5-Day Andalusia Guide: Explore Seville and Granada’s Gems

Andalusia, the sun-drenched heart of Southern Spain, is where history, art, and culture converge. This region is a treasure trove of Moorish architecture, flamenco performances, and delectable cuisine. A trip to Andalusia offers more than sightseeing—it’s a full sensory experience that transports you back in time. In this guide, we’ll explore the best of Seville and Granada, showcasing their unique blend of heritage, modernity, and natural beauty.

Seville, Andalusia’s beating heart, is an ideal entry point. Its warm, inviting atmosphere sets the tone for your journey through Southern Spain. Arrive via Seville Airport or train, check in to your cozy Seville hotel, and begin your exploration.

Start with the Seville Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the largest Gothic cathedral in the world. Inside, marvel at the intricate altarpiece and the grandeur of Christopher Columbus’s tomb. The La Giralda bell tower, once a minaret, offers spectacular views of the old town.

*Pro Tip: Beat the crowds by booking tickets online at least 2 weeks in advance for €17 (Book your tickets online). If you can’t get your hands on them, you can buy a combined ticket for €13 (€12 for the cathedral) at the Iglesia Colegial del Divino Salvador, then show the barcode at the Seville Cathedral ticket office to gain entry.

Imagine the golden hour as the sun slowly sets, dressing Seville’s old quarter in a golden gown. At this time, strolling through the narrow streets with yellow borders and white walls feels like walking through a painting with each step.

Here, the small plazas shaded by orange trees are perfect for relaxing. You can find countless handicrafts, souvenirs, and pottery, as well as independent shops themed around Seville’s oranges, each worth a pause to savor.

🎨 The Santa Cruz district, the soul of Seville, is one of the oldest and most representative neighborhoods. Once the Jewish quarter, it is now a hub for historical buildings and beautiful courtyards. Here, every step echoes with history, and every wall tells a story!

📜 If you’re a shopping enthusiast, Calle Sierpes is your paradise. It’s not just traditional Seville shops but also international brands that await you.

Finally, don’t forget to sample the authentic Spanish tapas and wines on streets.

The Real Alcázar is a masterpiece of Mudéjar architecture, adorned with intricate tiles and lush gardens. Walk through the Patio de las Doncellas and the palace’s courtyards that exude timeless elegance. It’s also one of the oldest European royal palaces still in use and declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1987. Fans of Game of Thrones will recognize it as the filming location for the Water Gardens of Dorne.

Don’t miss the highlights such as the Palacio del Yeso, Casa de la Contratación, Palacio del Rey Don Pedro, the expansive formal gardens, Patio de las Doncellas, and the Puerta del León. The tour should take around 3 hours, and it’s best to visit early in the morning since the Alcázar is incredibly photogenic on a sunny day!

The main entrance is at Puerta del León, right in front of the cathedral, located at Plaza Virgen de los Reyes. Due to number of visitor restrictions, it’s advised to purchase tickets online 2-3 weeks in advance and aim for the off-season (October-April) for a more intimate experience.

• Ticket Price: €19.5 ($20.6) Book the ticket here
• Opening Hours: 9:30 AM–7:00 PM (April–September), 9:30 AM–5:00 PM (October–March)

For lunch, you can enjoy a meal and a break at La Bartola near the Royal Palace. The afternoon’s activities in Spain can be quite a walk, but absolutely worth it!

Visit the stunning Plaza de España, a semicircular architectural marvel. Designed for the 1929 Ibero-American Exposition, it features tiled alcoves representing Spain’s provinces. Rent a boat to paddle along the moat or simply soak in the grandeur.

In the center of the plaza, there’s a large fountain encircled by a waterway where visitors can take boat rides. The plaza also has bike rental points for those who prefer to cycle around.

I recommend visiting at sunset when the warm sunlight casts a glow on the Moorish-style Andalusian tiles, transforming the square into a playground of enchanting light and shadow. The arched corridor seem like gateways to history, bathing your holiday in golden hues.

No visit to Seville is complete without experiencing the passion of flamenco. Book a show at Triana Theater Seville to witness this soulful art form. The rhythmic clapping, haunting vocals, and fiery dance moves will captivate your spirit. (Find more activities here)

• Arrive Early: It’s suggested that the audience arrives before the show starts to avoid disturbing the artists.
• Maintain Silence: Once the guitar begins, please observe silence to respect the performers and other viewers.
• Applaud at the Right Time: Clapping and cheering (such as shouting “ole”) can enhance the ambiance, but do so at the appropriate moments to not interrupt the performance.

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Bid farewell to Seville as you journey to Granada, either by train, bus, or car. Known as the “last Moorish stronghold,” Granada combines Arabic influence with Spanish traditions, making it one of the most enchanting cities in Europe. (Book tranport here)

Begin with the Granada Cathedral, a stunning blend of Gothic and Renaissance architecture. Adjacent to it is the Royal Chapel, where the tombs of Queen Isabella and King Ferdinand rest—a poignant symbol of Spain’s history.

