recognised as the ‘Olive Oil Capital of the World’. Yaowza.
Aside from the verdant olive groves scattered around the city, Jaén boasts the biggest number of castles and fortresses in Spain.
Discover the incredible Renaissance Cathedral (Catedral de la Asunción), visit the Moorish Baths (Baños Árabes) and pop into the Palace of Cobaleda Nicuesa.
The construction took place over several centuries, so you can just imagine how much detail is packed into every corner. If you only have time to do one thing, make it the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Jaén Cathedral. This 16th-century cathedral by Andrea Vandelvira is a must-see!
15. Úbeda y Baeza
Distance from Granada to Ubeda: 1 hour and 30 mins
Distance from Granada to Baeza: 1 hour and 20 mins
Best Way to Get There: Car or Bus
These two cities are located in the province of Jaen. Both Ubeda and Baeza are famous for the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Renaissance Monumental Ensembles of Úbeda and Baeza.
Úbeda is known as ‘Florence of Andalucia’, due to its stunning Renaissance architecture and thriving history. Woven with an al-Andalus past, the city held significance for its handicrafts and trade. Baeza includes settlements that date all the way back to the 5th millennium BC. The city’s iconic architectural and cultural monuments make it a must-see for any Spain trip.
Both Ubeda and Baeza’s architectural influence is complimented by the surrounding olive groves. The area is known for its olive oil production, so you could combine a visit with a tasting. If you’re on the hunt for an architectural fix, this is a great day trip from Granada, Spain.
14. Soportujar
Distance from Granada: 1 hour and 15 minutes by car
Best Way to Get There: Car
Situated in the Alpujarra region, Soportújar is a quaint village nestled in the mountains. Famous for its folklore traditions, this Pueblo Blanco is often referred to as the ‘Village of Witches’.
Swing by the chocolate house of Hansel and Gretel, visit the Soportújar Town Hall and don’t miss the Witch's Eye Cave. Usually, two hours is enough to see the town and see the top attractions on the haunted route.
If you want to do a hiking route in the surroundings of Soportújar, set aside at least two to three hours. This is a unique day trip from Granada, and if you’re interested in folklore and tradition, you really cannot go wrong here.
13. Nerja
Distance from Granada: 1 hour by car
Best Way to Get There: Car or Guided Tour
Nerja is located in the province of Malaga. This coastal town is slewed with sublime beaches and turquoise waters. Nerja has been inhabited since the Palaeolithic era around 25,000 years ago.
The Nerja Caves (Cuevas de Nerja) are replete with remains of prehistoric paintings and objects. Plus, they are home to the world’s longest and largest stalactite (an icicle-shaped structure that hangs from the roof of a cave). This Granada day trip is ideal for those who love nature, beaches and history.
12. Almería
Distance from Granada: 1 hour and 45 minutes
Best Way to Get There: Car or Bus
Almeria is one of the best places in Spain to enjoy untamed beaches. This coastal city in Andalusia poses plenty of opportunities for foodies too, thanks to its vibrant food scene. With outdoor adventure and jaw-dropping landmarks sewn into the heart of the city, you’ll embark on a day trip from the godsend.
Known for its Moorish influence, Almeria is woven with a prehistoric culture that dates back to the Bronze Age. Los Millares archaeological site dates back to the Copper Age, which pins it as one of the most significant places to visit on the Iberian Peninsula.
Add historical hot spots like the Catedral de Almería, the Muralla de Jayrán and the Alcazaba to your bucket list. Don’t leave without seeing the world’s largest gypsum crystal, the Geoda of Pulpí. Be sure to book your tickets in advance so you don’t miss out.
Driving is generally the best day to get to Almeria, but there are a handful of buses available too. If you don’t plan on hiring a car, this is one of the best day trips from Granada by bus.
11. Cordoba
Distance from Granada: 2 hours and 15 minutes by car
Best Way to Get There: Car, Bus or Guided Tour
Córdoba flaunts a multicultural mix of architectural sites, with Moorish, Gothic and Hispanic influences.
From the UNESCO-listed Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba and the ancient Jewish Quarter to the Azahara Medina and the Alcazar de los Reyes Cristianos, this city is a traveller’s treasure trove.
Cordoba was once the world’s largest city and it’s incredibly rich in history.
