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10 of the best things to do in Granada, Spain

Aug 22, 2023 • 7 min read

From touring the historic Alhambra to enjoying a flamenco performance, here are the best experiences in Granada © Westend61 / Getty Images

Granada is Spain ’s cultured, creative southern city; a place with a storied past centering on the Alhambra, one of the world’s great human-made wonders.

To the Moors it was a paradise on Earth, to the Reyes Católicos (Catholic Monarchs), who succeeded them, Granada became the seed from which a global empire grew.

Today, the legacy of Granada’s historic diversity remains the key reason to visit. There are former Jewish (El Realejo), Roma (Sacromonte) and Muslim (Albaicín) neighborhoods of winding cobbled streets waiting to be explored, where you might hear the plaintive arpeggios of a flamenco guitar fluttering through the warm air. There are also attractions for gourmands, history buffs and appreciators of all things musical and literary. Make the most of your trip with these top things to do in Granada.

1. Witness Moorish perfectionism at the Alhambra

Granada is best known for its world-class  Alhambra , a majestic hilltop stronghold, consisting of ornately decorated palaces ( Palacios Nazaríes ), robust fortifications (the Alcazaba) and graceful gardens (the Generalife). As you wander through its lavishly stuccoed palace rooms, and courtyards anchored by burbling marble fountains, it’s easy to imagine the emirs reclining in the shade, savoring life’s finer things. That was the underlying philosophy behind such exquisite buildings: that life is transitory and best appreciated in the present.

Planning tip: Entry to the Nasrid Palaces is  by timed ticket (usually an hour after your purchase) so start your visit at the Alcazaba, then proceed on time to the Nasrid Palaces and end your visit in the Generalife gardens. Book online in advance to grab an earlier time slot, before the masses descend.

2. Visit interred royals at the Capilla Real

Although nothing that the conquering Reyes Católicos built, after recapturing Granada from the Moors in 1492, rivals the Alhambra, the  Capilla Real (Royal Chapel) comes closest. While the Moorish palace was built to celebrate life, the finest post-Reconquista building is dedicated to death. Within the Gothic chapel, which adjoins Granada Cathedral, the ornate marble tombs of the revered monarchs Ferdinand and Isabella lie behind a protective wrought iron barrier. Most of the royal remains are boxed up in lead coffins in the crypt below.

3. Wax lyrical about Lorca’s Granada

Nobody has encapsulated the alluring landscapes and haunting culture of Andalucía quite like Federico García Lorca (1898–1936). A little sliver of his “Parched land, quiet land, of immense nights” can be explored at  Huerta de San Vicente . It was here in his summer house on the western edge of the city, surrounded by the bucolic poplars, palms and ponds of Parque Federico García Lorca, that he wrote many of his finest poems and plays. Visits are by guided tour only from Wednesday to Friday, apart from in August, when the house is closed.

Detour: For a deeper dive into Lorca lore, head out to  Museo Casa Natal in the village of Fuente Vaqueros, 17km (13 miles) from Granada. This was the indomitable poet’s birthplace, where he spent his early childhood years.

4. Add too much sugar to your mint tea at a tetería

You won’t find clusters of teterías in most other Spanish cities because they’re a remnant of the Moorish culture that the emirs left behind when Boabdil was sent packing into the Sierra Nevada mountains. Arabesque flourishes at  Tetería Dar Ziryab or the excellent Middle Eastern cuisine, such as mutabal and baba ganoush, of Tetería Palmira uphold the theme. Locals load up on mint tea (spare the milk but be liberal with the sugar), poured into glasses from stainless steel pots.

Planning tip: The densest concentration of teterías is around the intersection of calles Elvira and Calderería Nueva, two blocks east of the cathedral.

5. Crawl the tapas bars for free food

Perhaps even more astounding than the timeless beauty of the Alhambra is the fact that it’s still possible, in this day and age, to chow down on free tapas in Granada. The practice of providing a small plate of food with every drink purchase was once widespread in Spain. Now it’s almost exclusively limited to Granada and its environs. Stalwarts like  Bar Poë even have a menu offering a choice of over 10 dishes, including estofado de carne (piri-piri pork stew) or ensalada de garbanzos (chickpea salad).

Planning tip: There are bars offering free tapas throughout the city, although if you head to the Realejo neighbourhood, southwest of the Alhambra, you’ll find plenty of traditional-style bars, such as  Bar Los Diamantes on Calle Navas. A useful phrase to remember is vamos a tapear , or loosely: let’s go tapas bar hopping.

6. Notice the blend of architectural styles in Mudéjar buildings

Formerly a mosque, the  Church of San Gil y Santa Ana is a fine example of the religious one-upmanship typical of Andalucía’s historic buildings. While the Catholic Baroque style is mostly in evidence, look up to see the exquisitely carved wooden artesonado ceilings. Other fascinating remnants of heritage from this era include the Corral del Carbón, so named for its former use as a coal warehouse, but which began life as a 13th-century caravanserai. Nearby, the Palacio de la Madraza, sited beside the cathedral, may have a Spanish Baroque exterior, but the arabesque stucco within is undoubtedly Mudéjar.

7. Experience one of Spain's finest views

Practically every vista towards the snowcapped Sierra Madre peaks from Granada’s Albaicín neighborhood is dominated by the imperious Alhambra. Complete a late-afternoon stroll of the Albaicín’s narrow, cobbled streets at a mirador (lookout point) in time for the sunset. The most impressive view is from Mirador de San Nicolás, although many visitors to Granada book their accommodation in the Albaicín, too, so that they can start and end their day with this vista.

Planning tip: The streets in this area include steep sections and lots of steps so bring appropriate footwear. Hotels higher up the hill, north of the Darro River, offer the best views. Good options include  Casa Bombo and  Hotel Santa Isabel la Real .

8. Attend a flamenco performance in a Sacromonte cave

Romani heritage is in fine evidence throughout the Sacromonte neighborhood in Granada’s northeast. Many of the oldest homes were built in the naturally abundant caves of these Sierra Nevada foothills. The caves nurtured an arrestingly emotive version of the flamenco artform, where every guitar-backed grito is suffused with the pain of an oppressed existence. Today there are dozens of nightly shows in the Sacromonte playing this form of flamenco called Granaína, many of which benefit from the unique acoustics of their cavern settings. Among them are  Zambra María la Canastera , and  Cueva de la Rocio .

Planning tip: There are plenty of other great places to catch a flamenco performance elsewhere in Granada. These traditional, non-cave flamenco theaters are known as tablao . Some offer dinner and a show, such as  Tablao Flamenco La Alborea , while others focus purely on the art.

9. Brush up on Inquisition history at Palacio de los Olvidados

For a long time, the Inquisition remained a shameful and unacknowledged passage of Spain’s past. These days, it can still feel like an unresolved issue, but museums such as the  Palacio de los Olvidados go some way towards examining the period of deadly extremism that followed the overthrow of the Moors in Granada, as a way of quelling anti-Catholic sentiment. The museum’s main exhibit is of torture devices used during this time, coming close to, but not fully achieving an honest appraisal of this shameful era, but without trivializing it either.

10. Shop for rare ceramics at Fajalauza

If you’re planning to explore the upper reaches of the Albaicín and are looking for other fun things to do, be sure to stop by  Fajalauza . Rumors have persisted for years that this final bastion of Granaína ceramics is due to close its doors. In operation since 1517, the family-run factory has passed through dozens of generations. The exhibition and sales room is an ideal place to find a unique, hand-painted souvenir.

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Travel Safe

At the foot of the Sierra Nevada mountains, between the rivers Darro and Genil, lies one of the most interesting cities in eastern Andalusia . This impressive Andalusian legacy comes together with architectural jewels from the Renaissance and the most modern 21st-century facilities.

Granada has an unmistakably Moorish flavour, as it was the last city to be reconquered by the Catholic Monarchs in 1492. Its gastronomy, craftwork and urban landscape are shaped by its glorious historical past.

Fountains, viewpoints and “Cármenes” – the houses surrounded by gardens which are typical of this city – create delightful, unforgettable neighbourhoods. It is no surprise that one of its historic districts, Albaicín, is a World Heritage Site , together with the Alhambra and Generalife. It was an important cultural centre for many centuries, under both Islamic and Christian rulers, and still boasts an admirable array of culture and leisure activities . Film, music and theatre programmes and festivals are complemented by permanent and travelling exhibitions covering all fields of knowledge. Renaissance palaces are home to seminars, conferences and lectures, while the most innovative infrastructure is ready for larger-scale events.

What to visit

Select from the list or hover over the map to find out about points of interest.

The Alhambra

The Generalife

The Alhambra Museum

La Cartuja Monastery

Granada Cathedral

Granada Science Park Museum

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How to get there - transport information

Select the means of transport to see how to get there or how to get around at your destination.

How to get to aeroplane

F.G.L. Granada-Jaén Airport is 15 kilometres from the city.

Buses between the city and the airport are adapted to suit flight times.

The airport is not very busy. Direct flights to European cities.

More information

How to get to train

Granada’s railway station is located in the city centre, on Avenida Andaluces.

High-speed trains (AVE) take just over three hours to Madrid.

Connections to the main Spanish cities.

How to get to bus

Granada’s bus and coach station has lines to every part of Spain and to the main European destinations.

More information on how to get from the station to the city centre.

How to get there by road

The A-44 and A-4 motorways run to Madrid.

The A-92 runs to Seville and Malaga.

The A-92 and A-7 motorways run to the Levante region.

The A-44 runs to the Costa Tropical.

How to get to boat

The port of Motril is 70 kilometres from the city.

Practical information

Granada Card : includes tickets to the main sights of Granada and the public transport service, as well as large discounts on other tourist services.

How to get around in bus

A network of buses covers the whole city, including minibuses to take you up the hill to the Alhambra and Generalife.

How to get around in train

You can use the sightseeing bus-train Granada City Tour

How to get around in other means of transport

The city is easy to explore on foot.

Bicycles, motorbikes and segways are all good ways to get around Granada.

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Three different impressions of Granada throughout time:

Al-Suqundi, 13th century: " Granada is the Damascus of Al-Andalus, a pasture for the eyes, an elevation of the soul. It has an in-expugnable castle of tall walls and magnificent buildings. It stands out for the singularity of its river, which disseminates through its houses, baths, Moorish markets, internal and external mills and gardens".

Ví­ctor Hugo, 19th century: "Be it near or far, Spanish or Arabic, There is not one single city, Which dare dispute, With Granada , the beautiful, The prize of beauty, Nor any that show, With more enchantment or jollity, Brighter eastern sparkles, Under a more serene sky".

Pedro Antonio de Alarcón, 19th century: "Who has not heard of and admired Granada without even visiting it?".

It is an impossible task to summarise the history of such an important enclave in the history of Spain. The basic landmarks are only described briefly:

Paleolithic and Neolithic settlements proved by the numerous sites found in the outskirts of the city.

Iliberis was the Iberian name given to the settlement located nearby the present city, and the Castilian version for it Elvira, comprised a notorious emporium in Pre-Islamic Visigoth times (the Council of Elvira took place in 306 AD).

It was of special importance in the Arab period. The present location of the city housed the ancient Garnatha Alyejud, of Jewish origin. The period of greater splendour started under the Nasrid dynasty, founded by Yusuf ibn Nasr in 1238, and spread until the kingdom of Granada was taken by the Catholic Monarchs in 1492.

Since then, Granada became a model of the new monarchy and unity of Spain, turned into a Christian kingdom, royal residence and tomb.

In 1568 the War of Granada against the Moors began, a highly significant event for Spanish and Mediterranean modern history.

The War of Independence against France had a great impact in Granada and the prospective liberal period brought up heroes and heroines such as Mariana Pineda.

Important characters Ibn Zamraq. Fray Luis de Granada. Diego Hurtado de Mendoza. Pedro Soto de Rojas. Alonso Cano. Pedro de Mena. Fray Juan Sánchez Cotán. Luis de Narváez, musician. Francisco Martí­nez de la Rosa. Ángel Ganivet. Manuel Barrios. Antonio Gallego Burí­n, writer. Francisco Ayala. Luis Rosales. Manuel Ángeles Ortiz, painter. Ladrón de Guevara, poet. E. Martí­n Vivaldi, poet. Rafael Guillén, poet. Garcí­a Montero, poet. Manuel Cano, guitarist. Carlos Cano, singer / songwriter. Rafael Orozco y Miguel Ángel Gómez, musicians.

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Granada, Spain: Best Things To Do (Travel Guide)

Granada is one of the most magical cities in Europe , a place where history comes to life, and old cobbled streets sit in the shadow of incredible Moorish palaces. Although it’s a city, it’s within touching distance of the most breathtaking nature; a beautiful river trickles off the mountainside where the snow-capped peaks of the Sierra Nevada sit in the distance. Grab some free tapas with a local ‘Cerveza’, relax on the river shore, or watch the sun go down from a hilltop viewpoint. Enjoy all the top things to do in Granada, Spain !

Things to do in Granada

Granada is most famous for the stunning Moorish palace of Alhambra , drawing visitors from all over the globe because of its breathtaking beauty and fascinating history.

Doing a tour here can take around half a day, but aside from that, there are plenty of other awesome things to do in Granada, Spain. Add the city to your Andalusia road trip and spend a few days here relaxing, wandering the beautiful streets, and soaking up the chilled way of life in this enchanting city. 

Here are all your hotel options in Granada .

1. Alhambra Palace

Alhambra is the absolute gem of Granada and one of the most majestic buildings we’ve ever seen. The huge Moorish castle was built in the 1200s by the founder of the Nasrid dynasty (a Muslim king who ruled over this region). Because of this, the architecture is predominantly Islamic, making it even more exceptional to look at.

Get your Alhambra entrance ticket here

The palace is built from beautiful red stone (the name Alhambra comes from Arabic origins—meaning ‘red’), and the sun changes the color of the building over the course of the day. We recommend sitting below the palace and having a drink in Albaicín around sunset to see the palace turn pink.

Hotels in Granada 😴

Visiting Alhambra

Inside the palace, discover incredible courtyards with fountains, orange trees, and beautiful tilework. Everywhere you look, the stone and wood are carved with the most amazing details; it’s hard to get your head around how long this kind of work would have taken! Because of its unique history, it’s now a UNESCO World Heritage Site , making it a top thing to do in Granada, Spain .

Outside, you’ll also find magical gardens that have been perfectly curated, home to some of the most beautiful flowers and plants. The most impressive part of these gardens is the views across the Andalusian landscapes and the city of Granada below. 

Buying Tickets for Alhambra

Tickets cost 14 EUR (15 USD) for a self-guided tour and must be pre-booked online before arrival. If you’re choosing a self-guided ticket, try to come after 2 PM when it’s quieter as most tours will have stopped, so there will be fewer crowds. 

Tip: don’t forget to bring some form of ID to show when you enter.

However, if you want to learn all the intricacies of Alhambra’s history (it has been a fort, royal palace, and courts over the years), consider booking a tour.

Opening Times

Alhambra is open every day apart from Christmas and January 1st. Opening times are 8.30 AM – 8 PM. It’s also possible to do a night tour on some evenings. Alhambra closes at 8 PM, so enter at least a few hours before. 

To get there: Take bus C30/32 from the city for 1.40 EUR (1.42 USD). It’s a 10-minute ride from here. You can walk to the palace if you prefer, which is a 30-minute uphill walk.

2. Catedral de Granada

The Catedral de Granada sits in the center and is one of the most beautiful buildings in the city. Like many of the cathedrals in Spain, it was built on top of a mosque after the period of ‘Reconquista’ (when the Christians took back Spain from the Moors).

These days, you can see the renaissance architectural style. This gives the Catedral de Granada an Italian feel, especially with the beautiful marbled square in front. 

To escape the heat, visit the beautiful interior with its gold leafing, stained glass, and impressive stone arches and columns. On your way out, look for the artists painting in the outside square.

Entry Fee and Opening Times

Tickets cost 5 EUR (5.50 USD), and you can do an audio tour in many languages (for no additional cost). Conveniently, you can listen on your phone by scanning a QR code as you enter. Buy your tickets at the office by the cathedral or online in advance. 

Opening Times : 10 AM – 6.15 PM Monday to Saturday (Sundays 3 PM – 6.15 PM).

3. Mercado La Alcaicería

Just around the corner from the cathedral, discover the treasure of Mercado La Alcaiceria (a top thing to do in Granada!). Narrow alleyways are a common sight in Granada, but this is one with a difference.

Also go: Hiking at Caminito del Rey , located close to Granada!

It’s home to a Moroccan -style market with lots of vendors selling their wares—everything from colorful carpets to silk scarves. Here is the location . 

Here are all your hotel options in Granada.

4. Albaicín Neighborhood

The most beautiful thing to do in Granada is to wander the streets of the ancient Albaicín neighborhood. Even the journey to get there is fantastic; walk from the center, along the stone walls of the river, across cobbled streets with cute bridges, and gently climb the hill to Albaicín.

This neighborhood is spread across the hillside, facing directly onto Alhambra with incredible views. All the houses are painted white and have sweet doorways with pots of flowers and sit on a maze of narrow cobbled streets.

There are many lovely bars and restaurants down by the riverside that have a view of Alhambra. Enjoy a drink here, especially in the early evening when the buildings turn a shade of dusky pink. You can also walk down to the river and paddle if you want to cool down from the heat! You’ll feel a real hippy vibe in this area, with lots of people sitting enjoying nature and drinks together. 

Viewpoints in Albaicín

If you’re up for a hike, head up into the hills above the neighborhood and discover some spectacular viewpoints, like Ermita de San Miguel Alto (the highest viewpoint in Granada, Spain). Alternatively, for less of a walk, wander up the steps into Albaicín center and find some of these viewpoints: Mirador de San Nicolás or Mirador Placeta de Carvajales .

5. Take a Trip to Iznajar

If you’ve got a bit of extra time, take a half-day trip to the beautiful village of Iznajar . This authentic Spanish village is one of the famous ‘ White Villages of Andalusia ’ (Pueblos Blancos) and sits high up on the mountain overlooking the beautiful valley and lake below.

Click here to read all about the things to do in Iznajar .

It’s a tranquil village, home to local people (mainly the elderly), and is full of white houses and hundreds of flower pots. It’s also one of the most beautiful villages in the region and a must-see on your Andalusia road trip !

Make sure to check out the cute squares in the village and the traditional Andalusian ‘Patio de las Comedias’, where you’ll find hundreds of different colored geranium flowers in vibrant blue pots. 

How to get there: From Granada, it’s a 1-1.5 hour drive or bus ride. We recommend visiting early in the morning to avoid the bigger tour groups.