You can find a local boutique shop nearby to grab some simple tapas before we move on to our next destination.

Head to the Mirador San Nicolás in the Albaicín district for one of the most iconic views in Europe. The sight of the Alhambra illuminated against the Sierra Nevada mountains at sunset is truly magical. Enjoy tapas at a nearby terrace bar to complete your evening.

Facing the Alhambra Palace and its gardens, with the majestic Sierra Nevada mountains as a backdrop, this spot is hailed as one of “the world’s most beautiful sunsets,” drawing countless photography enthusiasts and visitors to capture the moment.

*Pro Tip: Granada is one of the few cities in Spain that still retains the tradition of “free tapas with drinks.” This culture makes local tapas bars popular gathering spots for both tourists and residents.

In Granada, the price of a glass of wine typically ranges from €1.5 to €2.2, and the complimentary tapas make dining even more budget-friendly. While other Spanish cities are phasing out this tradition, Granada still holds on to this ideal experience.

The Alhambra, a UNESCO listed site, is the crown jewel of Granada. This sprawling palace complex showcases Moorish art and architecture at its finest.

Wander through the intricately decorated Palacios Nazaríes, where geometric patterns and Arabic inscriptions create an otherworldly atmosphere. Next, explore the Generalife Gardens, an oasis of fountains, flowers, and stunning views.

The Moorish architectural style of the Alhambra is famous for its fine geometric patterns, mosaics, and carvings. The main structures include:

• Alcazaba: The oldest part of the Alhambra, once a military fortress, now offering a climb to the “Torre de la Vela” for panoramic views of Granada.
• Palacios Nazaríes: Including key areas like the Mexuar, Palacio de Comares, and Palacio de los Leones, showcasing the essence of Moorish architecture.
• Palacio de Carlos V: This Renaissance-style palace houses the Alhambra Museum and Fine Arts Museum, displaying a wealth of historical relics and artworks.

*Pro Tip: Book your tickets online weeks at least 2 weeks in advance and consider an audio guide for a deeper tour(Book online at Tiqets). Choose a morning slot to enjoy the cooler temperatures and fewer crowds. I recommend comfortable shoes since the tour will take around 4 hours, and vibrant, exotic-style clothing for a more captivating photo experience.

• Ticket Price: €15 ($15.8) Book the ticket here
• Opening hours: 8:30 AM to 8:00 PM (April 1 to October 14) , and from 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM (October 15 to March 31) .
• Granada’s climate is pleasant all year round, making it a recommended destination anytime.

Just a short walk from the Alhambra, the Carmen de los Mártires is a tranquil garden with influences from French, English, and Spanish landscaping. It’s a perfect spot to unwind after the morning’s exploration.

head to the Albayzín district, Granada’s oldest Islamic neighborhood and historical center, preserving medieval Moorish architectural styles. Wandering through the Arabesque alleys, with their white houses and winding lanes, is an ideal way to experience Moorish culture and history. In 1984, this area was listed as a World Heritage site along with the Alhambra. At sunset, you can appreciate the entire Granada’s beauty and cultural atmosphere.

Visit the Alcaicería, a historic Moorish bazaar near Granada Cathedral, originally a silk trading center dating back to Moorish times. It is filled with vibrant stalls selling handcrafted goods like ceramics, textiles, and spices. It’s the perfect place to pick up unique souvenirs.

Alcaicería, with its narrow alleys and colorful goods, feels like a charming Arab market. The shops are mostly family-run, preserving traditional business models and culture. Surrounding the market, you’ll find small restaurants and teahouses offering a blend of Spanish and Arab cultural experiences, where you can taste authentic Spanish tapas and Arab tea.

Granada is famous for its complimentary tapas, served with every drink. Join a guided food tour to explore the best local spots, savoring delicacies like tortilla del Sacromonte and berenjenas con miel (fried eggplant with honey).

Or visiting another popular local market, Mercado de San Augustin. It is famous for Mediterranean food enthusiasts, not as historic as Alcaicería but offering a rich food and shopping experience. Known for fresh local ingredients and gastronomy, you can find traditional Spanish foods like ham, cheese, seafood, and tapas. Here, you can savor delicious food and immerse in the Spanish cultural atmosphere.

If time allows, head south to Ronda for a 1-2 day getaway in this romantic town.

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A trip to Andalusia offers a perfect mix of cultural landmarks, natural beauty, and culinary delights. From the grandeur of Seville’s Plaza de España to the intricate designs of Granada’s Alhambra, this region captures the heart of Southern Spain. Whether you stay in a boutique Granada hotel or a cozy Seville hotel, Andalusia promises memories that will last a lifetime.

Find your Andalusia escapes through available flights below. 

Budget Estimate: From $60/day per person as a solo traveler living in hostel, or better quality for travel in two may cost from $130 − $160 USD a day.