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Is it worth it? How long?
Granada is worth it, but it is better as an overnight stop than a day trip. It is 2.5 to 3 hours from Seville each way, and the Alhambra alone takes half a day. If you only have one day, join a tour that includes Alhambra tickets. Otherwise, spend one or two nights in Granada.
Seville to Granada: train, bus or car
| Option | Time | Price (approx.) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Train (direct, via Antequera) | 2 h 30–3 h | €20–45 | A few trains a day from Santa Justa |
| Bus (Alsa) | 3 h | €15–30 | Frequent, from Plaza de Armas bus station |
| Car | 2 h 45 | Fuel + parking | A-92 motorway; good on a road trip |
| Day tour from Seville | 12–14 h in total | €100–170 with Alhambra ticket | The only easy way to do it in a day |
Compare trains and buses on Omio. Book the train early: there are only a few direct services a day. The trip back (Granada to Seville) works the same way.
Options: tour vs train vs car
- Guided day tour from Seville: transport, a guide and a guaranteed Alhambra ticket. Long day, but no stress. Granada and Alhambra day trip from Seville.
- Train or bus and stay the night: the best option. Visit the Alhambra one morning, and see the Albaicín and the sunset from the Mirador de San Nicolás.
- Car: good if you are on a road trip. Park outside the old town. See our Andalusia road trip.
One-day plan (if you must)
- Early train or tour from Seville (leave around 7:00–8:00).
- The Alhambra: the Nasrid Palaces at your booked time, the Alcazaba, the Palace of Charles V and the Generalife gardens. Allow 3–4 hours.
- Lunch in the centre, near the cathedral.
- The Albaicín: walk up to the Mirador de San Nicolás for the famous view of the Alhambra.
- Evening train, bus or tour back to Seville.
Tickets for the Alhambra
Alhambra tickets are sold only for a set date and a timed entry to the Nasrid Palaces, and they sell out weeks ahead from spring to autumn. Tickets are personal: bring the ID you used to book.
- Official ticket: about €19–21 for general admission, on the official Alhambra ticket website
- Sold out? Guided tours and day trips often still have places, because they hold group tickets: Alhambra guided tour
Stay over instead?
Yes. One night lets you see the Alhambra without rushing and enjoy Granada’s free tapas and the Albaicín at sunset. Two nights let you add the Sacromonte caves and a flamenco show. Hotels in Granada.
FAQ
How long is the train from Seville to Granada?
About 2.5 to 3 hours on the direct trains via Antequera.
Is it better to take the train or the bus from Seville to Granada?
The train is faster when there is a direct service at a good time. The bus is cheaper and more frequent, and takes about 3 hours.
Can you do Granada as a day trip from Seville?
Yes, but it is a long day. A tour with Alhambra tickets included is the easiest way. Staying one or two nights is much better.
How far in advance should I book the Alhambra?
As early as you can: several weeks ahead from March to October, and at least a week ahead in winter.