Granada
Getaway to Granada
The Alhambra
Option 1: The Alhambra
1. The Alhambra
The Alhambra is one of the architectural wonders of the world, and it is no surprise that it is one of the most visited destinations in Spain. Its origins date back to the 13th century when the Nasrid monarchs began building what would become a palatial city of unmatched beauty. A visit to the Alhambra can take between 3 and 4 hours, depending on your pace. Here are the main points of interest.
What to See in the Alhambra:
Nasrid Palaces: This is the most famous and visited part of the complex. This collection of palaces was where the Nasrid monarchs lived. Each room is richly decorated with stuccos, tiles, muqarnas, and Arabic calligraphy. Inside, you can visit:
The Mexuar: The audience hall, used for state and judicial matters. Its tiles and coffered ceilings are impressive.
The Courtyard of the Myrtles: One of the most elegant courtyards, offering an iconic view of the Alhambra with the reflection in the water.
The Hall of the Ambassadors: The heart of Nasrid power, and the largest room in the Comares Palace. The cedar wood ceiling represents the seven heavens of the Muslim paradise.
The Courtyard of the Lions: The most emblematic space in the Palace of the Lions, with its central fountain surrounded by marble lions. This courtyard symbolizes the earthly paradise.
Generalife: This was the summer palace of the Nasrid sultans, a place for rest surrounded by impressive gardens. The Gardens of the Generalife are famous for their fountains, hedge labyrinths, and flowers. The Water Stairway, where water runs along the balustrades, is one of the most peaceful spots.
The Alcazaba: The original fortress of the Alhambra and the oldest part of the complex. From the Torre de la Vela, you’ll have incredible views of Granada and the Sierra Nevada.
Palace of Carlos V: This Renaissance palace was added after the Christian conquest of the city. Its circular courtyard is unique and contrasts with the surrounding Islamic architecture.
How to Get to the Alhambra:
You can reach the Alhambra by walking up either Cuesta del Rey Chico (commonly known as Cuesta de los Chinos) or Cuesta de Gomérez, both of which are steep but incredibly scenic routes. Cuesta del Rey Chico is a cobblestone path offering stunning views and leads directly to the gates of the Alhambra, while Cuesta de Gomérez takes you through a beautiful tree-lined street, passing by the historic Puerta de las Granadas. Depending on your preferences, you can ascend via Cuesta de Gomérez and descend through the peaceful Cuesta de los Chinos, or vice versa. There is also parking available near the main entrance if you prefer to drive
Curiosities of the Alhambra:
1) The Alhambra was designed to be a paradisiacal palace on earth, with water and vegetation as symbols of the Islamic paradise.
2) During the reign of the Catholic Monarchs, the Alhambra underwent modifications and transformations, some of which can still be seen today.
3) Washington Irving, the famous author of Tales of the Alhambra, lived in the complex in 1829, inspired by its history and beauty to write his famous work.
Tickets: It is recommended to purchase tickets well in advance. You can purchase them here:
Buy Alhambra Tickets
Stroll through the Albaicín: The Andalusian Quarter
After visiting the majestic Alhambra, I recommend taking a stroll through the Albaicín, Granada’s historic Muslim quarter. This neighborhood, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, will transport you back in time with its intricate maze of narrow, cobblestone streets, full of charm and picturesque corners.
What to see in the Albaicín:
Mirador de San Nicolás: This is undoubtedly one of the most popular spots in the Albaicín. From this viewpoint, you’ll enjoy a breathtaking view of the Alhambra with the Sierra Nevada mountains in the background. It’s the perfect place to watch a magical sunset as the sun bathes the Alhambra’s walls in golden and reddish hues. In fact, former U.S. President Bill Clinton described the Mirador de San Nicolás as the place where he witnessed "the most beautiful sunrise in the world." Street musicians often perform here, adding a special touch to the experience.
Carmen de los Mártires: A hidden garden perched on a hilltop, where you’ll find peace and beauty. This "carmen" (a typical house in Granada with a garden) offers panoramic views of the city and is the perfect spot to unwind after wandering through the Albaicín’s steep streets. The lush vegetation and serene atmosphere make it a true oasis within the city.
The Carmen de la Victoria is a beautiful traditional Granada garden located in the Albaicín, owned by the University of Granada. While it is not regularly open to the public, sometimes by knocking on the door, visitors are allowed in to enjoy its stunning views of the Alhambra and the city. With its lush greenery and peaceful corners, it combines nature and traditional architecture, offering a unique and serene experience in the heart of Granada’s historic district.
The Cármenes of Granada are traditional houses unique to the city, characterized by having a private garden or orchard, usually enclosed by a wall, creating a sense of privacy and seclusion. These homes are especially common in the Albaicín and Realejo neighborhoods.
The word "carmen" comes from the Arabic karm, meaning "vineyard" or "garden." Cármenes are not just residences but spaces where architecture blends with nature, providing a green oasis within the city. They typically feature a central patio or garden with abundant vegetation, fountains, fruit trees, and often offer panoramic views, particularly towards the Alhambra or the city.
These properties reflect the Islamic influence on Granada's domestic architecture, aiming to create a private space where residents can enjoy nature and tranquility, in harmony with the urban environment.