Get a glimpse of the city’s past in the four different UNESCO World Heritage Sites - La Mezquita Mosque and Cathedral, the Old Town, Cordoba Patios and the Medina Azahara.
Visit the fairytale-like Almódovar Castle, get a dose of greenery at the Viana Palace Gardens and wander around the Jewish Quarter. Better yet, Córdoba is easily accessible by public transport. If you’re unable to rent a hire, this is one of the best day trips from Granada by train.
10. Montefrío
Distance from Granada: 50 minutes by car
Best Way to Get There: Car
Montefrio is located in the province of Granada and is home to a huge haul of attractions. Wander astray at the highest point, where the ruins of a Moorish castle boast awe-worthy views. Serving as a halfway point between the Sierra de Priego and Sierra Parapanda, it was one of the most prominent Moorish fortresses in the 15th century.
This white village was even highlighted by National Geographic as one of the top 10 best views in the world. If you’re an active traveller, hit the trails of one of the three main hiking routes: Peñas de los Gitanos, Arroyo de los Molinos, and Sierra de Parapanda. This Granada day trip poses plenty of natural wonders, so be sure to pack your walking shoes.
9. Frigiliana
Distance from Granada: 1 hour and 10 minutes by car
Best Way to Get There: Car or Guided Tour
The Pueblos Blancos (White Towns) in Andalusia hone in millions of tourists a year. Frigiliana is dotted with white-splashed homes and winding cobblestone streets. Tucked in the mountains, the surrounding greenery offers a picture-perfect contrast.
The village is rich in Christian, Muslim, and Jewish influences, and you can really get a feel for that as you explore. Each year in August, you can catch the Tres Culturas festival. The annual fiesta celebrates the architecture, culture and history of each of the three cultures.
This white village is around 15 minutes from Nerja, so you could combine to two. You can see most of the town within two to three hours, making it one of the best day trips from Granada, Spain.
8. Zahara de la Sierra
Distance from Granada: 2 hours and 20 minutes by car
Best Way to Get There: Car
Located in the province of Cádiz, Zahara de la Sierra is one of the most beautiful Pueblos Blancos. Nestled in the hills of Andalusia, the town is tucked on a rocky outcrop and surrounded by blindingly blue waters. Topped by views of a man-made lake and a valley, the scenery looks like it’s been ripped straight out of an adventure book.
Venture into the Castle of Zahara de la Sierra, which is perched at the highest peak above the village. This Moorish castle was built in the 13th century and has the best views of the surrounding landscape.
7. Júzcar (Pueblo Pitufo)
Distance from Granada: 2 hours and 30 minutes by car
Best Way to Get There: Car
This real-life ‘Smurf Village’ is one of the most unique day trips from Granada, Spain. Júzcar, also known as Aldea Azul, was actually a white town up until 2011. Sony ES painted the entire village blue for the Smurfs film. And to this day, every corner is covered in blue and Smurf-inspired art.
Located in the province of Malaga, this part of Southern Spain is just 22 km from Ronda. So I’d recommend coupling the two towns on a day trip. Juzcar is quite small, and you can see most of the town in less than two hours.
6. Antequera
Distance from Granada: 1 hour and 10 minutes by car
Best Way to Get There: Car or Bus
Antequera is nestled in the Malaga province and is also referred to as the ‘Ancient City’. This picturesque pueblo blanco was once one of the most significant cities in the 16th century. Sewn with a rich tapestry of cultural heritage and historical monuments, it’s definitely a delight for history buffs. Some sites date back to the Bronze Age!
Step inside the 12th-century Alcazaba and don’t miss the El Torcal de Antequera. Marvel at the UNESCO-listed Dolmens of Antequera, a prehistoric archaeological site that’s one of the best examples of European Megaliths. Here, there are five monuments: La Peña de los Enamorados, Tholos of El Romeral, El Torcal, Menga and Viera Dolmens.
If you don’t plan on hiring a car in Southern Spain, this is an ideal day trip from Granada by bus. The total journey time is around 1 hour and 45 minutes, with frequent services throughout the day.
5. Malaga
Distance from Granada: 1 hour and 30 minutes by car
Best Way to Get There: Car or Bus
Malaga sits in the heart of Southern Spain and is fringed with a fascinating Andalusian heritage.
From the Alcazaba Fortress to the vibrant Mercado Central de Atarazanas, there are many exciting things to do in Málaga.
