Discover the history and charm of Granada,Spain with our Travel Guide
Travel Gentlemen spent one week soaking up the magic of Granada in southern Spain – and it completely lived up to the hype. Tucked beneath the peaks of the Sierra Nevada, this small but spirited city is packed with culture, history, food, and incredible scenery. Over the course of our trip, we explored its historic Moorish quarters, admired grand Baroque churches, watched flamenco in hillside caves, and tucked into some of the best tapas we’ve ever had. Granada is the kind of place that feels timeless, yet welcoming – full of energy but never overwhelming.
Whether you’re in town for a weekend break or passing through on an Andalucía road trip, this is a place that you’ll remember forever. Here’s our pick of the very best things to do while you’re in Granada.
Granada’s 5 Top Things To Do
1. Explore the Alhambra: Granada’s Crown Jewel
We would say that no visit to Granada is complete without stepping inside the magnificent Alhambra. It is one of Spain’s most iconic and most visited sites. Set high above the city with the Sierra Nevada mountains as its backdrop, the Alhambra is a symbol of Granada’s Moorish past and Spanish reconquest. It’s a place of palaces, fortresses, gardens, and stories spanning centuries.
A Brief History of the Alhambra
Originally built in the mid-13th century by the Nasrid dynasty – the last Muslim rulers in Spain – the Alhambra served as a royal palace, a fortress, and a seat of power until 1492, when it was surrendered to the Catholic Monarchs Ferdinand and Isabella. Its Islamic architecture, intricate carvings, and tranquil courtyards remain incredibly well preserved, offering visitors a glimpse into medieval life in al-Andalus.
Following the Reconquista, the Alhambra saw a number of additions by Christian rulers, most notably the Renaissance-style Palace of Charles V, which now houses museums and exhibitions.
Must-see Areas of the Alhambra Complex
When you visit the Alhambra, it’s not just one building — it’s a sprawling site with several must-see areas. Make sure you allow plenty of time to admire everything here. Here’s a quick overview to help you plan your time:
Palace of Charles V: A later addition from the 16th century. It has a very different feel – grand, circular, and distinctly European. It also contains the Museum of Fine Arts and the Alhambra Museum, which are well worth a look.
Nasrid Palaces (Palacios Nazaríes): The highlight for most visitors. These include the Palace of the Lions and Palace of the Comares, featuring iconic Moorish architecture, delicate stucco work, and the famous Courtyard of the Lions. Simply stunning!
Alcazaba: The oldest part of the complex. This military fortress offers panoramic views over Granada from the towers – perfect for photographers and anyone after that postcard-perfect shot. We took so many photos from here because it was just unbelievable.
Generalife Gardens: This part of Alhambra is our clear favourite. Here, you can enjoy peaceful gardens with fountains, flower beds, and views of the Alhambra itself. These were once the leisure grounds of the Nasrid rulers and remain a calming escape from the crowds. It was a surreal experience when we got to see Diana Krall play here. Don’t forget to check out their event schedule.
Best Time to Visit the Alhambra
The Alhambra is busy year-round, but there are definitely better times to visit:
- Peak season: May to October, especially during summer holidays. Expect large crowds and high temperatures — especially in July and August.
- Shoulder seasons (March–April & October–November): These are ideal, with fewer tourists and more comfortable temperatures.
- Early morning or late afternoon slots are best to avoid the mid-day rush. The morning light is also perfect for photography.
Opening Times
- Daytime visits:
From 1 April to 14 October: 8:30 AM – 8:00 PM
From 15 October to 31 March: 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM - Night visits (to Nasrid Palaces and Generalife):
Summer: 10:00 PM – 11:30 PM
Winter: 8:00 PM – 9:30 PM - Closed: 25 December and 1 January
💡 Travel Gentlemen Tip: Entry to the Nasrid Palaces is only allowed at your booked time slot — and it’s strictly enforced so don’t miss it. We suggest to do the Nasrid Palaces first then explore the other areas after.
How to Get There
The Alhambra sits on Sabika Hill, above Granada’s city centre. There are several ways to get there:
Car: There’s a public car park near the entrance, but spaces can fill up quickly in peak season.Jameos del Agua is located in the north of Lanzarote, about a 30-minute drive from Arrecife. Entry costs €15 per adult and €7.50 per child. We recommend arriving early to avoid crowds, especially during peak tourist seasons. We visited during winter, and it can still be pretty busy, so make sure to get there early.
Walk: It’s a 20 – 30 minute uphill walk from Plaza Nueva through Cuesta de Gomérez – a beautiful tree-lined path.
Bus: The C30 and C32 minibus lines go directly to the Alhambra entrance from the city centre.
Taxi: Easy and convenient, especially if you’re short on time. Costs around €5 – €7 from central Granada.
