Planning a trip can be tricky when you’re unfamiliar with the area or only have a couple of hours to explore the city. In this article, we’ll tell you about the main attractions of Motril, how much time you need to explore it, which transport to choose, where to stay, and of course, where to eat according to your tastes and budget. And trust us, Motril will surprise you!
If this is your first time visiting our blog, we are Andalusia Travel Tour, a tour operator expert in Andalusia. Our base is in Granada; however, for the last two years, Motril has been our home. For this reason, in this article, we will reveal why we fell in love with Motril. Whether you’re planning a brief stop or a longer stay, we have the best recommendations for exploring this city.
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Where is Motril?
Motril is located on the southern coast of Spain, in the province of Granada, right in the heart of the Costa Tropical. It is uniquely positioned between the Mediterranean Sea and the foothills of the Sierra Nevada, offering stunning landscapes, as it allows you to enjoy both views of the sea and the romantic Sierra Nevada mountains. For much of the year, it is possible to stroll along the shore while gazing at the snow-capped mountains. Just a short drive (45 minutes) from the city of Granada and an hour from Málaga.
Motril is the ideal destination for those seeking a seaside escape while exploring Andalusia’s cultural landmarks. Additionally, it is well connected to charming Andalusian towns like Almuñécar and Salobreña, making it a perfect stop for travellers exploring the Costa Tropical region.
How to Get to Motril and Getting Around the City
Getting to Motril by road is convenient and easy, as it is well connected to both Granada and Málaga.
From Granada:
- By car:
- Distance: Approximately 70 km.
- Route: Take the A-44 (Sierra Nevada-Costa Tropical Motorway) towards Motril.
- Duration: About 1 hour. It’s a fast road in good condition, with spectacular landscapes along the way.
- By bus:
- Operator: ALSA offers frequent services from the Granada bus station.
- Duration: Between 1 hour and 1.5 hours, depending on schedule and stops.
- Cost: Approximately 6-10 € one way.
- Arrival: Buses arrive at the Motril bus station, located near the city centre.
From Málaga:
- By car:
- Distance: Approximately 100 km.
- Route: Follow the A-7 (Mediterranean Motorway) towards Motril/Almería.
- Duration: About 1 hour and 15 minutes.
- It’s a very comfortable route, hugging the coast and offering incredible views of the Mediterranean.
- By bus:
- Operator: ALSA also operates this route with regular departures from the Málaga bus station.
- Duration: Between 1.5 and 2 hours, depending on stops.
- Cost: Approximately 10-15 € one way.
Both routes are easy and convenient, making Motril a perfect getaway from these major Andalusian cities. No matter how you get there, the journey is worth it! If you don’t have a car and need private transport, you can contact us, and we’ll be happy to advise you on the best route and provide the most suitable transport for your needs.
Arriving in Motril by Cruise
The Port of Motril, known as the Port of Motril-Costa Tropical, is an increasingly popular stop for Mediterranean cruises. So, if you arrive in Motril by cruise, here’s what you need to know:
The port is located about 4 kilometres from the city centre. To get there you can explore different options:
- Taxi:
- Usually available right at the cruise terminal.
- Duration: 10 minutes to the centre of Motril or 15 minutes to the nearest beaches.
- Cost: Between 10 and 15 €, depending on the destination.
- Shuttle bus:
- Some cruises offer shuttle bus services, either free or paid, that connect the port with the centre of Motril, stopping at the tourist office.
- Duration: Similar to the taxi (10-15 minutes).
Why You Should Visit Motril
Here are at least five reasons why Motril is worth a visit:
1. Its Tropical Climate
It is a matter of fact that it would be rare to find bad weather in Motril. In fact the city enjoys a unique microclimate with mild winters and pleasantly warm summers, moderated by the sea breeze. It’s one of the few places in Europe where tropical fruits like avocados, mangoes, and cherimoyas thrive. Make sure to try cherimoya, a tropical fruit typical of this area—it’s delicious!
2. Friendly People and a Relaxed Lifestyle
The locals are open and welcoming, always ready to help and offer a smile. As a coastal city, its residents are accustomed to tourism, making Motril a very diverse and open city to different cultures. We arrived in Motril by chance, and we were warmly welcomed, feeling at home from the very first moment.
3. Spectacular Landscapes
As mentioned earlier, the views are truly unique. Motril is a city of contrasts and surprising beauty. While enjoying a walk or bike ride, you’re surrounded by the majestic Sierra Nevada mountains on one side and the Mediterranean Sea on the other. Believe us, it’s stunning!
