This Granada travel guide has the following sections:
- Why Visit
- Covid-19 Restrictions
- When to Visit
- Safety
- Top 5 Things
- Accommodation
- Costs
- Overall Rating
- More Information About Spain
If you are arriving by bus from Cordoba, there are several ALSA connections per day, EUR 16 one way, 2 hours 45 minutes. Buy ticket online or at the ticket machine at the bus station (cards or cash accepted).
When coming from the Malaga airport, a one-way bus ticket is EUR 12 and takes 2 hours. Departures from the airport (bus stop immediately outside the terminal building); 08:00, 08:30, 10:15, 11:30, 12:30, 13:30, 16:15, 17:00, 18:30, 19:00, 19:30 and 22:45.
Granada bus station to city center: 30-40 minutes walk through a park, straightforward and safe.
Why Visit?
Granada is a city located in the southern region of Spain, in the autonomous community of Andalusia. It is known for its rich history and culture, as well as its stunning architecture.
One of the most famous landmarks in Granada (and Spain overall) is the Alhambra, a Moorish palace and fortress complex that dates back to the 9th century. The Alhambra is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is considered one of the most important examples of Islamic architecture in the world. Visitors can tour the palace, the fortress, and the beautiful gardens that surround them. Alhambra is the main reason why most tourists visit Granada.
Beyond this star attraction, Granada is full of imposing buildings both of Moorish and Spanish origin. At the peak of its power, the Spanish Empire and Granada must have had almost unquantifiable wealth, which was spent on all those magnificent monuments.
If you have seen too many churches or monasteries, Granada also has the atmospheric Islamic districts, which are great for walking tours.
Finally, the sun is usually shining and the temperatures in the spring and fall pleasant. Combined with excellent Spanish food and good flight, bus and train connections, an easy city to visit for a few days.
This Granada travel guide highly recommends coming here and visiting all major sites. After all those ticked off, spend another one or two days just enjoying the city.
Covid-19 Restrictions
As of January 2023, none.
When to Visit
Seville (and Andalusia overall) is a year-round destination. However, summer is hot with regular 30C+ temperatures.
Safety
Even on a Friday or Saturday night with crowds partying, I have not encountered any safety issues.
Top 5 Things
(1) Alhambra (this Granada travel guide: MUST SEE)
The Alhambra is a stunning palace and fortress complex located in the city center of Granada (a 30 minute walk but uphill). It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is considered one of the most important examples of Islamic architecture in the world. Its intricate engravings and the overall elegant design are impressive. They are also on par with the top monuments in Samarkand or Bukhara in Uzbekistan. Highly recommended, do not miss it.
The Alhambra complex includes several parts: the Islamic Nasrid Palace, the Spanish Palace, Generalife (gardens) and the Alcazaba fortress.
Purchase a ticket in advance
- Purchase a ticket: The Alhambra can be visited with a standard entry ticket, or you can buy a combination ticket which also includes other monuments or attractions in the city. I purchased the individual ticket as the combination ticket requires a lot of intense sight seeing to pay off. Overall, the Alhambra is a very popular attraction and tickets can sell out quickly, so it’s recommended to purchase your tickets well in advance. The official ticket website: https://tickets.alhambra-patronato.es/en/
- Arrive on time: The Alhambra has specific opening hours and time-slots for the different areas of the palace, so it’s important to arrive on time for your allocated slot. Important: entry to the Nasrid Palace is strictly at the timeslot on your ticket. You will have to present a QR code or your passport to gain entry.
- Make use of the audio guide: An audio guide is included with the ticket, and it is available in several languages and provides a great overview of the history and architecture of the Alhambra.
Alhambra vs alcazar (Royal Palace) in Seville
I liked both of those but they do differ. If your time allows it, this Granada travel guide recommends to visit both of them.
The Alhambra in Granada and the Alcázar of Seville are both outstanding examples of the Islamic architecture in Spain and are both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. However, they are different in terms of their history, architecture and the experience they offer to visitors.
The Alhambra is a palace and fortress complex. It was built during the 14th century by the Moors and is considered one of the most important examples of Islamic architecture in the world. The palace is known for its intricate decoration, which includes ornate tilework, arabesques and calligraphy. The complex also includes a fortress and beautiful gardens, the Generalife.
The Alcázar of Seville, on the other hand, is a palace located in the city of Seville. It was originally built as a fortress by the Moors in the 9th century and was later extended and rebuilt by the Christian rulers in the 14th and 15th centuries. The palace is known for its blend of Mudéjar architecture, which is a blend of Islamic and Christian styles. It’s also famous for being the location where the royal family of Spain lived, and it’s the oldest royal palace in use in Europe.
Different locations
The Alhambra is a larger complex and it’s set in the mountains. On the other hand, the Alcazar is located in the center of the city, with all the attractions surrounding it.
