One of the things I’ve loved about living in Granada is how close everything in Andalucía feels. You can spend the week working in the city and then hop on a quick train or bus at the weekend and suddenly you are in a completely different place with its own atmosphere, food, and history. After spending this Saturday in Seville, it made me realise how many incredible cities you can reach from Granada without much planning at all.
Seville
I arrived in Seville early in the morning after a three-hour bus ride, getting in around 6 a.m., a little chilly but full of excitement for the day ahead. The first thing I did was walk into the city centre to grab some coffee and breakfast, which was a perfect way to start the day. As the morning warmed up, the city slowly came to life and walking around became even more enjoyable. One of the first things that caught my eye was the Metropol Parasol, those huge wooden structures that feel almost futuristic against the backdrop of the historic streets.
We then walked along the river, enjoying the sun, and met some Spanish friends I had made during my Erasmus in France. They knew the city inside out and offered to give us a proper tour. Over the course of the day we walked more than 30,000 steps, exploring everything from the iconic bull ring to the buzzing city centre full of cafés, restaurants, and tapas bars. The cathedral was absolutely stunning, and the Plaza de España felt even bigger and more impressive than I imagined, with its sweeping tiled arcades and fountains. Wandering through the winding streets, we passed countless churches, colourful buildings, and little plazas that were perfect for pausing to watch the world go by.
Seville was full of unexpected moments. We stumbled upon a rehearsal for the Holy Week procession, with locals practicing carrying the Virgin Mary, accompanied by music, singing, and dancing. Everywhere we looked there was life: horses pulling carriages, street performers, musicians strumming guitars, and tourists trying to capture it all on camera. Even simple things, like stopping to watch a small band play or noticing a local café tucked into a quiet square, felt magical. Seeing the city through the eyes of locals made it feel authentic and alive, not just a tourist snapshot. By the end of the day, tired but happy, I had a real sense of why Seville is one of Andalucía’s most iconic and vibrant cities. Its charm, culture, and energy make it perfect for a day trip or even a couple of days’ visit from Granada, as it is so close and easy to reach.
Córdoba
Córdoba is a historic city just under three hours from Granada, making it an easy day trip or short getaway. It is famous for the Mezquita, a breathtaking mosque-cathedral that beautifully blends Islamic and Christian architecture. The old town is full of narrow, whitewashed streets, flower-filled patios, and charming squares that are perfect for wandering and discovering local cafés and artisan shops. Córdoba also has a lively food scene, with plenty of traditional Andalusian tapas to enjoy. I haven’t explored it fully yet, but it’s high on my list for the next trip, and it looks like a city where every corner tells a story.
Málaga
Málaga, just over an hour by bus from Granada, is a vibrant coastal city that perfectly blends history, culture, and beach life. Arriving in the city centre, I immediately noticed the lively streets, lined with cafés, tapas bars, and boutiques, with the Mediterranean sun adding a warm glow to everything. The Alcazaba, the city’s Moorish fortress, is a highlight, offering incredible views over the city and the sea, and wandering through its gardens and walls is a lovely way to spend a few hours.
The Picasso Museum is another must-see, celebrating Málaga’s most famous son and showcasing an impressive collection of his works. Beyond the cultural landmarks, the port area and the beachfront promenade invite you to relax, enjoy fresh seafood, or simply stroll and watch life by the sea. The city does feel busier and more tourist-oriented than Granada or Córdoba, so it might not have the same “authentic” feel, but it’s still a fantastic place to experience Andalusian culture, vibrant street life, and coastal charm.
For anyone based in Granada, Málaga makes an ideal day trip or weekend escape. Its combination of history, art, and seaside atmosphere provides a completely different perspective of Andalucía, all easily accessible without needing to plan an overnight stay.