Located in the Costa del Sol, this city in Spain is known for its warm weather, beautiful beaches and colourful cultural events. Plus, it’s the birthplace of Pablo Picasso, so you can expect to find many museums and art galleries.
Malaga is melded with a mix of modern and old, making it a standout choice for those looking for a mix of both.
Check out the Picasso Museum, go modern in the Centre for Contemporary Art and visit the fairytale-like castle, the Colomares Monument.
Malaga is one of the top day trips from Granada by train, as it’s located only 1 hour and 20 minutes away. The city is well-connected with public transport, so you can dip in and out of all the big attractions with ease.
4. Pampaneira
Distance from Granada: 1 hour and 15 minutes by car
Best Way to Get There: Car
Pampaneira is famous for its handwoven textiles, artisanal crafts and intricately detailed carpets. This town is located in the Alpujarra region, making it a great location to combine with some of the other white villages. The destination is a must-see for hiking enthusiasts, as it’s situated on the southern side of the Sierra Nevada mountain range.
Pampaneira’s history dates back to the Moorish epoch, and you can see that influence throughout the town. The village’s architecture and culture is unique, and the best way to see it all is by walking. Wind through the narrow streets and admire the traditional Alpujarra tinaos. The wooden-carved balconies and character-packed courtyards are filled with flowers, so don’t forget to bring your camera!
3. Caminito del Rey
Distance from Granada: 2 hours and 10 minutes by Car
Best Way to Get There: Car, Bus, or Guided Tour
Hugging the hills of El Chorro, El Caminito del Rey is one of Spain’s most sublime sights. This eerie gorge hike wraps around the narrow clifftops and leads to the Rock Church of Bobastro, the Necropolis of Las Aguilillas and the Ardales Cave. This bucket list-worthy experience is one of the top day trips from Granada, Spain.
El Caminito del Rey was once known as the world’s most hazardous footpath, and the backdrop provides enough adrenaline to keep you going for days. Literally. The 8 km (5 mile) path is not for the faint-hearted. The path takes anywhere between three to four hours to complete, so be sure to pack your walking shoes and plenty of water.
2. Sierra Nevada
Distance from Granada: 1 hour and 30 minutes by car
Best Way to Get There: Car or Guided Tour
If you're looking to get away from the busy streets of Granada, venture into the Sierra Nevada mountains. It's a quick bus ride from the city centre, and the landscape will have you feeling like you’re worlds away.
With awe-inspiring views of the rugged landscape, the mountains serve as an ideal place to get active. Ignite the spirit of adventure on the hiking trails, get refreshed in the swimming spots and test your limits on the suspension bridges.
As the second-highest peak on the Iberian Peninsula, it’s also an incredible location to enjoy the winter season. Don't miss the chance to hit the ski slopes!
1. Ronda
Distance from Granada: 2 hours and 15 minutes by car
Best Way to Get There: Car or Bus
Ronda is home to an eclectic expanse of attractions. Perched on a plateau that overlooks a gorge, this town will have you screaming ‘Oh my God’. The scenery is dramatic, for lack of a better word.
Walk on the suspended Puente Nuevo stone bridge and get immersed in the rich bullfighting culture in the Plaza de Toros. Waltz around the 14th-century Mondragon Palace and check out the ancient Roman ruins of Acinipo. This iconic Pueblo Blanco in Spain dates back to the 6th century, making it one of the oldest towns of Andalucia.
The 120-metre-deep Puente Nuevo (New Bridge) makes it worth seeing alone. The cliffside location and deep canyon may even give you butterflies. If you only have time for a day trip from Granada, Spain, I’d highly recommend visiting Ronda.
More Day Trips in Granada
More?! Yes, more. Why not? If these 19 ideas didn’t tickle your pickle, check out the following options. Whether you’re searching for day trips from Granada by train, bus or car, you’ll have plenty to choose from.
Orce
Lanjarón
Salobreña
Almuñecar
Southern Spain Itinerary
Granada’s flamenco performances, cuisine and architecture make it one of the best places to visit in Spain.
So why not combine a few days in these whitewashed streets with a trip around Andalusia?
Southern Spain flaunts fascinating traditions, lively flamenco and a riveting culture, but it can be hard trying to see it all in one go. That’s why I made this Andalusia itinerary for 7 days.