How to Get Tickets
Getting tickets in advance is essential – the Alhambra sells out fast, often weeks ahead, especially in high season. We had to book our tickets two months in advance, so try to book yours early to avoid disappointment.
- Official website: alhambra-patronato.en (best place to buy standard tickets)
- Ticket types:
- General Day Ticket (includes Nasrid Palaces, Alcazaba, Generalife, and gardens)
- Night Visit Tickets
- Gardens Only Tickets
- Guided Tours
- Prices: Around €19 for adults. Discounts available for EU citizens, students, and seniors.
- Audio guides and guided tours: Available at the entrance or pre-booked online. These offer deeper insights and can help you make sense of the historical details.
Entertainment at the Alhambra
While the Alhambra itself is more about history and architecture than live entertainment, there are cultural events throughout the year:
- International Festival of Music and Dance (June–July): Concerts, flamenco performances, and classical music take place in the Palace of Charles V and Generalife Theatre.
- Art exhibitions are often hosted in the Palace of Charles V and nearby museum spaces.
For evening entertainment beyond the Alhambra, we highly recommend heading to nearby Sacromonte or Albayzín or you can head to the nearby majestic Alhambra Palace Hotel for delicious tapas and wine plus stunning views of Granada city.
2. Wander the Albayzín: The Old Moorish Quarter
Just across from the Alhambra, the Albayzín is a maze of narrow cobbled streets, whitewashed houses, and hidden plazas. Walking here feels like stepping back in time – it’s no wonder this district is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Albayzín, together with the Alhambra, was recognised for its exceptional testimony to medieval Islamic culture and urban planning. Its layout – a web of alleyways, carmens (walled houses with gardens), and small squares – preserves the essence of Moorish life in al-Andalus.
One of the best ways to experience the Albayzín is by heading uphill toward the famous Mirador de San Nicolás, arguably the most iconic viewpoint in all of Granada. From here, you’ll get an unbeatable panorama of the Alhambra with the Sierra Nevada behind it – especially magical at sunset when the palace glows golden in the changing light. There are so many photo opportunities here so don’t miss this spot.
The square at the Mirador can get quite busy, particularly in the evenings, with street musicians and a laid-back buzz. Don’t forget to stop by the nearby Café 4 Gatos. It’s a small and relaxed café just a short walk from the Mirador, known for great coffee, cold drinks, and stunning terrace views. It’s the perfect place to soak it all in without the crowds.
The Albayzín is a great area for a relaxed stroll, snapping a few photos, and soaking up the atmosphere of old Granada. You’ll also find plenty of small shops and artisan stalls along the way, perfect for picking up handmade ceramics, leather goods, or Moorish-style lamps at decent prices – ideal if you fancy grabbing a few bargains to take home. Trust us – getting a little lost here is part of the fun.
💡 Travel Gentlemen Tip: If you are going to eat at Cafe 4 Gatos, get there in good time because you may have to queue to get a table because it is quite popular.
3. Discover the history of Basilica de San Juan de Dios: Baroque Brilliance
This one doesn’t get as much attention as the Granada Cathedral, but it absolutely should. The Basilica de San Juan de Dios is a hidden gem, packed with gold, frescoes, and ornate detail from top to bottom.
Built in the 18th century, it was created to honour Saint John of God, the patron saint of hospitals and the sick. His relics are kept here, and you can even see some in a small chapel behind the altar.
The highlight is the main golden altarpiece, which is seriously impressive. Don’t miss the Camarín, a richly decorated space holding the saint’s relics, or the ceiling frescoes which you can view up close from the upper gallery.
Entry costs around €10 for adults, with small discounts for students and seniors. Children under 12 and people with significant disabilities get in free.
Opening hours are generally 09:30 to 18:50 Monday to Saturday, and 09:00 to 11:50 and 13:30 to 18:50 on Sundays. Last entry is 40 minutes before closing.
An audio guide is included and definitely worth using – it helps you understand what you’re looking at without overloading you with detail. There’s also a light show at 6pm that brings the whole place to life, and even a VR experience if you’re into tech-enhanced visits.
💡 Travel Gentlemen Tip: It’s a short but spectacular stop that easily fits into a morning or afternoon of exploring so take your time if you can, to admire the beauty and learn its history.
4. Visit Sacromonte and Watch a Flamenco Show
If you want something uniquely Andalusian, Sacromonte is the place to be. This hillside neighbourhood is famous for its cave dwellings and rich flamenco culture. Historically home to Granada’s Roma community, Sacromonte offers a totally different vibe to the rest of the city.
By day, explore the whitewashed caves carved into the hills — some of which are still homes, while others are museums or bars. The Museo Cuevas del Sacromonte is a great place to learn about local life and how people lived in these caves centuries ago.
