Things to do and see in Granada Spain

Granada is one of the most visited cities in Spain, and is the main destination for tourists that travel to Andalucía. Moreover, this Andalusian city is also a favorite place for many Spaniards, and the perfect destination for a city break. Although it is difficult to choose what to see in Granada Spain, among its many historical monuments and film-worthy scenery, we have selected the must-see locations. Don’t miss it, check out our post!

What are the must-see places in Granada?

1. The Alhambra

Granada is famous around the world for the Alhambra and its monumental complex; the Generalife, the Palace of Charles V, the Alcazaba, the incredible Nasrid Palaces and the symbolic Patio de los Leones. Visiting the Alhambra is one of the most interesting things to do in Granada, Spain.

This amazing place that has been perfectly preserved has served as the royal residence of both Muhammad ibn Nasr, the first monarch of the Nasrid Kingdom of Granada, and of the Catholic Monarchs. That is why a visit to the Alhambra is almost obligatory if you set foot in Granada. In addition, apart from its historical importance, it is the most interesting and majestic part of this city.

All the spaces and gardens of the Alhambra will take you back in time and you will fall in love with its Moorish architecture. It is truly the centre of attention and a perfect postcard for a souvenir of your time in Granada. In addition, to know all the charming routes you can do in the Alhambra read our post: Things to do in the Alhambra, here we tell you:

• How to get to the Alhambra
• Things to see in the Alhambra
• What to see in the Alhambra by night
• What you can see in the Alhambra without an entrance ticket

Also, we answer some frequently asked questions such as opening hours, and prices to enter the Alhambra in Granada.

2. Sacromonte

Sacromonte is the district that contains the great artistic complex made up of the Holy Caves, the 17th-18th century Abbey, the 17th century College and the Seminary. Visiting this district is one of the best things to do if you travel to Granada. Just at the end of the Sacromonte quarter on the Valparaíso hill, we find this imposing building that will surprise you both for its structure and beauty: the Abadía de Sacromonte. In addition, it is the place to immerse yourself in the two strong points of this Andalusian city, religion and culture.

3. The old town of Granada, Spain

The old town is the heart of Granada, Spain, and a mandatory stop in the city. Moreover, it is an area where you can stroll time and time again, enjoying every corner, bar, alley, courtyard and square:

• Plaza Nueva and Rib-Rambla. It is a very good option at any time of the day as it combines the best of the city and its amazing atmosphere.
• You will discover the majestic Cathedral and the Royal Chapel (where the tombs of the Catholic Monarchs are kept).
• You can take the opportunity to do some shopping in the souk of the Alcaicería.
• But above all, in the old town you will have the opportunity to taste some of its tapas in some of the most authentic bars.

4. Paseo de los Tristes

Paseo de los Tristes means the sadness walk, and despite its name, it is one of the most beautiful walks in the city. It is surrounded by palaces, museums and medieval buildings, and the famous Carrera Del Darro street runs through it. In addition, people usually say that the Carrera del Darro is the most beautiful street in the city, and when you get there you will be able to confirm this for yourself. Moreover, nothing is missing in this street. It is in perfect harmony, and the most famous image of Granada.

Important: You won’t find it on the map by this name, but you will find it by looking for the Paseo del Padre Manjón. It is located between the Alhambra and the Albaicín neighbourhood, completing an idyllic route from your starting point. If you want to know what else you can see and do in the Paseo de Tristes in Granada, don’t miss: Paseo de los Tristes de Granada.

5. Albaicín neighborhood

The essence of Andalucia resides in its neighborhoods and its people, and this neighborhood is one of those places where you will find that magic. Discover the beauty and authenticity of Granada in several narrow streets, that begs to be discovered without haste. That is why, the white houses and the quirky streets make this an unforgettable walk. During the Arab period, this neighbourhood was an artisan quarter.

