Anniversary trip: itinerary for Granada/Seville/Day trips
Dec 24th, 2010, 12:46 PM
#21
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Regarding Cordoba - I've visited as a daytrip and also on overnight trips. The main sights can definately be visited on a daytrip. However, it's a great city for an overnight once all the daytrippers have left. It all depends on balancing a 1-nighter in an 8 day trip versus spending more time in Cordoba. Personally I'd do Cordoba as a daytrip with the limited time you have for the trip as I prefer to stay put longer in one place and you already have 3 bases in the 8 day timeframe.
Dec 25th, 2010, 08:18 AM
#24
Hi; If time permits, having four days in Seville, consider the white towns with Paul McGrath. He is so interesting and can be found on Maribels guides. Lots to see in Seville, so choices can be difficult.
Dec 27th, 2010, 12:22 AM
#25
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annetteandricky,
Transport - as I cannot see the following provided anywhere above.
Seville airport to wherever in the city by dedicated bus or taxi - I cannot tell how far you will have travelled, how much luggage you will carry or where you stay for sure, so taxi may be best for a first arrival in unfamiliar surroundings.
You may not have -
train - http://www.renfe.es/
bus (read coach) - http://www.alsa.es/portal/site/Alsa
Other thoughts and suggestions.
There is no necessity to rent a car to see many of the sights of any of these cities or for the journeys, if direct, in
between these cities. A car will be a time waster, redundant and cost extra for parking fees on top of the hire fee in these cities.
Seville to Cordoba is an easy day trip by train and gives plenty of time for the main sights and is not greater than 1hr.22m.(as little as 41m.)each way. The bus is not less than 1hr.45.each way.
Seville to Granada is not less than 3 hours by whatever transport, including car.
Granada to Malaga is certainly best done by bus at 1 hr. 30m. minimum.
As you will depart Malaga airport at 0930 hrs. and presumably will aim for 0730 to 0800hrs at the airport, you could take advantage of the dedicated bus line A, starts 0700hrs and runs every thirty minutes, but perhaps taxi for time surety.
If you need advice on time saving or direction for transport aspects within the cities, (Seville is my weakest knowledge), I could help.
Ask if you need more.
Best wishes.
Transport - as I cannot see the following provided anywhere above.
Seville airport to wherever in the city by dedicated bus or taxi - I cannot tell how far you will have travelled, how much luggage you will carry or where you stay for sure, so taxi may be best for a first arrival in unfamiliar surroundings.
You may not have -
train - http://www.renfe.es/
bus (read coach) - http://www.alsa.es/portal/site/Alsa
Other thoughts and suggestions.
There is no necessity to rent a car to see many of the sights of any of these cities or for the journeys, if direct, in
between these cities. A car will be a time waster, redundant and cost extra for parking fees on top of the hire fee in these cities.
Seville to Cordoba is an easy day trip by train and gives plenty of time for the main sights and is not greater than 1hr.22m.(as little as 41m.)each way. The bus is not less than 1hr.45.each way.
Seville to Granada is not less than 3 hours by whatever transport, including car.
Granada to Malaga is certainly best done by bus at 1 hr. 30m. minimum.
As you will depart Malaga airport at 0930 hrs. and presumably will aim for 0730 to 0800hrs at the airport, you could take advantage of the dedicated bus line A, starts 0700hrs and runs every thirty minutes, but perhaps taxi for time surety.
If you need advice on time saving or direction for transport aspects within the cities, (Seville is my weakest knowledge), I could help.
Ask if you need more.
Best wishes.
Dec 27th, 2010, 06:58 AM
#26
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> it would definitely be simpler to not have to pack up for a night in Cordoba, but can it realistically be done in one day?
It depends on what you want to see and do. As I mentioned above, I found it worth 2 days. Many people spend only a few hours.
> when would be the best time to visit the Alhambra?
I was glad to see it both during the day and during the evening. Much more is open during the day, and you can spend a longer time there during the day. But I found it magical at night. Whichever you choose, do book ahead.
Enjoy!
It depends on what you want to see and do. As I mentioned above, I found it worth 2 days. Many people spend only a few hours.
