Looking for the best day trips from Granada? You’re in the right place!😍 Whether you’re spending a few days in the city, traveling through Andalusia, or living here long-term, Granada is the perfect base for day trips and exploring southern Spain.
Thanks to its central spot between the Sierra Nevada mountains and the Costa del Sol, Granada puts you within easy reach of snow-capped peaks, beaches with crystal-clear waters, and endless, historic wonders.
From Pueblos Blancos (whitewashed villages) and dramatic coastlines to UNESCO World Heritage Sites and hidden gems, there’s no shortage of incredible day trips just a short ride away.
Here are the 17 best day trips from Granada—ranging from major cities to lesser-known towns you won’t want to miss👇
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Best day trips from Granada (Shortest to Longest commute)
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1. Jaén City
- 🗺️ Distance from Granada: 1 hour 4 mins by car
- 🚗 Best Way to Get There: Car or Bus
- 🌟 Main Reason to Visit: “Olive Oil Capital of the World” and Jaén Cathedral.
- This Day Trip Perfect For: People who love olive oil and want to dive deeper into Spanish culture.
Jaén city is the beautiful capital province of Jaén, in the northern part of Andalucia. Surrounded by endless landscapes of olive groves, Jaen is famous for its INCREDIBLE olive oil – aka, liquid gold. Jaén is recognized as the “Olive Oil Capital of the World” and is a leading oil producer.
Among the olive oil and the dreamiest landscapes, Jaén is home to the largest number of castles, fortresses, and spaces in Spain. In this provincial capital, you will find a stunning Renaissance Cathedral, Moorish Baths, the Palace of Cobaleda Nicuesa, and more.
The Jaén Cathedral is an extension of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Renaissance Monumental Ensembles of Úbeda and Baeza. This massive 16th-century cathedral, created by architect Andrea Vandelvira, is a “Paradigm of Renaissance architecture” – making it a must-visit!
If you are an olive oil lover and want the best olive oil from Spain, do NOT miss out on the olive oil tour with tastings!👇
2. Nerja
- 🗺️ Distance from Granada: 1 hour by car
- 🚗 Best Way to Get There: Car, Bus or Guided Tour
- 🌟 Main Reason to Visit: Its mesmerizing waters and prehistoric Nerja Caves
- 📖 Guides: One Day in Nerja Itinerary
- This Day Trip is Perfect For: Families, Beach lovers, and Water-Sport Enthusiasts.
This is a coastal town in the province of Malaga that hosts stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and rich history.
This beautiful town was first inhabited during the early Palaeolithic age – about 25,000 years ago. The historic Nerja Caves are home to prehistoric paintings and artifacts dating back 25,000 years
Furthermore, the Nerja Caves are home to the world’s longest and largest stalactite. While the prehistoric paintings are not open to the public, the Cuevas de Nerja are nothing short of mesmerizing.
Getting back to Nerja’s water and beaches… I can confirm that visiting (on a day trip) without a bathing suit will cause you the biggest heartbreak. The waters of Nerja are so crystal clear and blue that you may tear up.
Being a coastal town, there are endless water activities to enjoy – from snorkeling to kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and even Parasailing!
All the beaches here are free and spacious, meaning you can set up your spot wherever you like. The only important thing to note is that many of the beaches are pebble beaches. Therefore, I recommend having water shoes.
Check out these highly-rated experiences in Nerja, and book the one that’s right for you!👇
3. Frigiliana
- 🗺️ Distance from Granada: 1 hour and 8 minutes by car
- 🚗 Best Way to Get There: Car or Guided Tour
- 🌟 Main Reason to Visit: Its beauty
- This Day Trip is Perfect For: People who love BEAUTIFUL hidden gems.
Frigiliana is often called one of the prettiest white villages in Spain—and it lives up to the title.
Just a short drive from Nerja, this small town is full of charm, with narrow cobbled streets, buildings decorated with bright-colored flowers and flower pots, and sweeping views of the Mediterranean and surrounding mountains.
The village is especially known for honoring its Christian, Muslim, and Jewish roots. That blend of cultures is celebrated every August during the Festival de las Tres Culturas, a multi-day event with food stalls, music, and street performances
Frigiliana is small enough to explore in a couple of hours, making it a perfect stop before or after visiting Nerja. Here you’ll find artisan shops, cafés and restaurants with scenic terraces, and plenty of quiet corners to enjoy.
If you’re into local products, look for cane honey (miel de caña)—Frigiliana is one of the few places in Europe where it’s still made.
