Why not have it all? Both Granada and Valencia add a layer of depth to your Spanish vacation. Granada has more of the Moorish old-world style found in Southern Spain, while Valencia is a modern seaside city. Both cities offer distinct experiences, so choosing the "better" option depends on your personal vacation style. Visit both and let us know!
What is Granada, Spain best known for?
Granada is best known for its UNESCO World Heritage Site: the Alhambra Palace, Generalife Gardens, and Albayzรญn neighborhood. Between these three sites youโll find arguably the best examples of high and vernacular Moorish architecture in Spain.
How close is Granada to the beach?
Granada is only a short distance, about 40 miles (68 km), from the southern coast of Spain, and you can be there in less than an hour by car or bus. It is close enough that you could do a day trip to the beach without having to spend the night.
Is it safe to drink tap water in Granada?
Yes, the tap water in Granada, and across Spain, is generally safe to drink. However, if you prefer to drink bottled water it is readily available at supermarkets, convenience stores, and restaurants throughout the city.
What should I wear when visiting religious sites in Granada?
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites like the Royal Chapel of Granada or the Granada Mosque. Directions for both sites include covering your chest, shoulders, and knees. Avoid wearing shorts, sleeveless shirts, or revealing clothing out of respect for religious customs and traditions. Wearing longer, looser-fitting clothes is also more comfortable in the intense sunshine.
Is there a direct train from Valencia to Granada?
No, there are currently no direct trains from Valencia to Granada. Expect this trip by train to take you around 6 to 8 hours and require at least one transfer. You will have to change trains in Madrid or Cordoba.
Enhance your trip from Valencia to Granada by making a day trip out of it. Instead of seeing points of interest speed by you from a bus or train window, take control of your trip and hire a driver to take you where youโd like to go. Pick from our six hand-selected stops or customize your trip with your own destinations!
The Palmeral of Elche is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with over 500 acres of palm groves and ancient irrigation systems. It is one of the largest palm groves in Europe and an example of engineering genius for irrigating crops in the desert.
Guadix should also definitely be on your list of stops. It is located a short distance from Granada and is best known for its unique troglodyte cave dwellings. Come see how people adapted to their environment hundreds of years ago- by living underground! These caves are naturally climate-controlled and blend into the landscape, save for their white chimneys.
With Daytrip doing the driving, you and your family can focus on enjoying all the sites youโve booked between Valencia and Granada.
About Granada
Youโll see a few key changes as you head south from Valencia to Granada. For starters, youโll find more Islamic architecture, a holdover from when the Moors controlled southern Spain.
Granada is located in the autonomous community of Andalusia in southern Spain. Nestled at the foot of the Sierra Nevada mountains, Granada is home to 230,000 inhabitants, making it one of the smaller cities in Spain, but no less important.
Granada's prominence began during the Moorish rule of the Iberian Peninsula, which lasted from the 8th to the 15th century. Under Moorish rule, Granada flourished as a significant cultural center known as the Emirate of Granada. The most iconic monument from this period is the Alhambra Palace, a masterpiece of Moorish architecture and design.
In 1492, Granada fell to the Catholic Monarchs, Ferdinand II of Aragon and Isabella I of Castile, driving out the Muslim rulers in Spain and marking the completion of the Reconquista. The Catholic Monarchs' reign established Catholicism as the dominant religion and the construction of new churches. Despite the political shift, Granada's Moorish legacy remained intact, contributing to the city's unique blend of Islamic, Christian, and Jewish influences.
Over 2 million people from around the world come to Granada annually to explore its vibrant neighborhoods, see Flamenco shows, and eat tapas. See for yourself how this city has enchanted visitors for centuries!
From Valencia to Granada: travel tips
Your trip from Valencia to Granada should go smoothly if you follow these travel tips!
Get acquainted with the siesta
If youโve made plans for right after lunch while on the road, think again! Spain famously operates on a siesta schedule, in which many businesses are closed for a few hours right after lunch. With summer temperatures of up to 100 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius) in the summer, it is with good reason that Spaniards set this time aside for a midday rest.
Consider purchasing a Granada Card
For your time in Granada, the Granada Card may be the best way to pay for both your public transit pass and the entrance to many popular exhibits at the same time. Select from 24, 48, and 72-hour passes, and get entry to the Alhambra, the Cathedral, and other popular sites. There are also childrenโs passes available.
How to get from Valencia to Granada
There are very few direct public transportation options to get from Valencia to Granada, so going with a private driver is your best bet.
Private car service from Valencia to Granada
With so few direct public transportation options, it makes sense to hire a private driver for this part of your vacation. Expect the trip to take 5 hours door-to-door. Spainโs countryside has even more to see than in its cities, so go at your own speed and visit sites like Murcia and Lorca on the way.
