In Granada you walk most of the time and use the small red city minibuses for the climbs: one line runs up to the Alhambra, others loop through the Albaicín and into Sacromonte. Regular city buses and the single metro line cover the modern city, the train station and the bus station, and taxis fill the gaps late at night. Our Granada getting around guide covers routes, tickets and the problems travellers run into most often.
Walking: distances are short, hills are not
The historic centre is compact. From the cathedral to Plaza Nueva is about 5 minutes, from Plaza Nueva to the Mirador de San Nicolás about 20–30 minutes uphill, and from Plaza Nueva to the Alhambra entrance about 20–30 minutes on the Cuesta de Gomérez. The distances are small; the slopes, steps and cobbles make them feel longer.
Count height as distance. A 1 km walk up into the upper Albaicín takes as long as 2 km on flat ground. In summer, plan climbs for the morning or evening.
The Alhambra and Albaicín minibuses
Small buses designed for narrow streets run on the "C" lines from the centre. At the time of writing:
The Alhambra line runs from the Plaza Isabel la Católica area up to the Alhambra entrances.
The Albaicín lines start near Plaza Nueva and climb through the Albaicín, passing close to the Mirador de San Nicolás.
The Sacromonte line goes up the Sacromonte valley along the Camino del Sacromonte.
Line numbers and routes have changed in the past. Check the current lines on the city bus operator's website or at the stop before you go. Buses are small and fill up quickly at peak times, especially to the Alhambra in the morning and down from San Nicolás after sunset.
Tickets and fares
Single tickets are bought on board. Fares have been under EUR 2 per ride in recent years. Contactless bank cards are accepted on many buses; carry small change as a backup.
Rechargeable cards (such as the Credibús card) give a lower fare per ride and are useful for longer stays or groups. Ask at a kiosk or the bus office for the current card and deposit.
Transfers: some tickets allow a transfer within a time window. Check the conditions when you buy.
City buses and the metro
Granada's regular buses connect the centre with the train station, the bus station, the Parque de las Ciencias and the outer districts. The metro (Metropolitano de Granada) is a single light-rail line running north to south through the city, useful for the train station area and some suburbs, less so for the historic centre.
Two common mistakes:
Confusing the train station with the bus station. The train station is west of the centre near Avenida de la Constitución; the long-distance bus station is further north. Save both and check which one your ticket uses.
Assuming the airport bus stops everywhere. It has a fixed route through the centre. Check which stop is closest to your hotel.
Taxis
Taxis are easy to find at ranks around Plaza Nueva, the Gran Vía and Plaza Isabel la Católica, and you can call one. Short rides within the centre usually cost a modest fixed minimum plus distance; expect more at night and on holidays. A taxi is the best choice:
to reach accommodation in the upper Albaicín or Sacromonte with luggage
after a late dinner or a flamenco show, when the minibuses have stopped
to the train or bus station for an early departure
Note that taxis cannot enter every lane in the Albaicín. Agree on the drop-off point with your host.
Driving in Granada
For city days, a car is more trouble than help. Large parts of the Albaicín, the Realejo and the centre have restricted access with cameras, and unauthorised entry can lead to fines. If you arrive by car, use a public car park or your hotel's parking, and confirm the route with the hotel before following satnav into narrow streets. Rent a car only for day trips, for example to the Alpujarras or Sierra Nevada.
A sample day without a car
Morning: minibus from Plaza Isabel la Católica to the Alhambra for your Nasrid Palaces slot.
Afternoon: walk down through the Alhambra woods to Plaza Nueva, lunch in the centre.
Late afternoon: minibus up into the Albaicín, walk to San Nicolás.
Evening: walk down the lanes to Plaza Nueva for tapas, or take a taxi if you are tired.
Accessibility and limited mobility
Granada's old town is hard for wheelchair users and anyone who struggles with slopes. The Centro and the area around the cathedral are mostly flat, and city buses are generally low-floor. The minibuses to the Alhambra are the easiest way up the hill; inside the Alhambra, parts of the site have adapted routes, but some areas involve steps. The upper Albaicín and Sacromonte have steep lanes and stairs that are difficult without help. A taxi to a specific drop-off point, arranged with your accommodation, is often the best option. Ask the Alhambra about accessible routes when you book.
Frequently asked questions
How do I get to the Alhambra by bus?
Take the Alhambra minibus line from the Plaza Isabel la Católica area. It stops near the ticket office and the main entrances. Check the current line number before you go.
Is Granada walkable?
Yes, the historic centre is compact, but it is hilly. Use the minibuses for the steepest parts and walk downhill.
Can I pay by card on Granada buses?
Many city buses accept contactless bank cards. Carry some coins as a backup in case the reader is not working.
Plan your routes
The Granada getting around guide explains lines, tickets and backup options, and the Granada offline place guide lists the sights with practical access notes. Each comes in English, Spanish or German; choose your edition when you buy.
Times and prices are planning estimates. Check current bus lines, fares and access restrictions before you go.