Best Cafes and Restaurants in Granada

Granada has many beautiful local Spanish restaurants but also some fantastic international food, including Middle Eastern , Indian , and Italian . Some of our favorites were:

• Wild Food (excellent vegan food inside a hotel restaurant)
• Restaurante Libanes Samarcanda (tasty and affordable Lebanese food)
• La Finca Coffee (perfect for a coffee and a breakfast tostada)
• Cafe 4 Gatos (a delicious place for a tostada in Albaicín. Make sure to try their cookies).
• Grillo Gelato (the best ice cream we had in Andalusia!)

Tip: Granada has clean drinking water so pack your reusable water bottle and travel plastic-free !

Where to Stay in Granada

You’ll find somewhere nice to stay in most areas of Granada. There are some beautiful boutique hotels by the cathedral with lovely views of the old town and the squares. However, if you want something more modern with a pool, consider looking further out of town, where the more prominent hotels are situated. 

Albaicín is the best neighborhood for self-catering apartments, and because of its height, it has impressive views over the city and Alhambra.

How to Visit Granada, Spain

Granada has a small airport that serves major cities in Spain , like Barcelona and Madrid . There are also some flights from major cities, like London, but these are very infrequent and often seasonal. For this reason, it’s best to fly to the international airport of Malaga .

To get from Malaga Airport to Granada, hire a car and follow an Andalusia road trip itinerary ! Alternatively, you can take a direct train from Malaga city center to Granada. It takes around 1.5 hours and can cost between 15 – 20 EUR (15.30 – 20.35 USD).

We recommend to rent a car in Spain through Sunny Cars with free cancellation and insurance included. Book your rental car here .

Getting Around

Granada is a very small city and everything can be visited on foot. However, if you don’t want to walk up to the Alhambra, consider taking the bus, which costs 1.40 EUR (1.42 USD).

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How Much Does Granada Cost?

The best thing about Granada is FREE tapas—yes, free! Granada is famous for its local concept; buy a beer and get a small plate of tapas free of charge. You can’t usually choose (so it’s not as suitable for vegetarians and vegans). 

Besides that, restaurants and cafes are reasonably priced in Granada (as are hotels). If you want to look for cheaper places, stray away from the city center, down the backstreets, or up towards the Albaicín neighborhood. It’s also a walkable city, so you won’t need to budget too much for transport. 

Costs of Traveling in Granada

Travel on a budget in Granada , from $210 − $380 USD weekly per person, mid-range $570 − $1490 USD, and high-end from $1510 − $2200 USD. However, costs depend on factors like accommodation, transportation, and activities. We did not include flights. Check flight prices here

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• Food: $5 − $15 USD
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Best Time to Visit Granada, Spain

Granada is exceptionally hot in the summer, and temperatures can reach upwards of 35°C (95°F). This can make walking around and seeing the sights a bit more difficult, especially as most of Granada is uphill! It’s also the busiest time, with many tour groups visiting Alhambra. 

Spring/fall is the perfect time to visit as temperatures are lower and the days are still sunny and bright. If you want to stay in Granada during the winter, be prepared for the cold! There is also a ski resort nearby if you want to practice winter sports while on your trip to Granada.

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Andalusia Road Trip: The Ultimate 2-Week Itinerary

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Granada Travel Guide

Last Updated: February 26, 2024

I loved my time in Granada. There are countless museums, monuments, and statues worth seeing and exploring, which are perfect for the budget-minded traveler. And, with its perfect weather and incredible food scene, Granada just punches above its weight. I’ve never met a traveler who didn’t love it here.

This travel guide to Granada will show you how to eat well, save money, and see the best sights the city has to offer.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Granada

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Granada

1. Explore the Sierra Nevada

This is one of the highest mountain ranges in Europe, reaching heights of 3,478 meters (11,410 feet). It can be explored as a day trip but is better as an overnight excursion. There are trails for short, medium, and long hikes. Some of the more popular trails are Caharros de Monachil (moderate), Cahorros Rio Monachil (easy), and the Three Bridges Loop (hard). In the winter, you can hit the slopes (lift passes cost around 60 EUR). Some of the more popular trails are Caharros de Monachil (moderate), Caharros Rio Monachil (easy), and the Three Bridges Loop (hard). Even if you don’t ski, you can take a gondola ride from the Pradollano to Borreguiles to enjoy incredible views (21 EUR).

2. Visit the Alhambra Palace

The Alhambra is a UNESCO World Heritage palace and a fortress dating to the 13th century. It’s one of the best-preserved historic Islamic palaces, built by the Moors on the ruins of a Roman fort. It’s a must see for history or architecture lovers. Construction started in 1238 by Muhammad I Ibn al-Ahmar, founder of the Emirate of Granada, and when it was complete, Grenada became the royal residence and court. Alhambra is the second-most visited site in Europe, so it’s a good idea to buy your ticket in advance. Admission is 19 EUR. Plan to spend a few hours here.

3. Snap photos at Paseo de los Tristes

For a fantastic view of the Alhambra, walk down to the Paseo de los Tristes (Passage of the Mourners), which follows the River Darro. The road got its name of the funeral processions that used to pass along the route on the way to burial grounds, but today it’s a popular spot to take photos.

4. Watch a Flamenco Show

Flamenco is an important cultural experience intertwined with life in southern Spain. It is a style of folklore music featuring guitar, singing, and dancing that originated in southern Spain in the hills above Granada where the Roma settled after arriving in Spain. It’s now popular across the country. There are many small theaters and restaurants where you can catch a show for as little as 25 EUR. Some of the best spots are in the original venues called “tablaos” in the Sacromonte neighborhood, like Cuevas los Tarantos.

5. Admire the Granada Cathedral

The Granada Cathedral has a stunning white-and-gold interior that reflects the historical power and wealth of the Spanish kingdom. The cathedral was built during the reign of Queen Isabella in the 16th century (construction began in 1526 on the site of the Great Mosque and took 35 years). It’s considered a Spanish Renaissance masterpiece, even though it features some Gothic elements, such as the facade and floor plan. Admission is 5 EUR.

Other Things to See and Do in Granada

1. take a free walking tour.

It’s no secret that one of the first things I do when I arrive in a new city is take a free walking tour. It’s a great way to see the main sights, learn some history and culture, and have a local expert answer all my questions. Both Guru Walk and Walking Granada offer a variety of free tours. Just be sure to tip your guide at the end!

2. Take in sunset views at the Mirador de San Nicolás

Located in the cute Albaicín neighborhood of Granada, the Mirador de San Nicolás is the best spot in the city for a panoramic viewpoint, especially at sunset. With incredible views of the Alhambra and the Sierra Nevada, it’s a popular spot but worth the crowd.

3. Check out Casa del Chapiz

Built in the Moorish architectural style, these two 14th-century mansions are connected by an archway, forming one giant complex. The building includes a library and central courtyard with a colorful garden. Since 1932, the building has been home to the Granada School of Arabic Studies. Like many places in Granada, it’s another great spot to take in a unique view of the Alhambra in the distance. Admission is 2 EUR.

4. Soak in a hammam

There are several hammams (bathhouses) in Granada. These are modern spas reconstructed in the style of ancient Moorish baths that were once common across Granada. Entry is usually around 30 EUR but can get as high as 100 EUR or more if you want to add spa treatments like massages or skincare treatments. Some of the most popular are Hammam Al Andalus and Al-Haram Hammam.

5. Visit El Bañuelo

Lying at the base of the Alhambra, in the oldest public building in Granada is El Bañuelo. It’s one of the best-preserved Moorish bathhouses, and is now a museum. The complex dates to the 11th century, and was used as bathhouse until the 16th century. See parts of the original architecture that includes octagonal & star-shaped skylights that cast intricate light patterns around the building. Admission is part of the Monumentos Andaluscíes (Andalusian monument) ticket (7 EUR).

6. Wander through the Albaicín

The Albaicín is a UNESCO World Heritage in the historic Moorish quarter of the city and, which is the oldest neighborhood of Granada. Spend an hour or two to walk through its narrow, winding streets and whitewashed buildings. The stroll takes you back in time to the Nasrid Kingdom of Granada in the 13th century (this was the last independent Muslim state in Europe). This is one of the four monuments and historical sites in the Albaicín, which includes the Bañuelo, Casa Morisca, Palacio de Dar al-Horra, and Corral del Carbón. The combined Andalusian monument ticket provides entrance to all four for 7 EUR. On Sundays, entry is free.

7. Take a cycling tour

There are several bike companies running day tours around Granada’s top sights, and this is a great way to see the city and surrounding area if you love biking. Additionally, since Andalusia is a popular cycling destination, many enthusiasts actually cycle between cities on multi-day excursions. A guided e-bike tour around the city costs 50 EUR while a guided 7-day tour between Seville and Granada (a distance of around 250 kilometers) can cost up to 1,800 EUR per person.

8. Visit the Monasterio de San Jeronimo

This 16th-century monastery is a must see given its impressive Renaissance-era architecture. There’s a large nave and beautiful stained glass windows, but the most impressive part is the detailed painting of the interior in Spanish Baroque style. The first church in the world consecrated to the Immaculate Conception of Mary, it’s incredibly ornate, and I highly recommend a visit. The monastery is still in use but is open for visitors. Admission is 6 EUR.

9. Hang out in Plaza Nueva

Just a short walk from the Granada Cathedral, Plaza Nueva is a bustling pedestrian plaza with a lot of restaurants, bars, and shops. Surrounded by classic Andalusian buildings, including the Royal Chancellery and the House of Pisa, it’s a good spot to sit and people-watch or grab a snack of fresh fruit from any of the market vendors.

10. Shop & snack at Mercado San Agustín

One of the municipal markets in Granada, the Mercado San Agustín is a convenient spot to shop for fresh fruit and vegetables. In the central area near Granada Cathedral and Plaza Nueva, the indoor covered market also has some small tapas stalls where you can buy meat, cheese, olives, and other light foods for a cheap but filling lunch. There is seating indoors and there’s also an air conditioned terrace.

11. Take a food tour

Granada is very much a foodie city; the rich fusion and blend of Spanish and Arabic cultures makes for a unique local cuisine. Spain Food Sherpas offer a nearly 4-hour tour through Granada’s best food spots with tapas and wine tastings and a full meal included. You’ll also learn about the all the different cultural influences that shaped food over the last several hundred years. It’s a must for any die-hard foodies. Standard food tours cost 69 EUR while their Flamenco & Tapas tour is 87 EUR.

12. Explore the Generalife

The gardens of the Alhambra really deserve a mention of their own. Meaning “Garden of the Architect,” the Generalife can be found on Cerro del Sol (Hill of the Sun), next to the Alhambra, and I highly suggest adding this spot on to your visit to the Alhambra. It’s a series of large gardens and a few understated buildings, some of which were built in the Moorish period. The Generalife has several levels and a patio but is most famous for its numerous plants and beautiful water features. Admission is 11 EUR for the gardens and is included in the 19 EUR Alhambra admission fee. You can visit at night for 7 EUR.

The Royal Chapel is the final resting place of Ferdinand II and Isabella I (Spanish monarchs from the 15th century). Joanna I and Philip I (their successors) plus Michael, Prince of the Asturias are also buried here in a separate tomb. Although the chapel, the largest in Spain, is physically connected to the cathedral, it’s considered a separate building. There are several parts that make up the chapel, including four adjacent chapels that form a Latin cross, a nave with a Gothic ribbed vault, and a crypt. There is also a museum. Admission is 6 EUR.

  For more information on other cities in Spain, check out these guides:

• Barcelona Travel Guide
• Madrid Travel Guide
• Seville Travel Guide
• Valencia Travel Guide

Granada Travel Costs

For those traveling with a tent, camping is available outside the city. A simple plot to pitch a tent without electricity starts at 11 EUR.

Budget hotel prices – Hotel costs, including budget hotels, have had big jumps in price the last few years but are still relatively affordable compared to other parts of Spain. Budget hotels start around 70 EUR per night for a double room in offseason, but can cost closer to the 150-200 EUR range in summer without advance booking. Even in the budget range, there are many nice hotels available — some even have pools and include free breakfast.

There are several affordable Airbnb options in Granada. A private room starts at 30 EUR per night but averages closer to 60 EUR. An entire home/apartment goes for at least 85 EUR per night (though they average closer to 100-120 EUR per night).

Food – Spain has a strong food culture, where meals can last hours and dinner often isn’t served until after 8pm. Each region in the country has its own local dishes and food culture, and Andalucía is no exception. Local favorites in Granada include fried eggplant with honey, habas con jamón (sautéed beans and ham), gazpacho, remojón granaíno (a cod salad with oranges), and churros.

You can eat very cheap in Granada, thanks to the tapas bars that offer free food when you order drinks. Cheap tapas and meals are available at small restaurants for around 12-15 EUR. If you want wine, expect to spend about 25-30 EUR per meal.

Prices for main dishes start at 25 EUR for traditional cuisine at sit down restaurants while set menus at more fine dining establishments range anywhere between 40-45 EUR for a main dish.

Fast food (think McDonald’s) is around 9 EUR for a combo meal. A latte or cappuccino is about 2 EUR, and so is bottled water. A single glass of wine or a beer is usually just a few euros.

If you’re cooking your own food, a week’s worth of groceries costs 50-60 EUR. This gets you basic staples like pasta, rice, seasonal produce, and some meat. For local foods and fresh produce, check out the local municipal markets and produce vendors in the plaza.

Backpacking Granada Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking Granada, expect to spend about 90 EUR per day. This budget covers staying in a hostel dorm, taking public transit, cooking most of your meals, limiting your drinking, and sticking to mostly free activities like free walking tours, lounging in the parks, and hiking. If you plan on drinking a lot, I’d add another 15-20 EUR to your daily budget.

On a mid-range budget of 200 EUR per day, you can stay in a private Airbnb, eat out for most meals at cheap tapas restaurants and street food stalls, enjoy a couple drinks, take the occasional taxi to get around, and do more paid activities like visiting the Alhambra or watching a Flamenco performance.

On a “luxury” budget starting just over 300 EUR per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat and drink whatever you want, rent a car, take taxis, and do any tours and activities. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get an idea of how much you need to budget daily. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you spend more, some days you spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in EUR.

Granada Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Food, drinks, and tours can add up quickly in Granada if you aren’t watching your spending. That said, there’s still a lot of free things to do in the city and affordable food. Here’s my suggestions on saving money in Granada:

• Eat cheap – Many casual dining restaurants and bars give you free tapas when you buy drinks (most have a limit on how many you can have). It’s common to barhop to take full advantage of the free tapas. Order one drink at a place and enjoy some snacks before heading to another.
• Get the Granada Card – If you plan on taking full advantage of the tourist activities and attractions in Granada, the Granada Card offers discounted access to 12 different monuments. It also provides 9 trips on city busses. There are 4 different Granada Cards available depending on the length of your stay and how much you want to see. Cards start at 47 EUR and can be purchased online. It will definitely save you money if you are doing a lot of sightseeing.
• Buy your own alcohol – While drinks are not overly expensive at bars and restaurants in Granada, you can save yourself a lot of money if you buy your own beer and wine from the store. Many hostels have large courtyards, and some even have swimming pools, so it’s cheaper to hang out in your hostel than at a bar.
• Stay with a local – If you’re traveling on a budget, Couchsurfing is a great way to save money on accommodation while also getting some insight from the locals. While hostels aren’t too expensive in the city, this is still the best way to save money while getting some insider tips and advice.
• Take a free walking tour – This is one of my favorite ways to get to know a new place, and you can’t beat the price! Just don’t forget to tip your guide at the end!
• Enjoy the outdoor public spaces – Granada’s Plaza Nueva is a hotspot of activity day and night. Between the bars, restaurants and shops that line the plaza, and the vendors and street buskers, it’s a great spot for free entertainment or a spot to grab a coffee in the afternoon. The people-watching is excellent and the side streets around it offer some great opportunities to wander and explore.
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Granada

Granada has a lot of affordable hostels (some of which even have small rooftop pools) as well as budget hotel options. Here are my favorite places to stay in Granada:

• Hostel Cascabel
• Oasis Backpackers Hostel
• Oripandó Hostel
• Casual Ilbira Granada
• Hotel Molinos

How to Get Around Granada

Bicycle – Granada does not have a city bike system like Malaga or Seville, but standard and e-bike rentals are available from a number of different shops for around 30 EUR per day.

Taxis – Taxis in Granada start around 4 EUR with an additional 1.15 EUR per kilometer. Skip the taxis if you can as they add up quickly!

Ridesharing – Uber is available in Granada, but like taxis, it adds up fast. Stick to the bus as much as possible to save money.

When to Go to Granada

Granada has a higher altitude than other Andalusian cities like Malaga or Seville, so it doesn’t get quite as hot but it still gets hot. July and August are the hottest months when temperatures can be as high as 35°C (94°F). This is when the city is at its liveliest and there are lots of events that range from music festivals in the nearby cities to cultural celebrations. And while all of Spain is known for late-night activities, cities like Granada and other southern towns are especially vibrant on summer nights after the temperatures cool down.

Personally, I like May or June the best when visiting. That’s when the city’s many gardens are in full bloom. Semana Santa holy week (usually in April) isn’t as popular in Granada as it is in nearby Seville, but it still draws in large crowds for the colorful procession. If you prefer hiking or looking to spend most of your days outdoors, this is the best time. It’s a great time to visit as long as you can book your accommodation early.

The winter months (December-February) are wet and cold with temperatures hovering between 2°C and 13°C (35-56°F). For those that ski, the Sierra Nevada is an easy day trip or weekend trip. And if you don’t mind the rain, sites like the Alhambra are much less crowded (except on holiday weeks like Christmas). While it’s still a fine time to visit, I’d aim for the summer or shoulder season as that’s when the city is liveliest.

How to Stay Safe in Granada

Granada is a safe city and violent crime is rare. However, as with other Spanish cities, pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in the major tourist areas at night, are major problems. There are also some tourist scams, especially because many of the tourist attractions require tickets in advance. Make sure you buy your ticket from a reputable provider (online or at the official ticket counters) and avoid anyone who offers you tickets outside of these locations. You can read more about common travel scams to avoid here .

Some people report feeling unsafe in the Albaicín area at night, though as long as you stick to the main streets and avoid wandering dark roads alone, you should be fine.

Overall, make sure you keep your valuables out of sight and secure when you’re out and about, and don’t flash any cash or valuables. The pickpockets here are fast! Don’t leave your bags or phones on tables or cafes, especially in outdoor seating areas.

Solo female travelers should feel safe here. However, the standard precautions apply (don’t leave your drink unattended at the bar, don’t walk around intoxicated at night, etc.). You can visit any one of the numerous solo female travel blogs for specific tips as they will be able to provide advice. In addition, you can look for female-only dorm rooms in many hostels.

If you do experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they know where you are.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Granada Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!
• BlaBlaCar – BlaBlaCar is a ridesharing website that lets you share rides with vetted local drivers by pitching in for gas. You simply request a seat, they approve, and off you go! It’s a cheaper and more interesting way to travel than by bus or train!

