I’m excited to share these 7 things to do in Granada. Located in sunny and vibrant Andalusia, Granada is not to be missed when visiting Spain. Tapas, flamenco, Islamic architecture, mountains, rivers, orange trees and incredible history, what’s not to love?
Granada, Spain holds a special place in my heart because it’s where I studied abroad for a semester during college. I’m fortunate to have traveled there two additional times. This makes me feel qualified to share the experiences you must have when visiting Granada.
This post is all about unique things to do in Granada, Spain.
1. Visit the alhambra
The Alhambra is one of the most iconic and special places to visit, not only in Granada but in Spain as a whole. It’s said that building commenced in 1238 and was built as both a palace and fortress for the last Muslim rulers of Spain.
Now the entire fortress includes the gorgeous Generalife gardens, the Nasrid Palaces and the Alhambra itself. You could truly spend hours getting lost exploring all that this area has to offer. The intricately carved walls, the traditional arches and pillars and the perfectly manicured garden all make this such a special and unique place to visit while in Granada.
2. relax in the hammam al andalus
When in Granada, a visit to a hammam or a traditional Middle Eastern or Turkish bathhouse is a fantastic experience. The Hammam al Andalus is located at the foot of the Alhambra and is a perfect way to start a lazy morning, end a fantastic day or during the traditional midday siesta period.
It’s set up like an intricately designed moorish labyrinth. Each room has its own bath to soak in and enjoy ranging in various temperatures. You can opt to add on other experiences like massages, facials and scrubs. Read here for more information!
If you’re already interested – you can book here!
3. enjoy a flamenco show
Beautiful costumes, passionate singing and guitar strumming accompanied by precise dance movements – that is the beauty of flamenco. Andalusia is the birthplace of flamenco and there is no shortage of shows and performances to see while you’re in Granada.
It’s a perfect family friendly experience as the average show is only around 1 hour. It’s lively, captivating and a perfect way to experience more of the history of Granada. While there are many locations and types of flamenco shows one of my favorite and one of the most centrally located is at La Alobrea. Click here to book!
4. tapas, tapas and more tapas
Experiencing tapas culture is easily one of the best things to do in Granada. Tapas originated in Andalusia and it’s said that bartenders used to put a piece of food on top of a drink as a way to keep dust out of your drink.
It’s evolved over the years, but Granada is the only place where you’ll receive a complimentary tapa when ordering any beverage. That’s right! If you’re at a restaurant and order a drink they’ll serve you a plate of food that they’ve prepared and it’s included in the price of your drink. This doesn’t change the price of your drink either. The complimentary tapa can range anywhere from patatas bravas, croquetas, jamón and manchego and so much more.
My recommendations for different tapas restaurants are:
Bar Poë – for tapas served by a fantastic couple (Matt and Ana Poe). My favorite is the #6 “pollo en salsa Thailandes” I like to pair this a glass of tinto de verano.
Los Diamantes – this is the place to go to if you’re looking for fresh and fried seafood. This spot is beloved by locals and tourists and should not be missed while in Granada.
Bar de Fede – A bar based off of a famous writer from Granada, Federico García Lorca. Enjoy the ambiance and my favorite dish – berenjenas a la miel (eggplant with honey). It seems like an unlikely combo, but the lightly fried eggplant drizzled with a thick, dark, molasses-like honey is outstanding.
5. lose track of time in a tetería
The Moorish influence is still incredibly prevalent in Granada. Take a stroll down Calle Elvira and you’re bound to find countless tea shops or teterías to explore. Teterías are tea shops where you can sit at any time of day, enjoy delicious tea and indulge in outrageously delicious pastries. My go-to order is a fresh mint tea and a piece of baklava.
The cozy decor of plush seats, beautiful rugs, dimmed lamps and steaming tea makes it a great environment to be in. The shops in the surrounding areas sell loose leaf teas, tea glasses, lanterns and more trinkets that make great souvenirs.
6. Indulge in churros dipped in thick, rich chocolate
Since 1922, Café Futból has been serving golden brown, delicious churros alongside a small mug of thick chocolate. Whether you’re looking for a breakfast of churros or late night churros you’ll be happy to find that they’re open 8:00 am to 1:00 am Fridays and Saturdays and 8:00 am to midnight all other days.
This delicious and iconic Spanish dish that is not to be missed. Delicious fried dough served with a cup of fudge-like chocolate makes it an easy thing to accomplish on your list of things to do in Granada.
7. experience the views from various miradores
A mirador is a lookout point, and Granada has many spectacular ones to enjoy. Granada, situated at the base of the Sierra Nevada mountains is a relatively hilly city allowing for various viewpoints of the beautiful city. If you’re only able to visit one PLEASE visit the Mirador San Nicolás.
Located in the Albaicín neighborhood of Granada, the Mirador San Nicolás is perched North of both the Alhambra and the Sierra Nevada mountains making the views absolutely stunning. Many times there are even people singing and playing flamenco songs on the guitar, which adds to the experience. Whether you’re visiting midday, at sunrise or sunset you’ll be astounded by the beauty.
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