There is no bus or train service here. The best way to reach Frigiliana is to drive from Granada or take a bus to Nerja and then a quick taxi ride up to the village.
Planning a visit Nerja? This best-rated guided tour brings you to the Caves and Frigiliana too!👇
4. Antequera
- 🔥 Book These Tickets ASAP: Dolmens and El Torcal Tour with Transfer
- 🗺️ Distance from Granada: 1 hour and 12 minutes by car
- 🚗 Best Way to Get There: Car, Bus, or Train
- 🌟 Main Reason to Visit: Dolmens of Antequera and El Torcal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- 📖 Guide: Best Things to Do in Antequera, Spain
- This Day Trip is Perfect For: Nature lovers, Hikers, and People who love hidden gems.
Antequera is a picturesque pueblo blanco in Málaga province, nicknamed the “Heart of Andalusia” for its central location between Granada, Seville, Málaga, and Córdoba.
Despite its size, this town is packed with historic and natural wonders. From Bronze Age megaliths to Moorish fortresses and surreal landscapes, it’s one of the most underrated day trips from Granada.
One of the many must-visits, is the town’s 12th-century Alcazaba, built by the Nasrids – which sits high on a hill and may even rest on ancient Roman ruins. It offers panoramic views and a solid intro to Antequera’s layered past.
Just outside the town lies one of Spain’s most impressive UNESCO sites: the Dolmens of Antequera. These massive stone tombs—Menga, Viera, and El Romeral—date back to the Bronze Age and are among the best examples of European megalithic architecture.
Not far from the Dolmens is El Torcal de Antequera, a natural park known for its jaw-dropping limestone formations created over 100 million years ago. It’s free to enter and has marked trails for all levels, including two that are wheelchair accessible.
If you want to see both sites without the hassle of driving, this top-rated guided tour includes transfers, entry, and a local expert to bring everything to life. Book your tickets before it sells out.👇
5. Soportujar
- 🗺️ Distance from Granada: 1 hour and 11 minutes by car
- 🚗 Best Way to Get There: Car or Bus
- 🌟 Main Reason to Visit: Unique witch-themed village in the mountains
- This Day Trip is Perfect For: Families, People who love UNIQUE hidden gems, and anything Witch-themed.
Welcome to the witchiest town of Andalucia! Located in the Alpujarra region, Soportújar is a small and quaint mountain village full of folklore traditions.
When walking around this small Pueblo Blanco, you will find endless attractions and statues – one being the chocolate house of Hansel and Gretel.
This is the perfect town to visit during October because what better way to celebrate Halloween than in a witchy village? Should you visit, I highly encourage dressing up or, at least, wearing a witch/wizard hat!
You can reach Soportújar by car or bus. Driving takes just over an hour, but the narrow, winding mountain roads can be a bit stressful. Buses offer a more relaxed option, though travel time stretches to 2–3 hours and may require a transfer.
6. Lanjarón | The Town of Water
- 🗺️ Distance from Granada: 42 minutes by car
- 🚗 Best Way to Get There: Car or Bus
- 🌟 Main Reason to Visit: Beautiful village that’s home to the freshest water in Andalusia.
- This Day Trip is Perfect For: Families and people who love small towns, nature, and fresh water!
Known as the Pueblo del Agua (Water Town), Lanjarón is a peaceful white village on the edge of the Alpujarra mountains—just 40 minutes from Granada.
This town is best known for its naturally pure mineral water, sourced from the nearby Sierra Nevada. If the name sounds familiar, it’s probably because you’ve seen it on bottles—Lanjarón water is sold all across Spain.
Beyond its delicious spring water, Lanjarón offers scenic hiking trails, calm mountain views, and incredible artisan shops. Some must-visits include the Columpio swing overlooking the valley, the ruins of the Castillo Árabe, and the town center itself.
Food-wise, make sure try a traditional Plato Alpujarreño, a rustic dish of sausage, ham, eggs, and potatoes. Oh, and make sure to pick up some local cheese and honey while you’re there.
While I’d usually advise to not visit Andalusia in the hot summer months, Lanjarón is especially worth visiting during the week leading up to San Juan in June.
The town comes alive with a five-day festival, capped off by the famous Carrera del Agua—a midnight water fight where locals throw buckets of water as everyone runs through the streets.
Buses run directly from Granada to Lanjarón, making it an easy day trip. If you’re not a fan of curvy mountain roads, the bus is a great option.