Walk Along the Paseo de los Tristes
End your visit with a relaxing walk along the Paseo de los Tristes, one of Granada’s most picturesque streets, located at the foot of the Alhambra. This area is perfect for enjoying views of the monumental complex while relaxing at one of the many outdoor terraces lining the Darro River. In the evening, the views of the illuminated Alhambra from this street are simply magical.
This route will allow you to immerse yourself in both the visual beauty of Granada and its rich multicultural history, where every corner has a story to tell.
Monuments of the Dobla de Oro and the Historic Center
Option 2: Monuments of the Dobla de Oro
The Dobla de Oro is a route that allows you to discover the richness of the Nasrid legacy outside the Alhambra, connecting several historic Islamic monuments in the city. These sites are part of the UNESCO World Heritage.
The name "Dobla de Oro" comes from a gold coin used during Nasrid Granada. Each monument reflects a different aspect of life in Islamic Granada, from public baths to private residences.
What to See:
Corral del Carbón: Este edificio del siglo XIV es la única alhóndiga árabe (almacén de grano) que se conserva en la Península Ibérica. Originalmente, se usaba tanto para almacenar grano como para ofrecer refugio a los comerciantes que llegaban a Granada. Su impresionante arco de entrada, de estilo nazarí, es un testimonio de la refinada arquitectura de la época.
Casa de Zafra: Construida en el siglo XIV, esta casa morisca ha sido restaurada para albergar el Centro de Interpretación del Albaicín. Aquí los visitantes pueden aprender sobre la rica historia y la evolución de este emblemático barrio granadino, en un entorno que refleja la vida doméstica morisca.
Casa del Chapiz: Conjunto de dos casas moriscas del siglo XVI, construidas por familias musulmanas adineradas tras la conquista cristiana. Actualmente, es la sede de la Escuela de Estudios Árabes. Desde sus jardines se pueden disfrutar de espectaculares vistas de la Alhambra, rodeadas de un ambiente histórico y sereno.
El Bañuelo: Los baños árabes más antiguos y mejor conservados de Granada, construidos en el siglo XI. Estos baños públicos eran un elemento esencial de la vida islámica, tanto por motivos higiénicos como religiosos, y su excelente conservación permite vislumbrar la importancia de la cultura del baño en Al-Andalus.
El Palacio de Dar al-Horra , situado en el Albaicín, fue la residencia de Aixa, madre del último rey de Granada, Boabdil. Construido en el siglo XV, destaca por su arquitectura nazarí sencilla e íntima. El palacio se organiza en torno a un patio central con un estanque, rodeado de arcos y habitaciones con vistas a la Alhambra. Aunque más pequeño que otros palacios de la época, es un importante testimonio de los últimos días del reino nazarí antes de la caída de Granada en 1492.
La Casa Morisca de la Calle Horno de Oro es un bello ejemplo de la arquitectura doméstica de la época nazarí en Granada. Situada en el Albaicín, esta casa del siglo XV refleja el estilo de vida de la comunidad morisca, con un diseño alrededor de un patio central rodeado de galerías y un pequeño jardín. La decoración es sencilla, con detalles en yeserías y madera tallada, y ofrece una hermosa vista de la Alhambra desde su planta superior. Es una de las mejor conservadas de su tipo en la ciudad.
Granada Cathedral and Royal Chapel
What to See in the Cathedral and Royal Chapel:
Main Façade of the Cathedral: A superb example of Renaissance architecture in Spain.
Cathedral’s Main Chapel: With its impressive dome and altarpieces, it is a solemn space steeped in history.
Royal Chapel: The resting place of the Catholic Monarchs, featuring a marble mausoleum and a small collection of sacred art and personal belongings of the royals.
Where to Eat and Enjoy Tea in Granada
Where to Eat and Enjoy Tea in Granada
1. Tea at Tetería El Bañuelo
After visiting the historic El Bañuelo, take a relaxing break with a tea or infusion at Tetería El Bañuelo. This cozy teahouse blends the tradition of Arab-style teahouses with a tranquil atmosphere, making it the perfect spot to unwind after your visit.
Try the Moroccan mint tea or one of their aromatic herbal infusions, paired with a delicious Arab pastry for a sweet treat.
2. Lunch at Restaurante Carmen El Agua
For a more upscale dining experience with a view, visit Carmen El Agua. This charming restaurant offers traditional Andalusian cuisine in a beautiful setting, with terraces that provide stunning views of the Alhambra. It’s an ideal spot for a relaxed, scenic lunch.
3. Lunch at Restaurante Bodegas Castañeda
Another fantastic option is Bodegas Castañeda, famous for its traditional tapas and lively local atmosphere. Here, you can enjoy a wide selection of cold cuts, cheeses, and classic Andalusian dishes in an authentic setting.
4. Lunch at Restaurante Los Manueles
For a taste of Granada’s traditional tapas, head to Los Manueles, a favorite among locals. This well-established spot serves dishes like ham croquettes and choto al ajillo (garlic kid goat) in a family-friendly, welcoming environment.
5. Restaurante Los Diamantes in Plaza Nueva, Granada, is famous for its fresh seafood and traditional Andalusian tapas. Known for dishes like fried fish and grilled prawns, it offers an authentic local dining experience in a lively atmosphere. Its central location makes it a popular spot for both locals and tourists.