Granada Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Spain travel and continue planning your trip:

The 7 Best Hotels in Madrid

The 7 Best Hotels in Barcelona

The Best Walking Tours in Barcelona

The Best Walking Tours in Seville

The Perfect 3 Day Granada Itinerary

The 7 Best Hostels in Seville

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• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

Granada is one of the most visited destinations in Spain because of the Alhambra , its museums and monuments , its cuisine , and its close ties to flamenco music. In this guide, you'll discover the exciting history of Granada and its Nasrid legacy, which can still be found all over the city.

GranadaTravel Guide

• General Information
• Attractions
• How to get to Granada
• Transport in Granada
• Where to stay in Granada
• Where to eat
• Granada in 24 hours

Why visit Granada?

Granada is the reflection of the splendor of the Nasrid period, present in many of its monuments and in its architectural jewel par excellence: The Alhambra . Considered by many to be the eighth wonder of the world , this palace complex welcomes millions of tourists from all over the world every year.

Along with its undeniable heritage attraction, Granada offers three landscapes in one : beach, mountain, and city. On the same day, it's possible to ski in the Sierra Nevada , swim in the sea, and stroll through Granada's most popular neighborhoods: the Albaicin and Sacromonte .

Granada is also a paradise for art lovers, who'll encounter flamenco shows, historical monuments, and specialized museums . Moreover, Granada's "hippie" atmosphere is unlike any other city in Spain.

Where to start?

The most visited monument in Spain is the Alhambra , the symbol of Granada . It's the perfect place to travel back in time to the Nasrid period . Also, walking through neighborhoods such as the Albaicin , Sacromonte,  or Realejo is a great way to learn about the lifestyles of the different cultures that have co-existed in Granada throughout its history .

If you have limited time, we recommend you consult the itinerary we propose to see Granada in 24 hours . Also, you can't leave the city without sampling the best dishes of Granada's cuisine or without experiencing a flamenco show. 

Still haven't booked your hotel stay?

You can book all kinds of hotels at the lowest price possible by checking out the link below. Payment is made directly at the hotel, and discounts can reach up to 75%.

• Hotels in Granada - Book online at the best price.

top activities

Alhambra Private Tour Magnificent architecture, breathtakingly beautiful mountain views and legendary history: immerse yourself in the magic of the  Alhambra  on this private tour.

Alhambra Guided Tour Stunning gardens , historic buildings , and the most  breathtaking views Granada  the highlights of this Alhambra guided tour without access to the Nasrid Palaces.

Granada's Hammam Al Ándalus Arab Baths Unwind at the feet of the Alhambra, at Granada’s Hammam Al Ándalus, built on the ruins of an old 16th century Arab bath. An age-old tradition in Granada.

Jardines de Zoraya Flamenco Tablao Be enchanted by the passion of flamenco  in the Jardines de Zoraya restaurant, located in the heart of the Albaicín neighbourhood in Granada!

Granada Flamenco Show Experience the spirit of flamenco at this show in the center of Granada at La Alboreá. Let the song, dance & sound of the guitar take over your senses!

Offer: Alhambra + Albaicin & Sacromonte Guided Tour Make the most of your trip to Granada on this tour of the unique Albaicin and Sacromonte neighbourhoods, and a guided visit of the iconic Alhambra.

Flamenco Show at Tablao Casa Ana Experience the Casa Ana Tablao's flamenco show , an unforgettable performance that blends tradition , emotion , and passion - you won't regret it.

Private Tour of Granada Discover the hidden treasures and secrets of the magical city of Granada when you take our fantastic private tour , exclusively just for you and your part

Day Trip to the Alpujarras Lanjarón, Pórtugos, Capileira, Pampaneira & Trevélez star in this excursion to the villages of the Alpujarra . You can choose between two different routes.

Flamenco Show at Cueva Flamenca La Comino At this  flamenco show in Cueva Flamenca La Comino , you'll feel the  magic and power of Andalusian folklore in an  Arabic-style cave at the foot of the Alhambra .

Albaicin & Sacromonte Guided Tour History, tradition, legends, music... there's so much to be discovered on this Albaicin and Sacramonte tour , 2 of the most emblematic neighborhoods in Granada.

Free Walking Tour of Granada What better way to get to know Granada than on a free walking tour with a local guide?! On this tour you'll see the hisotric centre with a local expert .

Cordoba Day Trip Explore the most important Al-Andalus province with this Cordoba Day Trip. Discover flower-filled courtyards, Muslim arches and the mythical Mosque-Cathedral.

Granada Tourist Train Discover Granada's most emblematic monuments and historic neighbourhoods in a fun and comfortable way: on a sightseeing tourist train!

Granada Cathedral & Royal Chapel Tour Discover two of Granada's most famous buildings on this tour . You'll visit the symbolic Cathedral and the Royal Chapel where the Catholic monarchs lie.

Granada: Historic Downtown Adventure Quest Check out this exciting clue game adventure in Granada . Engage in a captivating treasure hunt, where you'll explore the city while solving  riddles and puzzles .

Flamenco in Sacromonte Experiencing the art of flamenco is a must-do part of any trip to Granada. Enjoy this incredible display of Andalusian culture in a traditional Sacromonte cave.

Snowshoe Hike in Sierra Nevada Put on your snowshoes and explore the peaks of the Sierra Nevada. Discover the snowy landscapes of Granada on this guided hike!

Granada is a picturesque city full of history . On this segway tour, you'll see the most fascinating places and be able to choose from three different routes.

Cahorros de Monachil Hike This hiking route through the Cahorros de Monachil is one of the easiest yet prettiest treks just a few kilometres from the city of Granada.

Granada Cármenes Tour Our Granada Cármenes Tour is perfect for you if you're looking to learn more about the local culture in Granada. You'll walk through the Abaicín neighbourhood.

Sierra Nevada Day Trip The rugged white peaks in Granada have captivated travellers for centuries . Admire the region's impressive landscapes with this Sierra Nevada Day Trip.

Flamenco Show at La Soleá Discover La Soleá, one of the most renowned tablaos in Granada, and be captivated by the mesmerising, passionate art of flamenco . Unmissable!

Caminito del Rey Day Trip Make the most of your stay in Granada to discover this unique path located 105 meters above the Gaitanes Gorge, with this Caminito del Rey Day Trip.

Roman Villa of Salar Day Trip Travel back in time to the age of the Roman Empire on our day trip to the Roman Villa of Salar, a little-known archaeological treasure in Granada.

Antequera Day Trip The Dolmens and the Torcal are two of the great treasures within this municipality of Malaga , discover them with this Antequera Day Trip from Granada.

This hike, known as the Gollizno Route Trail will allow you to discover an incredible natural landscape in the province of Granada packed with history .

Úbeda & Baeza Excursion Two Spanish Renaissance gems declared World Heritage Sites by UNESCO await us on this excursion to Úbeda and Baeza from Granada.

Make the most of your time in Andalusia to explore the regional capital on this day trip to Seville from Granada . Discover the city's most iconic monuments.

Tabernas Desert & Fort Bravo Day Trip Travel back in time to the Wild West with our Tabernas Desert & Fort Bravo Day Trip. You'll discover one of Andalusia's most unique and arid landscapes.

Granada Tapas Tour Come and discover the most authentic side of Granada in this tapas tour around the city . Immerse yourself in the culture and taste of this Andalusian gem.

Guadix & Gorafe Day Trip The Guadix cave houses and the Gorafe megalithic monuments are a must-see in the province of Granada. Discover them with this Guadix and Gorafe day trip .

Granada Electric Bike Tours On this electric bike tour in Granada, we'll see nature, history and incredible viewpoints . Visit the Albaicín and Sacromonte or Dehesa del Generalife.

Granada Private Day Trips Discover the rich history of Seville, Malaga, Cadiz, Cordoba or Ronda. Explore these Andalusian cities with the Granada Private Day Trips with a private guide.

Flamenco Show at Tablao Flamenco en Palacio Live a night full of magic by enjoying a flamenco show at the  Palacio de los Olvidados . You'll see the purest form of  Granadan art !

La Luna Ravine Hiking Tour Explore Granada's natural landscapes on this excursion to Lecrin Valley. You'll see enchanting Andalusian villages and hike the Barranco de la Luna ravine!

Want to enjoy the best views of the Alhambra all lit up ? Explore the Albaicin neighborhood at nightfall and see the beauty of Granada from several viewpoints.

La Rijana Beach Snorkelling Experience Step away from the city for a day and come and snorkel with us! On our La Rijana Beach Snorkelling Experience, in the town of Gualchos, you'll swim peacefully.

Granada's Arab Legacy Tour On this tour of Al-Andalus Granada , we'll visit the Dar al-Horra palace, the Maristan (old hospital), and El Bañuelo to learn all about the city's Arab legacy .

Sacromonte Abbey Guided Tour Discover the Sacromonte Abbey; the birthplace of Christianity in Granada. Discover the history and art of the abbey, including the symbolic Holy Caves.

Alhambra & Nasrid Palaces Tour Discover the incredible history and architecture of the impressive  Alhambra, the Generalife and Nasrid Palaces  thanks to your passionate and experienced guide.

The best guide of Granada

Written by travelers for travelers, this guide to Granada offers useful information for tourists about the Alhambra and how to make the most of their time and money. Find out our Top 10 landmarks in Granada, discover its traditional cuisine , and find out the best places to stay in Granada.

The information in this guide to Granada has been compiled as of February 2024 . If you find any mistakes or find anything we should modify, please get in touch with us.

Explore Granada

Plan Your Trip to Granada: Best of Granada Tourism

Essential granada.

How to do Granada in 2 days

Where to find the best views in Granada

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Buildings with a backstory.

Get out there

Tapas time!

Unforgettable day trips

All about those views

The Ultimate 2 to 3 Days in Granada Itinerary

Last Updated on December 4, 2023

by Maggie Turansky

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Planning a Granada itinerary is one of the highlights of a trip through Spain’s Andalucía region. Unfortunately, many potential visitors have only one thing in mind: The Alhambra. As one of the most visited attractions in Spain, many tourists who set foot in this southern Spanish city come only for that and fail to see what more Granada has to offer. Spending 2 or 3 days in Granada is one of the best ways to see what else this incredible city has to offer beyond this imposing Moorish palace.

With an incredible history, beautiful architecture, and one of the best gastronomic scenes in all of Spain, making time to include Granada as a stop on your Andalucía itinerary is worth every minute you spend there. So if you’re wondering what to do in Granada for a few days, follow this guide.

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Granada?

Far too many people assume that Granada’s only merit is the Alhambra and therefore think that there isn’t much to do in the city beyond that. However, that is certainly not the case.

While the Alhambra is 100% worth visiting, there are so many other things that make Granada worth visiting that you need to spend at least 2 full days in the city to really do it justice. While you can spend one day in Granada and see a lot (for instance, if you’re visiting on a day trip from Málaga ), it’s much better if you can visit for at least 2 days.

With 2 days in Granada, you can assure that you can visit the Alhambra and give it the proper amount of time (you need at least 3 hours to be able to see everything there!), but also be able to visit great historical sites like the Granada Cathedral and explore the neighbourhoods of Albaicín and Sacromonte. You will also be able to experience what is arguably the best tapas scene in all of Andalucía.

So, if you can, try to spend at least 2 days here. However, if you have longer to devote to your time in Southern Spain, you can enjoy the city far more if you spend 3 days. This way you can dig deeper, see more sites, and explore some areas and neighbourhoods further.

Spending more than 2 or 3 days is also highly recommended if you can budget the time for it. The city makes a great base for a number of fantastic hikes in the Sierra Nevada and day trips to nearby towns and cities. It would also give you more time to experience the laid-back nature and good vibes of Granada.

Getting To & Around Granada

Granada is one of the biggest cities in Andalucía and, therefore, is well-connected to other major metropolitan areas within the region. There are frequent bus and train connections with cities like Seville , Málaga and Córdoba and other, smaller cities as well. Click here to check schedules and prices for your trip.

The bus and train station is located about three kilometres outside of the city centre and it is necessary to take a bus or taxi into the city. Buses are frequent and you can buy a ticket directly from the driver.

If you’re visiting Granada as a stand-alone trip, there is an international airport located close to the city centre that serves European cities like London , Berlin , and Milan along with some destinations within Spain. If you need to get into the city centre from the airport, there is also a frequent bus that will take you directly to the Gran Vía.

Once you’re in Granada, you will find that most everything of interest to tourists is within easy walking distance of each other and it is unlikely that you will need to use public transport or taxis at all.

If you have rented a car to get around in Spain, it is advisable to keep it in a car park during your time in Granada, as the streets can be incredibly narrow (especially in the Albaicín) and it is altogether very difficult to drive in the city.

2 or 3-Day Granada Itinerary

As stated earlier , the best way to get to see and do everything that the city of Granada has to offer is to spend two or three days there. If you only have 2 days in the city, then follow the first two days of this itinerary, as the third day is added on to build upon the first two.

Day 1 – Historic Centre & Albaicín

The first day sees you exploring some of the monuments of the city that don’t include the Alhambra. Today is the day you will take the time to learn about Granada’s history, get lost in its Arab quarter, and learn what it means to tapear .

Explore the Historical Centre

The first stop on your first day in Granada should be in the city’s historical centre. This is where all of Granada’s biggest sites besides the Alhambra lie and there is a lot to learn about the city here.

If you’re interested in getting your bearings and learning about Granada away from a website or guidebook, then we suggest going on a free walking tour with Walk in Granada .

Their essential Granada tour meets every day at 11 AM in the Plaza Nueva and will take you past all of the city centre’s top monuments and briefly into the Albaicín neighbourhood as well.

You will also be able to get some historical context on the places you’ll be visiting during your time in Granada as well as great local recommendations.

After the walking tour, take the time to venture off and explore areas of the historical centre on your own.

Highlights include the Granada Cathedral and Royal Chapel, where you can see the tombs of King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella — the Catholic monarchs who reconquered Granada commissioned the Columbus expedition in 1492. If you’re interested in learning more about the history of these sites, it is also possible to book a guided tour.

Nearby the Cathedral is a series of winding streets that act as something of a bazaar, full of Middle Eastern-themed souvenirs and Spanish tiles. Though there are shops like this selling the same things along many streets in Granada, these streets can still be fun to wander through.

If you are looking for a quieter and more off-beat attraction in Granada’s centre, then consider visiting the Monasterio de San Jerónimo, which is only about a 5-minute walk from the Cathedral. It is also a great example of a religious building that was once a mosque, turned into a church as is common throughout the region.

Wander Through the Albaicín

After exploring the centre of Granada, it’s time to venture a bit further north in the city and explore the historic Arab quarter of the Albaicín. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Albaicín is famous for its whitewashed buildings and narrow cobbled streets.

Though you could easily get lost in the winding streets of the quarter for hours on end, it can be worth it to take a tour of the neighbourhood in order to get a better historical context of the area.

The tour will take you all over the Albaicín and cover how the neighbourhood has changed during its centuries-long history, including the challenges it is facing today.

For instance, the Albaicín — which used to be one of the worst neighbourhoods in Granada — is now considered to be the most expensive and highly sought-after in the city. This has resulted in skyrocketing housing prices and many locals have been edged out of the neighbourhood because of that.

However, the Albaicín wasn’t always a tourist hotspot. It was once the Arab quarter of Granada and there is a ton of history throughout its beautiful, winding lanes. If you are curious about what a traditional Albaicín house would have looked like, you can visit the Casa de Zafra museum.

This is a converted house of a once-nobleman that has been restored and opened to the public. It will give you a great idea of how the wealthy used to live in the quarter centuries ago.

Enjoy Sunset at Mirador de San Nicolas

After spending a couple of hours wandering around the peaceful Albaicín, it is time to head to one of the most iconic viewpoints in Granada, Mirador de San Nicolas.

This viewpoint is famous throughout Granada as the spot where then-US president Bill Clinton said in 1997 that he saw the “best sunset in the world.” Though you can’t see the actual sunset from the viewpoint, the views of the Alhambra and the Sierra Nevada are absolutely stunning, especially as the sun is sinking below the horizon.

Keep in mind, however, that the St Nicholas viewpoint is probably the most popular of its kind in Granada and you are likely to have to fight for a good view through a myriad of camera-wielding tourists.

This doesn’t necessarily take away from the view in any sense but don’t plan to have a romantic view all to yourself when visiting this iconic spot.

Experience Granada’s Tapas Culture

After all of the sightseeing on the first day, you’re bound to have worked up an appetite. Luckily for you, Granada has some of the best and most unique tapas culture in all of Andalucía and no visit to the city is complete without sampling it at least once.

So in the evening of your first day, forgo trying to find a table at one restaurant for dinner and opt to go on a tapas crawl instead as this is one of the best things to do in Granada.

While it is almost certain that you have been to a Spanish restaurant or tapas bar in your home country, it is time to throw everything that you think you know about tapas out the window! The culture here is completely different from what you’re used to at home.

First things first, in Granada, tapas are included with a drink order. If you order a beer, glass of wine, or even a soft drink at a bar in Granada, you will get a small plate of food along with it. With each subsequent drink you order, you get another plate of food.

While there are some places in Granada where you can choose which tapa you would like from the menu, it is more likely that you will just be given a plate of food by the waiter without any choice whatsoever. There is also not usually an option to order multiple plates of food, like you might do elsewhere in Spain or at a tapas restaurant at home.

What you can do if you want more to eat is to order a half or full portion ( media ración or ración in Spanish respectively) of a house speciality. However, it is just as acceptable to either order another drink or to move onto another bar.

Another thing to keep in mind when you are going out for tapas ( tapear in Spanish) is not to be intimidated if the bar is very busy and loud. Most bars might have a handful of stools, however, if they’re good and popular, it is likely they will be standing room only as they fill up.

Assert yourself, push your way through the crowd, and get used to standing while eating if you want to have a truly local experience.

If you want some great tapas recommendations, please check out the “Where to eat” section below. You can also book a food tour if you prefer to go with a guide.

Day 2 – Alhambra & Sacromonte

The second day of this itinerary will see you exploring the most iconic attraction in the city: The Alhambra. The entire complex is massive and will most likely take up the majority of the day, however, no visit to Granada is complete without it.

On day 2 , it is time to climb up the hill and visit the Alhambra. This incredible monument consists of many different sites including the Nasrid Palaces, the Generalife, the Alcazaba, and a fine arts museum. Each section takes some time to visit so make sure you plan your days accordingly.

Before we talk about what to see at the Alhambra, let’s talk about getting your tickets to visit this amazing Moorish palace and fortress.

