Spotlight on Granada

On a Classical Spain tour, you’ll visit the cultural city of Granada in the south of the country. From delicious cuisine, famous Flamenco dancing, museums and landmarks to the iconic Alhambra Palace, you can wander through a historical city embedded in Moorish history and discover an array of exciting surprises.  

What to see? 

As soon as you enter the city, you won’t miss the backdrop of the Sierra Nevada Mountain ranges soaring a magnificent 11,000 feet behind the city. Whether you’re walking along pebbled pavements, winding down alleyways (notice flowers hanging from every balcony), popping into a museum or browsing in unique shops and the single passage Alcaicería silk market, there’s no doubt you’ll find a souvenir or two – we recommend travelling light. Discover some of the most distinctive bars in the country, many of which are reminiscent of another time. Sip drinks and replenish your rumbling stomachs with some delicious tapas for an authentic Andalusian experience. 

The Alhambra 

Of course, the most popular tourist attraction in Granada is the Alhambra. It was built sometime during the 13th century for the Nasrid, who attained control of the city until the final days of Moorish control in Andalucia. It was then obtained by the Catholics who turned it into a Royal Court. Coming from the Arabic word ‘al-hambra’ meaning red castle, it was literally named after its red walls and towers surrounding the part-palace, part-fortress. The Alhambra sits atop a hill overlooking the Albayzin quarter of Granada’s romantic-looking city and is divided by three palaces built during the 14th century: the Comares Palace, the Palace of the Lions and the Partal Palace. And beyond the fortress walls is Generalife, a garden estate full of roses, water channels and fountains. This is the perfect place for a bit of peace and quiet. 

The Alcaicería silk market 

Once upon a time, the Alcaicería silk market sold Arabic spices, silks and various other things between Plaza Nueva and Plaza Bib-Rambla. Now you’ll find a single passage street full of local culture and fascinating souvenirs to buy. The Bazaar was one of the very few things to survive the Christian overrule of the land. On a visit to this Moorish spot, you’ll find crafts, silks, fruits and local knickknacks that are perfect to add to your Granada experience. 

The Arab quarter 

The Albaicín, the ancient Arab quarter, is the perfect place to while away the hours. You can meander through its tight network of winding cobbled streets, between the whitewashed houses and atmospheric squares, the scent of jasmine lingering in the air. Don’t miss the spectacular views of the Alhambra and the mountains beyond from popular the Mirador San Nicolás and take in the elegance of the 15th century Palacio de Dar al-Horra, the residence of the sultana Aixa, mother of Muhammad XII, the last Moorish King of Granada. Its rooms are traditionally located on three levels around a cool central courtyard and tranquil pool, and, after the Alhambra, it is one of the finest buildings – definitely worth a visit! 

The Sacromonte Abbey

A stroll the Sacromonte, the gypsy quarter, and you’ll likely spot the fine 17th-century Abbey perched high in the hills above. Once the site of pilgrimage, Sacromonte Abbey includes the Old College of St. Denis and the New College and Holy Caves. The caves, which were rediscovered in the 16th century, are adorned with relics and figures, and still inhabited by the locals. If you venture up there, you may hear the haunting sounds of flamenco wafting from the caves.  

Granada Cathedral 

At the heart of the city centre, you’ll find plenty to excite, including the majestic Granada Cathedral, it's a towering facade the work of a local architect Alonso Cano. With a mixture of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles, the cathedral dates from 1518 and, although it was constructed for over 180 years (and two 80-metre towers were originally planned), the tower remains half finished. 

Carmen de los Martires 

In the Carmen de los Martires Gardens, you’ll encounter a haven of colourful flowerbeds, shimmering ponds and leafy paths. (If this sounds like a gardener’s paradise, that’s because it is!) And for those less plant-obsessed, its shaded walkways still provide cool sanctuary in the spring and summer, and its views of the landscape beyond Granada are captivating, simply climb the staircase of its fairytale tower to admire the scenery. 

Carrera del Darro 

It’s easy to while away the hours on Carrera del Darro, Granada’s main street, which winds its way from Plaza Nueva towards the Albaicín alongside the Darro River. Lined by centuries-old buildings draped in colourful blossom, take in the views as the river gently flows under two of Granada’s oldest surviving bridges. Tucked away underneath a private house are the oldest and best-preserved Arabic baths in Spain; the Nanuelo dates back from around the 11th century and although the baths no longer exist, it’s elegant Moorish archways and striking doomed ceilings are incredibly intact – we'd like to see you look this good after a thousand years! 

How about checking out the entire tour? There are plenty more exciting stops to discover on the full itinerary for the Classical Spain: Seville, Cordoba and Granada tour.