9 Best Things to Do and See in Granada

Discover the best things to do and see in Granada – a city rich in history, full of beauty, authentic flamenco, and a deep tapas culture! Granada is one of those places you visit and want to return to, and it is no surprise that it is Spain’s third most visited city!

Visit the world-famous Alhambra, an impressive Moorish complex with various palaces, a fortress, gardens, and fountains. Crawl through the old town’s tapas bars in the evening, perfect for soaking up the Andalusian culture’s lively and friendly energy.

In addition, you can wander around the Moorish-influenced Albaicin neighborhood, explore its hidden corners, and enjoy the sunset with the most incredible views of the Alhambra! Or enjoy a Moroccan mint tea in one of the many traditional tea houses in that area for 1001 Arabian night vibes!

For an unforgettable moment, visit a traditional flamenco show in a unique cave home setting in the characteristic Sacromonte neighborhood. It is one of the best places to experience Granada’s authentic Andalusian Flamenco culture!

Best Things to Do and See in Granada

#1  Visit the Alhambra Palace

The Moorish palace, built in the 13th century by a Muslim king, represents a great example of Islamic architecture. The Alhambra is one of the most visited monuments in Spain, making it also one of the best things to do and see in Granada!

The site is so vast that it’s easy to spend half a day here, as there are many interesting buildings, courtyards, and fountains to explore! You will see details everywhere you look, and it is incredible how people back then were able to build something so gorgeous and elevated!  

Top Attractions to See in the Alhambra:

Alcazaba – Also known as the citadel, the Alcazaba is a fortress protected by walls located on the western end of the Alhambra, and its primary function was merely military.

Nasrid Palaces –  The royal palace complex consists of three main sections: the “Mexuar”, the “Comares Palace”, and the “Palace of the Lions” – the jewel of the Alhambra. These three palaces are called the Casa Real Vieja (Old Royal Palace).

Palace of Charles V. – Construction of this outstanding Renaissance-style palace began in 1527 and was completed after 1923. The palace stands out with its gorgeous ornamental facade, circular patio, and Roman-style columns. You will find it in the middle of the Alhambra, where you can also visit the “Museum of the Alhambra” and the “Museum of Fine Arts”.

#2 Walk through the Generalife Palace and Gardens

On the eastern side and outside of the Alhambra, you can explore the impressive Generalife villa, built in the Nasrid age, which used to be the sultan’s and his family’s residence.

It has beautifully decorated rectangular garden courtyards perfect for wandering around while enjoying the most stunning views of Andalusian landscapes. However, the main attraction of the Generalife is its central patio, which represents the Muslim idea of paradise.

If you are on a budget, I recommend the following top-rated guided tour ➜ Alhambra & Nasrid Palaces Fast Track

#3 Check out Granada Cathedral and The Royal Chapel

The Renaissance-Baroque-style Cathedral of Granada is part of the cultural heritage, and it is no wonder it attracts thousands of visitors yearly! 

For the best experience, however, I recommend booking this top-rated 3-hour guided tour, which will give you an in-depth insight into the history of Granada Cathedral and the Royal Chapel!

#4 Explore Granada’s Charming Old Town

While wandering through the narrow streets of Granada’s old town, there are two places that you shouldn’t miss visiting. 

The first one is Plaza de Bib-Rambla, a square dating back to the Nasrid era. Not only is it a charming and vivid square with a good variety of cafés, bars, restaurants, and shops surrounding it, but it is also the central meeting point for Granadans. In the square’s center, you will also notice a magnificent fountain dating back to the 17th century. It is called Fuente de los Gigantes and is worth checking out. 

The second place is the old silk market, also known as Alcaicería, which is full of history and only a few meters from Granada Cathedral.

Its labyrinthine narrow streets occupy what once was an Arab market or silk souk during the Nasrid period. It’s the perfect place to buy souvenirs, leather bags, silk scarves, lamps, and spices. 

#5 Get Lost in the Albaicin Neighborhood

The charming Albaicín, or Albayzín, is Granada’s neighborhood with the most significant history, and getting lost in the narrow streets of this Arab quarter is a must-do!

If you want to explore this unique neighborhood, I recommend starting at “Elvira Street”, going up “Calderería Nueva Street”, and continuing on “Cuesta de San Gregorio”. You will be amazed at the many charming streets and corners to explore!

Another place worth mentioning, and one of the best things to do in Granada, is to take in breathtaking views of the Alhambra at the famous Mirador de San Nicolás. Unfortunately, this place gets quite crowded at sunset, and I, therefore, recommend arriving well in advance if you want to be in the first row to guarantee the best views. 

Top food places in Albaicín: Restaurant El Mirador de Tato / Café Abaco Té / Café 4 Gatos

#6 Explore Sacromonte Neighborhood

Sacromonte neighborhood is home to the Granadian Romani group, who settled in the city after the Christian conquest in 1492, and it is a neighborhood mainly known for its beautiful caves carved into rocks. To better understand how people used to live in the caves, you can visit the Caves of Sacromonte Museum. In addition to this, renting a cave room in that area is also possible!

Another top experience in this “barrio” (neighborhood) is Flamenco! When you come to Granada and want to visit a Flamenco show, I recommend going to Sacromonte since it is one of the go-to places for authentic Flamenco. 

Also, take advantage of visiting the Sacromonte Abbey! The most exciting part is entering the Holy Caves, an underground area with several corridors that lead to chapels, an altar, and the cave where the remains of San Cecilio were found.

#7 Relax Body and Mind at Hammam Al Andalus

After a long day of walking and exploring the city, the best way to disconnect is at Hamman Al Ándalus.

A Hammam is a public bath with several treatments that use hot, cold, and steam rooms to accomplish a deep cleanse and a state of pure relaxation. The tradition of this type of bathing is an essential part of Middle Eastern and North African culture.

The Hammam Al Andalus in Granada is a recreation of the original Arab Baths, offering several experiences to find pure harmony of body and mind. A massage will complement your experience! 

Tip: Book your Hammam experience on a weekday and in advance since it is a popular place!

#8 Walk alongside the Darro River

Carrera del Darro is an idyllic alleyway between the Albaicín neighborhood and the Darro River, connecting “Paseo de los Tristes” and “Plaza Nueva”, and offers privileged views of the Alhambra.

Enjoy a beautiful walk alongside the river and at the foot of the Alhambra while soaking up the delightful atmosphere.

Explore Arab-style buildings like “El Bañuelo” or the “Casa de Castril”, which houses the Archaeological Museum of Granada.

Top food places nearby: La Hermosa Craft Beer / Ras Café Bar / Restaurant Amazonia Fine Food 

#9 Have Moroccan Mint Tea on Elvira Street

While exploring the Moorish-influenced neighborhood of Albaicin, having a traditional Moroccan mint tea in one of the many cozy tea rooms on Elvira Street is an absolute must!

It is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Granada! For the best experience, accompany it with baklava (Moroccan sweets) and a hookah shisha.

Top tea house places: Tetería El Basha / Tetería Baghdad 

Museums in Granada

Browse through the list below for some of Granada’s best museums, and check entrance fees, opening hours, and location.

FAQs- Frequently Asked Questions

Where do you fly to for Granada? Federico García Lorca Granada-Jaén Airport (GRX)

How far is Granada from Malaga? 140 kilometers (1 hr 31 min by car)

How many days in Granada? To cover the most important sites, the recommended stay in Granada is three days

What is the main shopping street in Granada? Calle Reyes Católicos / Calle Gran Vía de Colón