As one of the most popular attractions to visit in all of Spain (more than 2 million people visit every year), you need to make sure that you book your tickets well in advance, especially if it’s not in your Spain travel budget to spring for a guided tour.

There are two different tiers of tickets you can purchase for the Alhambra if you want to visit on your own without a guide.

If you are on a tight budget, you can only purchase tickets for entry into the gardens, Generalife, and Alcazaba. These places are all very worth visiting and you also won’t have a timeslot for entry, so you can arrive whenever you would like. You can buy skip-the-line tickets here.

The second tier is for entry into all of the aforementioned areas along with the Nasrid Palace, which is the most iconic area of the Alhambra and what you probably picture when you think of it.

I would highly recommend spending the extra cash to visit the palaces if you can as it is very much worth it. You can buy skip-the-line tickets here.

If you have a general admission ticket (which includes the Nasrid Palace, Generalife, and Alcazaba), then you will have an admission time on it.

However, this admission time is only for the Nasrid Palaces, where they only allow people to enter in 30-minute intervals. This means that you don’t need to arrive at the entire Alhambra complex at the time printed on your ticket, only the Nasrid Palaces, and therefore you can arrive at whatever time you please on the date to see everything else.

All in all, we would recommend planning to spend, at the very least, three hours at the Alhambra in order to try and see everything. It is truly worth it and it is one of the most fascinating a beautiful monuments of its kind in the world. And after visiting the interior of the complex, take the time to stroll on the pathway on the Alhambra’s base, known as the Paseo de los Tristes.

If you don’t happen to be able to get tickets to the Alhambra on the dates you plan on visiting Granada, it is possible to visit the monument via guided tour – click here to check availability .

This will cost significantly more than going on your own, however, you do get the added benefit of having a certified guide explain everything that you’re seeing.

After you’ve spent your morning exploring the amazing complex that is the Alhambra, it’s time to explore another area that makes Granada a unique location to visit in Spain: Sacromonte.

Sacromonte was traditionally the Roma neighbourhood of Granada and still, today, is home to those who live a more alternative lifestyle. Nestled in the hills to the northeast of the Albaicín, Sacromonte is perhaps best known for its cave houses.

Because of the intense heat that Granada experiences in the summer months and also due to the fact that the neighbourhood has traditionally been much lower-income than the rest of the city, most of the dwellings in Sacromonte are partially or completely part of a cave dug into the mountain.

The vast majority of the houses in Sacromonte today, however, are just that: houses. Though most of the house is still dug into the mountain, the front of it looks just like any other house in that area of Granada. There are also some shops and restaurants where you can see just what a cave house looks like inside.

While most people in Sacromonte live in proper houses, there are still very much some cave dwellings where people actually live higher up in the hills. These caves do not have running water or electricity and the people who live there must get water from a communal tap near the dwellings.

It is possible to take a free tour of the Sacromonte neighbourhood with Walk in Granada if you want to find out more and also go for an easy hike up to some of the highest points in the city. The tours leave every day in the late afternoon or evening, depending on the season, and it is well worth it. If the schedule doesn’t suit you, then you can also organise a paid tour of the area.

San Miguel Alto Viewpoint

If the Mirador de San Nicolas was too crowded for you, then you are sure to love the San Miguel Alto viewpoint. As one of the highest points in the city, this isn’t a viewpoint that many tourists choose to visit as it can be a bit strenuous to reach it, especially on foot.

The hike to the viewpoint is well worth it, however, as it offers some of the best views of Granada below and the lovely Sierra Nevada surrounding the city. It also attracts a much more local crowd, looking for a chilled-out place to hang out with their friends and to drink a couple of beers.

Compared to San Nicolas, San Miguel Alto isn’t nearly as well-maintained, but the views are even more impressive, making it an excellent place to head.

If you’re wondering about a great way to end day two, then it would be to head to a flamenco show.

Granada claims to be the birthplace of flamenco (as do Seville, Jerez and Cádiz , so you need to take that with a grain of salt), but the traditional flamenco you will see here is different from what you will find in other cities in Andalucía.

Flamenco in Granada does not typically take place in a bar or tablao , it takes place in a cave in Sacromonte. While there are certainly theatres where you can see a flamenco show in Granada’s city centre, these tend not to be the intimate experience that flamenco should be.

While the act is almost exclusively for tourists in Granada these days, that does not mean you shouldn’t go to a show. Tourism keeps the art alive.

If you want to have the best value and most authentic experience, see a flamenco show with Zambra María la Canastera . This place puts on traditional Granada flamenco in a converted cave in Sacromonte. The ticket price includes a drink as well.

Day 3 – Street Art & Convent Cookies

If you are able to spend more than 2 days in Granada, then this third day is the perfect way to end your time in the city. It sees you heading to some areas outside of the typical tourist trail, taking part in one of Granada’s age-old traditions, and spending more time in your favourite areas.

Check out Granada’s Street Art

Granada isn’t all Arab quarters, cave dwellings, and Moorish palaces. There is also a thriving street art scene in some great areas of the city.

There is a great walk you can do from the Plaza Nueva along Calle de Molinos straight to Plaza Joe Strummer (yes, it is named after The Clash guitarist — he used to be a Granada resident!) where you can see works of art from Granada’s own El Niño de las Pinturas .

There are many incredible murals decorating the streets of Granada, but one of the best streets to see is Cuesta de Caidero. Going on a street art walk is an excellent way to spend some of your time in Granada and helps you to see the creative side of the city, away from the bigger tourist attractions.

Buy Some Unique Sweets

Another fantastic thing to do during your time in Granada is to take part in one of the best traditions that the city has to offer: buying cookies from cloistered nuns.

Though you can find this in many cities throughout Spain and Andalucía in particular, there are numerous convents where you can purchase delicious homemade sweets from cloistered nuns in Granada.

The concept is simple: because the nuns are cloistered, they avoid direct contact with the outside world. Therefore, the entire interaction takes place without ever actually seeing anyone. Basically, you walk up to a window where there will usually be a sign telling you what they have and the prices.

You ring a bell and the nun will open the window to reveal a lazy Susan-like turntable. You place your order, put your cash on the turntable, and the nun will turn it around with your cookies and your change.

This is a fascinating experience and not that well-known amongst tourists, but it is something that we became slightly obsessed with during our time in Granada and sought out a number of convents to buy cookies from.

This is how the nuns earn their livelihoods and pay their rent, and it is also likely not going to be a tradition for much longer, as fewer and fewer women are opting to join convents at all, let alone become cloistered.

Some of the best places to buy sweets are the Convento de Zafra, the Convento de Santa Isabel Real, and the Real Monasterio de la Encarnación.

Explore More of Albaicín/Sacromonte

After you’ve seen the street art and bought some cookies, it is time to head back to either the Albaicín or Sacromonte neighbourhoods and allow yourself to get truly lost. While you may have gone on a walking tour the past couple of days, spend today exploring on your own and seeing where your feet take you.

It doesn’t take long to venture away from the tourist crowds in the lower Albaicín and for you to experience the peace and tranquillity of these centuries-old neighbourhoods.

Final Tapas Crawl

The last stop on your Granada itinerary should be one final tapas bar. There are so many amazing places to eat in Granada, that you need to spend more than just one night out to experience it. Follow some of our suggestions below, but trust your gut if something looks good to pop into.

A great tip for finding a fantastic bar is to see just how crowded it is: if it’s standing-room-only and loud with people’s voices, then chances are it’s a great find and you need to shove your way in!

Have More T ime ?

If you have more than 3 days to spend in Granada, then it is the perfect opportunity to take advantage of some of the great day trips available from the city.

If you are interested in hiking and nature, it is incredibly easy to get to the Sierra Nevada and embark on a day hike. If you happen to be visiting in winter , you can also go skiing in the mountain near Granada.

If you’re more interested in seeing some other cities and towns in Andalucía, then there are numerous options that are within easy reach of Granada.

If it is a larger city you’re after, Málaga can make a great day trip if you’re after some sunshine and culture. Jaén to the north of Granada is a far more off-the-beaten-path option, but it does produce the majority of Spain’s olive oil and has a fantastic tapas culture.

Other fantastic options for day trips from Granada include Pampaniera in the Alpujarras and Monachil, which is accessible by Granada city bus or by guided tour if you don’t have a car.

Where to Eat in Granada

There are a seemingly endless amount of tapas bars in Granada that it can be overwhelming to figure out which are the best to visit. To help you out, we did extensive research (read: ate A LOT) and found some great spots for you to check out on your trip to Granada. These are our top suggestions:

Bodegas Castañeda — If you’re looking for a great place to eat in the busiest part of the Albaicín, then this bar is the place for you. It does get incredibly busy, however, that just means that its food is fantastic. They have both a sit-down restaurant and a bar, but keep in mind that you cannot order tapas off the menu if you sit at a table — you need to stand at the bar for that! Regardless, you do get a free tapa with a drink regardless of where you find yourself and the food quality is fantastic.

Bar Provincias — Another great place to eat in the historical centre, this bar is more popular around lunchtime, where it can get incredibly busy. They are well known for their seafood and give a generous tapa with each drink order. Try to get here early if you want to avoid having to stand while eating.

Los Manueles — This is one of the most popular tapas bars in Granada and for good reason, it is delicious. Though it is featured in many touristy write-ups and guidebooks, it retains its authenticity and is an excellent option for a bite to eat in the city centre. You get a generous free tapa with a drink order and they have an extensive menu of 1/2 and full portions available as well.

Los Diamantes — This popular tapas bar, serving excellent seafood, has two locations in Granada and both are within easy walking distance of the main tourist sites. They have a range of delicious seafood available and always have daily specials. It gets very busy here, so it is most likely that you will have to stand and eat, however, the food is worth it!

Restaurante Oliver — This is a popular restaurant and bar located close to the Cathedral, making it an excellent place for a drink or a bite to eat while exploring the historical centre. They specialise in seafood, however, they have a varied menu of tapas and raciones that are both affordable and tasty.

Bar Ávila II — This is a more modern tapas bar located a bit further away from the historic centre of the city. They have a lot of traditional food available and you get to choose the tapa you want with your drink, rather than just being given what they have. It also gets very busy at peak times.

Bar Poë — Another modern tapas bar, this place serves traditional tapas with an interesting international twist. Located a bit south of Granada’s city centre, this is another place where you choose your tapa from a small menu rather than it just being handed to you. They also have vegetarian options, which is a rare occurrence in this city.

Mesón Rincón de Rodri — Though this tapas bar is located a bit further out than most of the others on this list, it is incredibly worth venturing out to as it was one of our favourite places we ate in all of Spain, not just Granada. This seafood bar offers delicious freshly caught tapas and raciones at affordable prices. They also give you an incredibly generous portion for your included tapa. If you like seafood, then you absolutely cannot miss this place in Granada.

La Tana — This wine bar was made popular by a visit from none other than Anthony Bourdain. Despite its notoriety, however, it has not depleted in quality or atmosphere. They give a tapa with a drink order and also have some of the best vermouth we’ve had in all of Spain.

Bar Las Rejas — Another traditional, family-run spot, this place is a great stop on any tapas crawl in Granada. They give generous tapas and even have plenty of dedicated vegetarian options. You also have the choice to order extra tapa-sized portions for a €2 – something rare in Granada.

Where to Stay in Granada

Hotel Rosa D’oro – This hotel, located in the heart of Granada along the tranquil River Darro is an excellent place to base yourself in the city. They are located within easy walking distance of all of Granada’s main attractions, have a range of comfortable rooms available, and breakfast is included in the room rate.

Hotel Los Tilos – Centrally located close to everything Granada has to offer, this hotel is a great place to rest your head in the city. They have numerous rooms available, a rooftop terrace with excellent views of the city and the surrounding mountains, and breakfast is included each morning.

El Granado Hostel – If you’re travelling solo or on a budget, then this hostel is a fantastic accommodation in Granada. Centrally located, they have a range of dorm and private rooms available, numerous common areas, and they organise social events each evening. They also have a great breakfast included in the nightly rate.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Granada hotels!

Visiting Granada is sure to be the highlight of any trip through Andalucía. With a broad and dynamic history, a thriving gastronomic scene, and many interesting things to do, Granada makes one of the best places to visit in Spain.

Are you planning to visit Granada? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

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Seville or Granada or Cordoba: Which City to Visit

About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

What about Cordoba! In March

Hi David, you can find our Córdoba itinerary here: https://www.theworldwasherefirst.com/seville-to-cordoba-day-trip/

Thanks so much for this! Making my first trip to Granada this week and your comprehensive article helped me with 90% of my plans.

I’m so happy you found this guide helpful, Gary!

I am looking for an itinerary which makes the best value out of the Granada Card? i will be there for a Monday to Friday in May and will purchase the Granada Card, what can i do to make the best value.

I’ve been reading about Granada for a couple weeks now and this was the best write-up I’ve found yet, it was a huge help! Thank you so much for sharing this!!

Thanks so much for your comment, Alex. I am so happy you’ve found this article helpful and hope you have a great time in Granada!

What a terrific resource for Granada newbies. My notes are extensive; and thank you for helping me plan our holiday.

So glad you found the article helpful, Kathryn! Hope you have a fantastic trip 🙂

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25 Things to do in Granada, Spain – 3 Day Itinerary

By Author Paulina

Posted on Published: April 6, 2020  - Last updated: November 27, 2023

A Guide to the best attractions in Granada, Southern Spain – 3-Day Itinerary

Granada is one of the most visited cities in Andalusia throughout the year; not only by the Spaniards themselves but also by foreign travelers.

This municipality becomes a tourist attraction suitable for many different types of tourists due to the diversity of historical, artistic, and cultural attractions that can be visited, as well as the multitude of sports activities that can be carried out there.

This beautiful region is located between Malaga and Almeria, and it is also bordering Jaen. Moreover, once you are there you can enjoy its sea and its mountains.

On the one hand, those who enjoy sailing sports – such as windsurfing or kitesurfing – tend to opt for the area located more south of Granada, known as the Tropical Coast.

On the other hand, those who love trekking and snow sports find their ideal place near Sierra Nevada.

In addition, this welcoming city is also attractive to art and culture enthusiasts since Granada’s historic city center houses wonders such as the Alhambra Palace , the Royal Chapel and its world-famous Flamenco shows. 

All in all, one can say Granada is one of the best cities in Southern Spain , there’s so much to see in Granada, and it’s perfect stop for your 1 week itinerary in Andalucia. If you’re wondering what to do in Granada, here’s what you need to know.

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Top Things To Do In Granada, Andalucia – Our Granada Itinerary For 3 days

As you can see, visiting Granada offers many possibilities; however, under no circumstances should you miss the following Granada tourist attractions:

Alhambra Palace

Granada cathedral, flamenco show in sacromonte, paseo de los tristes.

• Mirador San Nicolas
• Cartuja Monastery

Resources for Granada itinerary

✈ Book cheap flights to Granada with  Skyscanner ⚘ Avoid tourist traps and get the customizable  “Andalucia Like a Local”  itinerary. – Get it  here ✔ Book tours in Granada with GetYourGuide ➳ Find the best hotels in Granada with  Trivago ❖ Rent a car at the best rates with DiscoverCars ✎ Never leave without travel insurance! I get mine at  HeyMondo . It is easy to set up, cheap and reliable. $ Withdraw money without hidden fees and avoid exchange charges with  Wise (Free Mastercard debit card to spend money abroad)

The Alhambra is one of the most emblematic places to visit in Granada; in fact, it is the second most visited place in Spain and one of the top Granada famous places!

It is a fortress that houses its interior gardens, palaces, convents, and a church that represent a tourist attraction for those who are passionate about Nasrid architecture and art.

The Nasrid style was typical of the Muslim State that settled in Granada during the Middle Ages.

The Alhambra palace in Granada was initially created to house the Emir and his court but it became the Catholic Monarchs’ palace when they conquered Granada in 1492. As a result, an eclectic character was given to this building. 

It is strongly recommended to purchase the tickets in advance to ensure access on the desired day and to avoid queues.

These tickets allow you to visit the Nasrid Palaces, the Generalife Gardens , and the Alcazaba and it includes an audioguide so that you can walk at your own pace. – Book ticket s here

Opening times: 9 am to 6 pm

Entrance fee: 40 € 

Make sure to book Alhambra tickets in advance, they tend to be sold out weeks before the desired date. – Get tickets here

Nasrid Palaces

Nasrid Palaces were built in the 14th century and are composed of three independent zones: the Mexuar , the Comares Palace, and the Lions Palace .

The palaces are one of the best things to do in Granada, Spain!

The guided tour across these emblematic buildings will immerse you in the Persian and Muslim-inspired architecture that decorates all its walls, and your five senses will be impregnated with unique sensations.

The Mexuar has plenty of rooms that were used to discuss governmental decisions. Moreover, there is an Oratory oriented toward Mecca and the world-famous Golden Room, with a stunning gold leaf-covered room from which it receives its name. 

The Palace of Comares was the emir’s private dwelling; for this reason, some of the most beautiful rooms and patios are there. You can not miss the Hall of Ambassadors, the Room of the Boat, the Baths of Comares, and the courtyard of the Arrayanes . 

Another Royal Family residence was the Lions Palace. This building has a huge courtyard supported by 124 columns and you can visit the Abencerrajes , Two Sisters , the Mozarabs , and the Kings’ rooms .

Finally, you can end the tour without losing track of time at the Mirador de Lindaraja . – Book tickets here

Gardens of Generalife

Generalife is a beautiful rural recreation villa, surrounded by spectacular patios and gardens, which was built in the 13th century for the Nasrid sultans.

It is located outside the walled area of the Alhambra and represents one of the most outstanding architectural ensembles of Muslim civil architecture in Granada city.

The characteristic variety of its patios’ vegetation gives a unique character to these spaces. The most standing out gardens are the Acequia courtyard , the Cypress of the Sultana patio, the Altos gardens, and the water staircase.

In order to save money, we recommend purchasing a combined Alhambra, Nasrid Palaces + Generalife ticket – Get tickets here

Opening day times: 8 am to 6 pm

Entrance fee: 7 €

Opening night times : 8 pm to 9:30 pm

Entrance fee: 5 € – Buy combo tickets here

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Albayzin is a picturesque district of Granada located in one of the highest areas of the city, so visitors can enjoy great views while strolling through its narrow and intricate lanes.

It is usual to get lost in Albayzin due to the characteristics of its streets but sooner or later everyone finds the right path and realizes they have been discovering some of its most special spots without being aware of it.

Some of the most important places to visit there are the Plaza Nueva , the Paseo de los Tristes and the Palacio de los Córdova . – Get tickets for a guided walking tour here

Lunch in Restaurante Las Tomasas

Taking advantage of the walkthrough Albayzin, it is highly recommended to stop by Restaurante Las Tomasas to have your lunch.

From Las Tomasas you can enjoy wonderful views of the Alhambra and the Generalife gardens. No wonder it is often considered one of the best restaurants in Granada .