7. Úbeda y Baeza
- 🗺️ Distance from Granada: 1 hour and 34 mins (Úbeda) – 1 hour and 26 mins (Baeza)
- 🚗 Best Way to Get There: Car or Bus
- 🌟 Main Reason to Visit: Olive Oil
- This Day Trip is Perfect For: Spanish Culture and Medieval Time Lovers, People who love hidden gems.
Welcome to the two cities of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Renaissance Monumental Ensembles of Úbeda and Baeza. Located in the province of Jaén, these two cities are also must-visits for any olive oil lover.
Úbeda, often nicknamed “Florence of Andalucia”, is a beautiful Renaissance city with a rich history. This city was once al-Andalus’ most important city due to its handicrafts and trade.
Úbeda has gone through several conquers and reconquers throughout its history, with the last one being from the Catholic Monarchs in the 16th century.
Baeza is Spain’s most beautiful Renaissance city and rightfully so! This city has settlements that date back to the 5th millenium BC.
Its incredible architectural and cultural splendor, on the other hand, dates back to the 16th century. Personally, this is one of the most beautiful cities I’ve seen!
Check out these highly-rated guided tours in Úbeda and Baeza, and book the one that’s right for you!👇
8. Sierra Nevada
- 🔥 Book These Tickets ASAP: Los Cahorros de Monachil Canyon Hiking Tour
- 🗺️ Distance from Granada: 1 hour by car
- 🚗 Best Way to Get There: Car, Bus, or Guided Tour
- 🌟 Main Reason to Visit: Stunning Mountain Range with the 2nd highest peak in the Iberian Peninsula
- This Day Trip is Perfect For: Nature lovers and Winter-Sport enthusiasts.
Attention nature and mountain lovers!! Sierra Nevada, the second-highest peak in the Iberian Peninsula, is the gorgeous mountain range that hugs Granada.
If you love hiking or are a winter sports enthusiast, this is simply a must-visit!😍
Check out these highly-rated experiences in Sierra Nevada, and book the one that’s right for you!👇
9. Malaga
- 🔥 Book These Tickets ASAP: Caminito del Rey Guided Tour (Transfer), Museo Picasso
- 🗺️ Distance from Granada: 1 hour and 30 minutes by car
- 🚗 Best Way to Get There: Car, Bus, or Train
- 🌟 Main Reason to Visit: Nightlife, Architecture, Art Museums (Picasso’s birthplace)
- This Day Trip is Perfect For: Art and Culture lovers, as well as beach lovers!
Does this city need an introduction?😍 The second largest city of Andalucia, Malaga is a beautiful city located in the Costa del Sol, known for its warm climate, beaches, and vibrant cultural scene.
For art lovers, Malaga is the birthplace of none other than Pablo Picasso – making it a must-visit for its museums!
Most impressively… Malaga is one of the oldest cities in the WORLD, with evidence of settlements dating to the 8th century BCE. Being such an old city, here you will find several important sites – including the Alcazaba and the Teatro Romano de Málaga.
It is important to note that, despite its “age”, Malaga is a very modern city – offering the best of both worlds between the city and historic life.
Check out these highly-rated experiences in Malaga, and book the one that’s right for you!👇
10. Almería
- 🗺️ Distance from Granada: 1 hour and 40 minutes by car
- 🚗 Best Way to Get There: Car or Bus
- 🌟 Main Reason to Visit: Geoda of Pulpí – the world’s largest (known) gypsum crystal that you can walk into.
- This Day Trip is Perfect For: Adventurers who love unique hidden gems.
Known for its mesmerizing untamed beaches, this coastal city offers a vibrant food scene, outdoor activities, landmarks, and more!
Almería was founded in 955 by the Moors, but has evidence of prehistoric culture dating back to the Age of Bronze! Some historic sites include the Catedral de Almería, Alcazaba, the Muralla de Jayrán, and the Los Millares archeological site.
The Los Millares archeological site dates back to the Copper Age, making it one of the most important in the Iberian Peninsula.
One incredible and unique must-see of Almeria is the Geoda of Pulpí – the world’s largest known gypsum crystal. The Geoda of Pulpí is a gem you can walk through, so make sure to reserve your spot far in advance as it’s a highly beloved activity!
Check out these highly-rated experiences in Almeria, and book the one that’s right for you!👇
11. Caminito del Rey
- 🔥 Book These Tickets ASAP: Entry Tickets OR Guided Tour From Granada
- 🗺️ Distance from Granada: 1 hour and 48 minutes by car
- 🚗 Best Way to Get There: Car or Guided Tour
- 🌟 Main Reason to Visit: Once the world’s most dangerous path, with STUNNING views.