By night, catch an authentic flamenco performance in one of the caves like Zambra María la Canastera, Cuevas Los Tarantos, or Cueva La Rocío. Shows typically start between 7:00 PM and 11:00 PM, and many venues offer two performances per night, giving you flexibility around dinner and sightseeing plans. Expect passionate dancing, guitar, and singing – all in a dimly lit cave that adds to the magic.
If you’re after a bite to eat or a pre-show drink, there are a few great local spots:
Los Faroles – A rustic tapas bar with friendly staff and outdoor seating.
Rincón del Chapiz – Cosy vegetarian restaurant and bar with a mix of healthy plates and classic tapas.
Bar Pibe – Popular for its views over the Alhambra and relaxed, local vibe.
💡 Travel Gentlemen Tip: Flamenco shows here are very popular – and often sell out. There are usually two shows per night, so booking in advance gives you the best chance of securing a time that suits you.
5. Enjoy Tapas and Wine at Casa Utrilla
Granada is one of the few places in Spain where you still get a free tapa with every drink – and nowhere does it better than Casa Utrilla.
This was honestly one of the highlights of our trip to Granada. It was such a brilliant find – a real gem where we felt right at home. The staff were incredibly friendly, the vibe was so chilled, and the tapas just kept coming.
We lost count of how many rounds of tapas and wine we had here – and every plate was spot on. From juicy grilled prawns to perfect croquetas and jamón ibérico, everything was delicious. This place doesn’t try too hard – it’s relaxed, local, and very reasonably priced. Ideal for an unpretentious night of great food, wine, and conversation for the Modest Man.
Casa Utrilla is located at Calle Elvira, 33, in the heart of the old town. You can find more details via their Instagram page or check out their menu via their website: casautrillagranada.es.
💡 Travel Gentlemen Tip: We recommend checking the specials or asking the staff for their top picks of the day. Don’t be afraid to have a chat with them – they’re happy to make recommendations and love seeing people enjoy their food.
About Granada
Granada is a historic city located in the region of Andalusia in southern Spain. It sits where the Sierra Nevada mountains meet the plains, offering a dramatic setting and a fascinating mix of landscapes. The city has a population of around 230,000 people, including a vibrant student population thanks to the University of Granada, one of the oldest and most respected in Spain.
Granada attracts both international visitors and local Spaniards all year round. It’s popular not only for its architecture and historic sites, but also for its youthful energy, thanks to a buzzing arts and nightlife scene. You’ll find people here enjoying a laid-back pace of life – sipping coffee in sunlit plazas or sharing tapas late into the night.
One of the things that makes Granada special is how compact it is. You can walk from ancient Moorish streets to lively tapas bars in minutes, with snow-capped peaks visible in the distance. And while it’s best known for the Alhambra, the city offers far more once you start exploring its neighbourhoods, viewpoints, and tucked-away spots.
Granada’s Climate: Best Time to Visit?
Granada enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters — though thanks to its elevation, nights can cool down even in peak summer.
- Spring (March–May): 16°C–25°C / 60°F–77°F – Warm, pleasant and perfect for sightseeing.
- Summer (June–August): 30°C–35°C / 86°F–95°F – Hot and dry. Great for evenings and mountain escapes.
- Autumn (September–November): 18°C–28°C / 64°F–82°F – Comfortable and less crowded.
- Winter (December–February): 10°C–15°C / 50°F–59°F – Mild, with nearby Sierra Nevada ski options.
💡 Travel Gentlemen Tip: Visit Granada during late spring or early autumn. You’ll get great weather, fewer tourists, and a more relaxed feel across the city. Whenever you decide to go, make sure you wear comfortable clothing and sun protection cream for your skin.
How to Get to Granada
We had to fly from Valencia to Malaga and took a bus to get to Granada. However, getting to Granada is relatively easy, whether you’re flying in from abroad or travelling within Spain.
- By Air: Granada has its own airport (GRX) with direct flights from cities like Barcelona, Madrid, and some seasonal UK airports. From the airport, it’s about 30 minutes to the city centre by taxi or shuttle.
- By Train: High-speed trains (AVE) from Madrid take about 3.5 – 4 hours. It’s a comfortable and scenic ride.
- By Bus: Buses from Malaga, Seville or Cordoba are frequent and affordable. ALSA is the main provider.
- By Car: If you’re road-tripping Andalucía, Granada is an ideal stop between Seville and the Sierra Nevada.
Once in the city, it’s very easy to get around on foot or by local buses. Taxis and ride-hailing apps like Uber or Cabify are also available.
In Summary
Granada hits that sweet spot – it’s got enough culture to keep you interested, enough scenery to take your breath away, and enough food and wine to make you want to stay just one more night. It’s ideal for solo travellers, couples, or small groups of friends looking for a destination that’s relaxed but rich in experience.
Whether you’re wandering ancient streets, sipping wine with a view, or watching flamenco in a cave, Granada has something unforgettable waiting for you.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your camera, bring your appetite, and let Granada do the rest.
