The 27 BEST Things to Do in Granada | Local’s Guide

Welcome to Granada, the 11th oldest city in Spain and an absolute wonder of a city. Rich in culture, history, and mesmerizing architecture you’re in for the biggest treat! After living here for 3 years and walking every single corner of the city, here are all the BEST things to do in Granada – including hidden gems and the local favorites.

A city that you can fully immerse yourself in, in just 2 to 3 days, Granada is located about 1.5 hours north of Malaga and holds gems that you won’t see elsewhere – making it a must-visit.

If you want to walk in history and be surrounded by medieval aesthetics and stunning, Islamic art and architecture, Granada Spain is the place for you!

Without further ado, here are the top things to do in Granada, along with some local tips and hidden gems you won’t find elsewhere.

Disclaimer: This post has affiliate links that can help me earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you. If you click through and purchase with these links, thank you in advance for the extra support.💖😊

Here are the 27 Best Things to do in Granada!

1. Visit the Alhambra

• 💵 Price: 19 euros for regular tickets
• 📍 Location: C. Gran Vía de Colón, 5, 18001 Granada

What is Granada famous for? The one and only Alhambra Palace.

This is the most important landmark of Granada and the most visited site in all of Spain with 3 million visitors each year. In other words, out of all the cool things to do in Granada, the Alhambra is the winner.

La Alhambra, originally designed to be a military zone, was a royal residence, fortress, and small medina all at once during the 13th century. For 800 years, Granada was under the Moorish rule which is when the Alhambra was built.

This explains all the stunning mocárabes and Islamic architecture. I won’t spoil too much but know that the magnificence of La Alhambra is hard to describe in just a few words and is even hard to fully digest.🤯

The average visit is 3 hours long, and as someone who’s visited twice, I can attest that 3 hours here feels like enough and not enough time simultaneously. From the intricate details of Islamic art and carvings throughout the architecture to the beautiful gardens, you will find yourself entranced.

Make the most of your visit with my 16 ESSENTIAL Tips for Visiting the Alhambra!

Being the highest of the top attractions in Granada Spain, you must buy your ticket WELL in advance. Check out these best-rated experiences below & book your favorite before it sells out!👇

2. Catedral de Granada

• 💵 Price: 6 euros for regular tickets
  • 4.50 euros for students
  • Free entry for children under 12
• 📍 Location: C. Gran Vía de Colón, 5, 18001 Granada

Welcome to Granada’s iconic and most important cathedral, the Catedral de Granada. This cathedral’s construction began in 1501, after the city was reconquered by the Christians, from the Moors, in 1492.

This is a stunning place to see from both the outside and the inside; and if you like architecture, its many details will keep you busy.

Located in the heart of the city, the plaza that sits at the feet of the Cathedral is lively with people. Here you find people hanging out on the steps, others having tapas, and occasionally, someone playing the guitar. It’s safe to say that this square always has beautiful vibes.

Whether you choose to enter the Granada Cathedral or not, at minimum you must see its façade and square!

3. Capilla Real | The Royal Chapel of Granada

• 💵 Price: 6 euros for regular tickets
  • 4.50 euros for students
  • Free entry for children under 12
• 📍 Location: Calle Oficios, s/n, 18001 Granada

Found next to the Cathedral of Granada, this chapel was constructed after the cathedral, between 1505 and 1517. It is the burial place of Queen Isabella (I) La Catolica and King Ferdinand, who were the Spanish and Catholic Monarchs.

The Monarchs chose to be buried here because they saw the reconquest of Granada as the achievement of their reign.

While it may not seem like it from the outside, the Capilla Real turns out to be quite a large chapel with lots to see. There are two main “rooms”, including the chapel where the royals are buried, a room dedicated to the royal’s belongings and artifacts.

In the chapel, there are two stunning marble sculptures of the resting monarchs. Below the massive sculptures, is a small crypt with the actual tombs in which they rest – which you can see from up close.

Being the resting place of the monarchs, no photography of any sort is allowed.

Do you want a guided tour of the Cathedral and the Royal Chapel? If so, check out this highly-rated Get Your Guide tour.