Its menu offers a wide variety of sophisticated dishes whose delicious flavor does not leave anyone indifferent.

It is relevant to know that they also offer a daily menu to serve typical Andalusian cuisine ; some of its most popular dishes are cheese assortments, garlic prawns or chickpea stew. They are a must when you are looking for typical food from Granada .

Read More: Best Spanish Desserts to Satisfy your Sweet Tooth

The Cathedral of the Incarnation of Granada, built in the sixteenth century, houses fifteen Chapels dedicated to different sanctities. Some of the most remarkable ones are the Main Chapel and the Chapel of San Miguel.

The Main Chapel is decorated with canvases representing scenes based on the blessed Virgin Mary of the renowned painter Alonso Cano ; with the busts of Adam and Eve made by Alonso Cano , and with huge stained glass windows designed by Teodoro de Holanda and Juan del Campo .

San Miguel Chapel represents the maximum expression of the Cathedral neoclassical style and there you can find La Dolorosa of Alonso Cano. – Book tickets in advance here – you just can’t miss the cathedral off your Granada sightseeing itinerary.

It’s considered one of the top things to do in Andalucia for 1st time visitors .

Opening times: 10 am to 6:30 pm (Monday to Saturday); 3 pm to 5:45 pm (Sunday)

Entrance Fee: Free or 5 € (including an audio guide)

Royal Chapel

The Royal Chapel is located very close to the Cathedral and is one of the best Granada places to visit.

It was built as a burial place for the Catholic Monarchs and there are the tombs of Isabel I de Castilla , her husband Fernando II de Aragón , her daughter Juana la Loca and her husband Felipe el Hermoso inside.

Curiously enough, Catholic Monarchs died before the chapel was finished but in her will, Queen Elizabeth explained in detail how she wanted the building to be.

Once the construction had finished, the emperor Charles V ordered their bodies to be moved there.

The architectural style of this single-nave building is predominantly Baroque so although it is not a particularly large building, the details of its façade and interior are stunning.

Opening times: 10:15 am to 6:30 pm (Monday to Saturday); 11 am to 6 pm (Sunday)

Entrance Fee: 5 € – Skip the queue and book tickets in advance here

Alcaiceria Bazaar

The Alcaiceria is an old Muslim quarter in which every tourist should wander at least for an hour in order to soak up the local culture and get to know the most representative handicrafts in the region.

Standing out among them there are the decorative tiles of Fajalauza , the lanterns of colored glass, and the accessories of fur.

Continuing with the immersion in the Andalusian culture, it is highly recommended to enjoy a flamenco show in Sacromonte .

Modern flamenco comes from an older and more traditional version that gypsies who took over Sacromonte still know and share with locals and tourists.

One of the most recommendable flamenco shows is the Tablao Cuerva de la Rocío because of its location, the professionalism of its dancers, and the performance price. – Buy tickets in advance

Opening times: 8 pm to 1 am

Entrance Fee: 23 € per adult; 12 € per child (including a drink) – B ook Skip-the-Line tickets here

Corral del Carbón

If you’re looking for unusual things to do in Granada, El Corral del Carbón is an early 14th-century building, whose main function was to house merchants who were traveling to Granada to sell wheat.

You can access the enclosure through a large horseshoe arch made of scalloped brick and carved plaster with an aesthetic and ornamental function.

From the interior courtyard, you can access a three-story building, whose ground floor was used to store goods and to serve as a resting place for the animals; and the two upper floors were used by the merchants.

Currently, a part of the building has been transformed into a bookstore and in its large courtyard concerts and performances are held.

Opening times: 9 am to 8 pm (Monday to Sunday)

Entrance Fee: free

Wander on Carrera del Darro

Strolling through Carrera del Darro , which is named after the river that crosses it, allows you to travel to the 17th century because once you are there it is possible to observe not only numerous buildings remaining from this period but also the vestiges of Arab houses.

It is also recommended to stop at the beautiful bridges that embellish the area, especially the Cabrera and the Espinosa bridge. 

Officially the Paseo de los Tristes is called Paseo del Padre Manjón . When it was built in the 17th century, coffins used to be transported by this way to the cemetery.

One of the most beautiful viewpoints in Granada from where you can see the Alhambra is its Chirimías bridge – one of the most beautiful places in Granada.

In addition, this area is full of cozy bars, where it is worth stopping for a refreshment and to taste some of the most original tapas in the city. – Book a walking tour here

Take Pictures on Mirador San Nicolas

The viewpoint of San Nicolás is one of the most famous in Granada; therefore, it is also one of the busiest in the area.

Its popularity grew exponentially in 1997 due to the fact that Bill Clinton claimed that there you can watch the world’s most beautiful sunsets.

It is truly spectacular to stop there and spend some time observing the Alhambra, the Generalife, and the highest Sierra Nevada summits in the background.

It’s one of the best free things to do in Granada.

Bañuelo, Ancient Arab Baths

Granada’s Bañuelo was built in the 11th century and it may be considered a special construction because there are just a few well-preserved Arab baths in Granada.

You may be wondering how this can be possible if the city was under their control for a long time; the answer is that Catholic Kings considered those sinful places and destroyed them as much as they were able to.

This secluded place is in the Carrera del Darro but it is slightly hidden so pay attention or you may easily pass by.

The entrance costs include a visit to the Dar-al-Horra Palace , the C orral del Carbón and the Casa Horno de Oro . 

Opening hours: 10 am to 5 pm (winter season); 9:30 am to 8:30 om (summer season)

Entrance Fee: 5 € and free on Sunday

Lunch in Carmela

Carmela Restaurante is located near the Cathedral and Plaza Nueva – precisely in Colcha , 13 – and its opening hours are 12 am to 12 pm.

It offers Mediterranean dishes elaborated according to the Andalusian tradition.

This restaurant combines quality cuisine and a pleasant atmosphere acknowledged by TripAdvisor reviews. 

It’s considered one of the best restaurants in Granada for lunch.

Puerta de Elvira

The gate or arch of Elvira was the main access to the city of Granada from the Medina Elvira road during the Islamic reign, and it was a strategic military and customs post.

Elvira’s gate was built before the ninth century and it is a large horseshoe arch that was connected to the wall that protected the city.

If you are a sports traveler there is an electric bike tour that includes a local guide, who explains all the curiosities about the arch and the districts of Albayzín and Sacromonte . – Book a Granada Bike tour here

Aperitivo at Huerto Juan Ranas

Juan Ranas Orchard is a nice restaurant located in the Mirador de San Nicolás , from where you can enjoy the best Alhambra views in a dreamy environment.

The homemade dishes served in this restaurant are genuinely traditional and they are full of flavor because the owners harvest their own ingredients.

Moreover, no artificial additives are used during the cooking process. Of all their dishes, the most delicious are Iberian Ham from Jabugo , the cured cheese board of sheep, potatoes bravas with ali-oli , and homemade croquettes .

Want to taste more? Book a guided tapas tour here

Tapas Night out

One of the nights spent in the city of Granada should be dedicated to going out for tapas. Below we offer you a list of the best places to enjoy a night out:

• Los Diamantes
• La Bella y la Bestia
• El Rinconcillo
• El Rincón de Rodri

Book tickets for tapas crawl in Granada

Cartuja Monastery or Granada Charterhouse

The Royal Monastery of Nuestra Señora de la Asunción de la Cartuja began to be built in the 16th century and was completed three centuries later. The Monastery of the Cartuja represents the culminating work of the Spanish Baroque.

Its exterior has a patio and a cloister in which you should sit back and enjoy the aroma of its orange trees and aromatic plants.

Inside the monastery, there is a Baroque plan church; a sacristy made of reddish marble; the chapter house in which Carthusians used to meet; Profundis Chapel the Chapel intended for penance; and the refectory or dining room of the friars.

It’s one of the more unusual things to do in Granada.

Opening times: 10 am to 6 pm (winter season) 10 am to 8 pm (summer season)

Entrance Fee: 5 €

Sierra Nevada National Park – Day Trip Option 1

The Sierra Nevada mountains are located 30 kilometers from the city of Granada. It has the highest peaks in the country and there are more than twenty peaks that exceed 3000 meters of altitude.

The ski resort of Sierra Nevada has more than 100 kilometers of slopes that can be enjoyed by 47 euros a day.

However, if you prefer to spend a more relaxing day but still practice some sport, you can do many excursions. It’s one of the best day trips from Granada.

Here are some of the best things to do in Sierra Nevada ski resort for the perfect day trip from Granada, Spain.

Sierra Nevada ski resort is a perfect place for a ski vacation while in Granada and if you don’t which hotel to choose, we’ve got you covered with the 15 best Sierra Nevada hotels.

How to get from Granada to Sierra Nevada:

• By bus takes 45min and costs 8 € – Buy tickets here

Nerja – Day Trip Option 2

If you want to get away from city life for a day at one of the beach destinations in Southern Spain, Nerja is a must-visit, especially if you plan to visit Granada during the summer months.

The seaside resort is located on the Costa Del Sol, 1 hour away from the city of Granada.

Plan a beach day on Nerja’s beautiful beach. For a tranquil beach day, why not drive to Marro, just a short distance from the center of Nerja?

During your day trip, you could also plan a visit to the famous Nerja caves. Walk through the many chambers and see the amazing rock formations. For a cultural day trip from Granada, you could visit the Church of El Salvador, which dates back to the 17th century.

How to Get to Nerja from Granada

The best way to travel from Granada to Nerja is to drive. You can compare hire car prices and availability here. If you don’t want to hire a car, booking a taxi or private transfer is also a good option.

If you’re on a budget, there is a bus that runs between Granada and Nerja En route; you’ll be able to see the stunning towns and villages of Almuñecar, Salobreña, Talara, Padul, and more. You can view more information and timetables here.

Best Hotels in Granada, Southern Spain

Considering the possible diversity of our dear readers’ budgets, we present below a selection of the best hotels in Granada, Spain.

If what you want is a dream stay do not hesitate to book a room at Eurostars Washington Irving, one of the best options for accommodation in Granada, Spain.

If you prefer to save some money on your accommodation in Granada without sacrificing the comfort of being in the city center, we recommend Eurostars Cathedral – by far the best place to stay in Granada.

And if you prefer to adjust the budget and still enjoy excellent value for money, your best option is Hotel Santa Isabel La Real.

Also, check here some of the best boutique hotels in Granada , from 5-star ones to budget ones, and know you can also find cheap hotels in Granada .

Eurostars Washington Irving ***** – Luxury

Eurostars Washington Irving is a luxury hotel located on the Paseo del Generalife, 10. It is very close to the Alhambra and the main emblematic buildings of Granada.

The facilities of the building have been decorated and inspired by the most famous works of the writer Washington Irving.

As a result, the hotel blends literature, romanticism, and comfort. There you can enjoy an outdoor pool with wonderful views, a huge library or cozy common areas in which to relax. – Check rates & reviews here

Eurostars Catedral **** – Mid-Range

Eurostars Catedral is a hotel composed of stately houses that were built in the 16th century. Its location – just a few meters from the Cathedral – and its outdoor terrace make it an authentic and exclusive viewpoint.

In addition, a large gym allows guests to keep fit and the spa area to relax after a long day of sightseeing.

Another of the hotel’s attractions is its spectacular archaeological hall to which the restored Arab ruins confer a unique character. – Check rates & reviews here

Hotel Santa Isabel La Real*** – Budget

If you’re wondering where to stay in Granada, Spain, on a budget, hotel Santa Isabel La Real is located in Albaycín.

It is a traditional Andalusian family house with a beautiful interior courtyard, which has been tastefully renovated to become an exclusive hotel accommodation with only 11 rooms.

The room rate includes a buffet breakfast served between 7 and 10 am. – Check rates and reviews here

How to get to Granada

If you are in Malaga or Seville you can also include this getaway on your trip in a very simple way.

How to get from Malaga to Granada:

• By bus takes 1h 30m and costs 15-30 € – Book tickets here
• By train takes 1h 30m and costs 15-80 € – Get t i ckets here

How to get from Seville to Granada:

• By bus takes 3 h and costs 10 € – Book tickets here
• By train takes 2h 30m and costs 10-30 € – Get tickets here

Read exactly how to get from Seville to Granada in our guide here.

Weather in Granada

Summers in Granada are hot and very dry. At the height of summer in July and August, temperatures can vary between 19° and 34°. At the start of the main tourist season in May, temperatures vary between 12° and 25°

If you visit during winter, the climate in Granada will most likely be relatively cold and partly cloudy. The coldest month to visit is January, when temperatures vary from 2° to 12°.

Getting Around Granada

One of the best options to get to know Granada is to walk through its streets since the beauty of its historic center is found in each of its winding streets.

However, the city bus is also an effective and economical way to get around the city and allows you to stop at the most important places in Granada.

Bus tickets are purchased directly from the bus driver. If more than one trip is going to be made, it is highly recommended to apply for the Credibus , which is a transferable and rechargeable voucher that allows free transfers for 45 minutes.

Another option is to purchase the Granada Tourist Card Voucher , which includes a discount for bus lines and a trip on the Tourist Train, whose price for three days is 37 euros.

Short FAQ about Things to do in Granada, Southern Spain

Before getting into the FAQ please make sure to check our two other topics on things to do in Malaga and the 3-day itinerary in Almeria .

What are the fun things to do in Granada, Spain?

1. Have Coffee/Tea in the Sacromonte Caves. 2. Visit the Alhambra. 3. Relax in a Hammam. 4. Shop on the Alcaiceria. 5. Explore the Tapas Scene.

What is the Alhambra Palace used for today in Granada?

It is a fortress that houses in its interior gardens, palaces, convents and a church that represent a tourist attraction for those who are passionate about Nasrid architecture and art.

Why should you visit Granada Spain?

Granada became a tourist attraction suitable for many different types of tourists due to the diversity of historical, artistic and cultural attractions that can be visited, as well as the multitude of sports activities that can be carried out there.

Is 3 days in Granada enough?

If you visit Granada for 3 days, it’s possible to see a big chunk of the city and visit the main tourist attractions. During this time, you could also go on a day trip to nearby areas such as Nerja or Sierra Nevada National Park. However, the longer you stay in Granada, the more of the city you can see, the more food you can try, and the more you can experience.

Do you need a car in Granada?

Granada has an efficient public transport system and a good network of Taxis. However, if you’re staying in Granada for a longer period and you’re planning to go on lots of day trips, hiring a car is a good option.

What is Granada famous for?

Granada is mainly known for it’s magnificent Alhambra Palace. Granada is also famous for its Arab Baths, where you can have a steam bath or book a relaxing massage. However, the city is also famous for its tapas. As well as having amazing tapas, Granada is one of the only places in Spain where you can get tapas free with drinks (you can also do this in Almeria).

Hola, I’m Paulina! Together with my team, we are passionate about Southern Spain. Here we share all you need to know for great times in Southern Spain with the best places to visit, stay and, of course, the best food to eat.

Let’s dive in and explore Southern Spain’s outdoors, food and culture con pasión!

The First-Timer’s Guide to Granada, Spain

Updated February 2024

In the south of Spain, Andalusia is one of the best regions to visit. Surrounded by the towering Sierra Nevadas is Granada, quite possibly one of the most charming cities to visit.

Granada, Spain is quintessential on a visit to this part of Spain. Not only beautiful to the eye, but the city is also a treasure chest of surprises. Certainly most known for the Alhambra, the palace and fortress that sits in the center of the city, it’s a destination for travelers wanting to dive into history.

Amidst the Islamic architecture, you find winding streets that span up and down the hillsides of Granada. Within them, old-world bars serving typical tapas of the region and strong sweet wine, something you can’t miss while there. And of course, plenty of local shops selling goods that hail from the east.

It was my first time to this city and I’ll say it exceeded my expectations. I had no idea what to expect, as I found most travelers shared this sentiment with me. We all came for the Alhambra but found ourselves falling for an idealistic city. A city that has enough grit to keep it interesting and an untamed beauty in design.

Short on Time? Here Are My Top Picks for the Best Hotels and Things to Do in Granada:

• Hotel Casa 1800 Granada , for the best overall hotel
• Parador de Granada , for the best luxury hotel

Things to Do

Visit the alhambra and generalife.

• Tour Granada Cathedral
• Catch the Sunset at Mirador San Nicolás

For more on how to make the most of your time in Grananda, don’t miss my post on the top things to do in Granada, Spain !

What to Know Before Traveling to Granada, Spain

Getting to Granada, Spain

If you’re coming from a major city, you’ll most likely opt to take a train. I found that the bus systems in the south of Spain were more effective, so I took a bus from Malagá to get here. It was much cheaper and around the same amount of time using Alsa to book the ticket. For more on this, see my guide to getting around Andalucía without a car .

Transportation Once in Granada

Booking a hotel in the heart of the city will mean you won’t have to get in a car once. You can walk to everything. There are taxis available as well. If you do decide to get a car to explore the surrounding areas, I recommend booking with Discover Cars for the best rental car deals.

Credit cards are accepted mostly everywhere though carrying Euros is recommended.

Spanish is the main language, and English is spoken as well.

Best Time of Year to Visit Granada

I’d recommend avoiding summer, the crowds are notoriously intense. The late fall was wonderful when I was there and the city was still busy (even the Alhambra was sold out weeks in advance).

Amount of Time

I booked in two nights and three full days and still didn’t do it all. I loved this city and would have stayed another night if I could have.

Where to Stay in Granada, Spain

Hotel casa 1800 granada.

Hotel Casa 1800 Granada was one of the most memorable stays I’ve had in a long time. Set in a 16th-century historic home, this luxury boutique hotel is incredibly intimate and charming. No room is alike; each is unique with its decorations and style. The inner courtyard is home to breakfast and afternoon tea each day. Its location is perfect — footsteps from everything in the city yet set back off the street so it is quiet at night. I’d highly recommend booking this hotel in advance as there are only 25 rooms. I’d also recommend booking a Deluxe Room or a Junior Suite. Book the best rates here .

Where to Eat in Granada, Spain

Bar Los Diamantes

Known as the everything fried seafood restaurant, this is a classic for Granada. I came here twice, once for the small fried fish and peppers and another for the chipirones (small squid).

Bodegas Castañeda

One of the oldest bodegas in town, come here for classic dishes in the region.

Betula Nana

A newer restaurant to open in town, this charming spot was a favorite for me for a late lunch. Be sure to order the seasonal soup and the ceviche!

Al Sur de Granada

A quaint wine bar in town with small plates as well.

A local’s spot for small bites and drinks, I’d recommend getting a few local kinds of cheese and meats here.

For a more upscale dinner or lunch, this menu does a modern prix fixe menu of regional food, using local ingredients and beautiful plating.

