Things To Do
in Motril
Motril is a sun-kissed port town on Spain’s Costa Tropical in the province of Granada. It blends a working harbor with a lively historic center, palm-strewn promenades and a growing scene of tapas bars and seafood restaurants. The coastline is lined with beaches and citrus-filled valleys, giving the town a relaxed yet flavorful atmosphere.
Outside the urban core, tropical fruit groves and farm lands provide a colorful backdrop to day trips and market visits.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll along the beautiful Playa de Poniente, where the golden sands meet the azure waters. Enjoy a refreshing swim or simply relax on the beach, soaking in the morning sun. Grab a typical Spanish breakfast of tostada con tomate at a beachside café.
After lunch, venture to Playa del Cable for some water sports, such as paddleboarding or jet skiing. Take some time to unwind under the sun or explore nearby beach bars for local tapas. Later, visit the natural park of Las Maravillas for a scenic hike and enjoy the beautiful coastal views.
As the sun sets, return to the town center for a delicious seafood dinner at a local restaurant. Stroll through the charming streets, and stop by a lively bar for some flamenco music and dance performances. Reflect on the day's adventures with a cool drink in hand as you soak in the vibrant ambiance.
Begin your day at the Centro de Arte José Hernández, exploring contemporary art exhibitions that showcase local talents. Delve into Motril's history by visiting the Church of our Lady of Sorrows, where you can admire stunning architectural details. Allow yourself some time to enjoy a tranquil morning in Plaza de las Provincias.
Head to the Motril Museum of History where fascinating artifacts tell the story of the city's rich past. For lunch, savor some traditional Andalusian dishes at a nearby eatery, such as gazpacho or paella. Afterward, take a quick stroll through the botanical garden, enjoying the diverse flora.
As dusk approaches, make your way to the historic quarter and dine at a restaurant serving authentic Spanish cuisine. Wander the streets, taking in the vibrant atmosphere that comes alive as the night falls. Stop for dessert at a local café and enjoy some churros with hot chocolate.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🧺Grocery staple (weekly) | $40-70 |
| 🚶One-way public transit ticket | $1.50-2.50 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $70-150 |
| ☕Coffee in cafe | $2-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Coastal scenery and beaches with a relaxed vibe
- Excellent seafood and seasonal produce at good value
- Accessible day trips to Salobreña and the Sierra de Lújar
- Friendly, welcoming local culture
- Hot summers can be crowded and touristy in peak months
- Public transport outside the city can be limited
- Some services may operate on seasonal schedules
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The bill, please
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¿Hablas inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "No hablo español muy bien" - I don't speak Spanish very well
- "¿Qué recomienda?" - What do you recommend?
Places to Visit in Motril
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide sea-facing promenade ideal for sunrise or sunset photography, with palm trees and the calm Mediterranean as a backdrop.
Harbor roost with boats, fishing activity, and light reflections that make for atmospheric maritime shots.
Wetlands near Motril offering waterfowl and soft water reflections, especially photogenic at golden hour.
Narrow alleys and whitewashed houses around Plaza de la Libertad provide charming Andalusian textures.
Lookout points with sweeping coastal views across Motril’s bay and the surrounding hills.
Food in Motril
Motril Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Assorted small fried fish, a staple along the coast, best enjoyed hot and crispy.
Must-Try!
Seafood rice dish cooked in fish stock, often served with alioli on the side.
Heartwarming seafood or fish stew typical to the Motril coast, with a rustic, comforting flavor.
A refreshing coastal salad featuring tomatoes, peppers, onions, and local seafood accents.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Fresh seafood, citrus, bananas, avocados, herbs and daily produce—great for sampling ingredients and prepped snacks.
Street-side bites and small plates along the seafront offering fried fish, grilled octopus, and chilled gazpacho on warm days.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite greeting (Hola, buenos días) is standard. Avoid loud behavior in quiet neighborhoods and follow local dining norms (eat with friends, share plates if offered).
Dress modestly in churches and respectful areas; beachwear is for the beach, not the town streets.
Safety
Tipping in Motril
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory. A small gratuity (5-10%) for good service at restaurants is common; many bars simply round up or leave small change.
Card payments are widely accepted, including contactless. Cash is still useful in markets and smaller eateries.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming citrus create colorful landscapes; great for outdoor markets and coastal hikes.
Hot days and sunny skies; perfect for beaches, waterfront dining, and sunset photography, but bring sun protection and stay hydrated.
Pleasant shoulder-season weather with smaller crowds; good for hiking in the foothills and longer seaside walks.
Milder than central Spain, with cooler evenings; some facilities may operate on reduced hours, but coastal walks remain enjoyable.
Motril at Night
Hiking in Motril
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A range inland of Motril with pine and olive groves; offers several day hikes with coastal views.
Coastal trail linking Motril to nearby beaches; easy to moderate with sea views.
Steep but rewarding paths toward viewpoints overlooking the coast and the town of Salobreña.
Airports
How to reach Motril by plane.
Federico García Lorca Granada-Jaén Airport, about 60–90 minutes by car; connections to major Spanish cities and some international flights.
Major international hub roughly 1.5–2.5 hours by car; frequent flights to Europe and beyond.
Smaller airport serving regional flights, about 2–2.5 hours by car.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Andalusian families and retirees with a strong fishing and agricultural heritage.
Seasonal visitors drawn to beaches, markets, and coastal scenery.
A small but visible community of foreigners who settle for the milder winters and coastal lifestyle.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular at local clubs and on community fields.
Surfing basics, kayaking and paddleboarding along the coast.
Public courts and clubs appeal to residents and visitors.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Motril.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for vegetable-based tapas, gazpacho, tortilla española, roasted peppers, and vegetable-rice dishes; many places can accommodate with advance notice.