4. Monasterio de la Cartuja de Granada

• 💵 Price: 6 euros for regular tickets
  • 4.50 euros for students
  • Free entry for children under 12
• 📍 Location: P.º de Cartuja, s/n, 18011 Granada

The Carthusian Monastery (Granada Charterhouse) is known as one of the finest examples of Baroque (architectural and art style) in Spain and dates back to 1516!🤯

It took 3 centuries to complete the monastery fully, which explains why aside from the Spanish Baroque architecture, there are several other styles. The other architectural styles include late Gothic, Renaissance architecture, and early Neoclassical architecture.

This marvelous monastery has several sections, including the Church, the Sacristy, the Cloister and Common Rooms, and more. When visiting here, you will find yourself entranced by every detail in each room – whether it’s the architecture, paintings, or artifacts and statues.

This hidden gem is a 30-minute walk from the center of Granada, but worth the visit! If you are trying to decide which religious site to visit, prioritize this hidden gem over the Cathedral.

5. Monasterio de San Jeronimo

• 💵 Price: 6 euros for regular tickets
  • 4.50 euros for students
  • Free entry for children under 12
• 📍 Location: C. Rector López Argüeta, 9, 18001 Granada

This is a Renaissance-style, Roman Catholic Hieronymite monastery. While famous for its architecture, this is the first church in the world to have been consecrated to the Immaculate Conception of Mary.

Similarly to the Monasterio de la Cartuja, this monastery has different “areas”, particularly the Church, the cloister, and the common rooms. The Monasterio de San Jeronimo’s church is EASILY one of the most breathtaking things you will see in Granada. Why? Because its interior is like no other – especially its ceilings.

In Spain, convent nuns are famous for their delicious sweets and baked goods. When visiting the monastery, make sure to check out the food and produce they sell to treat yourself!

6. Visit Basilica de San Juan de Dios

• 💵 Price: 7 euros for regular tickets
  • 6 euros for students and young people from 12-18.
  • Free entry for children under 12
• 📍 Location: C/ San Juan de Dios, 17, 18001 Granada

This is Granada’s best-kept secret and one of the most BEAUTIFUL hidden gems.

The Basilica de San Juan de Dios is an 18th-century basilica built in honor of San Juan de Dios. San Juan de Dios was a man who selflessly donated all his riches to aid the healthcare of the less fortunate. The basilica stands right next to the Hospital San Juan de Dios.

Something ironic about this basilica is that it shines in endless gold. This fully contradicts the very principles of San Juan, as he lived a life of giving back to others and not sparing any riches.

This basilica is nothing short of breathtaking and is certainly worth visiting. I highly recommend visiting with an audio guide to learn about the basilica and what’s inside of it. As an unusual activity for a religious site, here they have Virtual Reality goggles that give you the impression you’re flying through the basilica. The goggles narrate as you navigate.

Something neat about this basilica is its light show. This short-lasting show uses lights to point to the parts of the altar and teach you about them. If they don’t offer the light show during your visit, you are allowed to come back and re-enter to attend the show.

7. Attend a Flamenco Show 💃

While there is not one official city that is home to Flamenco, Granada is one of the cities where Flamenco originates from. This makes attending a Flamenco performance a must-see when visiting.

Flamenco is a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity since 2010. Three branches compose this art: song, dance, and guitar playing. This art was born from the Roma people, who lived in the Albaicin and Sacromonte neighborhoods. Due to this, the best and most authentic Flamenco shows are those performed in the Sacromonte caves. Flamenco shows are intimate and full of emotions, and you will find yourself completely entranced.

💃 Read here to discover the 8 BEST Flamenco shows in Granada and everything to know!

8. Granada Tapas 🍽️

What’s a more Spanish activity than going out for tapas?

While it’s debatable whether tapas originate from Granada or not, it is for sure that Granada has the BEST tapas culture. Why? In Granada, you get free tapas for every drink you order (water included depending on the place). If you want a specific tapa, you can also opt for simply ordering tapas if you don’t want to drink too much.

Read here for the ultimate guide to Granada Tapas – which includes what they are, and where you can find the best tapas! Check out this highly-rated experience for a Granada Tapas & food tour!