• Noat Coffee

Though it’s a coffee shop, they serve a wonderful breakfast and sandwiches for lunch.

Where to Get Coffee in Granada

• La Finca Coffee
• Sur Coffee Corner

What to Do in Granada, Spain

Most people come to Granada to visit the incredible Alhambra and Generalife castle and gardens that sit above the city. I cannot stress enough to book your tickets very far in advance . It sells out weeks to months in advance, depending on the season; even I had a hard time getting a ticket for a Wednesday in late November. Plan to spend 2-3+ hours here. I’d recommend booking a guided tour if you can’t get a ticket or skip-the-line ticket on Viator. You can try booking a ticket directly through their portal as well. Check this resource for buying your tickets if none of the above works. Or book your tour here .

Walk the Historical Center and the Albaicín

Both of these neighborhoods are beautiful for just a stroll. It was one of the highlights for me to just walk around and get lost in the winding streets. It’s also a photographer’s dream city for photos of quaint streets. The Albaicín is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for the whitewashed buildings and streets.

Go Inside the Granada Cathedral

This is worth the fee to enter in, the interior is grand and stunning. This guided tour is also a great option if you’re looking for a deeper dive into the Cathedral’s history.

Catch the Sunset at Mirador de San Nicolás

You won’t be the only one here for sunset, so I’d arrive early and settle in. It’s stunning. The view from Mirador de San Nicolás over Granada and the Alhambra is incredible. Be sure to stay past sunset when the lights of the Alhambra turn on.

Other Sites to Visit

• El Bañuelo (Arab baths)
• Palacio de los Cordova
• Casa Horno del Oro
• Corral del Carbón

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PS — Are You Booking a Trip Soon? Use My Booking Checklist!

These are the sites I use most to book my own trips. Using the links below is a great way to support Bon Traveler’s travel journalism at no extra cost to you . If you need help organizing your itinerary, get my free travel itinerary template here .

1. Book Your Flights

Use Skyscanner to find the best flights. It searches 100s of airlines and websites across the globe to ensure you’re not missing out on any route options or deals.

2. Book Your Accommodations

Use Booking.com for hotels and guest houses. They have the biggest inventory and consistently offer the best rates.

3. Book Your Tours & Experiences

Use Viator or Get Your Guide to find the best tours and experiences. They are my favorite tour search engines. I always check both as their inventory varies depending on the destination.

4. Book Your Car

Use Discover Cars or Rentalcars.com to find the best car rental deals. I recommend comparing rental agency reviews on Google to ensure you are booking with the best company in that destination, as the reviews are often more accurate than the car rental search engines.

5. Don’t Forget Airport Lounge Access

Get a Priority Pass membership to gain access to 1,400+ VIP lounges and airport experiences worldwide. The Priority Pass app is the first thing I check when I have a layover. I’ve been a member for over a decade, and having a comfortable place to relax before and between flights makes air travel so much more enjoyable.

6. Don’t Forget Travel Insurance

I never leave the country without travel insurance. It provides comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong (ie. illness, injury, theft, and cancelations, etc.). I use it frequently for my travels to stay protected.

My favorite companies that offer the best coverage and rates are:

• World Nomads (best for all-around)
• Safety Wing (best for frequent travelers)

Xx, Jessica

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2 Days in Granada, Spain: Tasty Tapas, Historic Neighbourhoods and the Amazing Alhambra (2024)

Got 2 days in Granada, Spain, and wondering how you should spend them? My guide plots out a day-to-day itinerary with helpful travel tips!

An essential stop on any visit to Spain is Granada, located in the beautiful region of Andalucía in the south of the country.

While most people are drawn to the city to view the incredible Alhambra, there are many more things to do in Granada and reasons to stay a little longer. Here, I’m sharing my itinerary for 2 days in Granada to help you plan a trip to see the best that the city has to offer.

Granada was the first stop on our incredible road trip through Andalucía in southern Spain.

It didn’t take long to become smitten with this gorgeous historic city. I loved wandering its winding, cobblestoned streets and stepping into tapas bars that were filled with boisterous crowds. And of course, Granada’s crown jewel, the Alhambra , really did stop me in my tracks with its spellbinding beauty.

So, let’s explore more of Granada in Spain in this guide to how to spend 2 days here. I’ve also got useful info about when to visit, how to get around and where to stay in Granada.

This blog post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you book or buy something through one of these links, I may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you).

What's in this article (Click to view)

How many days do you need in Granada?

Many people assume (falsely) that the only reason to visit Granada is for the Alhambra, but there is actually so much more to do in Granada. I think 2 days in Granada is the minimum time you should allocate to your Spain itinerary. After all, you need at least half a day just for the Alhambra alone.

While I highly recommend at least 48 hours in Granada – and that’s what this Granada itinerary outlines – I’ve also included an itinerary for one day in Granada if that’s all your schedule allows.

If you’ve got more time, I have ideas for 3+ days in Granada at the end of this article.

Granada in 2 days

Map of what to do in granada.

Everything I’ve included on this 2-day Granada itinerary can be seen on this map of Granada, so you have an idea of the layout of the city.

With two days in Granada, start your first day with a traditional Spanish breakfast of eggs, pan con tomate y jamón , fresh orange juice, coffee and pastries.

Granada is a city full of history – the area has been populated since at least around 5500 BC, after all – so join a free walking tour of Granada with Walk in Granada . Tours leave Plaza Nueva at 11am every day and over 2.5 hours you’ll explore the city’s elegant churches, old souk and Islamic architecture.

The tour ends at Plaza San Nicolás which has a spectacular view of the Alhambra . Don’t forget to tip your guide. I also recommend booking a spot online – although you can also be flexible and walk up to the tour on the day.

Have a late lunch at La Vinoteca (Calle Almireceros, 5) which serves up fresh tapas and larger plates in a bright, airy space.

In the afternoon, spend some time ducking down the streets of the Albaicín , Granada’s charming cobblestoned neighbourhood.

Stop by the Monasterio Santa Isabel la Real to buy some sweets from the nuns. You’ll never see them, though, as these cloistered nuns avoid direct contact with the public.

Ring the buzzer and give your order, then place your money on the lazy Susan that’s in the wall and it will turn around with your purchase on it. It’s one of the most unique things to see in Granada!

Walk further to Sacromonte to explore this unique neighbourhood. The area is dotted with cave homes , many of which are rented out for accommodation, or serve as shops or bars. Stop by one of the cave bars for an afternoon drink.

Don’t miss the Sacromonte Abbey which overlooks the valley. This area is a little further out, but should definitely be included on any Granada itinerary.

If you’d like some history or useful information as you wander the Albaicín or Sacromonte, then this guided walking tour comes highly recommended.

Satisfy your afternoon sugar craving with a plate of Spanish churros dipped into a mug of hot chocolate. I made it my mission to try as many churros as possible while in Spain, and the best churros in Granada can be devoured at:

• Alhambra Churrería (Plaza Bib-Rambla, 27)
• Café Fútbol (Plaza de Mariana Pineda, 6)
• Torres Bermejas (Plaza Nueva, 6)

Exploring the food scene is one of the best things to do in Granada. In the evening, let someone else decide what you’ll eat for dinner by joining a food tour .

We spent three hours with our Spain Food Sherpas guide, Molly. She showed us around local produce stores, shared the history of the city with us, and then stuffed us full of delicious food from tapas bars and historic restaurants around the city. You can book your own food tour with Spain Food Sherpas online here .

Here’s another  Granada food tour  that I found that’s similarly priced and also has good reviews.

If you’re not ready for the night to end, then hunt down a flamenco show . Flamenco has its origins in Andalucía and a must-do is seeing an authentic flamenco show in Granada. Recommended flamenco shows include those at:

• El Tabanco (Cuesta de San Gregorio, 24)
• Peña La Platería (Placeta de Toqueros, 7)

The Alhambra is Granada’s biggest draw card and cannot be missed. You MUST book your tickets for the Alhambra well in advance – I’m talking 2-4 months in advance.

I have a whole guide on how to book tickets for the Alhambra , including what you can do if you leave it too late (like we did, oops!) and they’re sold out.

You can read my guide or just go ahead and book a skip-the-line tour online . You don’t want to miss one of the most important places to visit in Granada just because you didn’t plan ahead!

Before you head up to the Alhambra, begin with a good breakfast – you’ve got a lot of walking ahead of you so you’ll need sustenance. Grab a seat on the terrace at Café 4 Gatos (Placeta Cruz Verde, 6) for a healthy start to the day.

To get to the Alhambra, take the C30 bus and get off at the Puerta de la Justícia.

Alternatively, you can walk up to the Alhambra through the forest. Start at Plaza Nueva and follow the street signs. It’s a fairly steep, 800-metre walk,but it’s a lovely way to arrive at such a historic site.

Taxis also regularly go up and back.

Spend two to three hours at the Alhambra . I know it eats into a lot of your two days in Granada, but it’s that deserving of your time.

The UNESCO World Heritage-listed Alhambra site has three distinct parts:

• The Nasrid Palaces are the main attraction of the Alhambra. Here you can wander through many of the palaces and courtyards full of fountains, arches and stunning ceiling ornaments. Tickets for this section are timed, so don’t miss your allotted time!
• The oldest part of the Alhambra, the Alcazaba was once a fortified military enclosure. You can see where the soldiers used to live. There are also great views of Granada from the various towers.
• The Generalife is the gardens that were used by the Sultans of Granada as their summer residence. The gardens are extensive and a wonderful place to relax as you wander around the Alhambra.

Depart the Alhambra via the Puerta del Arrabal and make your way back to town along the Rio Darro and the Paseo de los Tristes .

There’s a great plaza along the way with many options for lunch. Grab dessert at one of the many ice cream shops – there’s seemingly one on every corner doling out creamy scoops of helado .

In the afternoon, revive those weary legs with a visit to Hammam Al Ándalus (Calle Santa Ana, 16) . Indulge in one of the many luxurious services on offer (you can book online) before dipping into the warm waters of the baths. Bathing suit required.

For the best sunset view in Granada, you’ll find a lively vibe at the Mirador de San Nicolás . You can even eat dinner as you watch the sun go down over the Alhambra at El Huerto de Juan Ranas (Calle Atarazana Vieja, 6) .

For a quieter sunset view, hike up to San Miguel Alto , the highest viewpoint in Granada. Fewer tourists make the steep climb up to this local secret spot .

Granada is one of the last places in Andalucía where tapas are served for free with a drink (although this isn’t the case in every bar), so make the most of it on your last night in Granada. Go bar-hopping and after two or three bars, you’ll find yourself satiated – and all for very cheap.

Choosing where to eat in Granada can be challenging – there are so many good places. We found some of the best places just by wandering around. While I’m someone who generally avoids crowds whenever possible, if I saw a group of boisterous Spaniards in a tapas bar, that was my signal that it was a good one!

Some of the best tapas in Granada are at:

• Bodegas Castañeda (Calle Almireceros, 1-3) – chaotic and a great place to people watch
• Los Manueles (Calle Reyes Católicos, 61) – there are two restaurants called Los Manueles and they’re just across the road from each other, so choose this one with the outdoor terrace
• Los Diamantes (Calle Navas, 28) – teeny tiny tapas place that’s always packed
• La Milagrosa Irreverente  (Calle Jáudenes 1, corner of Plaza de la Alhóndiga) –  bright space serving modern tapas

More Granada itinerary ideas

One day in granada.

If you’ve only got one day in Granada then prepare to hit the ground running – there’s a lot to see and do!

You’ll need to start early in the morning at the Alhambra. Remember, you must book your Alhambra tickets to the Nasrid Palaces months in advance to get an early morning time slot. Check out my Alhambra tickets guide if you didn’t read it earlier.

Afterwards, head over to explore the Albaicín and Sacromonte. Because you’re limited on time, a walking tour like this one might be the best way to see these historic areas.

Catch the sunset at the Mirador de San Nicolás before heading down into El Centro for bar-hopping around the tapas bars in Granada.

End the night at a flamenco show and then throw yourself into bed – you’ll need some sleep after just 1 day in Granada!

How to spend 3 days in Granada (or longer)

If you’ve got more than two days in Granada (lucky you!), there are plenty more things to do in Granada to fill your days:

• Spend more time exploring the Granada Cathedral and Royal Chapel of Granada – the free walking tour I mentioned earlier takes you past these historic buildings, but not inside
• Go shopping for souvenirs from Granada in the Alcaiceria bazaar . While it’s not as big as the original Arab market that once stood on this site, it’s still easy to get lost in the maze of stalls. Vendors know that tourists visit the market, so prepare to haggle!
• If you’ve got three days in Granada , then do the itinerary I’ve suggested above, and spend the third day hiking in the nearby Las Alpujarras or visit the white villages (pueblos blancos ) of this area
• Hike through the Los Cahorros Gorge , known for its hanging bridges and canyons
• Take a day trip to the Sierra Nevada National Park , Spain’s largest national park, for spectacular hiking, horse riding or mountain biking ( this 4WD Sierra Nevada safari looks like a fun day trip!)
• Visit the 11 th century Arab bathhouse, El Bañuelo (Carrera del Darro, 31) . These Arab baths are similar to those found in Ronda , another town I recommend visiting in the Andalusia region
• Learn the passion of flamenco (both dance and guitar) at Escuela Carmen de las Cuevas

Granada travel guide

When to visit granada.

The best time to visit Granada are the months on either side of summer: May, June, September and October . Temperatures are cooler, crowds are fewer and the city’s event calendar is full of fun things to do. I visited in June and the weather was perfect – sunny days without sweating.

The hottest months to visit are July and August. This is also when crowds swarm upon Granada, so if you’re crowd-averse like me, these are the months to avoid.

While it’s very cold in winter (you’re looking at an average of 6-10 degrees Celsius / 43-50 Fahrenheit) it does mean fewer visitors and cheaper accommodation prices – and the chance to hit up the snow fields in the nearby Sierra Nevada mountains.

How to get to Granada

Granada does have an airport that receives some international flights (from Paris, for example), but if you’re arriving from overseas it’s more likely that you’ll fly into Granada via Barcelona or Madrid. The next closest airport is in Málaga, 125 kilometres away, so another option is to fly into that airport and then take a bus or rent a car to get to Granada.

>> CHECK FLIGHTS TO GRANADA ONLINE HERE <<

Getting around Granada

Getting around Granada is easy – we walked around most of the city. Although there are plenty of steep streets that had us huffing and puffing!

While we loved walking, it’s worth noting that there are cobblestoned streets that aren’t great for those with mobility issues.

There are buses that will take you to the Albaicín (C31), Sacramonte (C34) or Alhambra (C30) for €1,40 from the centre of the city.

The Hop On Hop Off Train (which isn’t really a train, more like a cute mini-bus with carriages) hits the main Granada tourist sights, including going up to Sacromonte and the Alhambra.

The trains run every 30-35 minutes and there’s an option for an audioguide. Tickets cost US$10.90 for one day and US$15.30 for two days. Buy tickets online here .

There’s also a metro (more like a tram/light rail network) that runs across the city, but I neither saw nor had any need to use this form of public transport when in Granada.

If you’ve rented a car – as we did because we were on a southern Spain road trip – then park it somewhere and forget about it for your weekend in Granada. The streets are tiny, many are one-way or not accessible to cars at all, and parking is a nightmare!

After driving around aimlessly and almost getting stuck in streets as we desperately tried to reach our Airbnb (yes, the streets are really that narrow, even for small cars!) we gave up and left it in a parking garage in the city centre, paying about €19 a day.

Where to stay in Granada

The best area to stay in Granada is the Albaicín , the city’s historical neighbourhood. Here you’ll find charming cobblestoned streets and architecture that dates back to Moorish times. It’s also close to all the main Granada tourist attractions.

This area is paved with cobblestones that can be quite slippery and there are several hills and steps. We saw a few people take a tumble climbing up and down.

Our favourite hotel in the Albaicín area is Santa Isabel la Real , a boutique hotel that was a former 16th century home (Calle Santa Isabel la Real, 19) . Check availability online on Booking.com or Expedia .

Another popular option is the historic city centre, El Centro . Here you’ll have endless options for tapas restaurants and be close to all the main city sights.

If you’re after a boutique hotel, Hotel Casa 1800 is a lovely option  (Calle Benalua, 11) . Book online here .

For something really unique, you can even stay near the Alhambra , right inside the grounds! Parador de Granada is a former 15th century convent that’s now a beautiful hotel (Calle Real de la Alhambra) . Check availability on Booking.com or Expedia .

Did you find this article helpful? Consider buying me a coffee as a way to say thanks!

I hope this 2 days in Granada itinerary has helped you decide what to do in Granada. If you’ve got any more questions, comments or suggestions, leave them below!

Related posts

Before you go… you might like these Andalucia travel guides:

• Southern Spain Itinerary: The Best of Andalucía in 7 Days
• Buying Tickets for the Alhambra: Everything you Need to Know (Including What to Do if They’re Sold Out!)
• 2 Days in Seville: 10 Things You Must Add to Your Seville Itinerary
• Where to Find the Best Tapas in Seville: 7 Must-Visit Tapas Bars
• 13 Things To Do in Ronda, Spain: The Prettiest Town in Andalucía

SPAIN TRIP ESSENTIALS

• Book flights to and around Spain online with Skyscanner . I like this site because it shows me which dates are cheaper.
• Find a great hotel in Spain. Check prices on Booking.com   and Expedia online.
• For train travel, Omio should be your starting point for checking routes and booking tickets.
• Check out the huge range of day tours throughout Spain on GetYourGuide or Viator . There’s something for everyone.
• A copy of the  Lonely Planet guide to Spain will be handy.
• One thing I always purchase is  travel insurance ! Travel Insurance Master allows you to compare across multiple policy providers, while SafetyWing is great for long-term travellers and digital nomads.

GRANADA 2 DAY ITINERARY: PIN IT FOR LATER

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About REBECCA

I'm a travel junkie who started dreaming about seeing the world from a very young age. I've visited more than 40 countries and have a Master of International Sustainable Tourism Management. A former expat, I've lived in Australia, Papua New Guinea, Argentina and the United States. I share travel resources, tips and stories based on my personal experiences, and my goal is to make travel planning just that bit easier.

4 thoughts on “2 Days in Granada, Spain: Tasty Tapas, Historic Neighbourhoods and the Amazing Alhambra (2024)”

Loved this itinerary! Truly one of the treasures of Andalusia! Have shared with a friend who is wanting to visit – you’ve got some great tips on what to do besides the Alhambra.

Awesome, I’m glad it can help someone. And I couldn’t have done this trip without all your advice!!

Great itinerary! I’m hoping to go back to Spain and hopefully will make it to Granada as well. Thanks for the awesome ideas!

It’s so beautiful!! I hope you get back to Spain soon!