In this Southern Spain Itinerary, we’ll cover the following:
Day 1 Seville
Day 2: Cordoba
Day 3: Granada
Day 4: Malaga
Day 5: Costa del Sol
Day 6: Ronda & Setenil de las Bodegas
Day 7: Cadiz
Best Time to Visit Granada
Now that you know about the best day trips from Granada, we can get stuck into some of the details. This Andalusian hot spot has a Mediterranean climate, but each month of the year offers something different.
The best time to visit Granada depends on your preferences, travel style, budget and the type of experiences you’re after. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect in each season.
Spring
From March to May, the temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). Granada’s well-known gardens and parks come into full bloom, ushering in a romantic ambience that is perfect for couples. The spring boasts fewer tourists compared to the peak summer months, making it a suitable option for those who are mainly interested in sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Summer
From June to August, the weather in Granada can bring in scorching hot temperatures over 30°C (86°F). The summer is Granada’s peak tourist season. If you plan a trip to Granada during this time, expect big crowds, high prices and long waiting times. That said, summer is one of the best times to immerse yourself in the lively street life, outdoor dining and nightlife too.
Autumn
From September to November, the temperature ranges between 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). Autumn is considered the best time to visit Granada, as you’ll find fewer crowds and budget-friendly rates on accommodation, activities and airfares. It’s also ideal to see the Sierra Nevada Mountains as they change into all shades of orange, yellow and gold. Magical!
Winter
From December to February, the weather in Granada ranges from 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F). Winter can be quite cold, so it’s a suitable time for sightseeing and indoor attractions. If you’re a snow-loving adrenaline junkie, this is the best time to enjoy winter sports in the Sierra Nevada Mountains.
Things to do in Granada
If diving deep into the planning process makes you feel more overwhelmed than excited, save these hot spots for your travel itinerary. Don’t miss a thing with this guide on the Best Things to do in Granada, Spain.
Trek the trails on this Los Cahorros de Monachil Canyon Hiking Tour
Visit the Alhambra and Andalusi Monuments
Step inside a 16th Renaissance-style Palace, Patio de Los Perfumes
Marvel at the Granada Cathedral
Watch a flamenco show
Explore the Sierra Nevada mountains
Step inside the Sacromonte Caves
How to Get Around Granada
In order to embark on the best day trips from Granada, you’re going to need to know how to get around.
Granada is a very walkable city and renting an e-bike is a fun way of exploring the surrounding neighbourhoods. If you want to take a day trip, opt for a motorbike or car.
Be mindful that driving in Granada's city centre isn't all that ideal. The narrow streets and limited parking spaces can make it a nightmare. The city is well-connected with public transport. The bus and train network will help you reach other cities.
Where to Stay in Granada
Whether you want to indulge in tasty tapas or awe-worthy architecture, Granada offers something to satisfy every type of traveller.
Stay in a traditional cave house in Sacromonte or keep it low-key in the Ronda district. Whatever your style, there’s no doubt that you’ll find something for you. You can see it all in this detailed guide on the Best Places to Stay in Granada.
Budget (€): Hostal Sonia Granada
Mid-Range (€€): Casa de la Catedral
Luxury (€€€): Alhambra Palace
FAQs
What are the best day trips around Granada, Spain?
Seville and Cordoba are the best for historical landmarks and culture, while the Sierra Nevada mountains offer unparalleled natural splendour. Alpujarras is ideal for a quaint village experience, while Nerja is the best fit for beach lovers.
Is Ronda a day trip from Granada?
Ronda is a great day trip if you choose to rent a car. The driving distance is 178 km (111 miles) and the total journey time is around two to three hours.
How many days should I spend in Granada?
If it's your first time in Granada, set aside at least two to three days in Granada. You’ll be able to see a few of the top attractions, eat plenty of tapas and maybe even do a day trip.
Is it worth staying in Granada?
Granda is rich with cultural, historical and architectural delights. From the Alhambra complex to the whitewashed streets, this city in Andalusia is well worth visiting.
Why Should You Take a Day Trip from Granada?
If you tire of trotting around the top attractions, ignite the spirit of adventure on a day trip from Granada, Spain. Sip sangria in Ronda, hike the Caminito del Rey or hit the slopes on a winter getaway in the Sierra Nevada.