Granada was one of the cities we visited during our 2-week road trip through the south of Spain – Andalusia. Specifically, I was looking forward to this destination for a couple of reasons. Spoiler alert: no disappointments there. Generally, chances are great you’ve heard from the Alhambra before heading to Granada, as it is Granada’s main sight. However, something you might not know, is that the surroundings are stunning too. For example, as Granada is located next to the Sierra Nevada, where you can even go skiing when you like. Additionally, this accounts for snowy mountains in the background of an already stunning view of the famous Alhambra. Therefore, there is no doubt that place is included in this Granada Travel Guide.
As you might know, I’m a big food and drink fan. Therefore, I was delighted when I learned that every drink in Granada comes with a small bite of tapas. Not too bad right? Are you ready for my favourite placefs to go, eat, drink and stay?
Firstly, the Alhambra should be on top of this list, since this is the main attraction to visit in Granada. We went in the early morning, right after opening hours. Fortunately, we did buy tickets beforehand, which allows you to skip the lines that might be there, even early in the morning. Visiting the Alhambra is €14, where you get access to the different buildings belonging to the property (including the most famous Nasrid Palaces). Next to that, it is also possible to just visit the Generalife, Alcazaba and Gardens for €7. However, I would recommend the €14 option, as you do not want to miss the most famous views while visiting.
Furthermore, when you are not looking for a guided tour, the easiest way to buy tickets is through this link. Bear in mind that tickets can sell out well in advance, especially in a busy period. Due to the size and beauty, you need approximately 4 hours to visit the Alhambra. Lastly, as pictures tell you more than a thousand words, below you’ll find a visual overview of the Alhambra, Alcazaba and Generalife.
Second on the list is the viewpoint that is almost more impressive than the Alhambra from the insight: the San Nicolas Viewpoint. You can find the San Nicolas Viewpoint in the Albaicin neighbourhood and you’ll run into a great vibe. Unfortunately, it is not that off the beaten track, however, it is still a spot that many locals visit and hasn’t only been swamped by tourists.
Albaicin is the old Arabic neighbourhood in Granada and the neighbourhood with the most atmosphere. You’ll find a mix of Spanish but predominantly Moorish influences. Additionally, it can be recognized by white houses, small streets and cute little restaurants and bars with only a couple of tables out on the streets. Also, the San Nicolas viewpoint is located in the same neighbourhood.
Additionally, the best way to discover the neighbourhood is definitely by food, and actually, you don’t have another option. Just stroll around and you’ll be amazed at every corner. Moreover, there are quite some terraces and restaurants that reward you with a great view of the Alhambra.
The Alcaiceria is the area located around Calle Calderia, home to many Arabic shops and Arabic teahouses. Therefore, we took the time to sip some tea combined with Shisha in one of the tea houses. We, of course, visited one of them for some tea combined with Shisha.
As previously mentioned, one of the main things to do is to enjoy the amazing privilege of ordering a drink and being rewarded with a piece of tapas. Looking for a street where you’ll find many tapas restaurants located close to each other? Calle Elvira (Elvira Street) is a great place to go on a tapas crawl.
A drink we discovered in Granada is a drink called Tinto de Verano. It is simple: red wine mixed with Fanta Lemon. However, I loved it and I haven’t seen it in many other places. Fortunately, I ran into it a couple of other times in Spain, but I still relate this summerish drink to Granada.
What is a bigger city without a cathedral? Actually, I have to admit we didn’t visit the cathedral from the inside and just had a quick peek at it from the outside. However, visiting the cathedral also supports exploring a new part of Granada.
Sacromonte is the gipsy and cave neighbourhood in Granada. Unfortunately, we didn’t make the time to visit this neighbourhood. The neighbourhood is also famous for the flamenco shows that take place in the caves. You can either take bus 34 from the city or prepare for a slightly longer and heavier walk as you will have to climb the steep streets. Bar Pibe is a cute little bar on the street of Sacromonte – so settle down to feel the Spanish vibes.
We ran into Rollo when we walked towards the cathedral. Are you also paying a visit to the cathedral and you are looking for a place to settle down with a drink or some tapas? Rollo is definitely the place to go!
Los Diamantes is one of the most famous tapas bars among the locals. However, don’t expect a romantic dinner, as Los Diamantes is a snack bar like tapas place with bright LED lightning. Nevertheless, the food is amazing and you don’t want to miss out on one of the best tapas places in town.
In Granada, you might feel slightly overwhelmed by the crazy amount of tapas bars in the city. Therefore, the ones named above are a summarized overview of some popular tapas places in Granada.
Churros are a thing in Andalusia to enjoy with some chocolate (you can dip your churro in a chocolate substance that compares to chocolate milk but is thicker). Additionally, the picture on the right is taken at Plaza de la Romanilla where you’ll find El Aguador. Also, we had some churros at Cafeteria Alhambra in the city centre.
This place might be on top of the most interesting bars I’ve ever visited. It is tiny, cute and you might call it slightly creepy. From top to bottom, this place is dressed with Catholic artefacts. Furthermore, tt is featured in an episode of Anthony Bourdain, which we didn’t know when visiting.
When you are on your way through Albaicin, chances are high that you’ll pass Paseo de Los Tristes. A sunny street with a view of Alhambra. The restaurants and bars weren’t the best I’ve visited but the rays of sunshine you’ll receive on one of the terraces make it worth mentioning.
Located in the middle of the city centre, next to some bars and one of the most famous tapas restaurants, you’ll find Hotel Navas. The hotel costs you around €55 a night (for 2 people) and is neat and clean. The hotel isn’t special but recommended because of the value for money and great location.
This beautiful hotel is located in the Moorish neighbourhood of Albaicin and includes a beautiful patio. Therefore, it is the perfect and central location for a local Granada experience.
A small and clean hotel where you feel very welcomed by the staff. Next to that, the views and interior are great. Also, there is a lovely terrace available.
