Granada

Why visit Granada?

Granada was the last Moorish kingdom in Spain, until 1492, and its Islamic heritage is still visible everywhere – most famously in the Alhambra, one of the most visited monuments in Spain and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. But Granada is much more than one monument. The old Moorish quarter of the Albaicín, the cave houses of Sacromonte, a lively student atmosphere and the tradition of free tapas make it one of the most memorable cities in Andalusia.

The Alhambra

The Alhambra is a vast complex of palaces, gardens and fortifications on a hill above the city. Plan at least three to four hours for your visit.

The Nasrid Palaces. The jewel of the Alhambra – rooms and courtyards covered in intricate stucco, carved wooden ceilings and tilework. Highlights include the Court of the Myrtles and the Court of the Lions. Entry to the Nasrid Palaces is at a fixed time printed on your ticket, and you must arrive on time.

The Alcazaba. The oldest part of the complex, a military fortress with towers offering amazing views over Granada and the Albaicín.

The Generalife. The summer palace and gardens of the Nasrid sultans, with fountains, water channels, roses and cypress trees.

Palace of Charles V. A Renaissance palace built inside the Alhambra after the Christian conquest, with an impressive circular courtyard.

Other top sights in Granada

The Albaicín. The old Moorish quarter, with steep, narrow streets, whitewashed houses and hidden gardens (cármenes). It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site together with the Alhambra.

Mirador de San Nicolás. The most famous viewpoint in Granada, with a postcard view of the Alhambra and the Sierra Nevada – especially magical at sunset.

Sacromonte. The neighbourhood of cave houses, long associated with Granada's Roma community and with flamenco. Seeing a flamenco show in a cave is an unforgettable experience.

The Royal Chapel and Cathedral. The Capilla Real holds the tombs of the Catholic Monarchs, Ferdinand and Isabella. Next door is Granada's grand Renaissance cathedral.

Alcaicería and Calle Calderería. Narrow streets near the cathedral and in the lower Albaicín, with shops selling lanterns, ceramics and spices, and many tea houses.

Food and drink

Granada is famous for its free tapas: in many bars you get a small dish free with every drink you order. It is a fun and affordable way to have dinner. Try also tortilla del Sacromonte and the local pastry piononos from nearby Santa Fe.

Sierra Nevada

Just outside the city, Sierra Nevada is home to the southernmost ski resort in Europe. In winter you can ski in the morning and be back on the Costa del Sol beach by evening. In summer it is a great area for hiking.

Getting to Granada from Riviera del Sol

The drive takes around 2 hours. A guided day trip with transport and Alhambra tickets included is a convenient option. There are also buses and trains from Malaga to Granada.

Good to know

• Book your Alhambra tickets well in advance, preferably weeks or even months ahead in high season. Tickets often sell out, and visiting the Nasrid Palaces requires a timed ticket.

• Buy tickets only from the official sales channel or a trusted tour operator.

• Bring your passport or ID – names on tickets may be checked at the entrance.

• Wear comfortable shoes; the Alhambra and the Albaicín involve a lot of walking on hills.

Book tours and tickets

Want Alhambra tickets with a guide, a day trip from the coast or a flamenco show in Sacromonte? Use the button below to see hand-picked experiences.