In Granada, the night is just as animated as the day – so don’t go to bed early when visiting! Some of the best things to do in Granada at night are going out for tapas and drinks, playing pool, going to a club or the movie theater, or simply hanging out in the city.

10. Parque de las Ciencias

• 💵 Price: check here the different tickets for each site.
• 📍 Location: Av. de la Ciencia, s/n, 18006 Granada

Are you a science lover or an animal lover? Or maybe a parent looking for activities for your kids? Then Granada’s Parque de las Ciencias is perfect for you! The Granada Science Park is home to several departments, including the BioDomo, Planetarium, Museum, and more.

Come to the Parque de las Ciencias to learn more about the beautiful things that surround us, or make us! This park is less than a 30-minute walk away from the center.

11. Create your own perfume | Patio de los Perfumes

• 💵 Price: starting at 65 euros
• 📍 Location: Carrera del Darro, 5, 18010 Granada

Given smell is one of the best senses for memory, this is one of the best souvenirs you can bring from Granada! Patio de los Perfumes is a store with a small museum telling the history of perfumes, and two other rooms selling perfumes and skincare/body products. Everything here is handmade with natural and high-quality ingredients.

Come create your own perfume, or simply buy one, to travel to Granada any time you want!

When visiting this store, make sure to check out their beautiful courtyard!

12. Thrift Shopping

Calling all the Thrift Shopping lovers! Granada is home to several thrift and second-hand stores, one of which the singer Rosalia shopped in. For any Burberry lovers, the thrift stores here tend to have a good amount of Burberry items – from coats to sweaters to scarves.

13. Arab Baths in Granada

With its rich Moorish culture and history, Granada takes part in the Al-Andalus culture and the 1000-year-old Hammam tradition. Hammam is a type of steam bath, as well as a place of public bathing. This ritual is meant to be a purifying to the body and spirit.

There are several Hammams to visit in Granada, with the best ones being Hammam Al Ándalus and Al Haram.

If you have extra time in Granada, with a day to relax, this is the perfect activity. Book your spot before it sells out!👇✨

14. Fundacion Rodriguez Acosta

• 💵 Price: 5 euros for a general visit.
• 📍 Location: Callejón Niño del Rollo, 8, 18009 Granada

Re-opening just recently, the Fundacion Rodriguez Acosta is one of the most beautiful Carmenes in all of Granada. Designed by José María Rodríguez-Acosta, this 1914 home has stunning ornate gardens and an art museum.

This carmen sits on the Mauror Hill, a hill adjacent to that of Alhambra and the Carmen de los Martires. To reach these three different sites, you go under the beautiful Puerta de las Granadas. Past the Puerta de las Granadas, the path begins to split in three ways, and Mauror Hill is the “first” hill you walk up.

15. Dine at Restaurante el Agua Granada | Dinner with a View

📍 Location: C. Alcaiceria, 1, 3, 18001 Granada

If you’re looking for a special dining experience, this is the perfect place for you! Restaurante el Agua, located in Albaicin, offers breathtaking views of the Alhambra and, obviously, delicious plates.

In all seriousness, the dishes are plated so nicely that you almost wonder which view is prettier: the food or Alhambra?

Alhambra wins, but the food comes in close second.

Here are the Best Free Things to Do in Granada

16. Visit the Alcaiceria Market

📍 Location: C. Alcaiceria, 1, 3, 18001 Granada

Near the Cathedral of Granada and the Royal Chapel, the Alcaicería Market is a narrow alley filled with shops. Back in the Moorish days, this was the home of the Great Bazaar of Granada made of various streets between Plaza Nueva and Plaza Bib-Rambla, where merchants sold Arabic silks, spices, and other goods.

Small tip: Around this area, some women walk around with rosemary in their hands. If they approach you, simply tell them no and leave – they will attempt to tell you your fortune and ask for money.

17. Walk the Carrera del Darro

Carrera del Darro is easily the most BEAUTIFUL and serene walk in all of Granada. This narrow, medieval street sits at the edge of the Darro River and is decorated with colorful buildings and plants. Walking this street, you will truly feel like you’re walking in a medieval fairytale. There are parts of this street that remain untouched, with buildings from the 16th century.

