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How to get from Cordoba to Granada
Renfe high-speed trains link Córdoba and Granada in about 1 h 20 to 1 h 40 via Antequera, several times a day. Alsa buses take about 2 h 30 to 3 h and cost less. Driving takes about 2 h.
Best option: Train. The high-speed line is about an hour faster than the bus and the road.
All the ways to make the trip
| How | Time | How often | Price* | Good to know |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| train Renfe high-speed (Avant/AVE) trains from Córdoba to Granada via Antequera Santa Ana | about 1 h 20 to 1 h 40 | several a day — check current timetables | about €20–40 | Seats are reserved; book ahead for lower fares. |
| bus Alsa buses from Córdoba bus station to Granada bus station | about 2 h 30 to 3 h | several a day | about €15–20 | Both bus stations are away from the historic centres. |
| car A-45 south towards Antequera, then A-92 east to Granada (about 200 km); a shorter but slower route runs via Alcalá la Real | about 2 h | fuel only, no tolls | Parking near the Alhambra and the Albaicín is limited; use the public car parks. |
*Approximate prices and times for 2026. Timetables change by season: check with the operator before you travel.
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Tips
- Book Alhambra tickets weeks in advance in spring and autumn; they sell out.
- Córdoba's train and bus stations are next to each other, a 20-minute walk from the Mezquita.
- Granada's train station is about 2 km from the centre; take a city bus or taxi.
- Compare Renfe fares across the day — prices vary a lot between trains.
Common questions
Is there a direct train from Córdoba to Granada?
Yes. Renfe runs high-speed trains between Córdoba and Granada via Antequera, taking about 1 h 20 to 1 h 40, several times a day. Some services continue to or start from Seville. Check the current Renfe timetable, as frequencies vary by day of the week and season, and book ahead for the cheaper fares.
What is the cheapest way from Córdoba to Granada?
The Alsa bus is usually the cheapest, at about €15–20 one way, but it takes about an hour longer than the train. Early-booked Renfe fares can be close in price. Driving costs only fuel, with no tolls, and can be cheapest for a group, but parking in Granada adds cost.
Can I visit Granada as a day trip from Córdoba?
Yes, by train. With about 1 h 30 each way you can reach Granada in the morning, visit the Alhambra on a pre-booked timed ticket, walk the Albaicín and return in the evening. It is a full day. Without an Alhambra ticket the trip loses much of its point, so book that first.
Do I need to book ahead?
For the train, it is wise, since seats are reserved and cheaper fares go first, especially on Fridays and Sundays. Buses can usually be bought on the day except during holidays. Most importantly, Alhambra tickets must be booked in advance, often weeks ahead, and are tied to a specific entry time for the Nasrid Palaces.
Compiled by TonyPlan from operator and transport information and travel knowledge; updated 2026-10-05. Anything we could not confirm is marked as approximate.