It is a hilly neighbourhood, where the streets that go down lead directly to the Carrera del Darro. And the streets that go up generally lead to the Plaza de San Nicolás, where we find the Mirador de San Nicolás. It is another place to stop and admire.

6. Viewpoints to see in Granada Spain

One of the most special features of Granada is the number of viewpoints it has. It is obvious that this is a city to be admired, but the number of strategic points from which to watch the sunset and enjoy the surroundings is impressive. Indeed, all of them are special and offer a different perspective of the city.
The best known, but not overrated, viewpoint is the San Nicolás viewpoint. You can also visit the church of San Nicolás, which is right next to it. The San Miguel Alto viewpoint is the highest of Granada’s viewpoints and you can get there after a long and steep walk. It offers a wide and impressive panoramic view of the city, where you can see the Albaicín and its walls, the Alhambra and the Sierra Nevada.

The viewpoint of Los Caravajales is also a very good option to admire Granada and easy to incorporate into your route. It is located in the lower part of the Albaicín, very close to the Calle de Calderería Vieja and its tea shops, and is perfect if you are on a tight schedule. From here you will see the views of the Alhambra and the Generalife from a low angle. You can also visit:

• Mirador de San Cristóbal
• Santa Isabel Del Real
• Viewpoint of the End of the World
• Viewpoint of Barranco del Abogado
• El Carmen de los Mártires Viewpoint
• Viewpoint of the Great Mosque of Granada
• Carmen de la Victoria
• Mario Maya or Vereda de en Medio
• Ojo de Granada
• Churra Viewpoint

If you don’t know which viewpoint to choose and you want to know more information about the best viewpoints in Granada, don’t forget to visit our post: The best viewpoints in Granada.

Travel Tip: To organize your trip we recommend using Passporter totally free. You can be inspired by the experiences of other travelers, choose the places that interest you most, create the travel route with a geolocated map, upload all important documents such as reservations and invite your friends so that everyone can participate in the organization of the trip.

Essential things to do in Granada Spain

1. Having tea in the street of the tea houses

If you travel to Granada Sapin, you must taste tea in a typical Arab tea shop. Calle de la Calderería Vieja is known as the street of tea shops, heirs of the old Islamic tradition. In this street you will discover a lot of spectacular tea shops that will automatically transport you to Marrakech. Here, you will discover the best tea blends and you will also find some handicraft shops. One of the most recommended places is la Tetería del Bañuelo, located in an exceptional spot in the city, and with a very particular setting.

2. Taking a bath in an authentic Arab Hammam

Another must-do in Granada is to take a bath in an Arab hammam. It is an experience that you won’t find in many places in Spain, and one that honours the ancient traditions of this Andalusian city. These baths are a reinterpretation of the original baths of Al-Andalus. Make time during your trip to enjoy silence and relaxation. Moreover, you can try the hammam Al-Andalus, located right in the centre of the city and with its dreamlike water gardens.

Where to eat in Granada Spain?

Granada is a city to eat, to be full and satisfied, and there are several lively areas and neighborhoods where you can find the perfect place to eat. Also, there are several atmospheric areas and neighborhoods where you can find the ideal place for you, whether in the historic centre or along the symbolic Paseo de los Tristes, you’re sure to find a bar or restaurant where you can try the city’s recipes. But, to really enjoy the gastronomy of Granada as another attraction of your trip, don’t forget to check out our post: Where to eat in Granada. Here you will find:

• The best value for money restaurants in Granada.
• Those that offer you an unforgettable experience.
• Also, the cheapest restaurants.
  And the best options so that you can personalize your gastronomic route through Granada to suit you.

Accommodation in Granada Spain

First of all, the hotel is something very important, personal and decisive for your trip. Moreover, finding the perfect accommodation is not an easy task, and it is a defining factor for your trip. At Passporter, we want to help you find the accommodation in Granada that best suits your taste, travel itinerary and needs. The location of your accommodation is of the utmost importance when planning your trip, as it will be the starting point of each of the routes to visit the city. That is why we have made a selection of the most charming, most appreciated and most recommended accommodations. Here, we show them to you: Accommodation in Granada.