This street also gifts a peaceful ambiance, from the gentle sounds of the river flowing through plants and rocks to the lively birds singing and flying around.

18. Walk the Paseo de Los Tristes

If you want to feel like you’re walking through medieval times, this is the perfect stroll. Walk the Carrera del Darro in the direction of the Fuente de Los Tristes, and you will end up on the Paseo de Los Tristes within a few minutes. Take a nice break with the beautiful view of La Alhambra, from below, by the Fuente de Los Tristes.

This street is called the “Walk of the Sad” because people would cry walking this street as they made their way to the San Jose cemetery, where their loved ones lay.

Check out this amazing evening guided tour that takes you through Carrera del Darro, Paseo de los Tristes, and the iconic neighborhoods of Granada!

19. Walk Around Albaicín

Albaicin is Granada’s oldest Arab district and it sits on a hill across from the Alhambra. In the last years of Nazarid dominance, before the reconquest, there were 30 mosques and over 40,000 people populating Albaicín.

Nowadays, Albaicín remains a stunning neighborhood with whitewashed homes, narrow streets, and cobblestone streets. The white houses are often decorated with a splash of vibrant colors – sometimes with flowers, other times with decorations.

Check out this highly-rated experience for a guided sunset tour through the beautiful Albaicin and Sacromonte!

20. Walk around Sacromonte

Sacromonte is a beautiful neighborhood of Granada, famous for its Flamenco caves and whitewashed homes. This was one of the neighborhoods for the Roma people, the same people who invented Flamenco. Being built into a cliff, many of the houses here are built into caves – which explains why Flamenco shows are in caves.

This is a lovely neighborhood to walk around during the day, but we warned it can be steep. Come here to experience a Flamenco performance - you won’t regret it.

21. Visit the Mirador de San Nicolás

📍 Location: Plaza Mirador de San Nicolás, 2, 18010 Granada

Once you’ve walked up the Albaicín neighborhood, you will encounter the Mirador (lookout or viewpoint) de San Nicolas.

This is the perfect plaza to relax and take in the most iconic sights in Granada: the beautiful Alhambra, Granada’s city and landscape. Near the plaza, there are various restaurants and bars to enjoy tapas or meals.

One of the magical parts of this square is strangers taking in the beautiful views of Alhambra together and enjoying live music. Often there will be a group of people playing the Flamenco, whether it’s only through the guitar or singing too.

This beloved site is easily one of the ABSOLUTE best things to do in Granada. I mean… look at these views!

22. Visit Carmen de los Mártires ⛲

📍 Location: P.º de los Mártires, s/n, 18009 Granada

Carmen de los Mártires is a 19th-century palace and the largest Carmen in Granada with 7 hectares of land.

This carmen is home to several, vast gardens, including a French Baroque garden, an English-style Garden, and an irrigation pond that looks like a lake. Furthermore, there are stunning fountains, statues, a small tower, and a path inspired by the Nasrid Palaces.

Also, isn’t this fountain just so BEAUTIFUL?😍 This is only one of the few beautiful parts of this hidden gem!

Here you will also find the cutest citizens of the Carmen: two peacocks, and ducks. Carmen de los Mártires is the perfect place to enjoy long strolls, slow down, and look out over Granada and the snowy caps of the Sierra Nevada mountain range.🏔️

Carmen de los Mártires is located near La Alhambra, but given the steep hills and long walks – I recommend seeing both beautiful places on two different days!

On the list of unusual things to do in Granada, this hidden gem is truly worth visiting! Take a guided tour of the Carmen de los Mártires to learn more about it.

23. Hangout in Plaza Bib Rambla

Sitting near the Cathedral of Granada, Plaza Bib Rambla is one of Granada’s main squares. Here you can enjoy the architecture, shops, and Spanish cuisine – including freshly-made churros with a nice hot chocolate. 🤤☕

24. Hangout in Plaza Nueva

This is the most ancient plaza in Granada, making the name “New Square” quite ironic.😂 This beautiful square sits between the modern center and Carrera del Darro (mentioned in #9) and is a perfect spot to stroll around and enjoy tapas. Occasionally, there will also be people dancing and performing Flamenco.

