Granada things to do, sightseeing & attractions

1. Must See: La Alhambra de Granada

Without any doubt the number 1 attraction on the list of 'What to do in Granada': The Alhambra is a Moorish fortress and palace built on the hill of Granada and one of the most famous attractions in the whole of Spain. Alhambra means the 'red palace' and was founded by the Nasrid Sultans. You can easily spend an entire day exploring, because the Alhambra also includes the summer palace Generalife with its gorgeous gardens, the palace of Charles V and the Alcazar stronghold. More information of the Alhambra.

📌 Important: The Alhambra has limited access and is often sold out weeks in advance, so make sure to order your Alhambra tickets a couple of weeks in advance. Make sure that you buy tickets that include access to the Nasrid Palace, which is the highlight of the Alhambra.

2. Generalife

Next to the Alhambra is the 13th century Generalife complex that served as a summer palace for the Nasrid rulers of Granada. Your Alhambra tickets also give you access to the lush gardens, elegant courtyards and beautiful fountains of the Generalife Summer Palace. The highlight of Generalife is undoubtedly the flowery Patio de la Acequia. More information about visiting 'Alhambra and Generalife'.

3. Sightseeing in 'El Albaicín' District

The Albaicín is the oldest Arab district in Granada Spain at the foot of the hill of the Alhambra. This (tourist) district has a Moorish palace 'Dar Al-Horra' and a public bath. The district is a maze of small cobblestone streets and tiny squares; a great place to visit and wander around. From the 'Mirador de San Nicolas' you have one of the best views of the Alhambra palace. Read more about the places to visit in 'El Albaicín'.

4. Landmark: Cathedral of Granada

The Catedral de Granada is the 16th century cathedral in the city centre, dedicated to the Virgin of the Incarnation. The cathedral is a mix of Renaissance, Gothic and Baroque styles. Next to the cathedral of Granada is the 'Capilla Real', the burial chapel for kings.

5. Capilla Real

In the Royal burial chapel ('Capilla Real') from 1517, situated next to the cathedral, one can find the Gothic style mausoleum of several catholic royal couples, including Isabella and Ferdinand who reconquered the city from the Moors. More info 'Capilla Real'.

6. Places to visit in Granada: Sacromonte

Sacromonte, bordering the El Albaicín district, is a 15th century gipsy quarter located on the hill with typical cave homes. The Sacromonte quarter of Granada with its steep streets has a long-standing tradition of flamenco performed by the Spanish gypsies (Gitanos or Roma). Visit one of the typical caves for a flamenco show in the evening. Furthermore, the district has a museum about the caves and you can enjoy the stunning view nearby the Sacromonte abbey.

📌 Tip: To visit the flamenco shows it is necessary to book tickets in advance. We have made a selection for you of the best flamenco shows in Granada Spain (personal favorite: Jardines de Zoraya)

7. Visit a Flamenco Show

8. Monastery 'La Cartuja'

The 'Monasterio de Nuestra Señora de la Asunción' is an impressive monastery from 1506 of the strict Carthusian Order situated on the north hill of the city. A lovely, but considerable hike to make if you are staying in Granada Spain for a longer period of time and according to experts the most beautiful monastery in Spain, despite its austere exterior. More about the monastery.

9. El Bañuelo (Arab baths)

The 11th century El Bañuelo, or the Arab baths, is the oldest and best preserved Arab public bath ('hammam') of Andalusia situated in the El Albaicín district. The Arab baths can be visited with this combination ticket. It is one of the few Moorish buildings that was not torn down after Granada was reconquered by the Spanish kings.

10. Hammam Al Ándalus

El Bañuelo is no longer in use, but Hammam Al Ándalus is also located in the center of Granada. This is a hammam where visitors experience an enchanting ambiance of Moorish architecture, with beautifully detailed tilework, graceful arches and opulent courtyards. The Hammam Al Ándalus offers several thermal baths, each designed to soothe and revitalize the body. More information 'Hammam Al Ándalus'.

11. Basílica de San Juan de Dios

The church is dedicated to the patron saint of Granada 'John of God'. The exterior is an austere church, but the inside is truly overwhelming with all its (gold leaf) splendour. A perfect combination with the adjacent Monasterio de Jéronimo, or the Hieronymites Monastery.

12. Tapas Food Tour

Would you like to learn more about Granada's typical local dishes and tapas? Then join this Food Walking Tour, a fun activity where you will taste traditional dishes and drinks. An entertaining activity to replace your lunch or dinner. More information about 'Food Walking Tour'.

13. Monasterio de Jéronimo

The Monasterio de San Jerónimo in Granada is an impressive example of Spanish Renaissance architecture and one of the most important religious buildings in the city. The monastery with a breathtaking church was founded in the 16th century by the Catholic kings, after the conquest of Granada from the Moors. More information about 'Monasterio de Jéronimo'.

14. La Alcaicería - Bazaar of Granada

What to do in Granada old town? The Alcaicería market is the 'Big Bazaar' and the original Moorish side market. Today, La Alcaicería is a tourist market near Plaza de Bib-Rambla square. The ideal place to score your souvenirs.

15. Things to do near Granada: Sierra Nevada

Looking for things to do near Granada? The Sierra Nevada form the high mountains with snowy mountain tops nearby Granada city. The mountainous area offers a great day out from Granada Spain. Go for a walk through the stunning nature or enjoy the 85 kilometres of ski slopes during the season. More info 'Sierra Nevada'.