Granada was the last capital of Al-Andalus and its jewel, the Alhambra, is one of Spain's most visited monuments. The catch: Nasrid Palaces tickets sell out fast. Here's what to see, how to plan it and our honest guides to actually get in.
What to see in Granada
- The Alhambra & Generalife: the Nasrid complex. The Nasrid Palaces have strict timed entry and sell out weeks ahead — book this first.
- The Albaicín: the old Moorish quarter, narrow lanes, carmen houses and the best views of the city.
- Mirador de San Nicolás: the classic view of the Alhambra with the Sierra Nevada behind, stunning at sunset.
- Sacromonte: the cave dwellings and Granada's most authentic flamenco (zambra).
- Cathedral & Royal Chapel: the Renaissance cathedral and the tomb of the Catholic Monarchs.
- Free tapas: in Granada most drinks come with a free tapa — a cheap way to have dinner.
Our guides on Granada
Practical tips
- How many days: 2 days for a relaxed Alhambra plus the Albaicín and Sacromonte.
- Best time: spring and autumn; summer gets very hot.
- Book the Alhambra now: the Nasrid Palaces have limited, timed entry — buy as soon as you have dates.
- Tapas: make the most of the free tapa with each drink.
How to plan your visit
- Getting there: There's a high-speed train from Madrid (about 3 h) and buses from Málaga and Seville; the airport is small. The centre is walkable.
- Rough daily budget: One of the cheapest Spanish cities: with the free tapas, €40-60 per person per day is plenty.
- Common mistake to avoid: Not booking the Nasrid Palaces weeks ahead (the one thing you can't improvise) and visiting in peak August heat.
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