Discover Guadix Caves & Old Town – A Day Trip From Granada, Spain

Where is Guadix & What to Expect

The town of Guadix is located in Andalusia in South Spain about 50 kilometers / 31 miles northeast of Granada.

Located between the Sierra Nevada and the Gorafe Desert, this picturesque town of around 20,000 people lies in the middle of an incredibly unique landscape, between desert and badlands with colorful eroded hills.

Its close proximity to Granada makes it one of the best day trip destinations. Just a 40-minute drive away, Guadix offers a refreshing change of scenery with unique experiences that will make you feel like you’ve left Spain altogether!

Famous for its troglodyte caves and nature, Guadix also has interesting monuments and lots of restaurants and shops for everyone to enjoy. 

What to Do in Guadix?

1. Guadix Caves (Barrio de Las Cuevas)

The Barrio de Las Cuevas (“The Caves Neighborhood”) is what Guadix is best known for, so it’s a must-see! Located just a 15-minute walk from the Old Town, this unique district features around 2,000 cave houses currently inhabited.

Two viewpoints, Mirador Padre Poveda and Mirador del Cerro de la Bala, offer stunning views of the cave homes and the city center, with the Cathedral towering over the area.

For a deeper dive into the local culture, visit La Cueva Museo, an interpretation center that offers tours of a traditional troglodyte house. Some locals also open their homes to visitors for a small fee, giving you a firsthand look at how these unique dwellings are designed and lived in.

2. Catedral de la Encarnación de Guadix

A visit to the Baroque-style cathedral in the Old Town is a must when in Guadix. While it might not be the most impressive cathedral in Andalusia, it’s still a fascinating experience.

With an audioguide in hand, you can explore the various artworks and relics that have endured over the centuries, eventually leading you to the cathedral’s grand heart.

Be sure to also take a stroll around the exterior to admire its stunning façade, featuring tall, inscribed columns and intricate architectural details

3. Teatro Romano

The Roman theater, located right next to the cathedral, is one of the city’s most impressive landmarks. Its significance rivals that of the theaters in Cartagena and Mérida.

Amazingly, it was only in 2008 that the Theatro Romano was discovered when plans were being made to build a parking lot! 

Spanning around 6,000 square meters, this architectural marvel was built during the reign of Tiberius in the first century AD. General admission is just 2.60€.

4. Alcazaba

The Alcazaba de Guadix, built in the 11th century as a fortress during the Muslim period, has stood as the city’s main symbol of Arab culture for centuries.

From its towers, you can enjoy stunning panoramic views of the Sierra Nevada and the surrounding valley. The keep, partially destroyed after the Reconquest, has been carefully restored to reflect its original Moorish design.

Beneath the Alcazaba, you’ll also find a pottery cave museum showcasing over 1,500 pieces of pottery.

5. Hiking in the Badlands

The natural beauty of Guadix and its surroundings is absolutely stunning, so exploring the badlands should definitely be on your list. And the best way to experience it is by hiking. If you liked the views in the Barrio de Las Cuevas, you’re going to love trekking through the desert!

There are several trails to choose from, but I recommend the one that takes you to the Mirador Badlands de Purullena, Mirador Carcavas de Marchal, and Mirador del Fin del Mundo.

This trail offers the most complete experience of the badlands, with breathtaking landscapes that feel like you’ve stepped into a U.S. national park.

Read more: Hiking Guide to the Badlands de Purullena & the Mirador del Fin del Mundo

Plaza de la Constitución in Guadix Old Town

Where to Stay in Guadix? 

Here are my best accommodation recommendations for a stay in Guadix according to your travel style: 

✅ Best Hotel – YIT Abentofail: This is where we stayed, and we had a fantastic experience. The room and bed were spacious, the shower was excellent, and we were welcomed with glasses of wine and a very nice staff. Definitely a great value for the money!

💰 Budget Pick – Cuevas de María: This is a troglodyte house! Located only a 10-minute walk from the Cathedral, this cave house has everything you need to spend a comfy stay while offering you a one-of-kind experience! 

🔍 Read more:

• The Most Beautiful White Villages of Andalusia
• One Day in Cordoba
• One Day in Malaga
• Malaga to Seville Day Trip
• Best Things to Do in Ronda
• Hiking La Garganta Verde
• Hiking El Torcal de Antequera
• Hiking La Ruta de Los Cahorros de Monachil

I hope you enjoy your visit to Guadix; if you have any questions, let me know in the comments below!

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