> when would be the best time to visit the Alhambra?
I was glad to see it both during the day and during the evening. Much more is open during the day, and you can spend a longer time there during the day. But I found it magical at night. Whichever you choose, do book ahead.
Enjoy!
Dec 27th, 2010, 08:14 AM
#27
hi annette,
you have 8 nights and need to spend the lst one in Malaga, giving you 7 to distribute between Seville and Granada. If you are going to see Cordoba as a day trip, I would therefore suggest spending 5 nights in Seville, and 2 in Granada - if you get an early start, you will have the best part of the first day in Granada, plus the whole of the next day, which should be enough to see the sights AND the Alhambra as well - which yo should aim to see at night too, when it is very different from during the day.
have a great trip!
you have 8 nights and need to spend the lst one in Malaga, giving you 7 to distribute between Seville and Granada. If you are going to see Cordoba as a day trip, I would therefore suggest spending 5 nights in Seville, and 2 in Granada - if you get an early start, you will have the best part of the first day in Granada, plus the whole of the next day, which should be enough to see the sights AND the Alhambra as well - which yo should aim to see at night too, when it is very different from during the day.
have a great trip!
Dec 27th, 2010, 09:31 AM
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Regarding hotels, for Sevilla I'd recommend the newly opened Hotel Casa 1800. It's more of a boutique hotel with an excellent location and incredible service.
http://www.hotelcasa1800.com/es/
For Malaga you can't beat josele's advice.
As for Granada I'd use the recommendations in maribel's guides. The Parador is an option but alternatively there are some very romantic choices in the albaicin quarter.
http://www.hotelcasa1800.com/es/
For Malaga you can't beat josele's advice.
As for Granada I'd use the recommendations in maribel's guides. The Parador is an option but alternatively there are some very romantic choices in the albaicin quarter.
Dec 28th, 2010, 10:24 AM
#29
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CathyM - thanks for the hotel recommendations - will look into it - also, decided on Cordoba as day trip- any recommendations on arrival and departure times to give me enough time there? Any "must-do's"?
Annhig and kja, I already bought the tickets for a day visit, but following your advice, will also do for a nighttime visit...thank you!
Wombatt - thank you very much for the practical info- my husband and I will be arriving in Seville from a 13 hour flight, so we'll take your advice on taxi to hotel.
I researched the sites you mentioned. Renfe is great for Cordoba. It's 42 min. Is there a difference between the AVE and the AVANT trains? They both take the same time but the AVANT is cheaper. If you could also recommend the best times to travel to see enough of Cordoba in one day, please advise.
With regards to the bus, I'm going to book it for Granada to Malaga. The site mentions SUPRA and Eurobus service. What's the difference? Also, it mentions many stations for both of these cities, and I'm not sure which one to take. In Granada, we're staying in the Albaycin area (Hotel Santa Isabel La Real) and in Malaga, we're between the AC Malaga Palacio and the Tapaluz.
For Seville to Granada, I am still undecided as there is no direct train (they connect in Antequera.) Would you suggest this or the bus?
Thanks again to all for the input - I couldn't have come so far without you!
Annhig and kja, I already bought the tickets for a day visit, but following your advice, will also do for a nighttime visit...thank you!
Wombatt - thank you very much for the practical info- my husband and I will be arriving in Seville from a 13 hour flight, so we'll take your advice on taxi to hotel.
I researched the sites you mentioned. Renfe is great for Cordoba. It's 42 min. Is there a difference between the AVE and the AVANT trains? They both take the same time but the AVANT is cheaper. If you could also recommend the best times to travel to see enough of Cordoba in one day, please advise.
With regards to the bus, I'm going to book it for Granada to Malaga. The site mentions SUPRA and Eurobus service. What's the difference? Also, it mentions many stations for both of these cities, and I'm not sure which one to take. In Granada, we're staying in the Albaycin area (Hotel Santa Isabel La Real) and in Malaga, we're between the AC Malaga Palacio and the Tapaluz.
For Seville to Granada, I am still undecided as there is no direct train (they connect in Antequera.) Would you suggest this or the bus?
