Granada stole our hearts in ways we never expected. This ancient city is nestled in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains. It offers a blend of Moorish architecture, cave dwellings, and some of the most breathtaking views in all of Spain. Our day here felt like stepping into a living history book.
Check out my one week Spain Itinerary for more about this trip!
The Legendary Alhambra
You simply cannot visit Granada without experiencing the Alhambra, even if just from the outside. This magnificent palace complex represents one of the finest examples of Islamic architecture in the world.
We had planned to tour the interior, we didn’t get tickets in time – a lesson learned about booking far in advance! However, walking the perimeter still provided an incredible experience. The fortress complex is so vast and beautiful that even viewing it from outside gives you a sense of its grandeur and historical significance.
Important note: If you want to tour the Alhambra interior, book tickets months in advance through the official website. This is one of Spain’s most popular attractions, and tickets sell out quickly.
Exploring Sacromonte: The Cave District
The Sacromonte area became one of our absolute favorite discoveries in Granada. This historic hillside neighborhood offers a fascinating glimpse into Granada’s unique cultural heritage.
We walked the 45-minute journey from the Alhambra to Sacromonte, which gave us wonderful views of Granada along the way. If walking isn’t your preference, the C34 bus runs throughout the area for just €1.40 pp- a convenient and affordable option we used to reach some of the attractions.
Museo Cuevas del Sacromonte
Our first stop was this small but fascinating museum that tells the story of the native people who historically lived in the area’s caves. The museum provides important context for understanding the neighborhood’s rich cultural heritage and the unique lifestyle that developed here over centuries.
The museum wasn’t busy when we visited, making it a peaceful place to learn about this distinctive part of Granada’s history.
Abadia del Sacromonte
The Abbey of Sacromonte is considered the birthplace of Christianity in Granada, and it’s truly stunning whether you’re religious or not. Tours in English are offered daily at 2:00 PM and 5:30 PM, lasting about one hour and costing €5.
Pro tip: They are very punctual, so arrive early! We learned this the hard way when we missed our first tour and had to return the next day, which wasn’t convenient with our packed schedule.
The Most Spectacular Sunset View
After the abbey tour, we headed to Mirador de San Nicolás just in time for sunset. This viewpoint offers the most stunning panoramic view of Granada and the Alhambra you can imagine. It’s not too far from the abbey, making it the perfect end to your Sacromonte exploration.
This viewpoint is popular with both tourists and locals for good reason. It’s genuinely one of the most beautiful views in Spain.
Authentic Local Flavors
For dinner, we stayed in the Sacromonte area and discovered some wonderful local spots. La Fragua bar became our favorite – a small, hole-in-the-wall establishment with a lovely bartender named Luciano.
What made this place special was the authentic tapas culture: when you order a drink, you’re automatically served complimentary tapas. It’s a tradition that makes Granada particularly special among Spanish cities, and experiencing it at a genuine local bar like La Fragua felt like discovering a secret.
Where We Stayed
We stayed in a wonderful Airbnb that gave us a true local experience in Granada. The city has a more intimate feel than Madrid or Barcelona. Staying in a local accommodation helped us connect with the authentic rhythm of Andalusian life.
Granada’s Unique Character
What sets Granada apart from other Spanish cities is its incredible layering of cultures and history. You can see Moorish influence in the architecture, feel the gitano (Roma) culture in Sacromonte, and experience pure Andalusian hospitality everywhere you go.
The city moves at a different pace than Spain’s larger metropolitan areas. There’s time to savor conversations, enjoy long meals, and appreciate the natural beauty that surrounds the city on all sides.
Practical Tips
- Rent a car for maximum flexibility in exploring both the city and the surrounding Andalusian countryside
- Allow plenty of time for walking, as many of Granada’s treasures are best reached on foot
- The combination of history, architecture, and natural beauty makes Granada perfect for photography enthusiasts
- Don’t rush – Granada rewards travelers who take time to wander and discover
Final Thoughts
Granada represents everything that makes southern Spain magical. It’s a place where centuries of history live alongside modern life. Where stunning architecture serves as the backdrop for authentic cultural experiences.
Our day in Granada left us with some of our most treasured memories from Spain. It’s a city that captures your imagination and stays with you long after you leave. Whether you’re drawn by the history, the views, the culture, or simply the magic that seems to permeate every street and plaza, Granada delivers an experience that feels both timeless and unforgettable.
