Granada in 2 days: an itinerary with the Alhambra, Albaicín and Sacromonte
Quick answer
For 2 days in Granada, spend the first on the Alhambra, the Nasrid Palaces and the Generalife (€22.27, booked ahead) and the second on the Albaicín, the Sacromonte, the centre and the cathedral. End each day with tapas and a sunset from a viewpoint.
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Day 1: the Alhambra and Generalife
A full day for the Alhambra, without rushing. Adjust times to your Nasrid Palaces slot.
- 1
08:30 · Alhambra · Justice Gate
Alcazaba
Start with the oldest fortress, with views over the whole city. About 45 minutes.
- 2
09:30 · Nasrid Palaces
Nasrid Palaces
Enter in your slot. Mexuar, Comares and the Court of the Lions. An unhurried hour and a half; with AnyArt you can point at an inscription or a muqarnas ceiling.
- 3
11:30 · Charles V Palace
Charles V Palace and museum
The circular courtyard and the Alhambra Museum.
- 4
12:30 · Generalife
Generalife
Courtyards, channels and gardens.
- 5
14:00 · Centre
Lunch and rest
Walk down to the centre and eat at leisure; rest before the evening.
- 6
17:00 · Carrera del Darro
Carrera del Darro
An easy stroll at the foot of the Alhambra.
- 7
18:30 · Albaicín
Sunset at San Nicolás
Climb to the viewpoint for sunset with the Alhambra lit up.
- 8
20:30 · Albaicín
Dinner
Tapas and dinner on a terrace in the Albaicín.
Day 2: Albaicín, Sacromonte and the centre
A slower day for the Moorish quarter, the Sacromonte and the Christian centre.
- 1
09:30 · Albaicín
Albaicín
Explore its lanes and walled gardens in your own time. Best in the morning, with fewer people.
- 2
11:30 · Sacromonte
Sacromonte
Climb to the cave quarter and the viewpoint over the Darro valley. Flamenco zambras are usually in the evening.
- 3
13:30 · Realejo
Lunch in the Realejo
Tapas in the former Jewish quarter, calmer than the centre.
- 4
16:00 · Cathedral and Royal Chapel
Cathedral and Royal Chapel
The great Renaissance church and the tomb of the Catholic Monarchs. Check official hours and prices first.
- 5
17:30 · Alcaicería and Bib-Rambla
Alcaicería
A stroll through the old silk market, now craft shops.
- 6
20:00 · Centre
Tapas dinner
A tapas crawl through the centre; in many bars the tapa comes free with your drink.
Tips for planning the 2 days
- Book the Alhambra first and plan the rest of the trip around your slot.
- Bring your ID and the purchase card to collect the tickets.
- If you prefer fewer early starts, take the Alhambra in the afternoon (if your slot allows).
- Consider the night visit to the Nasrid Palaces if no day slots are left.
Frequently asked questions
Is 2 days enough for Granada?
Yes: one for the Alhambra and one for the Albaicín, Sacromonte and centre. With 3 days you could add the Sierra Nevada or a slower day.
Which day should I visit the Alhambra?
The first, in the morning, so you arrive rested and with a well-chosen Nasrid Palaces slot.
How much is the Alhambra?
€22.27 for the general day ticket. Night visits to the Nasrid Palaces cost €12.73.
Is the Sacromonte worth it?
Yes, for the views and the flamenco atmosphere, especially at dusk.
Where should I stay in Granada?
In the centre (Plaza Nueva) or the lower Albaicín, to reach most sights on foot.