Top 10 Things to do in Granada Spain:
Granada, nestled in the heart of Spain, is a city deeply steeped in rich history and cultural heritage. This city is home to stunning architectural gems, the most famous of which is the Alhambra. This majestic fortress, with its intricate designs and stunning views, is a testament to Granada's historical significance.
But Granada isn't just about historical architecture. It's also a city that boasts a vibrant food scene. From traditional tapas bars to gourmet dining establishments, Granada offers a gastronomic experience that caters to a variety of tastes. The city is also surrounded by breathtaking natural landscapes, offering an array of outdoor activities for nature lovers. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or an outdoor enthusiast, the top things to do in Granada, Spain offers something for everyone.
Fun Fact:
Many visitors often note that Granada has a distinct Moroccan feel to it. This is largely due to its past as a Moorish stronghold, which has left an indelible mark on the city's architecture, cuisine, and culture, making it a unique blend of Spanish and Arabic influences.
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1. Explore the Alhambra and Generalife Gardens
The Alhambra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the most iconic symbol of Granada. Its stunning Islamic architecture, beautiful gardens, and breathtaking views of the city are truly enchanting. The Generalife Gardens, once the summer palace of Nasrid sultans, are a serene oasis of meticulously landscaped gardens, courtyards, and fountains.
If there is one thing you do not want to miss while visiting Granada, it is the Alhambra and Generalife Gardens. The Alhambra, with its ornate architectural beauty and the Generalife Gardens with surreal, fairytale-like views of the city should not be overlooked.
Hours & Admission
Tickets for a self-guided tour including both the Alhambra and Generalife Gardens cost 19.09 EUR (21 USD in 2024) and must be pre-booked online before arrival. It is recommended that you book your ticket as soon as you trip is confirmed, since tickets sell out up to several months in advance. It's recommended to arrive either at the first entry slot for the Nasrid Palace, or after 2 PM as most guided tours will have concluded and crowds will be smaller.
Remember to bring a form of ID (passport) to show upon entry.
Alhambra is open daily except for Christmas and January 1st, from 8.30 AM to 8 PM (April - Oct). Night tours are available on certain evenings. Since the Alhambra closes at 8 PM, be ensure to enter a few hours prior.
To reach the Alhambra, take bus C30/32 from the city for 1.40 EUR (1.42 USD). The ride lasts approximately 10 minutes. Alternatively, you can walk to the palace, which takes about 30 minutes uphill. When purchasing tickets online in advance, you can enter via the "Puerta de la Justica", which is only an 15 minute walk from the city center (uphill).
Here is a map of the Alhambra to help with planning.
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2. Visit the Granada Cathedral
The Granada Cathedral, or the Cathedral of the Incarnation, is a must-see. This Renaissance-style cathedral is known for its stunning architecture, intricate carvings, and the Royal Chapel, where the Catholic Monarchs Ferdinand and Isabella are buried.
Hours & Admission
The Granada Cathedral is open Monday to Saturday : 10:00 AM to 6:15 PM and Sundays: 3:00 PM to 6:15 PM. Tickets can be purchased in advanced for 6 EUR, or in-person at a kiosk located at the Cathedral entrance.
3. Stroll through the Albayzín, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
The Albayzín neighborhood is one of the oldest areas in Granada and is known for its winding, narrow streets and beautiful Moorish architecture. It's an incredible place to wander and get lost, taking in the atmosphere of this historic part of the city. It also offers some of the best views of the Alhambra.
J&L Recommended Miradors (lookouts)
Los Carvajales Viewpoint
Mirador de San Nicolas
Mirador de San Miguel Alto
4. Taste the local cuisine at a traditional tapas bar
Granada is famous for its unique take on tapas, where each drink order is accompanied by a free small dish. It's a wonderful way to sample the local cuisine and experience the city's vibrant food culture. From traditional Spanish dishes to innovative culinary creations, the tapas bars in Granada offer a gastronomic adventure not to be missed.
J&L Recommended:
Los Diamantes: Famous for its seafood tapas, expect to pay around 10-20 EUR per person.
Bar Avila: A traditional tapas bar with a wide range of choices, expect to pay around 10-20 EUR per person.
Taberna La Tana: Renowned for its cured meats and cheeses, expect to pay around 10-20 EUR per person.
Bar Poë: Offers a variety of tapas from around the world thanks to owner world-travelers Ana and Matt. Expect to pay around 10-20 EUR per person.
Casa Torcuato: Popular Andulusian tapas bar. Their arroz tapa is very popular and they offer Granada wines to pair. Expect to pay around 15-20 EUR per person.
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5. Visit the Royal Chapel of Granada
The Royal Chapel of Granada is a significant historical site as it houses the tombs of the Catholic Monarchs Ferdinand and Isabella. The chapel's stunning architecture and intricate artwork make it a must-visit for history and art enthusiasts alike.
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Hours & Admission
The Royal Chapel of Granada is open Monday to Saturday : 10:00 AM to 6:30 PM and Sundays: 11:00 AM to 6:30 PM. Tickets can be purchased in advanced for 6 EUR, or in-person at a kiosk located at the entrance of the Royal Chapel.
Don't Miss Nearby:
The La Alcaiceria market, once a bustling Arab silk market, is a must-visit for its vibrant atmosphere, unique souvenirs, and intricate Moorish-style crafts. It offers an authentic taste of Granada's historical past and is an ideal place to shop for traditional Spanish and Andalusian goods.
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6. Explore the Sacromonte neighborhood and its famous caves
The Sacromonte neighborhood is renowned for its traditional cave homes, many of which have been converted into unique accommodations or flamenco venues. It's a fascinating place to explore and experience Granada's gypsy heritage and vibrant flamenco culture
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7. Hike the Sierra Nevada National Park
The Sierra Nevada National Park offers breathtaking natural beauty and a variety of outdoor activities. From hiking and mountain biking in the summer to skiing and snowboarding in the winter, it's a paradise for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.
