Granada (province) Travel Guide

Explore Granada (Province) with this detailed travel guide. Discover the top attractions, hiking routes, best things to do, food and drink scene, local culture and customs, safety and health, and transportation options.


Granada City

Introduction to Granada (Province)

Granada is a picturesque province located in Andalusia, Spain, in the south of the Iberian Peninsula. The province is surrounded by the Sierra Nevada, known for its stunning white villages, and the Mediterranean coastline. Granada offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the centuries-old history of Andalusia, explore beautiful landscapes, and enjoy some of the best food and drink in the country.

List of Places to Visit in Granada (Province)

Granada is a province that has it all, from stunning beaches and charming villages to ancient cities and beautiful countryside. Here are the top places you can’t miss out on:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Alhambra Palace: A UNESCO World Heritage Site that boasts intricate and stunning designs that defined Islamic art.
  • Granada Cathedral: A must-see for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts.
  • Albaicin: A charming historic neighborhood in Granada, known for its cobbled streets, cute alleys and impressive views of the city.
  • Sacromonte: A district that includes homes carved out of the mountain and a popular location for flamenco performances.

Natural Attractions of Granada (Province): Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Sierra Nevada National Park: A natural wonderland with breathtaking views at every turn.
  • La Alpujarra: a series of towns that sit on the side of Sierra Nevada with a rich cultural experience.
  • Costa Tropical: Stretching out for around 50 km to Almuñécar, this sandy coastline offers a perfect spot to relax and unwind.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Granada (Province)

For adventure enthusiasts, Granada has some of the best hikes and bike routes in the country. Here are some of the most popular options:

  • Los Cahorros: A stunning hike that takes you along a river and into a gorge, with a suspension bridge crossing that will make your heart race.
  • Senda de Cazadores: A relatively short, easy hike with incredible views of the town of Monachil and the surrounding mountains.
  • Las Peñas de los Gitanos: A moderate hike that will take you to the top of a beautiful mountain.

Best Things to Do in Granada (Province): Activities and Tours

  • Flamenco show: Experience the passion and energy of traditional Flamenco dance at a local venue.
  • Tapas Tour: Sample some of the best food and drink of Granada with a guided walking tour of tapas bars.
  • Old Town Segway Tour: A fun and unique way to explore the city’s winding streets and historic architecture.

Week-Long Itinerary for Granada (Province)

Here’s a week-long itinerary for visitors looking to explore Granada’s highlights:

Day Activities
Day 1 Explore the Alhambra Palace
Day 2 Visit the historic Granada Cathedral
Day 3 Enjoy a bike ride in Sierra Nevada National Park
Day 4 Visit the charming town of Albaicin
Day 5 Take in the beauty of Costa Tropical
Day 6 Hike through the Los Cahorros gorge
Day 7 Sample some of the delicious tapas of Granada

Food and Drink Scene of Granada (Province)

Granada is famous for its great food and drink. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Migas: A traditional dish made from bread crumbs and served with roasted veggies.
  • Tortilla del Sacromonte: A local specialty made with organ meats and spices.
  • Gazpacho: A refreshing cold soup made with tomatoes, peppers, cucumber, garlic and onions.

Local Beverages

  • Sherry: A fortified wine produced in the Andalusia region.
  • Sangria: A refreshing beverage made from wine, fruit, and juices.
  • Tinto de verano: A popular drink that consists of red wine mixed with a lemon-lime soda.

Where to Stay in Granada (Province): Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Granada offers visitors a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. Here are some of the most popular choices:

  • Hospes Palacio de los Patos: One of the most luxurious hotels located in the heart of Granada.
  • La Garapa: A budget-friendly bed and breakfast located in a charming, converted farmhouse.
  • Oasis Backpackers Hostel: A popular hostel located in the historic area of Albaicin.

What to Buy in Granada (Province): Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Granada is famous for its pottery, textiles, and handicrafts. Here are some of the items you can take back home as souvenirs:

  • Hand-painted ceramics: colorful pottery is popular in Granada.
  • Handmade jewelry: multicolored jewelry made from andalusian materials.
  • Esparto grass: basketry products used for decoration and home purposes.

Local Culture and Customs of Granada (Province)

Granada is a province with a rich cultural heritage and unique customs that visitors should be aware of. Here are some of the things you should know:

  • Flamenco dance has played a significant role in Andalusia’s culture for centuries.
  • The province is known for its free tapas tradition that is served with every drink ordered.
  • Spanish is the main language spoken in the province.

Best Time to Visit Granada (Province)

The best time to visit Granada is during the spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November) when the temperatures are mild and pleasant, and not as crowded as in the summer.

Do’s and Don’ts of Granada (Province)

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions
  • Try the free tapas that come with every drink order
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking through the old city.

Don’t:

  • Touch the Alhambra walls, as the oils from your skin can cause damage to the intricate carvings.
  • Be disrespectful during Flamenco performances.
  • Leave your valuables unattended.

Safety and Health

Granada is generally a safe destination, but visitors should take precautions to avoid theft and pickpocketing. It is also advisable to drink bottled water and wear sunscreen when outside. For any medical emergencies, the 112 emergency number works in Granada.

Getting to Granada (Province): Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Granada (Province)

The nearest airport to Granada is Granada Airport, located around 10 km from the city centre. Alternatively, visitors can also fly into Malaga Airport or Seville Airport, both of which are within 2-3 hours drive from Granada.

Bus Stations Near Granada (Province)

Grenada Bus Station is located in the city centre and connects visitors to other Andalusian destinations.

Other Options

The province is reachable by train with links to Madrid and Barcelona. Local car hire companies are also available in Granada town.

How to Get Around in Granada (Province)

Granada city centre is easily walkable, however, some of the main tourist sites are outside the city, requiring visitors to use public transportation or car hire for exploring the surroundings.

Where to Go Next from Granada (Province): Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Some of the nearby destinations and recommended excursions include:

  • Cordoba: A historic city located only three hours east of Granada, famous for its stunning mosque-cathedral.
  • Seville: Located to the West, Seville is Andalusia’s largest city and a must-visit destination for art, cultural heritage, and gastronomy.
  • Almeria: A beautiful coastal city, famous for its unspoiled beaches and unique natural landscapes.

Conclusion

Granada (Province) is a captivating and richly diverse destination with enchanting locations to suit every preference and taste. From the Alhambra Palace’s grandeur to the natural beauty of Sierra Nevada National Park, visitors can spend days discovering all the treasures Granada has to offer. Food and drink enthusiasts will also find the province’s culinary traditions fascinating. Overall, Granada represents the area’s cultural and historical wealth, and visiting it captures the essence of southern Spain.



    Granada
    La Alpujarra
    Sierra de Baza Natural Park