Top 10: The Best Things to Do in Granada
Boasting a rich history, spectacular architecture, and unbeatable tapas, Granada offers visitors a myriad of experiences to enjoy. Today at Civitatis, we’re running through the best things to do in Granada, both in the city and in the greater province. Whether you only have a day to check out the city, or you’re lucky enough to have a few days to fill, read on to get some inspiration before you travel. Vamos!
1. Go on a Free Walking Tour of the City
One of our favorite things to do when visiting any city is to embark on a free walking tour. On this free walking tour of the Granada, you can learn about the city’s fascinating history, characterized by both Christian and Moorish rule. Along the way, you’ll also pass by many of the city’s main landmarks, from the Granada Cathedral to the old silk market to the Albacín neighborhood.
2. Explore the Alhambra & Nasrid Palaces
Spain’s most visited, and one of its most culturally significant historical landmarks, the Alhambra is an absolute must-see on your visit to Granada, for its incredible architecture, beautiful gardens as well as wonderful views of the city… On our guided tour of the Alhambra, you’ll gain an insight into the palace complex accompanied by an expert guide, in addition to the Generalife Gardens. These sites are collectively declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Nasrid Palaces are a highlight of the Alhambra complex. A beautiful example of 13th-century Islamic architecture, the palaces were built as a home for the Muslim rulers. Though they are part of the Alhambra complex, they are not part of a regular tour of the Alhambra. To see the palaces alongside the Alhambra, check out this Alhambra & Nasrid Palaces Tour.
To see more ways of exploring the Alhambra, including combo tickets, take a look at all of the tours & activities at the Alhambra with Civitatis.
3. Indulge in the Local Cuisine
Granada is one of the best holiday destinations for foodies. Boasting a vibrant tapas culture, as well as several irresistible specialties, there truly is something for everyone to enjoy. One of our favourite dishes (and one of the staples of Granada) is the Plato Alpujarreño, potatoes, fried eggs, chorizo, ham, sausage (morcilla), and sweet peppers. If you’re looking for a sweet treat—Granada is home to some of the best churros in the country!
On this tapas tour in Granada, you can embark on a tantalizing tapas adventure in the city. Along the way, you can try local delicacies of sobrasada, aubergine moussaka, and migas, alongside various locally-produced beers!
4. Go for a Hike in the Sierra Nevada
If you’re staying in the city for a little bit longer, you might consider taking a day trip to see more of what the province of Granada has to offer. One of the most exceptional places to visit is Sierra Nevada—a National Park and Biosphere reserve, as well as a paradise for nature lovers and thrill-seekers! To enjoy Spain’s most spectacular mountain range, why not check out our Sierra Nevada day trip? In this activity, you’ll enjoy a guided hike through the mountains which stretch across Granada and Almeria.
For something a little more adventurous, check out this snowshoe hike in the Sierra Nevada. On this activity, you’ll embark on a 5-mile (8-kilometer) hike at 8,200 feet (2,500 meters), during which you’ll be blown away by incredible views of the natural landscape below.
5. Wander the Roman Villa of Salar
Slightly off the beaten path, this little-known archaeological gem in Salar, Granada is one of the most important Roman residences in the Iberian Peninsula and home to numerous beautiful, well-preserved mosaics. On this Roman Villa of Salar Day Trip from Granada, you’ll gain an insight into this fascinating archaeological site, and also enjoy a trip to the visitor center and the village of Salar itself!
6. Head to the City’s Museums
Given its storied and diverse history, it should come as no small surprise that there are plenty of beautiful museums in Granada. For history buffs, the Archaeological Museum of Granada is an excellent option—located in the 16th-century Casa de Castri. The museum houses numerous artifacts from the Palaeolithic period to the times of Roman and Arab influence, and everything in between!
The Parque de las Ciencias interactive science museum is another fantastic option. The most visited museum in Andalusia, this massive complex features exhibitions focused on astronomy, optical illusions, the human body, and more. There is lots to enjoy, for all ages!
7. Experience Flamenco in Sacromonte
Traditionally, the neighborhood of the Granadian Romani, who settled in Granada after the Christian conquest of 1492, Sacromonte is considered to be the heart of flamenco. A passionate and expressive art form central to Spanish culture as a whole, experiencing flamenco is a must when visiting Andalusia.
We recommend checking out this flamenco show in the Los Tarantos Caves in Sacromonte—the best way to experience this traditional art form. You could also check out the area of Sacromonte itself (alongside the Albaicín) on this Albaicín & Sacromonte guided tour.
8. Marvel at the Granada Cathedral
The first Renaissance church built in Spain, the Granada Cathedral is one of the most important landmarks in the city. Visit to learn about the cathedral’s rich history and admire its grandeur and the artwork it houses.
Check out this tour of the Granada Cathedral & Royal Chapel, during which you’ll learn all about its fascinating history, and also gain an insight into the Royal Chapel, the burial place of the Catholic Monarchs, Queen Isabella I and King Ferdinand.
9. Relax in an Arab Bathhouse
There’s plenty to see in Granada, so after a few days, you might find yourself ready to kick your feet up and relax. If you do find yourself losing steam during your trip, there’s no better remedy than a visit to Granada’s Hammam Al Ándalus Arab Baths. Immerse yourself in this age-old tradition, which has a long history in Granada. During the experience, you’ll enjoy a massage as well as unlimited Maghrebi mint tea. Welcome to paradise!
Of course, Arab influence in Granada, and indeed, in Spain, goes far deeper than bathhouses—as fantastic as they may be! The Alhambra & Nasrid Palaces, the palace of Dar Al-Horra, and the Maristan of Granada (the city’s first hospital) were all built under Arab rule. If that side of the city’s history is of interest to you, definitely check out our Arab legacy of Granada free tour.
10. Visit the Cartuja Monastery
Somewhat of a hidden gem in Granada, the Cartuja Monastery is a 16th-century monument dedicated to Spanish general and statesman Gonzalo Fernández de Córdoba. A man referred to as ‘The Great Captain‘, his legend lives on through this wonder of Baroque art, with magnificent ceilings and fascinating artwork inside.
Day Trips from Granada
An advantage of visiting Granada is that it’s fairly close in proximity to a number of other fascinating cities, many of which you can easily get to with Civitatis. If you haven’t planned a stop in Seville on your travels, check out this Seville day trip from Granada, and get a feel for this gorgeous Andalusian city. See the Alcazar and the Cathedral, and of course, taste the local cuisine.
Another great option is this day trip to Cordoba from Granada, a city where three distinct cultures have lived alongside one another for centuries and is also home to four UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Check out the famous Mosque-Cathedral, the Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos, the Jewish Quarter, and much more!
More day trips from Granada:
- Caminito del Rey Day Trip
- Roman Villa of Salar Day Trip
- Antequera Day Trip
- Alpujarras Day Trip
- Úbeda & Baeza Day Trip
- Costa Granadina + Caves of Nerja Day Trip
When is the Best Time to Visit Granada?
The best time to visit Granada is during the period of April to June, with comfortable temperatures, which are perfect for exploring the city’s treasures. Keep in mind that many of the city’s major landmarks require walking, and during the hot summer months, this can be a little bit uncomfortable for some. Exciting cultural events like the Corpus Cristi Fair also take place during these months. Corpus Cristi in particular is a week of exciting festivities including Flamenco dancing and traditional processions.
That’s it for our list of the best things to do in Granada—hopefully, we’ve provided you with some ideas for your next trip! If you’re looking for more ideas, check out some other activities in Granada with Civitatis. ¡Buen viaje!