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Granada   Travel Guide

Why Go To Granada

Granada's allure is perhaps its most palpable force, enticing visitors long before their scheduled arrival. Tucked away among the Sierra Nevada Mountains in southern Spain, this Andalusian gem is awash with an infectious European charm as well as a strong sense of mystery brought on by its storied history. In Granada, churches were once the sites of mosques, bakeries formerly bath houses and shops primarily served tea instead of tapas. Though the days of dynasties changing and cultures clashing are long gone, what's left is a tangible sense of tradition begging to be understood. But that doesn't mean it's not appreciated. Granada's history as a former Moorish empire fascinates, its age-old architecture enchants and its rich culture enthralls the scores of travelers who make the trek to this small Spanish city every year. And visitors may quickly discover that in Granada, anything is possible. You can catch a flamenco show in caves once inhabited by African gypsies, shop goods that can be found on the streets of Morocco, hike the foothills of Spain's largest national park and – with Granada's thriving tapas scene – never pay a dime for dinner. So when in Granada, embrace the city in all its unique forms and if anything, allow yourself to get completely lost in its splendor, you won't regret it.

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• # 5 in Best Places to Visit in May 2024
• # 12 in Best Places to Visit in Spain
• # 13 in Best Cheap European Vacations for 2023-2024

Best of Granada

Best hotels in granada.

• # 1 in Parador De Granada
• # 2 in Hospes Palacio de los Patos
• # 3 in Hotel Palacio De Santa Paula, Autograph Collection

Best Things to Do in Granada

• # 1 in The Alhambra
• # 2 in The Albaicín
• # 3 in Historical Center

Popular Tours

Alhambra & Charles V Palace Tour

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Private Tour of the Alhambra in Granada (ticket included)

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Granada Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best time to visit Granada is in May and June as well as September and October. From May to June, temperatures are cool, flowers are fully bloomed and some of the city's biggest cultural events fill up the calendar. Though summer in Spain may sound like a romantic idea, Granada's position in the southern tip of Europe yields daily temps in the 80s and 90s during July and August, making for a potentially uncomfortable getaway. Winter is an option for those seeking off-peak deals, but with the nearby skiing available at the Sierra Nevada Mountains , prices may vary depending on where you're staying. In addition to May and June, September and October are also ideal times to visit. These months boast temperatures similar to those seen in spring, but come nightfall, temperatures from October onward get cooler and cooler. 

Weather in Granada

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

Expect to hike Granada's location near the mountains makes it a very hilly city. Wear sturdy shoes and bring water when walking around town, especially when exploring the  Albaicín  neighborhood.

Expect more than just Spanish culture Granada was once the capital of the Moorish empire and though the city has undergone centuries of change, there is still a Northern African culture that is very much present in the city.

Siesta Though more antiquated in bigger cities, siestas are still very common in Granada. In the afternoon, grocery stores and pharmacies may be closed.

How to Save Money in Granada

Walk Granada is as charming as they come, and the best way to experience it is to simply walk. Thanks to its small size, many of the city's top attractions are within walking distance of one another.

Eat tapas Tapas in Granada are free with the purchase of a drink, and are often large portions that could easily be enjoyed as a whole meal.

Consider the menu del dia If you don't want to rely on tapas for meals, check out restaurants' menu del dia , a discounted three-course meal served in the afternoon.

Culture & Customs

If you've been to Spain before, you may notice that Granada's culture appears to be a little bit different from the rest of the country. Though each town in Spain has its own unique identity, Granada differs due to its storied history with the Moors, or the group of Northern Africans who conquered Spain and Portugal in the eighth century. Though the Spanish eventually retook the country, there is plenty still left over from the Moors reign, such as tea houses, Moroccan-style spas and markets, in addition to architecture spread throughout the city. But don't worry, it's still Spain. Citizens of Granada practice siestas, flamenco is abundant and the culture's overall laid-back way of life remains largely intact.

Granada's official currency is the euro (EUR). Since the euro to U.S. dollar exchange rate fluctuates often, be sure to check what the current exchange rate is before you go. Spanish is the official language, however, those with some knowledge of Spanish will find that the dialect varies slightly. The most notable difference is that those in the south leave off the 's' at the end of words. For example, instead of gracias , or "thank you," it's gracia . Tipping, much like the rest of Europe, is not common in Spain and may garner strange looks from locals, especially in dining establishments. When it comes to dining etiquette, however, if you receive tapas (even if you didn't expect or ask to receive any), it's frowned upon to give them back as they are considered a gift. If you do not want your tapas, simply leave them on the table untouched. Another cultural norm in Spain is dos besos , or "two kisses." Unlike the U.S., when Spanish people meet or greet they exchange two kisses, one on each cheek instead of a handshake or hug (though men meeting or greeting other men stick to a handshake or hug). You're more likely to encounter this cultural exchange in a social setting with multiple Spaniards. 

What to Eat

Tapas can be found anywhere in Spain but one of the best places to experience this culinary tradition is in Granada. Unlike the country's other top destinations like Madrid or Barcelona , Granada retains the tradition of tapas in its purest form: order a drink and receive a free plate of tapas. For those unfamiliar, tapas can best be described as an appetizer or snack, and in the Spanish tradition, you receive an appetizer, or plate of tapas, with every drink you order at a bar. The more drinks you order, the larger portions the tapas tend to be. Though the majority of restaurants in Spain charge for tapas, Granada and much of southern Spain still see tapas as a gift to patrons.

You can find tapas bars all over, but most are concentrated in or near Centro, Granada's city center, Realejo, the old Jewish quarter and along Paseo de los Tristes near the Albaicín . Bodegas Espadafor, one of the city's most popular tapas bars, is located on the border of Centro and the Albaicín on Calle Elvira, a known tapas hub. Espadafor serves hearty plates, including potatoes topped with a quail's egg and roast ham, a crowd favorite. If you're craving seafood, stop by Los Diamantes on Calle Navas in Realejo. Here, you can gorge on sherry-soaked clams, fried bacalao (cod) or delectable calamari. And travelers on a budget will appreciate the tapas at Bodega la Antigualla where drinks are served with sandwiches with fries and a host of sauces. Bar Poe is unique in that the fare served goes beyond the borders of Spain – you may get Portuguese, Brazilian and Thai tapas alongside your drinks. Those with an adventurous palate should seek out Bar Aliatar, otherwise known as the snails bar, located in Plaza Aliatar in Sacromonte.

If you're looking to eat traditional Spanish dishes, such as patatas bravas, paella or croquetas, take advantage of a restaurant's menu del dia (typically offered at lunch), or menu of the day, which tends to serve traditional Spanish dishes. And as far as etiquette goes, since tapas are considered a gift, it's often seen as rude to resist or to send back tapas dishes. If you receive tapas dishes you don't want, simply leave them on the table and continue with your drink. For more information about the tapas scene in Granada, check out the Granada Tourism Board's Tapas routes here .

Getting Around Granada

The best way to get around Granada is by foot. Granada is pretty small, measuring only 33 square miles (in comparison, Madrid spans 233 square miles). And its location in the middle of the Sierra Nevada Mountains means the city primarily lives on hills, offering few sizeable roadways for cars to easily navigate. Buses are an option should you get tired of traversing the steeper hills. Taxis are also abundant, and you're likely to see them cruising around popular attractions , main thoroughfares and busy squares around the city. The best way to get from Granada's airport, the Federico Garcia Lorca Granada-Jaen Airport (GRX), to the city center (about 11 miles east) is by taxi, which costs about 25 euros ($27) one way. If you're looking for a cheaper option, you can take the Autocares Jose Gonzalez bus that picks up at the airport and goes to various destinations throughout the city. Single journey tickets cost 3 euros ($3.35), however, availability depends on the day's flight schedules. 

Entry & Exit Requirements

A passport is required for entry into Spain. The passport must be valid for three months beyond your departure date. Tourists from the United States can stay for up to 90 days without a tourist visa. For more information on entry and exit requirements, visit the U.S. Department of State's website .

The Alhambra is the crown jewel of Granada, drawing more than 2 million visitors per year. The UNESCO World Heritage site is famous for housing royals from different Spanish dynasties and is continually lauded for both its beauty and quality of preservation.

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A local’s guide to Granada: 10 top tips

Once you’ve ticked off the Alhambra, check out Granada’s edgier barrio culture, with both alternative and traditional bars, great flamenco, food and street art

T he Alhambra may be Spain’s most visited attraction year on year, but wandering the hills and the backstreets of Granada’s barrios will give you the real feel of this fascinating city, which has elegance and edginess in equal measure.

Granada’s fertile valley and sweeping hills have attracted many different civilisations through the centuries. Echoes of past occupiers, from the ancient Iberians to the Romans and Visigoths, can be found throughout the city and beyond. But, as befits a university town, there’s innovation amongst all the tradition – enter Granada’s street art and trendier food and coffee scene.

Barrio stroll

Beneath the south side of the Alhambra is the lively, old Jewish quarter of Barrio Realejo . Wandering its streets and leafy plazas will reveal layers of history, but not just through its Arab and romanesque buildings – a newer addition is its street art. The colourful murals by El Niño de las Pinturas continue the overlap of old and new, gracing crumbling brickwork with images of youth and, in his portrait of the Clash’s Joe Strummer, rebellion. There’s also a nod to a Moorish past, in the use of classically Arabic golds and turquoise-blues, patterns and motifs; lines of Spanish poetry also feature in a swirling, arabesque hand. Stick around until evening and head to the bustling Calle San-Matías/Calle Varela area where local favourite tapas joint Rosario Varela , with its charming retro interior, is one not to miss. Have a beer, glass of wine (both from around €2.50) or cocktail (€4.50-10) accompanied by incredible tapas, including mini burgers and pork buns. Should you need more food (and I rarely do), the menu – a twist on classic Andalucían food – is extensive and delicious.

Real flamenco

For authentic flamenco, skip any venue giving out tourist leaflets, even those in the famous Sacromonte Caves . The Peña la Platería , which is eastwards down the hill toward Albaicín Bajo, showcases the flamenco that dancers go to see; public performances are on Thursday evenings only, from 10pm. It’s €10 for a ticket plus drink on arrival, and it’s a good idea to phone ahead and book; and arrive early to secure a good spot. Better still, don’t just watch; try lessons with Albaicín-born Chúa Alba. Having performed and taught flamenco all over the world, Chúa now holds classes in her studio on Calle Elvira (just behind Gran Via). And fret not: whatever your level of Spanish or dancing, this is truly immersive and you’ll find yourself picking up the steps in no time. escuelaflamencachuaalba.com , €10 for drop-ins

Craft beer bar

El Fermentador brings fresh development to the bare-bones Plaza de Toros/San Lázaro area. Owner Luis quit a career in finance to pursue his passion for craft beer and bring something different to his beloved barrio. The eight taps serve an ever-changing variety of trendy beers priced around €2.60, plus their own easy-drinking brew. Glasses of wine cost from €2. Tapas are a welcome fusion of local dishes like carne y salsa (meat in sauce) and croquetas (breaded, deep-fried balls of bechamel sauce) alongside my favourite: brie deep-fried with a forest-fruit reduction. If you make it past the tapas, don’t miss the house special IPA burger made with Irish Angus beef with chunky hand-cut chips (€12) and, if you’ve still got space, the homemade cheesecake.

Botanic Gardens

For a quieter experience in the same area, the leafy, 19th-century Jardín Botánico forms a shady, city-centre oasis just next to Plaza de la Universidad. The jardíngarden also (it forms part of the university). Among the plants grown here are wild species native to the Sierra Nevada, various herbs and 70 different large tree specimens. Head up the stone steps, through a deceptively understated doorway, and you’ll find yourself in the university’s law building, still used for its original purpose. It’s a grand and wonderful maze of marble corridors and interior courtyards, all dating back to its foundation by Carlos V in the 1500s. If you’re lucky you might be able to peep into one of the traditional lecture halls, which retain their original wooden-pew seating and parquet flooring. botanica.ugr.es , open weekdays 8am-10pm

Tapas bar hop

Given the number of tourists who flock to the cathedral, it’s surprising how few discover some of the best tapas bars nearby, all of which serve a new, complimentary tapa with each round of drinks. Start at nearby Calle de Almireceros and hit Bodegas Castañeda , a wonderland of dark, carved wood and hanging hams. Definitely try the vermut (Spain’s sweet, spicy fortified wine) that’s brewed in the giant barrels you’ll see behind the bar. With that, you’ll be served an array of traditional titbits, hopefully including some shaved ham. After that, head to bar St Germain on Calle Postigo Velutti. Choose from the excellent wine selection and gorge on cheese and bread, among a variety of classic tapas. But leave space for El Bar de Fede , five minutes away on Calle Marqués de Falces. A fresh twist on traditional food and decor, this place has great wines, cocktails and tapas to die for, including meat dishes and plenty of veggie-friendly pasta and rice ones too; I love the long mushroom strips served like tagliatelle.

Coffee and croissants

Traditional cafe sólo or cafe con leche has been given a reboot in Granada. Minuit Pan & Coffee is one of the key innovators, and what began as a takeaway coffee shop and bakery in the Albaicín has expanded: there’s now a bigger, more central venue with full seating just off Plaza Nueva. Ismail and his co-owners’ aim was to bring to their city the barista coffee experience, “kept simple, done well”, and it’s been welcomed by a cross-section of Granadinos. Coffee beans are roasted in Seville and, at around €1.50 a coffee, it is a small price to pay for a great cup. While you’re there, either tuck into a delicious croissant, a tostada (toasted homemade bread with various toppings), or a slice of great carrot cake. Or just take home an artisanal loaf, all baked using traditional French methods.

View of the Alhambra

Trekking to see this mighty structure from above may not be for the faint-hearted, but you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views. Head to the Ermita de San Miguel church, atop the Sacromonte hill above the barrios of Sacromonte and the Albaicín – go up the steps from the Albaicín’s Calle Cruz de la Rauda or walk from the Carril de San Miguel. Take a bottle of wine early evening and watch the sun set across the hills below, the Alhambra opposite and, beyond that, the Sierra Nevada mountains. At weekends the tower ruins of La Silla del Moro (the seat of the Moors) present a different view again, from directly above the eastern side of the Alhambra. Trek from Camino Fuente del Avellano by the River Darro and you’ll see the palace and gardens open out below, as well as the city and plains and peaks to its west. Both viewpoints free; La Silla del Moro opening times at alhambra-patronato.es

Seafood heaven

On a sunny day, head south-west from the centre and you’ll find Plaza de Gracia. Weekends and early evenings here are a snapshot of Granadino family life: adults enjoying tapas while kids play in the enclosed playground or in front of the church. The more casual Bar Manolo or Cerbeceria Igra serve classic tapas, like patatas bravas or patatas con huevos (potatoes with fried egg). The award-winning Puesto 43 celebrates the Andalucían love of seafood with the expertise of a family who began as Granada’s first fishmongers back in 1913, when the day’s catch was brought up by donkey from the port at Motril. Their commitment to sourcing the best, freshest seafood has not waned. The smart restaurant inside is known for its rich, indulgent seafood platters, most priced between €16-€20 a head, though grab a glass of wine for €3 and the free tapas or raciones (larger, menu-based portions), served outdoors on simple check-clothed tables, are arguably just as good; these are often plates piled with gambas fritas (prawns), bacalao (salt cod) or fish croquetas .

The music hub

As its name might suggest, the Plaza de la Universidad is often humming with students. Just north-east of the hip second-hand stores on Calle Trinidad is Calle Escuelas, where you’ll find Bar de Eric . This is an institution on Granada’s rock music scene, as owner Eric Jiménez is the drummer with the city’s beloved Los Planetas. The bar’s photo-clad walls serve as a rock’n’roll hall of fame; Eric himself is stood smiling with Marky Ramone in one picture. Then head just around the corner to Discos Bora-Bora – no mere record shop, this is a music emporium: the place stocks vinyl, music-related books and clothing, and also hosts gigs and parties. Its cult following is understandable; even on “quieter” days locals love the upbeat atmosphere, and owners Mariajo and Gonzalo are happy to enthuse about music with pretty much anyone.

Fresh from the market

Head north up Gran Via de Colon in front of the cathedral, take a left down Calle Cristo de San Agustín and you’ll reach Granada’s main indoor market. But it’s not only a great place to buy the freshest produce; in this smart, polished space, many of the stalls have tables where you can sit and try plates of what’s on offer. At Carnicería Miguel Angel it’s worth sampling the meat products that this family butcher has been perfecting for 80 years: go for a plate of famous jamón ibérico , freshly sliced before you (150g for €12.90), or a meat bocadillo (€2.95-3.50), washed down with a beer (€2) or glass of wine (€2.50).

When to go Granada is a year-round destination because of its sunshine: summers last from April to October; winters are cold but bright. Semana Santa (Easter Holy Week) is probably the biggest fiesta, though there are various saint-based festivals, with music and processions, throughout the year. August can get very hot and dry, so many locals leave for the coast and some establishments have limited opening hours at best.

Getting there Málaga airport is served by many airlines from across the UK. Granada’s own smaller airport is 20-25 minutes by taxi (around €30) from the centre; easyJet flies direct from Gatwick and Manchester from about £50 return.

• Granada holidays
• A local's guide
• Spain holidays
• Bars, pubs and clubs
• Food and drink
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I really understand why Hemingway once said “If you were to visit just one city in Spain, it should be Granada”. Granada in my eyes was the most beautiful city in Europe. It’s not flashy, not noisy or crowded, but tranquil, quaint and romantic like a love letter. The letter from the Moors 7 centuries ago. So, is Granada worth visiting, what is Granada Spain famous for, what to do in Granada and how to plan a perfect budget trip to Granada for the first-time? Let’s check out our Granada blog (Granada travel blog, Granada Spain travel blog) with the fullest Granada Spain travel guide (Granada travel guide, Granada guide, Granada tourist guide) from how to get to Granada, best time to come, where to stay, best places to visit, what to eat and top things to do in Granada as well as suggested Granada itinerary 3 days (3 days in Granada Spain) to find out the answer!

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Granada is one of the four big cities of Andalusia — an autonomous community and historical region in Southern Spain, located at the foot of the snowy mountains of the Sierra Nevada. Granada is famous for its many magnificent palaces, castles and fortresses… In which, there are two architectural masterpieces: The Alhambra — a palace and fortress complex and the town of Albaicin (Albayzín) which have been recognized by UNESCO as World Heritage Sites. In addition, Granada also attracts visitors by the unique cultural features of the Moors, Jews, Arabs, Romans and Gypsies.

Granada is a city in the autonomous region of Andalusia in the south of Spain. The city attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors every year because of its ancient and quaint architectures with many palaces, castles, and citadels with bold Arabian imprints in the heart of Europe. Along with poetic and romantic beauty, Granada is considered as one of the most travel-worthy cities in Spain.

