It is called the land of thousand castles but there is a certain charm about Granada besides its rich history. This city has more appeal than first meets the eye and leaves you permanently wanting more than mere stunning scenery.
Granada lies at the foot of the snow capped peaks of the Sierra Nevada mountain range between the rivers of Darro and Genil of Eastern Andalusia in the south of Spain and just 70km from the coast. Locals boast of being able to go hiking in the spring, sunbathing in the summer and skiing in the winter.
Granada’s Al–Andalus heritage and striking Moorish architecture dates back thousands of years during the Moors and Roman’s occupation. The city is an exception to the norm and unique in the sense you can still experience the complicity of the culture and traditions from both the North African and European influences as reflected in its craftwork, cuisine and urban planning.
No other city packs so much in terms of offering the best of climate, scenery, history and culture and you would be hard done by not to immerse in this enigmatic city with its’ creative clash of cultures and past splendour that can only be found in Granada.
Who (Should Travel)
Granada attracts tourists from the local regions in Spain as well as international tourism. Packaged holidays are beginning to grow in popularity whilst independent travel still dominates at 79.8%*. The highlights for coming to Granada include the climate, beach, cultural and historical experiences, skiing and golf. The outdoor activities such as hiking is a very popular with visitors visiting Granada over the spring and summer months.
What (To See/Do)
Alhambra Palace
One of the biggest allure about visiting Granada is the Alhambra Palace and gardens which is one of Spain’s most visited attraction with close to three million visiting each year. Ruled by the Arabic Sultan and their dynasties, their conquest stretched right into the northern part of Spain until 1492 when this imposing fortress that sits high over the city was recaptured by the Christians and became the last stronghold of Moorish rule over southern Spain. After the Reconquista by the Christians, the Alhambra’s Mosque has been replaced with the church, now known as the Parador de Granada (formerly known as Convento de San Francisco) today.
Generalife.
The enchantment with the Alhambra Palace continues by visiting Generalife (its Arabic term jinan al-‘arif or the overseer’s gardens). Walking through this ‘zen-like’ garden complete with its’ symmetrical arrangement of pools, pathways that are lined with wildflowers of every colour imaginable, patios and the calming sounds of water that trickles from the fountains make a perfect end to your day trip to the palace. From there, you can leave the gardens via the Puerta de la Justicia by walking downhill towards the noisy Plaza Nueva.
El Albaicín
The Albaicín is located on the hill opposite the Alhambra and preserves of its Arabic influence can still be witnessed today. The city’s narrow cobbled stones form a maze of white washed houses, walled gardens and little squares or ‘terrazas’ of bars and restaurant. This medieval neighbourhood of Granada stands out from one another by its ‘artsy’ vibe, boutique cafes and everybody’s favourite past time, people watching at Plaza Cristo Azucenas.
Go on a journey of discovery by simply heading to Calle Elvira, where you can take break at one of the many Moroccan tea rooms or try out a “shisha” (smoking tobacco mixed with fruit or molasses through a water pipe known as a hookah) and be seduced by its enticing aromas or if you are hungry, then simply head down to the Carrera del Darro for some must-have tapas. The best direction to this city is to enter via Calle Calereria Nueva, off Calle Elvira. If you head uphill, you most likely will get lost however if you head down, you’ll find your way out.
Sacromonte
Further along El Albaicín, the cobbled path leads to the ‘barrio’ or neighbourhood of Sacromonte, home of the traditional ‘Zambra’ or flamenco dance with roots dating back to past Moorish dances and performed by the Gitanos or Gypsies of Granada.
Known as the ‘gypsy quarter’, the gypsies settled here in the 15th century during the time of the Catholic Kings, Los Reyes Católicostook. Visitors are drawn to Sacromonte for its music and flamenco dancing after dark that is being held in the hillsides caves along the narrow Camino de Sacromonte road.
