Úbeda and Baeza are two Renaissance towns in Jaén province, about 135 km north-east of Granada, listed together by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. They are 9 km apart and share a wealth of 16th-century palaces, churches and plazas. Alsa coaches from Granada to Baeza and Úbeda take about 2 hours to 2 hours 30 minutes and cost roughly €10 to €14 each way; driving takes about 1 hour 30 minutes via the A-44 and A-316.
In Úbeda, the Plaza Vázquez de Molina holds the Sacra Capilla del Salvador, the Palacio de las Cadenas and the Basílica de Santa María de los Reales Alcázares. In Baeza, the Plaza de Santa María has the Cathedral and the Seminario de San Felipe Neri, and the Paseo de las Murallas gives views over olive groves. The region produces much of Spain's olive oil, and tasting it is part of the trip.
| Distance | About 135 km north-east of Granada |
|---|---|
| Travel time | About 2 hours to 2 hours 30 minutes by coach; about 1 hour 30 minutes by car |
| Getting there | Alsa coach from the Estación de Autobuses to Baeza and Úbeda (about 2h to 2h30m, about €10–€14 (~$11.50–$16.10) one-way; check alsa.com) |
| Difficulty | moderate |
| Address | Plaza Vázquez de Molina, 23400 Úbeda, Jaén |
How to get there
- Alsa coach (about 2 to 2.5 hours, alsa.com)
- Rental car via A-44 and A-316 (about 1h30m)
Location
Plaza Vázquez de Molina, 23400 Úbeda, Jaén
38.0133, -3.3692 View on map
Highlights
- Plaza Vázquez de Molina and the Sacra Capilla del Salvador in Úbeda
- Baeza Cathedral on the Plaza de Santa María
- UNESCO-listed Renaissance streets and palaces
- Views over olive groves from the Paseo de las Murallas
- Olive oil tasting
Tips for visiting
- Leave early; the coach takes about 2 hours 30 minutes each way.
- Confirm return coach times before lunch.
- Check opening hours for churches and palaces, which can close mid-afternoon.
- Take a local bus or taxi between the towns, about 9 km apart.
- Buy olive oil directly from local shops.
When to visit
Spring and autumn; summer is hot.
Accessibility
The squares are mostly flat; the old streets have cobbles and some slopes.
Visit, book or contact
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get from Granada to Úbeda?
About 2 to 2.5 hours by coach and 1 hour 30 minutes by car.
Can I see both towns in one day?
Yes. They are about 9 km apart and the key sights are close to each town's main square.
What is special about these towns?
They are UNESCO-listed Renaissance towns with palaces and churches.
Do I need a car?
No, but a car gives more flexibility between the towns.