Daytrip drivers for this route speak both English and Spanish and drive insured vehicles. With someone else behind the wheel to worry about the road, you wonโt have to do anything except enjoy your trip. Prices start at $155 per person, but it's well worth it if you value your time and want to have a pleasant travel day.
### Buses from Valencia to Granada
The bus ride from Valencia to Granada takes between 8 and 12 hours and tends to require a transfer in Murcia. Tickets are an average of 50 EUR per passenger.
### Trains from Valencia to Granada
There are no direct trains from Valencia to Granada. Expect to change trains at least once in Madrid or Cordoba, and to spend around 6 to 8 hours getting to Granada. Tickets start at 40 EUR.
### Flights from Valencia to Granada
There are currently no direct flights between Valencia and Granada, so it is best to stick with ground transportation for this trip.
Things to do when you get to Granada
Spain is a diverse and beautiful country! You are sure to find plenty of cultural differences on your trip from Valencia to Granada, even if it is the same country. Make sure these places in Granada are on your itinerary!
### Visit the Alhambra Palace and Generalife Gardens
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Alhambra Palace is Granada's most iconic landmark. This stunning fortress complex showcases Moorish architecture and intricate tilework. Adjacent to the Alhambra, the Generalife Gardens are a series of beautifully landscaped gardens and courtyards.
### Experience Granadaโs Islamic heritage
The Albayzin is Granada's historic Moorish quarter, characterized by narrow winding streets, white-washed houses, and charming plazas. Exploring this vibrant neighborhood offers panoramic views of the Alhambra and the city.
The old Islamic vibe doesnโt stop once you leave the Albayzin district. Follow your mapโs directions south from Albayzin to the Alcaiceria. Once a bustling Moorish silk market, the Alcaiceria is now a colorful market of narrow streets. Youโll find a variety of goods, including textiles, spices, jewelry, and souvenirs. It's an excellent place to shop for unique gifts and to experience Granada's bustling marketplace atmosphere.
### Appreciate Granadaโs Catholic heritage
Granada has a long history of both Catholic and Islamic religiosity, and that is reflected in its architecture and districts. For classic Spanish Catholic styles, visit the Cathedral of Granada and the Monastery of Saint Jerome. Both these sites are about a ten-minute walk north of the Alcaiceria market.
The Cathedral of Granada is a magnificent example of Spanish Renaissance architecture, with a grand facade and ornate chapels. A few minutes walk away, youโll find the Monastery of Saint Jerome, which features impressive Gothic and Renaissance architecture with a richly decorated interior.
### Attend a Flamenco show at a traditional tablao
Flamenco is a passionate and expressive form of art that originated in Andalusia and is attributed to the Romani people. This vibrant art form encompasses various elements, including singing, guitar playing, dancing, hand clapping, and finger snapping.
It is a very emotion-forward dance style, and Granada has numerous venues where you can experience this passionate dance form. Experience the excitement in a traditional tablao (flamenco club) or a local bar. For an added appreciation, attend a dance class and try it yourself!
### Go hiking in the Sierra Nevada National Park
Located near Granada, the Sierra Nevada National Park offers hiking trails that will take you to beautiful viewpoints of the Andalusian countryside. It even has the southernmost ski resort in Europe, just in case you visit in the wintertime.
When is the best time to visit Granada
It gets warmer and more arid as you travel south from Valencia to Granada, and summer in Granada can be exceptionally hot. Its inland location also means thereโs no ocean to hop in and cool down. Instead, the best time to visit Granada is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) seasons.
During these periods, the weather is mild and pleasant, making it ideal for exploring the city's outdoor attractions without the intense heat or crowds of the peak summer months.
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Sanctuary of Santa Maria Magdalena
Enjoy stunning architecture and interesting history, topped with an unbeatable view during your visit to the Sanctuary of Santa Maria Magdalena.ย Inspired by Grandeurย
Palmeral of Elche
This UNESCO site is the largest palm grove in Europe, transformed into an orchard under Muslim rule.ย Prehistoric Datingย
Murcia
This medieval Moorish city combines historic architecture with some of the best food in the country.ย Medieval Munchiesย
Lorca
With its slew of ornate buildings Lorca earned its nickname, โthe baroque cityโ, and is considered one of the most important Baroque heritage sites in the region.ย The Baroque Cityย
Castillo de Velez-Blanco
Well-fortified with a Renaissance flair, this 16th century castle is so exemplary that its original patio is on display at the Met. ย Beauty and Brawnย
Guadix
One of Guadixโs most charming sites is the elaborate network of whitewashed homes carved into the surrounding hillsides. ย Carved in Stoneย
โWhat an amazing day! Jesus was the best driver I could have ever asked for. We took the long, lazy route along to coast...stopping at beaches, castles, for cappuccino, flea market, lunch and more. If you are willing to take the slow road life can be an excellent adventure!โ
