Top 10 things to do in Granada, Spain

A Unesco world heritage site, sitting at the top of Sabika Hill, the Alhambra Palace must be top of the list for visitors to Granada. Whether you take a guided tour or use the audio guide, you will not be disappointed! Ensure that you buy the correct ticket to see all three zones. Some tickets types do not give you access to the Nasrid Palace, which is probably the most beautiful part of the tour. Book your tickets well in advance of your trip as they sell out very quickly. There are several booking sites where you can book guided tours or, if you’re just looking for entry tickets and an audio guide, the official ticket site is your best bet – https://tickets.alhambra-patronato.es/en/.

As you’d imagine the city is full of bars and restaurants. Whether you’re wanting a bite to eat in one of the spectacular plazas, sitting by the river or looking out over the Alhambra Palace, you’re never far from one. Don’t be shy of moving away from the tourist hot spots and explore the many lanes to discover some hidden treasures. Many tour companies in the city offer tapas walking tours which will take you to some of these such as www.granadatapastours.com.

There is no better way to relax than a trip to the Arab baths in Granada. Sitting behind the Church of Santa Ana it is easy to find. The Hammam offers a very quiet space with baths at different temperatures. The staff will guide you as to how to get the best out of your visit and recommend the order of using each of the different baths. To help you relax even further from your walks around the city, you can also add a relaxing massage to your experience.
www.hammamgranada.com/hammam-andalus.html

If you like food, you’ll certainly enjoy a walk around this food market taking in the fragrant food smells and sampling all the delights on offer. Just a 3-minute walk from the Cathedral, you’ll find local cheeses, olive oils, some of the finest cuts of meat, rows of locally grown vegetables and counters full of fresh fish. You will definitely leave with a bag full of goodies. With two main bars, that have outside and inside seating areas, you can tie in a shopping visit with lunch and take in all the bustle of the market. Many of the market stalls also have areas where you can enjoy the produce you’ve bought whilst sipping on a glass of vino or cerveza.

www.andalucia.org/es/granada-donde-comer-mercado-san-agustin

From nature to astronomy and mechanical games to learning about the human body, there’s something for everyone at Granada’s Science Park. Inside the vast park is a planetarium projecting 360° views of over 7,000 stars. The butterfly house has over 20 different species and tropical plants from across the world. The park also has a variety of workshops and guided tours as well as the opportunity to get up close to a variety of birds of prey.
www.parqueciencias.com/parqueciencias/menus/informacion/bienvenidoingles.html

As you turn the corner into the plaza, you will be amazed at the sheer size and beauty of this spectacular Cathedral which was built in the 16th Century. Unlike other places of worship, Santa Iglesia Catedral has five naves of differing sizes and heights but each one showcasing amazing architecture and history. Entry into the Cathedral for individuals is around 5€ and audio guides are available in many languages. Entry for families with children under 12 is free.
www.catedraldegranada.com

Most famous for its winter skiing you would be forgiven for thinking that as the last of the snow melts, the Sierra Nevada resort comes to a close! This couldn’t be further from the truth, there is plenty to do in the summer and taking a trip up the mountain can offer some cooler temperatures. Parking is free in the summer months and there are activities for all ages and abilities. Take the ski-lift to the top of the slopes and admire the spectacular views and snow-free ski runs. Or, for the adventurous, you can swap out the ski boots for a mountain bike and enjoy the thrill of manoeuvring down the mountain.

www.sierranevada.es/en/verano www.sierranevada.es/en/invierno

By far one of the best ways to explore Granada is by Segway. Play Granada offer two tour options and in small groups to ensure that you get the best from this activity. Previous experience isn’t necessary as the guide will help you ‘find your feet’ before moving off. Whilst spinning around the streets, you’ll visit many of the hot spots including the Albaicin and Sacromonte, take in the views of The Alhambra Palace from the viewpoint by the church of San Nicolas and learn about Granada’s ancient history.
www.playgranada.com/segway-tour

There are many ways to get around Granada, but a walking tour with an expert guide is a great way to hear about the history of the many wonderful buildings and by doing so, you’ll likely see more than if you were to walk the city alone. There are many companies offering walking tours but try a free daily walking tour with https://walkingranada.com/en/.

Within the gypsy quarter of Granada – Sacromonte – you can get a real taste of Spain and watch a traditional flamenco show with the option to watch with dinner. It’s believed that in this part of the city, Zambra, a flamenco dance and singing party originated, with the tradition dating back to the 16th century. Prices start from 30€ or 60€ with dinner.
www.alhambra.org/en/Granada/flamenco-granada-en.html