Granada in 2 days: Alhambra, Albaicín & tapas

Granada is best enjoyed slowly, but two well-planned days cover the essentials: the Alhambra, the Albaicín, the views and, of course, Spain's best tapas. One thing to do right away though: book the Alhambra.

Before you travel: book the Alhambra

The Nasrid Palaces have a strict timed entry and sell out weeks ahead. Buy as soon as you have dates; it's the one thing you can't improvise. We cover it in detail in the Alhambra tickets guide.

Day 1: the Alhambra and the centre

Morning: the full Alhambra (Nasrid Palaces, Alcazaba and Generalife): allow half a day and comfy shoes. Afternoon: down to the centre, the Cathedral and Royal Chapel (the Catholic Monarchs' tomb), and a wander through the Alcaicería.

Day 2: Albaicín, Sacromonte and tapas

Morning: climb the Albaicín, the old Moorish quarter, up to the Mirador de San Nicolás for the classic view of the Alhambra with the Sierra Nevada behind. A Granada free tour is perfect for understanding the quarter. Afternoon: Sacromonte and its caves; at night, flamenco (zambra) if you fancy.

Tapas: Granada's great advantage

Here every drink comes with a free tapa. It's the cheapest, most fun way to have dinner: order a beer in a few places and let yourself be surprised. Avoid the most touristy terraces downtown and head for streets full of locals.

Tips

• Spring and autumn are the best seasons; summer is very hot.
• The Albaicín is all slopes: trainers, not brand-new sandals.
• If you have spare time, see more in what to see in Granada.