Both are considered a must-see for anyone visiting their respective cities.
Alhambra general entry ticket for all sites: EUR14. Access to the Nasrid Palace is strictly timed. Other parts can be entered during the overall opening times.
(2) Cathedral of Granada
The Cathedral of Granada, also known as the Cathedral of the Incarnation, is a grand 16th-century structure located in the city of Granada, Spain. It features a mix of Gothic and Renaissance styles, and is known for its beautiful architecture and historical significance. The Royal Chapel is located adjacent to the Cathedral. The Catholic Monarchs, King Ferdinand and Queen Isabel who conquered Moorish Spain, are buried there. By the way, the same Queen Isabel who has a statue on the square in the city center.
The Cathedral of Granada is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting the city, and it’s a great way to appreciate the rich history and culture of the region. The Cathedral, together with the Alhambra, the Royal Chapel and the Albayzin, are the most important and visited monuments in Granada.
(3) Albayzin
So moving on to a very different area. Albayzin is a historic neighborhood located on a hill opposite the Alhambra. The streets of the Albayzin are filled with white-washed houses, flower-filled patios, and charming shops and restaurants. Instead of an intense visit with allocated timeslots and many tourists, this will be a more leisurely walk around the old Islamic quarter. In good weather, an excellent
The Sacromonte neighborhood is also worth a visit, known for its caves and the Abbey of Sacromonte, but also for the panoramic views of the city, the Alhambra and the valley.
Walking tours available but easily doable on your own.
(4) La Cartuja monastery
If you are still into another religious building, please visit La Cartuja or Monasterio de Nuestra Señora de la Asunción. It is a a lavish and tranquil Baroque monastery 20 minutes walking distance away from the city center. Because it is located away from the Alhambra or the city center in a more residential and local neighborhood, you will see few other tourists, if any.
The church is a true example of the Spanish baroque with intricate engravings and gold everywhere.
Please also do not miss the section on the left hand side entered through a large wooden door. It is humbly called ” the most beautiful sacristy in the world“.
However, the Spanish paintings in the gallery rooms on the right-hand side were even more interesting as they depicted the history from the Spanish Empire perspective. That would include the wars with the protestant Dutch.
EUR6 entry ticket, 10am-6pm.
(5) Almost any other church or monastery in city center
Granada’s wealth at the peak of the Spanish Empire must have been almost unimaginable and was spent on so many religious buildings. In the city center it seems there is a large one every few minutes of walking distance, especially along the San Jeronimo. Basilica de San Juan de Dios, Monasterio de San Jeronimo or Santuario de Nuestra Señora del Perpetuo Socorro Granada are all magnificent. They will all look a bit similar after a bit, though.
Accommodation
Granada is a beautiful city with a lot to offer. There are many different neighborhoods and areas where you can stay, depending on your preferences and budget. The city overall is not huge and largely walkable.
Albaicín
The Albaicín is a historic neighborhood located on a hill opposite the Alhambra. It’s a charming and picturesque area with narrow, winding streets, white-washed houses, and flower-filled patios. Many of the buildings have been converted into hotels, and the area is a great option for those looking for a more authentic and traditional experience. The Albaicín is also a great base for exploring the city, as it’s within walking distance of the Alhambra and other important sights.
Centro histórico
The historic center of Granada is located around the Cathedral and the Royal Chapel, it’s a great option for those who want to be in the heart of the city and close to all the main attractions and shopping areas. The area has many charming narrow streets, cafes and restaurants. There are also many hotels, guesthouses, and apartments available in this area.
Realejo
The Realejo is a neighborhood located just outside the city walls. It’s a more modern and up-and-coming area, with plenty of bars, restaurants, and street art. It is a great area for those looking for a more bohemian and alternative atmosphere and it’s also close to many of the city’s main attractions.
Sacromonte
The Sacromonte is a neighborhood located on the hill east of the Alhambra, it is known for its caves, the Abbey of Sacromonte and the views of the city, the Alhambra, and the valley. It’s a good option for those looking for a peaceful and quieter area, but also have easy access to the center.
All in all, it depends on what you’re looking for in a place to stay. The Albaicín and Centro Histórico are great options for those looking to be close to the main sights and historic charm. Realejo and Sacromonte are more modern, alternative and offer a bit more tranquility. And in all cases, you’ll have a great time in Granada.
Costs
An excellent price-value relationship. Significantly cheaper than Madrid, France or Italy but with world-class architecture and history, and excellent food.
Overall Rating
Highly recommended by this Granada travel guide. Alhambra is almost an excuse to visit this great Andalusian city and stay for a few days.
More Information About Spain
Beyond this Granada travel guide, Southern Spain Itinerary is a high-level overview of the Andalusia cities. Seville and Cordoba have more detailed information about those cities.
