Granada

The last capital of the Moorish dynasty, with the Alhambra and the whitewashed lanes of the Albaicín, and a food city where drinks come with free tapas.

Granada lies in eastern Andalusia, Spain, at the northern foot of the Sierra Nevada, at an elevation of about 700 m. It was the last capital of the Moors on the Iberian Peninsula, reconquered by the Catholic Monarchs in 1492. The Alhambra and the Albaicín district opposite it are both World Heritage Sites, and the city blends Islamic, Jewish and Catholic layers of culture. It is also the hometown of the poet Lorca and a stronghold of Gypsy flamenco.

Climate and seasons: March–June and September–November are the most pleasant. In July and August afternoons often exceed 35°C, so plan visits for early morning or evening. Winters are mild by day and cold at night, and you can ski in the Sierra Nevada. Alhambra tickets are limited; in peak season, buy them on the official website, under your name, several weeks or even 1–2 months ahead.

Main areas: ① The Alhambra and the Generalife gardens; ② The old town centre: the Cathedral, Royal Chapel, Alcaicería market and Plaza Nueva; ③ The Albaicín and Sacromonte: whitewashed lanes, sunset at the Mirador de San Nicolás, and cave flamenco; ④ Day trips: the whitewashed villages of the Alpujarras, the Sierra Nevada, the Guadix caves and the Monachil gorge.

Food: Granada keeps the tradition of a free tapa with every drink you order, making it a great place to eat and drink on a budget.

Getting there: The airport is about 17 km from the city, with an airport bus; the high-speed train from Madrid takes about 3.5 hours, and trains or coaches from Seville and Málaga take 1.5–3 hours. The old town is hilly with narrow streets, so get around on foot and by C30–C35 minibuses; driving into the old town is not recommended. We recommend staying 2–3 days.

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Where to eat

Itineraries