8. Explore the Carmen de los Mártires, a beautiful garden with stunning views
The Carmen de los Mártires is a hidden gem in Granada offering tranquil gardens, ornate fountains, and breathtaking views of the Alhambra and the city. It's the perfect spot for leisurely walks, picnics, and capturing beautiful photos.
Granada's Carmenes are peaceful, secluded homes, many of which were converted from Moorish residences after the Reconquista. These houses feature high walls that hide stunning terraced gardens, fruit trees, vines, fountains, and fragrant flowers. The Albayzin district has the highest concentration of Carmenes. Many are private, however, this one is free and open to visitors.
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Hours & Admission
Admission to the garden is free! We recommend checking the hours on their website as the daily hours are varied with closures mid-day for siesta.
9. Visit the Fundación Rodríguez-Acosta, a unique blend of art, architecture, and nature.
The Fundación Rodríguez-Acosta is a unique cultural institution in Granada. It houses the works of José María Rodríguez-Acosta, a renowned 20th-century Spanish painter. In addition to its art collection, the foundation offers stunning views of the city and the Sierra Nevada mountains from its beautiful gardens.
Hours & Admission
Admission is free for individuals on Fridays and Saturdays at 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM. There is a limit of 2 tickets per reservation and you must reserve your time slot online in advance to obtain free admission. Standard admission during other times is 5 EUR per adult (2024 pricing). Hours for general admission are Monday - Sunday from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Visit their site for more information.
10. Watch the sunset from the Alhambra
While parts of the Alhambra are closed to non-ticket holders, you can enter the grounds for free via the Puerta de la Justicia! Of course, entry into the palaces and monuments requires a ticket, however, simply being on the grounds provides some of the best panoramic views of Granada making this the ideal spot to watch the sunset over the Albayzin neighborhood.
Noms
Granada is known for its unique culinary offerings. One must-try food is Sacromonte omelette, a traditional dish made from eggs, potatoes, and various meats, often served in the Sacromonte neighborhood. Another is Piononos, a sweet delicacy named after Pope Pius IX, which is a sponge cake rolled with cream and topped with toasted custard.
J&L Top Picks
Papas Elvira: This restaurant is known for its tasty tapas and traditional Spanish dishes, with an average price of 10 euros per meal.
Jerusalem Restaurant Shawerma and Falafel: A popular spot for Middle Eastern cuisine, expect to pay around 10 euros per meal here.
Cafeteria d'Sano: This is a popular choice among locals and tourists for its delicious pastries, sandwiches, and coffee. Expect to pay around 10 euros per meal here.
Restaurante Vegano Hicuri: A haven for vegans, the average price per meal at this restaurant is about 12 euros.
El Mercader: A local favorite for its delicious Andalusian dishes, expect to pay around 20 euros per meal.
El Trillo Restaurante: Offering a beautiful view of the Alhambra along with its tasty dishes, the average meal price is 20 euros.
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Brews
When in Spain, the brews of choice are made with espresso beans. Europeans have perfected the art of strong coffee and we are here to make sure you know how to order correctly. Make note of the below verbiage based off your preference:
Café solo: espresso only
Café con leche: half espresso, half milk
Café cortado: espresso with a splash of milk
Café americano: half espresso, half hot water
Carajillo: espresso served with rum, whiskey or brandy!
When it comes to happy hour, some must-try drinks in Andalucia include Sangria (red wine mixed with fresh fruits), Tinto de Verano (red wine mixed with lemonade), Fino or Manzanilla (dry/white sherry wine), Vino de Naranja (white wine macerated with orange peels), Rebijito (sherry wine mixed with lemonade or lemon-lime soda), and Vermouth (white wine fortified with herbs and spices and aged in barrels).
For beer lovers wanting to enjoy a cold glass on a hot Spanish afternoon, the local favorites are Cruzcampo or Alhambra Lager. One popular way to order a beer in Spain is to ask for "una caña", which is roughly a half-pint, perfect for sampling with tapas. Alternatively, you could order "un doble" for a full pint or "una jarra" for a pitcher if you're sharing.
In Granada, they serve a free tapa with every purchase of a drink!
J&L Top Picks for Coffee
Cafeteria d'Sano: Known for its pastries and coffee, the average price per coffee is around 2 euros.
La Finca Coffee: A popular spot for its specialty coffee and cozy atmosphere, expect to pay around 3 euros per coffee.
Café 4 Gatos: A charming café with a wide selection of coffee, average price per coffee is 2.5 euros.
Café Futbol: This historic café, famous for its churros and chocolate, also serves excellent coffee. Expect to pay around 2 euros per coffee.
J&L Top Picks for Drinks with Tapas
Los Diamantes: Famous for its seafood tapas, expect to pay around 10-20 EUR per person.
Bar Avila: A traditional tapas bar with a wide range of choices, expect to pay around 10-20 EUR per person.
Taberna La Tana: Renowned for its cured meats and cheeses, expect to pay around 10-20 EUR per person.
Bar Poë: Offers a variety of tapas from around the world thanks to owner world-travelers Ana and Matt. Expect to pay around 10-20 EUR per person.
Casa Torcuato: Popular Andulusian tapas bar. Their arroz tapa is very popular and they offer Granada wines to pair. Expect to pay around 15-20 EUR per person.
Planning Your Trip
Planning a trip to Granada, Spain, involves several steps. First, determine the duration of your stay and the time of year you plan to visit. Research the attractions you're interested in and create an itinerary. Monitor booking platforms and travel apps to find the best deals on flights, accommodations, and local tours. Don't forget to check visa requirements if you're traveling from abroad.
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