4. It´s Affordable and Authentic
Motril is an affordable destination where you can enjoy top-notch gastronomy, well-equipped beaches, and typical bars offering delicious tapas designed for a local audience.
5. Excellent Beach Infrastructure
The beaches of Motril, such as Playa Granada and Playa de Poniente, are well-equipped with sunbeds, showers, beach bars (chiringuitos), and restaurants, making them the perfect place for a relaxing day under the sun. A long promenade connects the port with Playa Poniente and Playa Granada. While we recommend traveling by car, the walk is pleasant, and if you can and feel like it, it’s worth dedicating some time to explore Motril’s beaches on foot.
When is the Best Time to Visit Motril
If you’ve made it this far, you probably already know the answer. Motril is an ideal destination all year round thanks to its tropical climate. To enjoy a more peaceful atmosphere, with the feeling of having the city and beach all to yourself, the best time to visit is in spring (March to May) or early autumn (September to November).
However, during the summer months, the city comes alive. Many Spaniards and tourists choose Motril and Playa Granada for their summer holidays, and both the beaches and the city centre are bustling with locals and tourists. This season is also a lovely time to explore the city.
Who can visit Motril?
Motril is perfect for travellers looking for an authentic and stress-free Andalusian experience. It’s an ideal destination for:
- Families: With safe beaches and plenty of open spaces, Motril is perfect for a family vacation. In fact, many locals have their summer homes on Motril’s beaches and choose it as their vacation destination every year. In the beach area, you can enjoy clean and well-kept streets, views of the mountains and golf courses, well-maintained vegetation, and a truly relaxing climate. It’s a great place year-round. For us, it gets a 10!
- Couples: Its romantic landscape and relaxed pace make it a wonderful escape for two. You can find hotels with spas, hiking trails, exclusive restaurants by the beach or in the city.
- Food lovers: From fresh seafood to traditional Andalusian dishes, Motril is a paradise for food lovers. There’s no shortage of gastronomic plans inspired by what the sea and the area’s tropical crops offer year-round. Below, we’ll provide our dining recommendations.
- Sports lovers: Motril is a paradise for sports enthusiasts thanks to its excellent sports infrastructure. It offers perfect beaches for water sports like windsurfing or kitesurfing, and the “Los Moriscos Golf Club” is ideal for golfers. We drop here the link for you to check it out. Additionally, the natural surroundings with mountains and trails are perfect for hiking and cycling enthusiasts.
- Seekers of relaxation: If you simply need to disconnect from the routine, the frantic pace of city life, or your work commitments, Motril is the perfect place to relax, enjoy the views, savour simple pleasures, and rest. We’ve tried the small spa in the city centre, and it’s a delightful experience!
- Nature lovers: For all these reasons and more, Motril is truly a paradise for those who want to connect with nature. Its slow pace and landscape are the perfect setting to enjoy the unique vegetation and wildlife of the Costa Tropical and Motril. A must-see place for nature lovers is Charca Suárez.
What to do in Motril in a few hours
Although the city is small, it has much to offer, even if your visit is limited in time. Here are some ideas to make the most of it:
1. Explore the Historic Centre.
Take a walk through Motril’s old town, visiting the Church of Nuestra Señora de la Cabeza and the ruins of the old sugar cane factory.
2. Stroll through the Parque de los Pueblos de América
Just a few steps from the centre and right behind the Church of Nuestra Señora de la Cabeza, you’ll find the Parque de los Pueblos de América. This park is a true gem, very beautiful and well-maintained. It has areas designed for children as well as others for walking and enjoying the views. Succulent lovers can’t miss the “Teresa” Cactus and Succulent Garden, located at the end of the park, on Avenida de la Constitución. Opening hours are Monday to Friday: 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Entrance is free, however, for group visits, it’s necessary to make a prior appointment via email. You can find all the information directly on the city’s tourism office website: motrilturismo.com.
3. Visit the Sugar Museum
Learn about the agricultural history of the city and its connection to sugar cane production.
4. Relax on the Beaches
Head to Playa Granada to enjoy some sun, sea, and sand, and relax with a drink and some local tapas. Playa Granada holds a pleasant surprise: if you are curious or enjoy history, you’ll find here the former summer residence of the Belgian monarchs, Baudouin and Fabiola. The 27,000 square meter estate is noted for its lush gardens and traditional Granada architecture. Currently, the villa is open to the public; by purchasing a ticket, you can visit the King Baudouin Memorial, the interior of the house, and the vast garden that is just a stone’s throw from the sea. Here is the link for schedules and prices: https://memorialreybalduino.com/.
