Malaga to Granada Day Trip: How to Visit the Alhambra in One Day
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Granada is one of Spain’s most beautiful cities, and its crown jewel — the Alhambra Palace — has been on my bucket list since I was a child.
I finally had the chance to visit while staying in Malaga, and it turned out to be just as magical.
If you’re visiting Malaga on a cruise, many cruise lines offer excursions to the Alhambra, but these can be pricey.
The good news is that if you’re planning a Malaga to Granada day trip, whether you’re staying in the city or arriving on a cruise, it’s absolutely possible to see the Alhambra in one day.
In this guide, I’ll cover how to get from Malaga to Granada, what to see at the Alhambra, essential ticket tips, advice for cruise visitors, and ideas for other sights in Granada if you have extra time.
💡 Related guides you might find useful:
- Malaga One-Day Itinerary – See the highlights of Malaga in just one day.
- Malaga Cruise Port Guide – Full port info, transport tips, and best things to do.
- Visiting Seville from Malaga or Cadiz Cruise Ports – How to get there, travel tips, and a detailed route through the city’s main sights.
How Far is Granada from Malaga?
🚗 Distance and Travel Time
Granada is about 130 km (81 miles) from Malaga, with a drive time of 1.5 to 2 hours depending on traffic, route and mode of transport.
If you’re coming from the Malaga cruise port, allow extra time to get from the terminal to the train or bus station, usually 15 to 20 minutes by taxi or about 30 minutes by public transport.
⏳ Is a Day Trip Feasible?
Absolutely. If you’re staying in Malaga overnight, you’ll have plenty of time to visit the Alhambra and explore some of Granada’s historic streets.
For cruise passengers, it’s also possible, but timing is everything. You’ll need to factor in:
- Your ship’s arrival and departure times
- Travel time to Granada
- The Alhambra’s timed entry slots
If your port call is shorter than 9–10 hours, I’d recommend booking a guided tour or private transfer to avoid the risk of missing your ship.
Best Ways to Get from Malaga to Granada
🚆 By Train
We traveled by train, and it’s one of the most comfortable ways to reach Granada. Direct high-speed and regional trains connect Malaga María Zambrano train station with Granada several times a day.
The fastest services take about 1 hour 20 minutes, while slower ones take up to 2 hours 30 minutes. Tickets are available on the official Renfe website, at the station, or through third-party platforms.
If you only have one day, it’s essential to book your train ticket in advance.
Departures may not be very frequent, and the last return trains can sometimes be in the afternoon. To avoid an unpleasant surprise, buy a return ticket in advance and plan your Alhambra entry time accordingly.
From the cruise port, a taxi to Málaga María Zambrano takes about 15 minutes. If visiting in peak season, early booking is even more important, especially if you need to match the Alhambra’s timed entry slot.
And one more tip — trains in Spain can run late, so always allow some buffer time for your journey.
Arriving in Granada
Once you arrive at Granada train station (train station name is “Granada”), remember that the Alhambra sits on a hill about 7 km away.
The easiest way to get there is by taking a taxi from the rank in front of the station or ordering an Uber via the app.
The ride usually takes 15–20 minutes depending on traffic, and taxis are quite affordable – we paid less than €10. Make sure to factor this into your schedule.
🚌 By Bus
I haven’t personally used this option, but buses between Malaga and Granada run frequently throughout the day.
ALSA operates the route, with most journeys taking between 1 hour 45 minutes and 2 hours 30 minutes, depending on the service. You can check the timetables and buy tickets on ALSA’s official webpage.
Buses depart from Málaga Bus Station, located next to the train station, and departures are more frequent than trains.
If you decide to travel by bus, which can sometimes be cheaper than the train, it’s still essential to buy tickets in advance, especially if you’re visiting during peak season.
Tickets are available online or at the station. The buses are modern, comfortable, air-conditioned, and a good budget-friendly choice for those who prefer not to take the train or drive.
🚗 By Car
Driving from Malaga to Granada takes around 1.5 hours via the A-92 motorway. The route is straightforward and well-maintained. If you plan to drive, aim to leave early in the morning to maximize your time in Granada.
