What to Do and See in Granada, Spain

Granada is a historic city in the Andalusia region of southern Spain. It’s home to well-preserved Moorish architectural sites like Granada Cathedral, built atop the remains of a mosque. The Alhambra, a hilltop palace-citadel complex, features ornamental Arabian arches and sweeping views of the city. Cave dwellings pepper the Sacromonte region, birthplace of the flamenco style of music and dance.Planning a visit to Granada is easier said than done. It’s a city steeped in history, offering many incredible things to do and see. A visit to Granada allows you to explore some of the most stunning places in all of Spain, ranging from dishes full of flavors to spectacular views. Drawing up a list of all things you would like to do can be quite daunting. That’s why we’ve put together this list of the top 12 things to do and see in Granada to help narrow down your list.

1. Visit the Alhambra Palace

At the top of every list of things to do in Granada is the Alhambra Palace. This incredible piece of artwork and architecture was mostly completed in the 13th century, however, it includes the remains of Roman fortifications, the Nasrid palaces, and Islamic gardens added by later rulers. The design is a unique blend of Islamic and European elements that you won’t be able to find anywhere else in the world. The interior is decorated with famous patterned tiles, intricate carvings, and more. At the entrance of the palace you will find La Torre de la Vela (The Watchtower) which offers a breathtaking view of Granada and the Sierra Nevada Mountains in the distance.

2. Visit The Royal Chapel of Granada

The Royal Chapel of Granada is home to the tombs of Isabella I of Castile and Ferdinand II of Aragon, better known as the Catholic Monarchs. The exterior architecture is classic late-Gothic style, with high walls that protect its secrets and stairways offering access to upper levels. Inside, richly-decorated floors, walls, and ceilings display beautiful paintings from prominent artists like Flemish master Bernard van Orley or sculptors such as Cristóbal de Aguilar or Diego de Siloé. The central nave of the chapel is also worth visiting for its exquisitely decorated marble tombstones and other sculptures including five bronze statues dedicated to Isabella and Ferdinand’s daughters: Juana la Loca, Maria Tereza, Catalina, Isabel and Leonor.

3. Beach Day at San Nicolas Beach

Granada might not be known as a beach destination, but its nearby beaches offer fantastic options for a day trip from Granada. San Nicolas Beach is located along the Costa Tropical and it offers one of the best beach experiences you can find near Granada; with its suitable weather all year round and spectacular views, it makes for an ideal day out. San Nicolas is a small natural cove with golden sands for some beach strolling; thank its waters for the incredible mountain backdrop overlooking sunbathers, swimmers, paddle boarders and kite surfers who all come here to take advantage of its crystal clear waters. To savour the beautiful surroundings visit San Nicolas Beach before sunrise or during sunset when it offers a particularly stunning view with pristine serenity. Blue Flag certified for its safe waters, this beach lets you enjoy with confidence its amazing views and relaxed atmosphere.

4. Ascend Mulhacén, Spain’s Highest Peak

Mulhacén is Spain’s highest peak located in Sierra Nevada, only 50km from Granada city centre. It stands at 3478m tall making it the 15th highest mountain in Europe, which is no easy feat! But it can be done quite easily as long as you are fit enough; however it involves trekking and scrambling over rocks so some level of experience of hiking might be necessary. Early morning departures are advised as some trails along this route tend to be busy during midday. Reaching the peak will be rewarded with spectacular views across Andalucía; an exceptional experience that has to be seen to be believed! After your descent, you can treat yourself with a delightful meal at Restaurante El Cable where you can sooth your muscles from this rewarding adventure with the warmest hospitality made of fresh locally sourced ingredients.

5. Uncover Hidden Passageways in Albayzí

Albayzín was an old Moorish quarter where Granada was founded in 889 AD by As-Taghlib from North Africa. Today, after many centuries where lifestyle fluctuated between rules defined by Jews, Adalusians and Spaniards, this neighborhood keeps some particular characteristics like narrow old winding streets that access hidden passageways and staircases built hundreds of years ago. One of these spots is Carrera del Darro, which follows along a deep ravine where a stream flows beneath its ancient buildings through the middle age Arab era up till the renaissance and baroque periods. All along this walking route ancient almohade windows still hang telling stories behind its doors while passing by Carrera del Darro street will open up your eyes to Granada’s history in one amazing journey!

6. Take a Virtual Reality Tour at Centro de Documentación Música y Danza

Centro de Documentación Música y Danza (Documentation Center for Music and Dance) is a great spot for anyone interested in discovering or deepening their knowledge about local culture through modern technology. This center provides an interactive virtual experience where visitors can explore the history of Flamenco music and dance all around Andalucía while they take part in video projections, gaming experiences, projection mapping and more! You can even learn how to dance flamenco right there! A great educational experience for all ages, especially children who will love exploring Andalusian culture using exciting technology.

7. Take a Culinary Tour through Cuisine of Granada

The Granada gastronomy exhibits an authentic combination between flavors from North Africa and traditional Southern Spanish recipes that have been precise altered over time by cultural contributions from other different civilizations such as Romanians or Jews – all these creating very particular signature recipes that are yet unknown outside Granada or Andalusia. Tagarina beans with spinach and eggs from Sacromonte area or “patatas revolconas’ (Poached Potato) are peculiar examples that deserve