Granada blog: A brief introduction to the city of Granada

Granada is an ancient city located in the southern region of Spain and is considered the capital of the Andalusia region. It is located at the foot of the Sierra Nevada mountain range and is at the confluence of the Genil and Darro rivers. Granada has a population of about 240,000 people with a history of development of more than 2,500 years. With a long history and rich in culture, Granada still retains many ancient architectural works, historical sites, spectacular palaces, castles and fortresses, picturesque gardens… Although compared to Madrid and Barcelona, ​​Granada is somewhat less famous, but the number of tourists coming to this city is not inferior.

Granada – Following the line of history

Granada that I know is not flashy, not loud, but romantic like an open love letter. A romantic letter from the Moors 7 centuries ago. Like Cordoba, from the beginning of the 8th century, Granada belonged to the Moors, Arab-Muslims from North Africa. While much of Europe slumbered in the darkness of the Middle Ages, the towns of Al-Andalus (was the Muslim-ruled area of the Iberian Peninsula) had reached the pinnacle of luxury and a superior civilization. At the end of the 13th century, Cordoba, Seville and the whole Al-Andalus region returned to the Catholic kings, Granada became the last stronghold of the Nasrid dynasty on the Iberian peninsula.

If you have read the article about Cordoba , you have probably heard about the time Christopher Columbus met two famous King and Queen in Spanish history, Isabella I of Castille and Ferdinand II of Aragon in the Alcazar of Cordoba in 1486. Columbus then, with the support of the Spanish court, began his expedition. By 1492, the same year that Columbus landed in the Americas, the Catholic kings also conquered the last Muslim city, and renamed it Granada as we know today. Granada, which literally means “pomegranate” in Spanish, has since become the symbol of the city.

Nearly 800 years in the hands of wealthy Arabic sultans, then re-entered just as Renaissance art was shining across Europe has turned Granada into the perfect intersection of two cultures. Granada brings the passionate breath of Islamic art, then breathes new life into the Renaissance wave and the Baroque school. Therefore, if you walk around Granada, you will feel the atmosphere of deep and mysterious, but romantic, spacious and generous, the signature features of North Africa and Western Europe.

Compared to the bright and shining neighboring city of Seville, the not-so-smooth history makes Granada something more angular and personal. That’s why tourists are easily captivated. I am not surprised to learn that Hemingway once said: “If you were to visit just one city in Spain, it should be Granada”. There is no doubt that you definitely will fall in love with this city. Then it may take you days, weeks, months to figure out why. But if you’ve been here once, I know you’ll want to come back.

Granada travel blog: When is the best time to visit Granada?

Granada in particular and Spain in general have quite hot climate. The number of sunny days a year is up to 300 days and the average temperature is always above 30 degrees Celsius. Granada has very hot and muggy summers. Winter in Granada has the lowest temperature of about 1 degree Celsius, so it is not too harsh.

The best time to visit Granada is around spring (April, May) or fall (October, November). The weather at this time is very cool, pleasant, the number of tourists is decreasing, very convenient for moving and sightseeing.

If you don’t like crowds of travelers, you should not go during Semana Santa occasion – Holy Week (the week with Easter, often takes place around March and April each year). This is the week the Spaniards often go on for their vacation, there are many outdoor activities and the prices of services are also high, hotel price can be 3 times more expensive.

Granada travel guide: How to get to Granada?

Granada has an international airport named after the famous poet Federico García Lorca. Granada airport is the destination of a number of low-cost airlines such as Easy Jet, Vueling. However, the flights are mainly come from Spanish domestic cities or from neighboring countries such as Portugal, France, Italy.

To find the best routes as well as cheap air tickets you can go to Google Flights , Kayak or Skyscanner .

Around Granada, there are also some big cities such as Seville, Malaga which are also the destinations for many international flights. These cities are only 1, 2 hours by train from Granada. So, if you come to Granada from abroad, you can choose to fly to one of these two cities and then take the train or Alsa bus ( www.alsa.es ) to get to Granada.

I do not recommend you rent a self-driving car to Granada because the roads in the old town are very narrow, Spaniards are not very strict with driving, and there are very few parking spaces.

Granada city guide: Getting around Granada

Like many other ancient Spanish cities, it will be difficult for tourists to find a parking spot. Moreover, the cobbled stone streets in the old town are very narrow and full of steep stairs. So the best way to explore this UNESCO-listed city is on foot. Explore Granada, remember to choose a good and comfortable shoe.

Granada is a typical European old city, so the roads here are quite narrow, steep and winding, with little parking space. Therefore, the best way for you to explore this city is on foot or by bus if you want to go further.

Granada Hop-On Hop-Off Train Tour

If you are lazy to walk, you can take the bus. The 3 most convenient bus routes for tourists are:

• C1: from Plaza Nueva to Albayzin
• C2: from Plaza Nueva to Sacromonte
• C3: from Plaza Isabel II to Alhambra

Bus fares are very cheap, only about 1.20 EUR one way, you can go anywhere you want in the city. If you travel a lot, you can buy a tourist bus pass to saving costs even more for 5, 10, 20 EUR. Alternatively, you can also explore the city by bicycle, with a rental price of about 12 EUR/day.

Granada blog: Where to go and what to do in Granada?

The central district of old town.

Granada’s old town is located in the heart of the city, which is centered around the Plaza Nueva with the huge cathedral, the shopping streets, the Mercado San Agustin in Granada (food market) and the countless of delectable tapas bars, along with restaurants and nice cafes… Plaza Nueva is a bustling place where you can see street performers. You can strolling around to watch the vibrant street scenes, quaint houses, shopping for souvenirs and feeling the ancient atmosphere of an ancient town.

Alhambra – The Jewel of Granada

The oldest part of Granada lies on two hills facing each other across the river Darro. On one side is the Alhambra – a palace and fortress complex, on the other is the old Muslim quarter of Albayzín and the Sacromonte area of Granada’s Gypsy community.

Both a palace and fortress, the Alhambra takes its name from the Arabic word “al-Qal’a Al-Hamrā” which means means “red fort” or “castle”. For 250 years before the Catholic kings recaptured Granada, the Alhambra was the royal palace of the Nasrid dynasty. The sultans and princes brought the splendor of 13th – 15th century Arab architecture to Alhambra, worthy of Granada when it was one of the wealthiest cities throughout Europe. Therefore, the Alhambra seems to recreate a paradise on earth, with splendid lush green royal gardens, harmonious landscapes, fountains murmuring day and night, mirror pools reflecting the charming, exquisite verandas.

Today, the Alhambra is a UNESCO heritage site, welcoming thousands of visitors every day. A complex of: Generalife palace, Garden of the Partal, Alcazaba fortress, Nasrid Palaces, each place has its own charm, creating the magnificent and majestic beauty of Alhambra.

Generalife palace and gardens

From the main entrance, on the right hand side is the Bajos garden and the Generalife palace. Generalife is located outside the defensive walls of the Alhambra, and was the summer palace of the Nasrid rulers. Not as grand as the rest of the castle, but the Generalife brings a calm and gentle appearance. The palace is located between interwoven canals, purple iris flower beds, colorful rose bushes and cool green forests.

Generalife has a lush greenery royal garden that you cannot miss when coming to Granada. This garden was built around the 13th century, used as a resting place for Arab sultants. The garden is planted with many colorful roses, lily along with flower walls, magnificent fountains and white cobblestone walkways creating a green, poetic space make you feel like being lost in a wonderland.

Going deep inside, visitors will admire the towering flower walls, wide walkways, magnificent fountains in luxurious architectural style, mixed with arrogance and superior of the Arab kings. The green arch arched overhead next to the white gravel path makes the garden even more poetic.

The Garden of the Partal (Jardines del Partal)

Leaving Generalife, I suddenly entered El Partal. El Partal Garden is arranged on many floors, connected by stairs, creating countless beautiful and splendid views. El Partal is a lovely blend of Saracen and Gothic art, between time of the Moors and later Spanish kings. The paths have the appearance of French gardens in the 16th and 17th centuries, but they are full of ancient influences in the story of One Thousand and One Nights. Whether sunrise or sunset, I love to get lost here. In the twilight, walking in the El Partal garden is like living in a dream. A wonderful dream.

Alcazaba Fortress (Alcazaba Citadel)

The Alcazaba watchtowers mark the highest point of the Alhambra and is also the place where the flag of the Catholic kings was raised in 1492. Today, on the Torre de la Vela watchtower still fly four flags: Europe, Spain, Andalusia and Granada. Climbing to Alcazaba on a windy afternoon, you will be delighted to see the other bank of Granada. In front, Albayzín is like a white village on a hillside, dotted with romantic green spaces of cypress trees. The silhouette of the Sacromonte area loomed to the right. And to the left, the dome of Granada cathedral rises above the ancient roofs.

Alcazaba fortress is located on the top of the Alhambra hill, where you can admire the panoramic view of Granada city and the majestic Sierra Nevada mountains in the distance. The fortress is considered the oldest structure of the Alhambra complex with ruins walls marking the glory of the Islamic empire. Today, within the fortress, there are still traces of buildings such as barracks and bathrooms. The inside of the fortress still preserves a lot of artifacts from the war period.

Nasrid Palaces

Perhaps the most impressive highlight of the Alhambra is the palaces of the Nazaries (Nasrid Palaces). The splendor of the palace lies not only in itself, but in the perfect surroundings. The white palace is located between poetic gardens and green forests, true to the legend, ancient Arab poets called this building “Emerald pearl”. Nazaries are actually a series of suites, corridors, and courtyards. Each wall, column, roof border is mosaic and engraved with beautiful, sophisticated Arabic patterns and motifs. If you were once fascinated when visiting ancient palaces and schools in Morocco, when you come to the Nazaries, you will be once again bewildered.

Albayzín – Remembering a cup of Arabic tea.

Albaicin is the city’s historic Arab old quarter with its narrow streets and distinctive architecture of white houses with clay brown tile roofs. This town was built for defense purposes and was one of the key points of Granada at that time. Albaicin is located on a hill in the center of Grenada and includes many ancient Arabic-style buildings. Along the winding and steep roads, visitors will be led to ancient white painted buildings, shops and beautiful gardens that are hundreds of years old.

On the hillside in front of the Alhambra, across the Darro valley is the Muslim old quarter of Albayzín. Alhambra and Albayzín are complete opposites but extremely harmonious. The red castle and the white village. Lavish and simple. Careful and messy. Each side evokes a different emotion, but both are nostalgic, profound and heartbreakingly beautiful.

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13 things to know before traveling to Granada

Granada photo created by javi_indy

Granada is one of the most incredible gems of southern Spain. It lies at the foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains, the locals have many quirks, and it is an artist hub in Andalusia. The Moores ruled Granada for 800 years, leaving the city full of medieval architecture and awe-striking gardens hidden throughout the city. Given its popularity amongst tourists, it’s hard to know the do’s and don’ts when visiting this remarkable city—That’s why we have researched for you to enjoy your trip to the fullest. Here are 13 things to know before traveling to Granada. 

1. How to get there

The first thing that you need to know is how to get to this must-see city. Granada Airport (GRX) is small but well connected. If you are staying in Barcelona, Gran Canaria, Tenerife, or Madrid and fancy heading down to Granada for a night, this could be a fast and cheap option.  Vueling.com has flights from Barcelona from €30.

Another option is the train. Unfortunately, no high-speed train runs to Granada, but the trains are frequent and comfortable. Tickets are available here on  Renfe.com .

Private transfers

One of the top 13 things to know before traveling to Granada is that private transfers are available from major cities, including Seville. For the ultimate no-stress and comfortable transit, contact us here for a private transfer .

Undoubtedly, a treasure of Spain, let alone Granada. This astonishing palace dates back between 1238 and 1358. It is a must-see, but there are some things that you should know before going. Purchase your tickets well in advance. We strongly recommend printing your tickets beforehand!! You might be okay with a digital copy, but sometimes the people working there can be funny and not let you in. Another thing to note is that there are some worthwhile tours of the palace. This could be an option if you get stressed in busy tourist destinations. We will handle all the details for you :   Private guided tour of the Alhambra

We made Cars our point 3 out of our 13 things to know before going to Granada. Forget about the cars, the best way to see this city is on foot. Almost all the streets near the center are for public transport only. The majority of the attractions are here too. You’ll spend more time finding a parking space than you will spend inside Alhambra. You won’t notice the number of steps you are doing, with the magic of Granada pleasing your eyes. 

 If you have rented a car for your trip to Spain, we recommend parking on the outskirts of the center. Somewhere near  parque ciencias or either the  caja granada museum . You can them hope on a bus to the center. 

4. The Language

The Andalusian dialect of Spanish is known for its lack of pronunciation, especially in Granada. The local people use a lot of slang, and the ends of the words seem to disappear too. So don’t be discouraged if you have been practicing your Spanish and it’s not going as planned. It will take a go or two, but you will get there. 

5. Flamenco

 Renowned for the strong flamenco culture and the unique barefoot-style called zambra. Granada is a cultural hub of flamenco. One of the best pieces of advice that we can give you before you travel to Granada is about the flamenco and where to watch it. Sacromonte is a town hidden in the hills known as “the gypsy” neighborhood. For centuries the gypsy populations have lived here in the natural caves nestled in the mountain edge. There is a cave and local hangout, where you can watch an intimate flamenco show high above the city. The acoustics will echo in your ear as the sounds touch your soul on our Granada tapas trail and gyspy flamenco tour .

The south of Spain is known for its hot climate and unbearable summers, with temperatures reaching up to 40 degrees. Something to know before traveling to Granada is that it can snow there. Yes, you heard it, snow!! The city’s mountains are called “Sierra Nevada,” aka snowy range. Snowfall is most likely during November, and it may last until late February.  You can even take a ski trip at the Sierra Nevada ski resort .

7. Tapas Culture

Did you know that the tapas food culture originated from the southern region of Andalucia? The astonishing thing about the tapas culture in Granada is that most of the tapas are free!! After you order a drink, a small plate of meat or a small sandwich will follow. As is most places in the world, the closer you are to the touristy areas, the more expensive the food is. Value for money is still true to tone. You can get a drink and three tapas for €5. Here is the ultimate tapas tour in Granada. Traveling to Granada could be value for money! 

8. The Granada Card

The  Granada card  is at number 7 on our list of 13 things to know before traveling to Granada. This card allows you access to the major monuments of Granada, including showstoppers like Alhambra, Catuja, the Cathedral, San jerónimo, Parque de las Ciencias and Caja Granada Museum. That’s only to mention a few.

Suppose you are traveling to Granada and you are on a tight budget. With this card, you get nine free rides on transport and one tour bus included! If you are visiting Granada for a few days, this could be worth your while. One last significant benefit is the ability to avoid queuing. If you are time conscious, this could be just the ticket…well, card.

9. Different Viewpoints 

Granada’s most famous viewpoint is called San Nicolás. The views are extraordinary, of course. However, after a long day of museum crawling and monument viewing, watching the sunset somewhere quieter may be more appealing. San Miguel Alto is the highest viewpoint in Granada, with panoramic views of Alhambra, Albaicín, Sacramento, and the entire city. Sunsets are like no other, but they require a climb to see them. For a great view of Alhambra, you can check out Carvajales. This viewpoint is in the town of Albaicín and easy to come by. The top spot for sunset watching is “El Ojo de Granada”, also known as the eye of Granada. See the roofs of the houses catch the last of the orange light, as the valleys and cathedral complete this perfect sunset picture. For a spectacular viewpoint tour click here .

When traveling to a new city, safety is of the utmost importance. Granada is a relatively low-risk city, and violent crimes are scarce. The main concern would be pickpocketing in the major tourist areas. Watch out for your phones and wallets. Going out at night is very safe in the vibrant city. There are always people around, given the Spanish late-night culture. 

11. Artistic Reputation

A bohemian splendor is not hard to come by in Granada. The Calle Elvira is a superb example of this. The terracotta buildings are complemented by multicolored throws hanging from windows. And the presence of art schools and residencies makes Granada an artistic hub. The city is filled with aspiring artists and galleries to wander and to gain inspiration. Another asset to Granada’s creative reputation is the street art and murals; they are celebrated, not discouranged.  

Hiking makes number 12 on our list of 13 things to know before traveling to Granada. When traveling to a city and you don’t want to lose your fitness routine, one of the best things to know is what is available. The Sierra Nevada mountains provide such a playground for such activities. Paint a new picture of Granada as you stumble upon the city’s forgotten landmarks, lush fields, and intertwined olive groves. Our guided tour hikes along the main artery of the River, sharing secrets and showing you the underworld view of Granada. See more here:  https://notjustatourist.com/tours/hiking-granadas-river/?c=f0cfb884254d

13. Young City 

Granada is a young city. It is packed to the brim with ex-pats and people looking for a more relaxed lifestyle. With cheap events and nights out, you can see the attraction for these young people. For a relatively small city, there are eight universities present. University of Granada is one of the biggest in the city.

We love Granada and know you will too! If you need help organising a trip or more information about our tours, you can  Contact Mahsa . 

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Your Granada Vacation

Get ready to experience Granada on your own terms with a custom Granada vacation package! Uncovering the best parts of this interesting city is easy with a base in a neighborhood such as Sacromonte, which is good for culture, among plenty of other things. You'll want to take in the sights during your trip to Granada. Make time for popular attractions like Alhambra , Granada Cathedral and Plaza Nueva . Don't put off your visit to this city any longer. The perfect Granada vacation is a couple of clicks away with Expedia.

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Where to stay in Granada

Granada City Center

Granada City Center is known for its stunning cathedral, and you can see some sights in the area like Calle Navas and Plaza Bib-Rambla.

Central District

The stunning cathedral and popular shops are just a few highlights of Central District. Make a stop by Calle Navas or Isabel la Catolica Plaza while you're exploring the area.

Centered around a hill, this World Heritage Site boasts a medieval street plan and historic monuments from the Nasrid and Renaissance periods. Explore sights like Dar al-Horra and Casa de Zafra, or visit the bustling Panaderos Street.

Realejo-San Matias

If you're spending some time in Realejo-San Matias, Generalife and Palace of Carlos V are top sights worth seeing.

Centro - Sagrario

If you're spending some time in Centro - Sagrario, San Jeronimo Monastery and Calle Gran Via de Colon are top sights worth seeing.

Granada Essential Information

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Where to go when

Frequently asked questions, discover the most popular places to visit in granada.

After visiting Alhambra, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Granada. Add the area's shops or stunning cathedral to your travel plans.

Granada Cathedral

A masterpiece of Spanish Renaissance architecture, this cathedral is known for its stunning chapels, art collection and as the resting place of a revered queen.

Plaza Nueva

Situated beneath the Alhambra is Granada’s main square, a spacious public plaza known for its cafés, bars and views which span the city’s rich history.

What to do in Granada

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