Best things to do in Granada
Find out more about those top places in Granada
Granada Travel Guide: Moorish Marvels, Mountain Views & Mint Tea Dreams
Tucked beneath the snowy peaks of the Sierra Nevada, Granada is a city where history doesn’t just whisper—it shouts from palace walls, echoes down cobbled lanes, and wafts from spice-filled souks. If you’re hunting for places to visit in Spain that combine top attractions, jaw-dropping architecture, and a sprinkle of bohemian flair, Granada is your golden ticket.
This Granada travel guide has everything you need to know about the city that’s somehow ancient and edgy all at once—and just might steal your heart (and your camera storage).
The Alhambra: Granada’s Crown Jewel (and Most Photographed Neighbor)
Let’s start with the big one. If Granada were a band, the Alhambra would be the lead singer, the guitarist, and the pyrotechnics all rolled into one. This sprawling hilltop fortress and palace complex is easily one of the top attractions in Spain and a UNESCO World Heritage Site that deserves every bit of the hype.
Built by the Nasrid dynasty, the Alhambra is a must-see sightseeing spot with its intricate Islamic mosaics, peaceful courtyards, and “wait, is this real life?” kind of views. Book your tickets early—this is not the kind of place you want to miss because you overslept after one too many sangrias.
The Albayzín: Where the Past Still Parties
Wander just downhill from the Alhambra and you’ll find yourself in the Albayzín, Granada’s old Moorish quarter. With its whitewashed houses, winding alleys, and surprise viewpoints (hello, Mirador de San Nicolás), this is one of the most atmospheric places to visit in the city.
Every corner feels like a movie set, and every second street smells like cinnamon, cumin, or mint tea. Want to feel like you’ve stepped into a Moroccan market without leaving Spain? This is your spot. Bonus: You’ll get incredible views of the Alhambra glowing at sunset, perfect for your “accidentally perfect” Instagram story.
Tapas, Tea Houses, and Tagines—Oh My!
When it comes to things to do in Granada, eating your way through town ranks high. The city has a generous tapas culture (translation: free snacks with your drinks!), a heap of North African restaurants, and more teterías (traditional tea houses) than you can shake a cinnamon stick at.
Try a local tetería for Moroccan mint tea served in ornate glasses, and then head to the Realejo or Elvira streets for tapas bars where the wine flows and the plates keep coming... mysteriously and wonderfully free.
Granada’s Edgy Side: Street Art & Subculture
Sure, Granada loves its history, but don’t be fooled—it also knows how to keep things cool. In neighborhoods like Realejo and Cartuja, you’ll find bold street art, countercultural cafés, and politically charged graffiti that turns sightseeing into a real conversation starter. Keep an eye out for works by El Niño de las Pinturas, Granada’s most famous street artist.
Flamenco in the Caves of Sacromonte
For a uniquely Granadan experience, head up to Sacromonte, where flamenco isn’t just danced—it’s lived. This hillside district is famous for its cave homes carved into the rock, many of which double as intimate flamenco venues. Prepare for foot-stomping, guitar-strumming, and emotion so raw you’ll want to cheer, cry, and book dance lessons all at once.
Why Granada Should Be on Your Bucket List
Granada is one of those rare places to visit in Spain that balances deep history and vibrant modern life without skipping a beat. Whether you’re here for the top attractions like the Alhambra, the sizzling street food, or the soulful echoes of flamenco in a cave, there’s no shortage of unforgettable things to do in Granada.
So if you’re planning your next Spanish adventure, make sure Granada isn’t just on your list—it’s underlined, starred, and circled twice. You may come for the sightseeing, but you’ll stay for the mint tea, the mountain views, and the magic that lingers long after you leave.
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Alhambra
The Alhambra is a current UNESCO world heritage site and has ruins of Old Roman fortifications serving as its foundation and base of the construction. The original construction date goes back to AD 899 where it was originally a small fortress towering over the city of Granada from the highest point of the palace ground.
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Generalife
The Palacio de Generalife once served as the summer palace and country estate of Nasrid rulers who ruled over the Emirate of Granada in Al-Andalus. This impressive ground can be found in an autonomous community of Andalusia just beside the city of Granada in Spain.
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Nasrid Palaces
The Nasrid Palaces are a depiction of the glory and splendor of the Moors. With its magnificent Moorish-style courtyards, royal quarters and reception halls, it shows off the luxurious lifestyle that the Moors live and can be found at the very core of Alhambra.
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Flamenco Shows
The colorful and exciting flamenco culture can be found totally portrayed in these shows. If you want to experience Flamenco culture firsthand, then the flamenco shows which are held at an atmospheric tablao in the neighbor Albacín in Granada is your best bet.
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Sierra Nevada National Park
Have your mind blown and your breath taken away by the Safari of the Sierra Nevada. Climb as high as 3,000 meters up to the Iberian Peninsula and gradually descend while enjoying the sights. Upon your descent, take in the beautiful landscape and amazing wildlife while on a tour of the Sierra de Huétor Natural Park.