5. Enjoy Local Cuisine
Have a meal at one of the many restaurants or tapas bars, either in the city centre or on the beach. Keep reading for our recommendations.
6. Immerse Yourself in Nature by Visiting Charca Suárez
Charca Suárez is a natural wetland located just a few minutes by car from the city centre. This protected area is of great ecological value, where you can observe over 160 species of birds as well as various species of flora and fauna. Charca Suárez is ideal for nature lovers, hiking, and birdwatching. It’s a perfect spot to observe waterfowl like herons, flamingos, and ducks, along with other species of wildlife and plants adapted to wetlands. Entrance is free, but if you wish to participate in organized activities or guided tours, it’s recommended to make a reservation in advance. Find more information here.
Our Guided Tour of Motril
We’ve already given you plenty of ideas to make the most of a day in Motril. However, if you want to learn more about the city’s history and experience it by the hand of a local guide, we recommend booking the guided tour of Motril offered by Andalusia Travel Tour.
Our guided tour is designed for you to discover the best of Motril. From the historic monuments in the city centre to the Motril market and the beaches, we will take you on a journey to explore everything this city has to offer. Additionally, we will share local tips, interesting stories, and, of course, recommend the best places to eat based on your preferences and the season.
Sanctuary of Nuestra Señora de la Cabeza
We start the tour at the foot of the Sanctuary of Nuestra Señora de la Cabeza, an impressive place with panoramic views of the city and its surroundings.
Motril Local Market
Next, we continue our tour with a stop at the Motril municipal market, where you can find the best of the local harvest, delicious tropical fruits, and, of course, the freshest fish of the day. Sometimes, the market hosts interesting exhibitions about local culture and events organized by the town of Motril.
Preindustrial Sugar Cane Museum
The Preindustrial Sugar Cane Museum of Motril is a unique place that showcases the history and tradition of sugar production in the region. Motril was very important to the sugar industry for centuries, and this museum lets you travel back in time to discover how sugar cane was processed before the industrial era. During the tour, you can also explore the influence of Moorish culture and its mark on local architecture.
Casa de la Palma
The Casa de la Palma is a fascinating historical building, as it has had many different lives over the centuries. It was built by the Moor Jerónimo Cebtini as a country house, where he also set up a sugar mill. After the expulsion of the Moors, in 1582, the house became the property of the Genoese Italian Lucas Palma, which is where the current name “Casa de la Palma” comes from. If you decide to visit, don’t miss its beautiful traditional Andalusian courtyard and its interior garden, with plant species and trees brought from the Americas over a hundred years ago, which have since acclimatized to the area.
Church of the Incarnation and Plaza España
Another stop on our tour of Motril is the Church of the Incarnation, designed by Alonso Márquez and built in the early 16th century on the site of an old mosque (remnants of which are still visible on the western side of the church). Due to its structure, it has been one of the main defensive fortifications of the Granada coast since the 16th century. Although construction was completed in 1514, over time, additional rooms and chapels have been added.
Parque de los Pueblos de América
Finally, we conclude our tour at the ultimate Motril resting spot (at least in the city centre!), the Parque de los Pueblos de América. This charming location has everything for a peaceful time, whether alone or with family, as you can take a leisurely walk while enjoying more than 50 trees, exotic and subtropical bushes, as well as plants brought from different parts of the Americas. The park also features a playground, a central lake, a skatepark, a kiosk-bar, and much more. You just need to take a stroll to discover it all. We think the impressive sculpture “The Encounter between the Two Worlds” stands out. If you go to see it, we’re sure you’ll love it, and you’ll also be able to take some beautiful photos.
Here’s an interesting information you might want to note. If you’re planning your visit, right at the entrance of the park, you’ll find the Motril tourism office. We’ve provided the link for updated information on tickets and events: https://motrilturismo.com/es.
We’ve also included the link to our Motril tour. Remember, tours aren’t daily and require a reservation. I want to book!
Recommendations: To enjoy your visit with maximum comfort, we recommend you don’t forget the following:
- Wear comfortable clothing and suitable footwear for walking.
- Bring sunscreen and water (especially during Summer)
- Bring your camera to capture the spectacular views and create unforgettable memories.
Where to Eat in Motril
After all that walking, it’s time for a stop at one of our favourite things… let’s eat! Here are some suggestions with our top picks in Motril city centre and at the beach (Playa Granada & Playa Poniente). We hope you enjoy them!
Where to Eat in Motril City Centre
- Restaurante El Quebracho: A restaurant specializing in Argentine cuisine, known for its grilled meat cuts and cozy atmosphere. The entrance may not be the most attractive, but the food is top-notch, and the service is excellent.