- 📖 Guides: What to Know before Caminito del Rey, 11 Burning Questions Answered
- This Day Trip is Perfect For: Adventure lovers looking for a thrill and an unforgettable experience.
Once known as the world’s most hazardous footpath, this 8km (5 miles) path is not for the faint of heart. The Caminito del Rey is an aerial path from the 20th century that is “suspended 100 meters up against the walls of the gorge“. The path is linear and can take around 3 to 4 hours to complete.
Learn Everything to Know before Visiting and get answers to 11 Burning Questions!
This “little walk” is famous for its entrancing views as it passes through large valleys and canyons, and looks over a beautiful body of water. This is the perfect activity for people who love mesmerizing views, unique experiences, and most of all… a good thrill!
The best way to get to Caminito del Rey from Granada is by car or guided tour! There is also the option for train and bus, but both are much longer commutes and expensive. Check out the guided tour below that brings you from Granada to Caminito del Rey, or simply get the Caminito del Rey tickets.👇
Check out these highly-rated experiences in Caminito del Rey, and book the one that’s right for you!👇
https://www.getyourguide.com/el-chorro-l143817/caminito-del-rey-guided-tour-with-official-guides-and-entry-t569659/?partner_id=RXZOE9E&utm_medium=online_publisher&cmp=best-day-trips-from-granada12. Cordoba
- 🔥 Book These Tickets ASAP: Mezquita Catedral Guided Tour
- 🗺️ Distance from Granada: 2 hours and 7 minutes by car
- 🚗 Best Way to Get There: Car, Bus, Train or Guided Tour
- 🌟 Main Reason to Visit: Only city in the world with 4 UNESCO World Heritage Sites
- 📖 Guides: One Day in Cordoba, Best Things to Do, Best Patios of Cordoba, Mezquita Tips
- This Day Trip is Perfect For: History and Architecture lovers.
Once the world’s largest city housing 1 million residents, Córdoba is incredibly rich in history. Regardless of its status in the 10th century, this is a fairly small city that can be seen in one day – making it the perfect day trip.
Córdoba is the only city in the world to host 4 world cultural heritage sites: La Mezquita Mosque and Cathedral, its historic City Center, Cordoba Patios, and the ruins of the ancient Palace Town of Medina Azahara.
Read here to learn how to spend one day in Cordoba, along with all of its must-sees – from La Mezquita to the Cordoba Patios and Roman Bridge.
Tip: A famous sight in Cordoba is the Alcazar of the Christian Monarchs, definitely feel free to skip out on this if you’ve seen Alhambra.
Check out these highly-rated experiences in Cordoba, and book the one that’s right for you!👇
13. Ronda
- 🗺️ Distance from Granada: 2 hours and 10 minutes by car
- 🚗 Best Way to Get There: Car, Bus, or Train
- 🌟 Main Reason to Visit: One of Andalucia’s oldest towns.
- This Day Trip is Perfect For: People who love hidden and historic gems.
Ronda is known as one of the most spectacular pueblos blancos and is famous for its iconic bridge, Puente Nuevo.
Dating back to the 6th century, this is one of the oldest towns of Andalucia.
Puente Nuevo, “New Bridge”, was completed in 1793 and is a 120-meters deep (390 ft) bridge that connects the old part of the city to the new part.
An additional interesting fact is that Ronda is home to bullfighting and one of the oldest and most beautiful/majestic bullfighting rings in all of Spain.
There are two ways to get here, by car or by bus. Due to its proximity to other beautiful villages, I highly recommend renting a car! Otherwise, a bus will provide a smooth ride and you’ll have the option to get a taxi to another village.
Check out these highly-rated Audio Guide walking tour that takes you through the beautiful Ronda, and book it if it’s the right fit!👇
14. Setenil de las Bodegas
- 🗺️ Distance from Granada: 2 hours and 7 minutes by car
- 🚗 Best Way to Get There: Car
- 🌟 Main Reason to Visit: Beautiful Pueblo Blanco built into rocks- there’s nothing quite like it!
- This Day Trip is Perfect For: People who love unique hidden gems.
This beautiful Pueblo Blanco has people living under a rock… literally.
Setenil de las Bodegas is famous for its unique architecture, with many of its houses and buildings built into the rocks and cliffs of the surrounding mountains.
This gorgeous white village is a 21-minute car ride away from Ronda and is small enough to visit in a few hours!
The only way to get here is by car. I highly recommend renting a car – but if that’s not doable, you can take the bus to Ronda and then use a taxi to get to Setenil de las Bodegas.