Visiting the Museo de las Cuevas del Sacromonte sheds light into its fascinating history, culture and daily lives of the past populace who once lived in these Sacromonte caves. The captivating display at the Museum showcases ten caves that have been rebuilt to represent the homes and workshops of the cave dwellers whilst recreating their way of life, their crafts including wickerwork, metalwork, weaving and ceramics.
For more of Sacromonte’s history, then a visit to the Abbey of the Sacromonte is a must. The only way to enter the Abbey is to take a 30-minute tour conducted in Spanish for a price of a cup of coffee! The Abbey contains Christian relics such as San Cecilio, the first bishop of Granada and beneath it lies the catacombs, underground chapels as well as a cross allegedly belonging to Saint John of God.
Granada Cathedral
While the Grand Cathedral in Granada is no match for Gaudi’s emblematic temple in Barcelona nor does it rival the gothic spire in Seville, its’ striking facades and exquisite interior fuses in flawlessly with the Moorish-Spanish design. Built by Queen Isabella immediately after conquering Granada on the site of the Mosque, this Spanish Renaissance style Grand Cathedral contains a grand altar and several chapels. The temple’s burial chamber holds the tombs of the Catholic Kings Isabella and Fernando.
The Alcaicería – The Grand Bazaar of Granada
The Great Bazaar of Granada was initially a series of streets set between Plaza Nueva and Plaza Bib-Rambla and had stalls that used to sell Arabic silks, spices and other precious goods in the past. However these days, you will find souvenir stalls selling a good array of of Arabic craftwork, such as the fajalauza (traditional local painted ceramics), taracea (wooden inlay for items such as desks, chessboards, or trinket boxes), and typical granadino farolas or stained-glass lamps.
Plaza Bib Rambla
This ancient square is also known as Plaza de las Flores (Square of Flowers) and is the epicentre of the Granada’s bustling social life. The heart of this plaza lies a baroque style fountain known as the ‘gigastones’ built during the 17th century and features a diminutive statue of Neptune supported by four giants sprouting water. The Plaza is named after Bab ar Ramia, meaning a ‘wall gate’ and the piazza was once used for bullfights in Moorish times about the same time as the silk ‘souk’ or the Grand Bazar became popular in Alcaicería to the east. These days, the square is filled with craft markets, flower stalls and cafes serving ‘horchata de chufas’ (a delicious nutty drink), tapas and other Andalusian dishes by night.
The ‘Miradores’: Granada’s Best Lookouts
The term ‘miradores’ means look-outs and in Granada there is no shortage of that with its hills and mountains of one side and flat plains on the other all seemingly connected by the labyrinthine city between. The most well-known lookouts of all is the Mirador de San Nicolas offering the unsurpassed views of the Alhambra and Sierra Nevada. Get there for the stunning sunset or to take photographs of the Alhambra façade.
The next lookout worth mentioning and the highest point in the city is the Mirador de San Miguel. In order to get there you would need to steer towards Calle Cruz de la Rauda, right at the back of Albaicin and follow the long set of steps to the top towards the Chapel of San Miguel Alto. It is not a feat for the fain-hearted but for the energetic amongst us, it is a view that’s worth all the effort!
Granada’s Arab Baths
After the long hours of exploring the city, indulging in one of Granada’s Hamman Baths is a perfect antidote for the tired feet and aching muscles. The Granada’s Hamman Al Ándalus sits at the foot of the Alhambra palace complex and features the impressive Arabian baths where you can leisurely soak up the atmosphere and unwind. Spend 1.5 hours, reveling in this lavishly designed thermal baths and steam room with stunning Arabian décor including candle-lit walkways, vaulted ceilings, marble benches and mood enhancing chambers.
Decide on the type of treatments you want to go for whether from Aroma Corner for a 15, 30 or 45 minute relaxation massage with your choice of oils or upgrade to the 30 minute Midra30 or 45 minute Midra45 both types include exfoliating massage whilst helping yourself to refreshing mint tea and water. At the end of this experience, you will feel recharged and revitalized and ready to take on the world.