- Zarcillo Restaurante Gourmet: An interesting option right in the city centre. It offers a tropical gastronomic experience with seasonal and local products, under the direction of Chef Álvaro García.
- Espacio Ime: Undoubtedly one of our favourites in Motril and the surrounding area. Espacio Ime is a gastronomic spot where Chef Iván Mateo’s creativity brings to life a unique experience, blending local ingredients with sophisticated avant-garde techniques. They currently offer two set menus that are incredible. We highly recommend adding this to your must-visit list in Motril!
- Pizzeria La Vespa Motril: For pizza, there’s no doubt—if you’re in Motril, you have to visit “La Vespa” pizzeria, run by the Sicilian Davide Di Bella. It’s excellent and has become a tradition among locals.
- Creperie Chez Laurent: Another must-visit is Chef Laurent’s creperie. Hailing from Paris, he has brought delicious French-style crepes to Motril for the enjoyment of the locals. Our favourites are the savoury crepes. It opens in the afternoons, so if you don’t have much time to sit down for a full meal or just crave a crepe, this is definitely your best option!
And since we are big fans of artisan ice cream, here’s a valuable recommendation for you, take note!
- Heladería La Flor de Candela: Located right in front of the Parque de los Pueblos de América, in the city centre of Motril. The ice cream is delicious—a classic all year round!
- Heladería Perandrés: A historic ice cream shop. If you’re passing by, you must try their specialty: Leche Rizada (Frozen Milk with cinnamon)!
Where to Eat at the Beach in Motril
- Sunahra Beach Club: The perfect place to enjoy a delicious meal in a charming setting, just steps from the shoreline. The staff is super friendly, and they often have live music.
- Chiringuito Espeto: A great spot to enjoy rice (arroz) or paella at Playa Granada. Here, you’ll also be able to enjoy a spectacular view of the beach.
- Restaurante Juan García: Motril is famous for its dried octopus, and we recommend trying the version offered by Juan García at Playa Poniente. He has two variations, both delicious.
- Argayo Playa Granada: One of our favourites at Playa Granada. The restaurant is cozy with a modern style. It offers a fusion of traditional and modern cuisine right at the centre of Playa Granada.
- AWA Surf Centre Playa Granada: If you want to “snack” with your feet in the sand, surrounded by surfers and in a relaxing atmosphere, this is your spot. They serve very traditional breakfasts. For us, it’s a certainty whether it’s summer or winter.
Where to Stay in Motril:
If you’re planning to spend a few days in Motril, congratulations! You’re sure to enjoy it, and there will be plenty to see and do. Here are some recommendations on where to stay in Motril:
- Hotel Elba: Located on the Motril promenade, just a few minutes’ walk from Playa Poniente. It’s a modern hotel with an outdoor pool, gym, restaurant, and rooms with sea views. It’s a perfect choice if you want to be close to the centre and the beach. Additionally, you’ll find interesting dining options nearby. https://www.hoteleselba.com/es/hotel/elba-motril-beach-business-hotel
- La Casa de los Bates: A historic 19th-century residence located in Motril, Granada. This Italian-style palace sits atop a hill, offering panoramic views of the sea, Sierra Nevada, and the Salobreña castle. Surrounded by 20,000 m² of gardens and tropical orchards, it features century-old trees like araucarias, magnolias, and palm trees. Currently, La Casa de los Bates operates as a rural house authorized by the Junta de Andalucía, offering accommodation in six exclusive rooms. It also has an outdoor pool, free parking, and free Wi-Fi. https://www.casadelosbates.com/
- Apartments at Playa Granada: The area around Playa Granada is seeing a growth in short-term vacation rentals, which means if you’re just staying for a weekend, this could be a great option for more independence. Plus, you’ll have access to a kitchen without sacrificing the comforts of a pool, and depending on the apartment you rent, even a paddle court. We love this area, it’s perfect for water sports and plenty of relaxation. Check out booking to find the best option for you.
- Casa del Azúcar: This option is very central and highly recommended on Booking. It offers Wi-Fi and a small outdoor pool.
Conclusion:
If you’ve made it this far, you’ll have realized that Motril is a special place within the Costa Tropical landscape. It has so much to offer and is perfect for spending a few days relaxing while enjoying nature, gastronomy, and, for sports enthusiasts, plenty of outdoor activities.
For us, Motril is not just where we live, but where we’ve found our home.
We hope this guide inspires you to visit and discover the magic of this gem on the Costa Tropical!
…And if you want to learn more, check out our reel about Motril and the highlighted stories on our Instagram profile. Follow us for travel tips and all our recommendations!