Thanks again to all for the input - I couldn't have come so far without you!
Dec 28th, 2010, 12:01 PM
#30
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For Cordoba I'd spend a full day. Perhaps the morning and until lunch visiting the most famous sites - the Catedral (Mosque), Alcazar and Jewish quarter. Then after lunch I'd venture further out to see things not visited as much by the typical tourist: the Palace of Viana with it's fabulous patio and the Fernandine churches (my favorite is the church of San Lorenzo with it's rose window).
http://english.turismodecordoba.org/...fm?codigo=0000
For the train from Sevilla to Cordoba the AVE will be your most expensive option. It's the high speed train running from Madrid to Sevilla. The Avant is a very nice train and will be much less expensive and the difference is a matter of minuetes. Alternatively you could take a media distance train that takes about 1hr 20 minutes and is you least expensive train option (around 10 euros).
Bus vs Train for Sevilla to Granada is all a matter of personal preference. The time is same for both - around 3 hours. There is supra bus service (akin to first class on an airplane) which makes this a nice option. I prefer bus simply because of the location of the bus station in Sevilla (I avoid paying a taxi cab to get me to the train station). Others prefer train travel as you can walk around more vs the bus.
http://english.turismodecordoba.org/...fm?codigo=0000
For the train from Sevilla to Cordoba the AVE will be your most expensive option. It's the high speed train running from Madrid to Sevilla. The Avant is a very nice train and will be much less expensive and the difference is a matter of minuetes. Alternatively you could take a media distance train that takes about 1hr 20 minutes and is you least expensive train option (around 10 euros).
Bus vs Train for Sevilla to Granada is all a matter of personal preference. The time is same for both - around 3 hours. There is supra bus service (akin to first class on an airplane) which makes this a nice option. I prefer bus simply because of the location of the bus station in Sevilla (I avoid paying a taxi cab to get me to the train station). Others prefer train travel as you can walk around more vs the bus.
Dec 28th, 2010, 11:08 PM
#31
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annetteandricky,
Trains -
There is little difference between the AVE and AVANT. The AVANT makes shorter journeys. The seating is the same quality. On the AVE there will be a better quality bar/cafeteria/dining car, on the AVANT maybe no refreshment car at all. On the AVE there may be entertainment on overhead screens, similar to a commercial flight. The AVANT is still a quality journey and I doubt anyone would have time to notice a difference over a short journey. At the moment I cannot think of much else different. There is also the ALVIA another step down in quality, but for the short journey.....
ALSA buses Granada to Malaga -
There is only one Granada (bus station and your departure) and only one Malaga (bus station and terminus). Granada International is the airport, anything else is a village or town, in the province of Granada. Similarly for Malaga.
Sorry, I have not travelled other than normal class on the ALSA buses. All I knew until now was Supra Economy or Eurobus involved extra leg room and 'V.I.P.' treatment. When you have the schedules up - click on Supra Economy or Eurobus under service and the information will appear as a 'pop-up'.
Seville to Granada.
I see four journeys by train 0655,1150,1600,1800hrs - this is direct, no changes. Bus as you can see is ten journeys a day.
The train station in Granada is closer to the Albaicin, city centre and 'the sights' and the bus station further out of the centre. I have not done the maths but bus will be cheaper between the two cities but saving may be negated by two bus journeys (or taxi, perhaps €14) and time expended to where you stay in the Albaicin. Train station will also require bus journeys or taxi (perhaps €7). So with money/time balance maybe little in it.
Cordoba for the day -
See the Mezquita, Alcazar, Juderia and whatever else suits you,(make a short list, see the guide provided by CathyM above for a wealth of 'stuff' under Places to Visit). The day can be as long as you want, with thirty some trains a day.
I do not recognise and cannot map accommodation 'Tapaluz' in Malaga, can you improve the address? However, arriving at the bus station in Malaga you will probably need a short taxi ride for most, unless walking or trying to figure the buses.
Sorry, I have run out of time for today. More tomorrow, if I have not covered or occurs to me.
Best wishes.
