Is it possible to do a trip to Granada from Málaga and see the Alhambra in a single day using public transit? Will I still need to book a ticket in advance to visit the Alhambra?
I am looking for a nice place to stay in Málaga in mid November. I would like somewhere quiet and reasonably priced in a non touristy area if possible. I will not have a car so nearby access to public transportation would be helpful.
You might read the answers to the same question
https://community.ricksteves.com/travel-forum/spain/alahambra
You have to reserve a ticket in advance. Alhambra is the most popular tourist site in Spain for both locals and non-Spanish.
'Is it possible to do a trip to Granada from Málaga and see the Alhambra in a single day using public transit?'
Absolutely, many do. The bus company Malaga to Granada is www.alsa.es and I suggest a taxi to the Alhambra from the Granada bus station.
'Will I still need to book a ticket in advance to visit the Alhambra?'
Certainly book as soon as you know when you wish to go, there is a limitation on numbers per day (possibly not relevant in November), you will avoid time expended queueing and have peace of mind and a time slot for the Nasrid to suit you.
A guide - http://www.tripadvisor.com/Travel-g187441-c77529/Granada:Spain:Buying.Alhambra.Tickets.Online.html
Malaga city is your public transport hub, a normal working Andalucian city with it's own sites to see. It is not as touristy as the Costa del Sol, but has become more so in the last couple of years due to port expansion and more cruise ships.
Sorry, no recommendations for accommodation from me, except I am happy with the IBIS Centro a couple of nights a year. Plenty of choice on directories like booking.com with testimonials from those who have certainly stayed at a premises.
Have I covered all?
Yvonne, I can tell you firsthand we just tried to book Alhambra tickets for either October 9, 10, 11, and all sold out. We tried a few tour companies, which we did not intend to take a tour, again sold out. We were getting very frustrated and contacted our Hotel Monjas Del Carmen and they finally secured us tickets, albeit with a tour. Tickets were $17 on your own and $50 with a tour and hotel transportation, not too bad.