15. Júzcar (Pueblo Pitufo)
- 🗺️ Distance from Granada: 2 hours and 32 minutes by car
- 🚗 Best Way to Get There: Car
- 🌟 Main Reason to Visit: Little village that is Smurfs themed and is COMPLETELY blue.
- This Day Trip is Perfect For: Families, Smurf Fans, Hikers, and People who love unique hidden gems.
31 minutes away from Ronda, is the world’s only real-life Smurfs village! Yes, you read that correctly.
Júzcar, also known as “Aldea Azul”, was just another white village—until 2011, when Sony painted it entirely blue to promote the new Smurfs movie. Not only is the village completely blue, but there are endless drawings/graffiti, and Smurfs statues sitting around the town.
As of 2018, the population was just 225—making it feel like there are more Smurfs than residents. Because it’s so small, two hours is usually plenty to explore, unless you plan to hike.
The main things to do here are walking through the colorful streets and enjoying short hikes. When you enter town, you’ll see a map outlining different themed walking routes—like the graffiti route and hiking trail—so you can choose your own little adventure.
If you’re a Smurfs fan, traveling with kids, or just love quirky spots (and the color blue), don’t skip this playful hidden gem.
Like Setenil de las Bodegas, Júzcar is only accessible by car. If you’re not driving, take a bus to Ronda and grab a taxi from there.
16. Zahara de la Sierra
- 🗺️ Distance from Granada: 2 hours and 24 minutes by car
- 🚗 Best Way to Get There: Car
- 🌟 Main Reason to Visit: One of Andalucia’s most beautiful Pueblos Blancos
- This Day Trip is Perfect For: People who love historic hidden gems and nature
Welcome to one of Andalusia’s most beautiful Pueblos Blancos!
Perched on a steep, rocky peak and surrounded by turquoise waters and lush hills, Zahara de la Sierra is one of the most jaw-dropping white villages in Andalusia.
This small village in Cádiz province is part of the Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park, making it a great stop for both history lovers and nature seekers.
The main attraction of the town is the 13th-century Moorish castle, which sits high above the village and offers sweeping views over the town and the turquoise reservoir below. It’s a short, steep hike up but so worth it.
The town itself is also very cute, full of small businesses and artisan shops, and nice restaurants.
Just like Setenil de las Bodegas and Júzcar, Zahara de la Sierra is only accessible by car and is a 39 minute drive from Ronda. If you’re not driving, you can take a bus to Ronda and then grab a taxi from there.
17. Seville
- 🔥 Book These Tickets ASAP: Real Alcazar Entry Tickets or Guided Tour with Cathedral
- 🗺️ Distance from Granada: 2 hours and 40 minutes by car
- 🚗 Best Way to Get There: Car, Bus, or Train
- 🌟 Main Reason to Visit: Capital of Andalusia, Real Alcazar, Plaza de España, Seville Cathedral
- 📖 Guides: One Day in Seville Itinerary, 2 Days Itinerary, Best Things to Do
- This Day Trip is Perfect For: History and Architecture lovers and Andalusian Culture
Chances of someone visiting Seville as just a day trip are low, but never zero!
As the capital of Andalusia and the fourth largest city in Spain, Sevilla is simply a must visit – making a day trip better than not visiting at all.
With one day in Seville, you can actually see a good chunk of the city’s icons, including the Plaza de España, Real Alcazar, and the Seville Cathedral – especially if you leave from Granada early in the morning and come back in the evening.
My personal favorite dish to indulge in when in the city, which I can’t recommend enough, is the Rabo de Toro – oxtail stew.
I’ve taken this day trip from Granada plenty of times with Alsa, and I highly recommend it! If you take the 7 AM bus to Seville 5:30 or 6:30 PM, you’ll have plenty of time to see the best of Seville.
Want more help with your Andalusia travels? Check out my Posts!
- The Ultimate 7 Day Andalucia Itinerary with Local Tips
- The 27 BEST Things to Do in Granada | Local’s Guide
- The Ultimate Guide to Granada’s Hidden Gems
- How to Spend the Perfect One Day in Granada
- 2 Days in Granada, Spain: The Ultimate Itinerary
- 16 ESSENTIAL Tips for Visiting the Alhambra
- The Best Gluten Free Restaurants in Granada
- 8 Best Flamenco Shows in Granada: All You Need to Know
- When is the Best Time to Visit Granada? The Ultimate Guide
- Which is better, Seville or Granada? A Local’s Guide to Understanding
- The Alhambra vs. Real Alcazar: Which one should you visit?
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