Trains -
There is little difference between the AVE and AVANT. The AVANT makes shorter journeys. The seating is the same quality. On the AVE there will be a better quality bar/cafeteria/dining car, on the AVANT maybe no refreshment car at all. On the AVE there may be entertainment on overhead screens, similar to a commercial flight. The AVANT is still a quality journey and I doubt anyone would have time to notice a difference over a short journey. At the moment I cannot think of much else different. There is also the ALVIA another step down in quality, but for the short journey.....
ALSA buses Granada to Malaga -
There is only one Granada (bus station and your departure) and only one Malaga (bus station and terminus). Granada International is the airport, anything else is a village or town, in the province of Granada. Similarly for Malaga.
Sorry, I have not travelled other than normal class on the ALSA buses. All I knew until now was Supra Economy or Eurobus involved extra leg room and 'V.I.P.' treatment. When you have the schedules up - click on Supra Economy or Eurobus under service and the information will appear as a 'pop-up'.
Seville to Granada.
I see four journeys by train 0655,1150,1600,1800hrs - this is direct, no changes. Bus as you can see is ten journeys a day.
The train station in Granada is closer to the Albaicin, city centre and 'the sights' and the bus station further out of the centre. I have not done the maths but bus will be cheaper between the two cities but saving may be negated by two bus journeys (or taxi, perhaps €14) and time expended to where you stay in the Albaicin. Train station will also require bus journeys or taxi (perhaps €7). So with money/time balance maybe little in it.
Cordoba for the day -
See the Mezquita, Alcazar, Juderia and whatever else suits you,(make a short list, see the guide provided by CathyM above for a wealth of 'stuff' under Places to Visit). The day can be as long as you want, with thirty some trains a day.
I do not recognise and cannot map accommodation 'Tapaluz' in Malaga, can you improve the address? However, arriving at the bus station in Malaga you will probably need a short taxi ride for most, unless walking or trying to figure the buses.
Sorry, I have run out of time for today. More tomorrow, if I have not covered or occurs to me.
Best wishes.
Dec 30th, 2010, 01:28 AM
#33
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annetteandricky,
I think I have covered what you asked. So additionally as tips -
The day trip to Cordoba - exit the station and take a taxi to the Mezquita, cannot be sure how much, possibly €8. Walk,
which is about 30 minutes from the station. If necessary, I can give you bus route/direction there and back to the
vicinity (there are no buses through the narrow streets near the Mezquita) and then a walk for a few minutes, (timewise it will be ten minutes on the bus and at most twenty minutes waiting).
As the number of taxi fare suggestions is adding up and you may be from a culture which tips - save money and hardly
do it. Little is expected. Round taxi fares and meal costs up to the nearest whole €uro as a tip and only tip extra for
very good service.
I have made no suggestions about what to see as I believe everyone should see what they are interested in, but you may
overload on the historical/buildings/grand sights.
I suggest try not to omit seeing Flamenco in any form in Seville (or Granada), wherever you are staying should give
advice or arrange, even if a tablao for the tourist.
Try the food and a glass of fino. Meals are later in the day than what you are probably used to. If not a 'class'
establishment and you only want a little and there is food in sight/on the bar ask, or point, for a tapa or media racion, to try or share. Sitting at the bar counter is cheapest, if you only want drinks and/or a little food. You may receive a tapa for free with your (generally only alcoholic) drinks, although likely only in Granada, so order drinks and delay a few minutes before ordering food.
Cordoba and Malaga I know well, Granada well enough if you need more, Seville barely.
Best wishes.
I think I have covered what you asked. So additionally as tips -
The day trip to Cordoba - exit the station and take a taxi to the Mezquita, cannot be sure how much, possibly €8. Walk,
which is about 30 minutes from the station. If necessary, I can give you bus route/direction there and back to the
vicinity (there are no buses through the narrow streets near the Mezquita) and then a walk for a few minutes, (timewise it will be ten minutes on the bus and at most twenty minutes waiting).
As the number of taxi fare suggestions is adding up and you may be from a culture which tips - save money and hardly
do it. Little is expected. Round taxi fares and meal costs up to the nearest whole €uro as a tip and only tip extra for
very good service.
