Andalusia 7-day Itinerary
Spain
Where to go and what to see in Andalusia to get the most from your trip – a 7-day itinerary from destination expert and travel writer Dana Facaros.
Bucket list experience:
A view of Alhambra Palace in Granada, Spain
The pinnacle of the exquisite refinement and sophistication of Moorish Spain, the Alhambra is where the Arabian Nights come to life.
Dominating Granada from its spectacular hilltop location, with the Sierra Nevada looming in the background, it was the base of the Nasrid kings, the Alhambra ruled from the 13th century until 1492.
Visits include the main palace with the famous lion fountain patio, the Generalife summer palace and its fountain-filled courtyard, the enchanting gardens, the Alcazaba fortress and the Renaissance Palace of Charles V with its circular courtyard: so allow at least three hours to see everything while drinking in the unforgettable views.
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Spain
Where to go and what to see in Andalusia to get the most from your trip – a 7-day itinerary from destination expert and travel writer Dana Facaros.
It’s a 20-minute walk up from the centre of Granada, or take a taxi or minibus C32 or C30.
Book timed tickets online at least two months in advance or consider a guided tour to get the most out of Alhambra and its many stories. Note that your time slot is for entry into the Nasrid Palaces themselves, within the complex’s walls; be punctual.
Bring plenty of water; food is available at the Parador.
The site is open all year round, seven days a week.
Go early (the complex opens at 8.30am) or book a night tour, when it’s less crowded. Or go in January or February when tourist numbers are fewest, although the gardens won’t be at their best.
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Our writer’s picks of the best places to stay near this experience, closest first
Granada, Andalusia, Spain[0.1 miles]
Granada’s parador, occupying a late 15th-century monastery, combines charm, history, service and enchanting views with an incomparable location, right on the grounds of the Alhambra.
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Granada, Andalusia, Spain[0.2 miles]
A peaceful, contemporary five-star hotel with a rooftop pool and views, just a few minutes down from the Alhambra.
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Granada, Andalusia, Spain[0.4 miles]
Overlooking the Alhambra, Granada’s most evocative boutique hotel occupies a superbly restored 15th-century mansion, full of romance and charm.
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Sierra de Nevada, Andalusia, Spain[7.7 miles]
A delightful rustic-chic boutique hotel in the Sierra Nevada, perfect for hiking or skiing – and only ten minutes from Granada.
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Destination guides including or relevant to this experience
Andalusia, Spain
A big dazzling region, packed with fascinating cities, beautiful landscapes and beaches, colourful fiestas and oodles of sunshine.
Andalusia, Spain
Crowned by the dreamlike Alhambra, this vibrant Spanish-Arab culture capital combines fascinating sights and lively nightlife with the Sierra Nevada on the doorstep.
Other worthwhile experiences near this experience if you have time or interest..
Granada, Andalusia, Spain[0.5 miles]
Stunningly-restored 13th-century Arab baths, using pure water from the Sierra Nevada in a range of Moroccan-style aromatherapy massages. Numbers are limited to make sure you book online before you go.
Best for ages: 5+ | £30 | 1-3 hours
Granada, Andalusia, Spain[0.9 miles]
This jewel of intricate, lace-like Isabelline Gothic architecture, built just after the end of the Reconquista between 1505-17, holds the tombs of Ferdinand and Isabella, their daughter Joanna ‘the Mad’ and her husband Philip – parents of emperor Charles V.
Best for ages: 18+ | Free
Granada, Andalusia, Spain[1.5 miles]
Atmospheric, Arab-style baths by Granada cathedral, with a hammam, aromatherapy treatments and exceptional massages including al-hakam, a full-body coating of warm chocolate, pepper and cinnamon.
Best for ages: 10+ | £22 | 1-3 hours
Round-ups that include this experience
Multiple countries
The great civilisations of the past have left a legacy of constructions that still stand out and inspire. Built without the wonders of 20th-century technology, many are also monumental feats of engineering; others offer such grace and beauty, that they’ll literally take your breath away.