Fun fact about the fountain pictured below: Granada means Pomegranate. This is why there is a pomegranate on top of the fountain, and why the city is decorated with Pomegranates.

26. Federico García Lorca Park

The Federico García Lorca Park is a beautiful park that sits a short walk from the city center, offering a serene city getaway.

This park is dedicated to the Granadinian Federico García Lorca, one of Spain’s most important poets from the 20th century.

People believe that the Fascist forces murdered García Lorca at the start of the Spanish Civil War. While there is no official reason for his death, many theorize it was due to his sexuality and socialist views.

In this park, you will find sunny alleys, landscaped bushes, and various types of trees – including palm trees. Furthermore, you will find Garcia’s Lorca’s former house, now a museum, and fragments of his poems on the wall surrounding the main square.

27. Go on one of the Best Day Trips from Granada

Granada is a fairly small, yet rich, city. Due to this, it’s best to spend at least 2 days in Granada to truly take in its magic. With that said, if you are in Granada for more than 3 days, you should consider taking a day trip!

Two of the best day trips from Granada are the Caminito del Rey in Malaga, once the world’s most dangerous path, and visiting Cordoba, once the world’s biggest city.

If you are someone who loves long walks and nature, the Caminito del Rey is something you simply cannot miss out when visiting Andalusia. This one is a bit trickier as a day trip, as there’s no direct bus – unless you book a guided tour with commute included – but nonetheless, super worth it.

Cordoba is the perfect day trip for those who want to explore other cities rich in heritage, culture, and breathtaking architecture – including La Mezquita Catedral. You can easily get a direct bus from Granada and spend the whole day around the Historic Center.

Granada Local’s Tips & General Info

After living in Granada for two years, here are a few things to know:

• Don’t accept plants or rosemary from women who come up to you. It’s a money-grabbing scam.
• Everything is closed on Sundays, except for touristy shops.
• Siesta is real. Everything is closed from around 14:00 to 16:00 (2 – 4 PM).
• Meals are later than usual. Eat at the Spanish time to ensure you have high quality and non-touristy food.
• Granada is a heaven for celiacs! Here are the 8 best gluten-free restaurants in Granada.
• While cards are accepted in most places, it’s always good to have some cash!

Granada FAQs

What is Granada, Spain famous for?

Granada is famous for the La Alhambra, the 8th “unofficial” wonder of the world and Spain’s most visited landmark!

Is 2 days in Granada enough? Is 3 days in Granada too long?

Being a smaller city, 2 days in Granada is enough to see all the main attractions and some hidden gems.

3 days in Granada, on the other hand, is the perfect amount of days for those who want to see the main attractions but also enjoy the true essence of this magical city. With three days you will be able to slow down and enjoy each moment and attraction to the fullest.

Is 1 day enough in Granada Spain?

No. Unfortunately, many people treat Granada as a day trip – thinking there is nothing to see besides La Alhambra. As you can see with this guide of 27 things to do in Granada, there is A LOT more!

With that said, if you can only do a day trip – Granada is absolutely worth it. However, I strongly recommend visiting for a minimum of 2 full days.

What is the best part of Granada to stay in?

The absolute best part of Granada to stay in is the city center, particularly the Centro-Sagrario and Realejo-San Matias.

I do NOT recommend staying in the Albaicín because of how uphill it is and it’s endless cobblestone streets. This is because you will be doing lots of walking, and uphill walking with Alhambra. It’s best to stay in a flat, central area to save your energy.

Want more help with your travels? Check out my Posts!

Here are more Granada-related blogs to help you out on your trip.☺️👇

• The Ultimate Guide to Granada’s Hidden Gems
• How to Spend the Perfect One Day in Granada
• The Ultimate 2 Days in Granada Itinerary
• 8 Best Flamenco Shows in Granada: All You Need to Know
• 16 ESSENTIAL Tips for Visiting the Alhambra
• 15 Best Day Trips from Granada
• Best Gluten-Free Restaurants in Granada
• The Best of Andalusian Food and Everything You Need to Know

Grab my e-Checklist to make sure you’re properly prepared for Andalusia!👇

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I have to ask…

What’s the first thing you’ll want to do or experience from this list?

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