What to see in Granada in 1 day?

It is true that this Arab city needs more than one day to be valued and appreciated as it deserves. However, one day is more than enough to get you hooked. Also, there are several places to see that are impossible to forget if you are in Granada Spain for the first time:

• Firstly, the Alhambra. It will take you the whole morning, but it’s worth every second.
• Next, take the opportunity to stroll along the Paseo de los Tristes and Carrera del Darro, which is next to the Alhambra and is not to be missed.
• Continue through the narrow streets of the Albaicín.
• Finish with a drink in the old town, or watch the sunset at the San Nicolás viewpoint.

What to do in Granada in 2 days?

In two days you’ll have time to do everything you need to do in the city. Organise by days the 6 key stops to see in Granada, which are detailed throughout the post. You could also add a visit to several of the city’s viewpoints that will make you appreciate the city from other points of view.
But, if you want to have pre-organised itineraries, with maps of the routes for each day, tips on where to stay, where to eat or how to get to each place with the exact costs of each recommendation, you can download the Passporter app where you will find itineraries of what you can do in Granada in 2 days, such as the following:

Itinerary to Granada 2 days by @carmalguess

Day 1: Explore Granada’s most beautiful neighbourhoods

Day 2: Get to know the most iconic places of the city

Carmen provides you with information on where to stay, where to eat and the routes for the two days.

About the traveller:
Carmen is a lover of travel and photography. On her blog Carmalguess she posts about her experiences around the world and everything that excites her. She likes to organise trips, both for herself and for her blog community. Also, she has prepared an itinerary of Granada where she shows you the most special places in the city.
She has travelled to countries like Thailand, Morocco, Portugal or France.

Things to do in Granada in 3 days?

Deciding what to see in Granada in three days is easy. You’ll be able to see everything at your leisure and you’ll have time to explore every corner of the city. Three days is the best option to enjoy your getaway and not miss anything important. In fact, you will be able to discover exclusively the most unknown and less touristic places of the city.

Next to the Alhambra, is the Carmen de los Mártires garden, a beautiful garden that will make it worth your while to take an extra day off. Also, there is a route that will surely surprise you which is called ‘From the Vega to the Medina’ passing by the Alcazar of Genil, the Royal Palace of the Almajara or the beautiful Casa de Zafra. Take a look at @sofiapozuelo’s Itinerary to get some ideas.

Itinerary to Granada 3 days by @sofiapozuelo

First day: Tour the jewels of Granada

Second day: Get to know the most beautiful neighborhoods of Granada

Third day: Escape to a charming village

Sofía provides you with information on where to stay, where to eat and the routes for the three days.

About the traveller:
Sofia is from Zaragoza and is the one behind Comeamaviaja. She loves travelling and discovering new cultures. On the blog, she shares her travel adventures to motivate her followers to travel more with her guides, tips and recommendations. Her passion for travelling started since she was a child when she used to travel with her family by car every summer. She has prepared an itinerary around Granada where she will show you her favourite places in and around the city.
She has travelled to countries such as Colombia, USA, Peru, China, Thailand and Poland.

Do you want to know how to organize your travel itinerary?

If you have doubts about how to organize yourself before leaving home and you don’t really know how to plan your travel itinerary, Passporter has several options for you. Download the App and discover all its useful features. You can use this post as a reference and combine it with the options that the Passporter App suggests. You will find a wide variety of ideas and inspiration on what to see and what to do in the city. Thanks to the app you can sort your selection in order of preference and organise it by day, creating the ideal city trip for you in Granada quickly and easily.

For more information on how to use the app and all its advantages when it comes to getting inspired and planning your itinerary, you can read our post: How to create a travel itinerary with Passporter.

Frequently asked questions about a trip to Granada