Parking near the Alhambra is available in a large paid lot close to the main entrance. Street parking in central Granada is limited and often restricted to residents.
👉 If you’re considering renting a car, you can compare prices and find the best deals here, which is especially useful if you want the flexibility to explore more of Andalusia at your own pace.
🗺️ Guided Tours
A guided tour can be a stress-free way to visit Granada and the Alhambra in one day, especially if you’re short on time.
Most tours include transport, a reserved Alhambra ticket, and sometimes hotel or cruise port pickup.
Pros: You won’t have to worry about train schedules, parking, or ticket availability, and having a guide can give you more insight into what you’re seeing.
Cons: Tours follow a fixed schedule, so there’s less flexibility, and prices are usually higher than arranging the trip yourself.
👉 You can check available Alhambra tours on Viator or compare options on GetYourGuide to see what fits your timing and budget.
How to Visit the Alhambra from Malaga
🎟️ Booking Alhambra Tickets in Advance
Tickets for the Alhambra often sell out weeks ahead, especially for the Nasrid Palaces, so booking early is essential. We booked ours through the official Alhambra website, which I recommend to avoid extra fees.
When booking, you must select a time slot for the Nasrid Palaces — entry is strictly controlled, and missing your slot means you won’t be allowed in. A visit here takes about 1–1.5 hours. I suggest scheduling it for the end of your visit so you can finish the day with the most impressive part of the complex.
There are different types of tickets, with or without Nasrid Palaces access. For a complete experience, you’ll need the Alhambra General ticket, which includes the Nasrid Palaces, Generalife gardens, and Alcazaba fortress. This is the option I recommend for first-time visitors.
Keep in mind that tickets purchased through the official website are non-refundable.
👉 If you prefer booking through reliable platforms that offer instant confirmation and flexible cancellation, you can check Alhambra tickets on GetYourGuide or see options on Viator.
🛂 Entry Rules and Time Slots
You must have your ID or passport when purchasing tickets, as your details are recorded and linked to the booking. On the day of your visit, bring the same ID, as it will be checked multiple times when entering different parts of the palace.
Only the Nasrid Palaces require a timed entry slot, which you select when booking. Arrive at the Nasrid Palace entrance 10–15 minutes before your scheduled time, as late entry isn’t allowed. This part of the visit takes about 1–1.5 hours.
For the rest of the monumental complex, including Alcazaba, Partal (palace portico, gardens and walkways), and Generalife (gardens and palace), you can arrive at any time on the date shown on your ticket, from 8:30 a.m. until closing.
The full visit takes at least 3 hours, so plan accordingly to enjoy each area without rushing.
⏰ Best Time of Day to Visit
Morning visits tend to be cooler and less crowded, giving you more time to explore before heading back to Malaga.
Afternoon slots can work too, but check transport schedules carefully if you need to return the same day.
What to See at the Alhambra Palace
The Alhambra is more than just one building: it’s a vast complex of palaces, gardens, and fortifications.
Each part offers something unique, along with incredible photo opportunities, and with a full Alhambra General ticket, you can see them all. Even though the complex is huge, it’s relatively easy to get around.
When my friend and I visited, we explored the main areas in this order and recommend it: Generalife Gardens → Alcazaba Fortress → Palace of Charles V → Nasrid Palaces. This route lets you finish with the most spectacular part of the complex.
You can download an interactive map from the official Alhambra website or pick one up onsite to help you plan your route. We didn’t do it, but even so, it wasn’t difficult to navigate.
🌿 Generalife Gardens
I have to admit – before visiting, I didn’t really understand what “Generalife” was. It’s actually the summer palace and gardens of the Nasrid rulers, a peaceful retreat just outside the main palaces.
You can wander through terraced patios, shaded walkways, and fountains, with the sound of running water following you everywhere.
Upon entering the Alhambra complex, turn right to visit the Generalife first; it’s well marked. The path will eventually bring you back close to the main entrance, forming a loop that leads naturally towards the Alcazaba and, later, the Nasrid Palaces.
Allow 30–45 minutes to explore this area at a relaxed pace.