I have made no suggestions about what to see as I believe everyone should see what they are interested in, but you may
overload on the historical/buildings/grand sights.
I suggest try not to omit seeing Flamenco in any form in Seville (or Granada), wherever you are staying should give
advice or arrange, even if a tablao for the tourist.
Try the food and a glass of fino. Meals are later in the day than what you are probably used to. If not a 'class'
establishment and you only want a little and there is food in sight/on the bar ask, or point, for a tapa or media racion, to try or share. Sitting at the bar counter is cheapest, if you only want drinks and/or a little food. You may receive a tapa for free with your (generally only alcoholic) drinks, although likely only in Granada, so order drinks and delay a few minutes before ordering food.
Cordoba and Malaga I know well, Granada well enough if you need more, Seville barely.
Best wishes.
Dec 31st, 2010, 05:08 AM
#34
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Wombatt: Thank you so much for taking your time to offer this very practical information. I will take into account the tipping info, as I am used to tipping 15% or more on taxis and food. I am looking into Flamenco shows in Seville at the Casa de la Memoria in Seville, but if you know of a good one somewhere else, let me know. I will also take your advice on ordering the tapas and fino, although we will not have a hard time with this - our families are Cuban and we both speak Spanish fluently. Again, thank you for all of your advice!
CathyM and Josele:
Thank you also for giving of your time to help us plan out trip. I really appreciate it! I think I'm going to book the AVANT - I could definitely use the extra Euros to bring back things for our daughters!
Is there enough to do in Malaga for two full days, or should we plan a day trip from there?
I look forward to you advice!
CathyM and Josele:
Thank you also for giving of your time to help us plan out trip. I really appreciate it! I think I'm going to book the AVANT - I could definitely use the extra Euros to bring back things for our daughters!
Is there enough to do in Malaga for two full days, or should we plan a day trip from there?
I look forward to you advice!
Dec 31st, 2010, 08:46 AM
#35
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Regarding Malaga - I found plenty to keep me occupied for 2 days (I actually stayed 3) but I can be a bit of a wanderer and slow traveler. You could have a contingency plan for a day trip in case you feel like you've seen enough in one day but you wouldn't necessariy have to take the day trip. There are plenty of coastal cities you could visit as a daytrip but if you wanted to visit somewhere a little different you could go to Antequera. It's a white village so you'd have an opportunity to see a smaller city that doesn't receive alot of foreign visitors.
Dec 31st, 2010, 09:01 AM
#36
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There is enough to do in Malaga for two days as to consider a daytrip; but in any case, Antequera is not a white town but a city in itself, pop. 45.000, lots of churches, palaces and monuments, same with Ronda (37.000), you can spend a full day there and still miss a lot. White towns are 300 to 1.000 pop., places you can visit in a couple of hours.
Jan 1st, 2011, 04:14 AM
#37
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TapaLuz. I have been checking and this hotel is not in Malaga, but off Colmenar, a town some 20 miles into the hills. Avoid it if you want to be in Malaga. For more details on the place, check tripadvisor.
Many former farmhouses in the national park hills north on Malaga have been turned into rural hotels. Nice settings if you want to be surrounded by pines, but nothing else to do.
Many former farmhouses in the national park hills north on Malaga have been turned into rural hotels. Nice settings if you want to be surrounded by pines, but nothing else to do.
Jan 1st, 2011, 05:03 AM
#38
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annetteandricky,
This is similar to what I have been to in the past or found by chance - http://tiny.cc/dzey9 Also I have seen several times practice in bars or bars which have tutors upstairs or out back.
Malaga to see without leaving the city - http://tiny.cc/ppeu7.
Re: Tapaluz. I think you have been confused, like many, by the use in addresses of Malaga as both province and city.
Best wishes.
This is similar to what I have been to in the past or found by chance - http://tiny.cc/dzey9 Also I have seen several times practice in bars or bars which have tutors upstairs or out back.
Malaga to see without leaving the city - http://tiny.cc/ppeu7.
Re: Tapaluz. I think you have been confused, like many, by the use in addresses of Malaga as both province and city.
Best wishes.