Where (To Stay)
You will be spoilt for choice when it comes to accommodations and our top picks are:
5 Star : AC Palacio De Santa Anna
Located in the historic centre of Granada near the Albaicín and Sacromonte areas, this 75-room reformed work-of-art is one of Marriot hotel’s Autograph Collections and rated one of the best five star hotels in the city. The Palacio de Santa Paula has been recognized as an artistic and historic monument. Room only prices start from Euros 132 per night exclusive of taxes
5 Star: Alhambra Palace Hotel
It is the oldest 5 star hotel in Spain! History, culture and aristocracy lie at the heart of this century old hotel that offers not only exclusive European hospitality but this luxury hotel is known for its unrivalled views of the grandeur of Granada. Room only prices start from Euros 132 per night exclusive of taxes.
4 Star: NH Granada Victoria
It is located in the heart of Granada and a perfect base for both business or leisure travellers. Just 20 minutes walk to the Alhambra Palace and close to the shopping and restaurant areas, this 70 room hotel comes furnished in elegant themes with balconies facing the spectacular view of the Sierra Nevada mountain range. Room only prices start from Euros 151.05 per night exclusive of taxes.
3 Star: Santa Isabel la Real
This family run hotel is a restored XVI century house and located in the picturesque part of the Albaicín Quarter in Granada and just 10 minutes walking distance from the city centre. Room prices start from Euros 76.54 inclusive of breakfast and taxes.
Hostels: Granada Inn Backpackers
The Granada Inn Backpackers is located in the old town and just three minutes from the Cathedral. It features a traditional patio giving it an authentic Andalusian feel to the place. Offering single beds in shared dormitory rooms as well as family rooms and shared apartments. The communal kitchen comes fully equipped and there is a lounge area with two computers and free Internet access. Prices for shared room for 12 people start from Euros 12 per night and a double room from Euros 40 per night. Rates are exclusive of taxes.
When (To Plan)
Granada is perfect for visiting all year round. Depending on the activities planned, the best time for some would be during spring and autumn season where the weather tends to be more stable and ideal for exploring Granada’s sights and visiting the attractions.
Summer months provide the opportunity to relax at the beaches. Temperatures in July and August can peak up to 40C.
In the winter, the arrival of snow in the Sierra Nevada draws skiers and winter sports enthusiasts from all the country and other parts of the world.
How (To Reach)
Flying to Granada
Granada Airport known as Granada-Jaen Airport (airport code of GRX). As it is a regional airport, you will need to catch an international flight to Barcelona or Madrid and continue on the journey via a domestic flight to Granada. Alternatively you can fly to Malaga and then catch a bus or hire a car to Granada. The airport to the city is 12km to the city centre.
Bus
There is an Airport Bus service that operates between the airport and the city centre of Granada. The bus times tie in with the flights. More information about the airport bus can be found on this page and map with the bus stops here.
If you are not taking the domestic flight from any one of the main cities in Spain, there are many buses that enter Granada from all over Spain each day, particularly from Seville, Cordoba and Malaga. However the buses that connects to Barcelona and Madrid generally run on a daily basis. The bus ride within Andalucía will take between two and three hours whilst places like Madrid is between five and six hours away.
Train it
The Spanish train system is extensive, efficient and connects with most major cities and few smaller towns. Trains arrive on a daily basis from Seville and Madrid but only one train runs from Barcelona to Granada. The train journey from Seville takes 3 to 4 hours; from Madrid, it takes 5 to 6 hours and the one from Barcelona takes 12 to 13 hours.
By Car
If you are travelling from Madrid to Granada by car, the distance is 430km and should take about four hours and thirty minutes, travelling mainly on the R-4 and A-44 roads with few tolls along the way. The eat-west running A92 connects Granada and Seville with drive time about three hours whereas the north-south A45 intersects the A92 on the to Seville and connects Cordoba about three hours and Malaga in two hours.