From the gardens, you’ll also get breathtaking views back towards the Alhambra and over the city of Granada.
🏰 Alcazaba Fortress
Next, head straight to the far end of the complex to reach the Alcazaba, the oldest part of the Alhambra, built as a military stronghold.
You’ll pass by the Palace of Charles V and the entrance to the Nasrid Palaces, but don’t worry, you can easily return to them later.
Here, your ID and ticket will be checked again before entry.
Once inside, you can walk along the ancient walls and climb the Torre de la Vela for fantastic views of Granada, the Sierra Nevada mountains, and the surrounding countryside.
Plan to spend 30–45 minutes exploring this area.
🏛️ Palace of Charles V
On your way back from the Alcazaba towards the Nasrid Palaces, you’ll pass the Palace of Charles V.
Built in the 16th century after the Christian reconquest, it’s a striking example of Renaissance architecture, very different from the Moorish style found in the rest of the Alhambra.
The palace has a massive circular courtyard surrounded by two tiers of columns, which makes for great photos. We didn’t visit the museums inside, but even a quick walk through the courtyard is worth it.
If you want to explore the museums, allow up to 30 minutes here.
🏯 Nasrid Palaces
The Nasrid Palaces are the highlight of the Alhambra and the only part of the complex that requires a timed entry.
Our slot was at 15:30, which worked perfectly after visiting the Generalife, Alcazaba, and Palace of Charles V earlier in the day.
This is where the intricate Moorish architecture truly shines, with ornate stucco walls, carved wooden ceilings, colorful tilework, and peaceful courtyards with reflecting pools. Highlights include:
- Court of the Lions with its famous marble fountain.
- Hall of the Ambassadors in the Comares Tower, once used for royal receptions.
- Court of the Myrtles, one of the most photogenic spots in the complex.
Your ID and ticket will be checked again before entering. Arrive 10–15 minutes before your time slot to avoid missing it, as late entry isn’t allowed.
Expect to spend 1–1.5 hours exploring this area at a relaxed pace.
It’s the perfect way to end your visit to the Alhambra. 🙂
Practical Tips for Visiting the Alhambra
- Toilets: Available in several locations throughout the complex, so you won’t need to worry about long gaps between facilities.
- Food, Drinks & Souvenirs: You’ll find kiosks and small cafés selling water, snacks, and souvenirs inside the grounds, along with several little shops around the complex where you can browse for gifts and mementos.
- Stay Hydrated: The heat can be intense in summer, so carry a bottle of water and take breaks in shaded areas.
- Comfortable Shoes: You’ll be walking and standing for several hours on uneven paths, so good footwear is essential.
- Sun Protection: In warmer months, a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen will make your visit much more comfortable.
💡 Plan Ahead & Shop for Your Trip
Get inspired before you go — browse unique Alhambra-inspired gifts, guidebooks, and travel essentials on Amazon to make your visit even more memorable.
Our One-Day Granada Itinerary from Malaga
- 09:00 – Train from Málaga María Zambrano to Granada (arrived just after 11:00).
- 11:00–12:15 – Taxi to the city center (€6–7), quick exterior visit of the Cathedral, and a short browse through the nearby shops.
- 12:15–12:30 – Taxi (less than €10; a 15-minute ride) to the Alhambra.
- 12:30–15:30 – Explored the Generalife Gardens, Alcazaba Fortress, and Palace of Charles V in this order.
- 15:30–16:30 – Timed entry to the Nasrid Palaces, which took about 1 hour.
- 16:30–17:00 – Taxi back to the city center (€7-8).
- 17:00–18:00 – Late lunch at La Nonna Carmela in Plaza Bib-Rambla – delicious food, generous portions, and very reasonable prices. Highly recommended!
- 18:00–18:20 – Quick stroll around the square before taking a taxi (€6–7) to the train station.
- 18:45 – Train back to Malaga.
💡 Tip: Taxis in Granada are generally affordable, with most short rides in the city costing around €6–7, and a one-way trip to the Alhambra usually no more than €10.
