Granada Travel Guide

Get insider tips and detailed itineraries for exploring Granada. Discover the best things to do and see, top attractions, accommodation options and more.


Introduction to Granada

Granada is a city situated in the Granada province of Andalusia, Spain. It is located in the southern part of Spain, on the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, and is known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and vibrant food scene. It is home to the world-famous Alhambra, which is a must-visit for any traveler to Spain.

List of Places to Visit in Granada

Whether you are interested in history and culture, nature, or adventure, Granada has something for everyone. Here are some of the top attractions to explore:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Alhambra
  • Generalife
  • The Albaicin
  • Granada Cathedral
  • Royal Chapel of Granada
  • Monastery of San Jeronimo

Natural Attractions of Granada: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Sierra Nevada National Park
  • Sacromonte Caves
  • Mirador de San Nicolas
  • Carmen de los Martires
  • Los Cahorros hiking trail

Hiking/Biking Routes of Granada

Granada is known for its stunning natural beauty and offers a range of hiking and biking trails. Here are some popular routes:

  • Vereda de la Estrella
  • Los Cahorros
  • Cumbres Verdes
  • La Acequia
  • Las Alpujarras

Best Things to Do in Granada: Activities and Tours

Aside from visiting the top attractions, there are also a variety of activities and tours to experience in Granada:

  • Flamenco show at a local tablao
  • Tapas Tour in the city centre
  • Arabic baths
  • Segway tour of the city
  • Horse riding in the countryside

Week-Long Itinerary for Granada

If you have a week to explore Granada, here is a comprehensive itinerary:

Day 1: Visit the Alhambra, Generalife and the Albaicín.

Day 2: Explore Granada Cathedral, the Royal Chapel of Granada and the Monastery of San Jerónimo.

Day 3: Get lost in the Albaicín neighbourhood and enjoy fantastic views from Mirador San Nicolas.

Day 4: Experience a Flamenco show at a local tablao and take part in a Tapas Tour in the city centre.

Day 5: Take a day trip to the Sierra Nevada National Park and enjoy outdoor activities, such as hiking, skiing, or mountain biking.

Day 6: Indulge in an Arabic bath and spend some time at the Sacromonte Caves.

Day 7: Relax at Carmen de los Martires and the Granada’s Science Park.

Food and Drink Scene of Granada

Spanish cuisine is beloved worldwide due to its fantastic ingredients and special flavours. Granada is no exception, with delicious local dishes and drinks.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Patatas a lo pobre
  • Migas
  • Leche asada
  • Russian Salad
  • Gazpacho Andaluz

Local Beverages

  • Tinto de Verano
  • Agua de Valencia
  • Horchata
  • Sangria
  • Cava

Where to Stay in Granada: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Granada offers various accommodation options, including luxury hotels, budget hostels, and cozy guesthouses. Here are some recommendations:

  • Eurostars Gran Vía Granada
  • Hotel Casa 1800 Granada
  • Hostel One Granada
  • Albergue Inturjoven Granada

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

When searching for souvenirs to bring home, Granada offers some of the best options in Spain. These are some must-buy products:

  • Handcrafted ceramics and pottery
  • Flamenco dresses, skirts, and other accessories
  • Serrano Ham and other types of cured meats
  • Olive oil
  • Rugs from Alpujarra

Local Culture and Customs of Granada

When travelling to Granada, it is essential to respect the local customs and etiquette:

  • Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious and cultural sites
  • Follow the Spanish meal schedule, eat later, and enjoy long meals
  • Learn some basic Spanish phrases, and attempt to speak the language
  • Appreciate the city’s multicultural heritage
  • Avoid getting too close when speaking to others

Best Time to Visit Granada

The best time to visit Granada is between March and May when the weather is mild, and the cherry blossoms are in full bloom. Alternatively, September and October are great months for pleasant weather and more affordable room rates.

Do’s and Don’ts of Granada

Do:

  • Learn Spanish phrases
  • Visit the Alhambra and Generalife
  • Try traditional Spanish and Andalusian dishes

Don’t:

  • Touch any sensitive religious object, unless specifically invited
  • Videotape or photograph the flamenco performance
  • Wear too many flashy or extravagant clothing/accessories

Safety and Health

Safety in Granada

Granada is a relatively safe city. It is always essential to keep your belongings in sight and to be aware of your surroundings and avoid pickpockets in crowded areas.

Health in Granada

It is vital to carry a face mask and hand sanitiser in the current Covid-19 situation. Also, stay hydrated and wear sunglasses and a hat for sun protection.

Getting to Granada: Transportation Options and Logistics

Granada offers several transportation options to and from the city and around the region:

Airports Near Granada

  • Federico García Lorca Granada-Jaén Airport (GRX), 17 kilometres west of the city centre, with domestic and international flights.

Bus Stations Near Granada

  • Granada Bus Station, central location, with routes to regional and international destinations.

Other Options

  • Train service connecting Granada with Madrid, Seville and other Andalusian cities
  • Private car or taxi is another effective way to reach Granada.

How to Get Around in Granada

The best way to explore Granada is on foot, as it’s relatively compact and pedestrian-friendly. The city also has a robust public transportation system, including bus and tram services.

Where to Go Next from Granada: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Granada also serves as a central point for visiting nearby towns and cities:

  • Seville: the capital of Andalusia and famous for its Flamenco dances and Cathedral.
  • Malaga: a bustling city and popular beach destination, also home to the Pablo Picasso Museum.
  • Cordoba: known for its grand Mosque-Cathedral and medieval heritage.

Conclusion

Granada is a fascinating city known for its impressive architectural feats, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re interested in history, food, or adventure, this city is bound to offer something you will love. Plan your itinerary, pack your bags and begin your unforgettable journey in Granada.

Granada and the Alhambra Granada and the Alhambra Map of Granada Map of Granada The local Alhambra Buses go where regular buses can't The local Alhambra Buses go where regular buses can't Gazing up into the ''Capilla Mayor'', Cathedral of Granada Gazing up into the ''Capilla Mayor'', Cathedral of Granada Shops in the Alcaiceria Shops in the Alcaiceria Court of the Myrtles, Palacios Nazaries Court of the Myrtles, Palacios Nazaries Palace of Charles V Palace of Charles V The ceiling in the Hall of the Two Sisters, Palacios Nazaries The ceiling in the Hall of the Two Sisters, Palacios Nazaries Fountain in the Generalife Palace Fountain in the Generalife Palace The Albayzín: Pleasant plazas, white-washed buildings, Muslim character and marvelous views The Albayzín: Pleasant plazas, white-washed buildings, Muslim character and marvelous views Carrera del Darro Carrera del Darro Sacromonte Sacromonte Inside the cloister of the Cartuja Monastery Inside the cloister of the Cartuja Monastery The bustling modern center of Granada, Puerta Real The bustling modern center of Granada, Puerta Real Plaza Isabel La Catolica, Granada's central square Plaza Isabel La Catolica, Granada's central square