Tips for Visiting the Alhambra from Malaga Cruise Port
🕒 Check Your Time in Port & Plan Ahead
Granada is 1.5–2 hours from Malaga by train or bus, plus transfer time within Granada. For the visit itself and transfers, you’ll need at least 9 hours, so ideally your ship should be in port for 10–11 hours to visit the Alhambra independently.
Malaga has two cruise docking areas; see my full Malaga Cruise Port Guide for detailed port info.
🚖 Getting from the Cruise Port to the Alhambra
If you’re going by train, take a taxi from the port to Málaga María Zambrano station (about 15 minutes). Plan for 2–2.5 hours one way to the Alhambra, allowing for train delays and city traffic.
Keep some extra cash or a card handy for a taxi in case you miss your planned return train.
⏳ Making the Most of Your Time
On a cruise stop, you likely won’t have time for Granada city.
From Granada station, take a taxi straight to the Alhambra and follow the route I recommend — Generalife Gardens → Alcazaba Fortress → Palace of Charles V → Nasrid Palaces — allowing around 3 hours for your visit.
Book both train tickets and Alhambra entry in advance, including your Nasrid Palace slot.
If train times don’t work for your schedule, the ALSA bus is a good alternative with more frequent departures.
What to See in Granada if Time Allows
If you have more time in Granada, for example, if you’re staying overnight or have a longer port day, you can explore some of the city’s other highlights:
- Granada Cathedral & Royal Chapel – A stunning Renaissance cathedral and the burial place of Ferdinand and Isabella.
- Albaicín Quarter – Narrow cobblestone streets, whitewashed houses, and viewpoints with postcard views of the Alhambra.
- Mirador de San Nicolás – One of the best spots to photograph the Alhambra with the Sierra Nevada in the background.
- Plaza Bib-Rambla – A lively square with cafés, perfect for lunch or coffee (and home to La Nonna Carmela, where we had a fantastic meal).
If you’re on a cruise stop and have a bit of extra time after the Alhambra, it’s best to focus on the Cathedral or Plaza Bib-Rambla, as they’re close to the city center and easy to reach before heading back to Malaga.
FAQ: Visiting the Alhambra from Malaga
❓ How far is Granada from Malaga?
About 130 km (81 miles), or 1.5–2 hours by train, bus, or car.
❓ Can you visit the Alhambra from Malaga in one day?
Yes, but you’ll need at least 9 hours for travel and the visit itself.
❓ Can you visit both Granada city and the Alhambra in one day from Malaga?
If you’re staying in Malaga overnight, yes. On a cruise stop, you’ll likely have time only for the Alhambra.
❓ How long do you need at the Alhambra?
Around 3 hours for the full complex, with 1–1.5 hours for the Nasrid Palaces.
❓ Do you need to book Alhambra tickets in advance?
Absolutely! Tickets, especially for the Nasrid Palaces, sell out weeks ahead.
❓ What is the best time of year to visit the Alhambra?
Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds than summer.
❓ What’s the easiest way to get from Malaga to the Alhambra?
If you’re using public transport rather than driving, take a train or bus from Málaga’s main station to Granada, then a taxi directly to the Alhambra entrance.
❓ Can cruise passengers visit the Alhambra on their own?
Yes, but only if your ship is in port for at least 10–11 hours. Otherwise, a private transfer or guided tour is the safest option.
❓ Is the Alhambra worth visiting?
Definitely! It’s one of Spain’s most iconic landmarks and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Final Thoughts
Visiting the Alhambra from Malaga, whether you’re staying in the city or stopping on a cruise, is well worth it. With a bit of planning, you can fit this UNESCO treasure into a single day.
Book your tickets early, allow plenty of time for travel, and, if you can, finish with the Nasrid Palaces. The history, architecture, and views make the trip totally unforgettable! 🙂
If you’re looking for more inspiration, check out my Malaga Cruise Port Guide and Malaga One-Day Itinerary for more tips and ideas to make the most of your time.
And if you’re looking to venture further, my Seville one-day itinerary from Malaga has everything you need to plan your trip.
You may also like our cruise port guides to the Mediterranean, Caribbean, Northern Europe, USA & Canada, Middle East, Australia & New Zealand
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