Best Things to Do in Granada

The Spanish charm, scenic landscape & historical sites of Granada can draw the attention of travellers in droves. This island nation is located west of Trinidad and Tobago, and is filled with sandy beaches, beautiful harbors, lush landscapes, and rich history. Alhambra is the premier interest point of Granada as well as one of the biggest attractions of Spain. Don't miss to take a stroll in the alleyways of the Albaicín neighbourhood after getting the feel of the palace's rich history. You are also able to shop for Moroccan goods adjacent to the Historic Center at the Alcaiceria. Make sure that you are not missing to take the advantage of Granada's close proximity to Sierra Nevada National Park. Moreover, you can indulge yourself in the Arab Bath Houses of the city. Ensure that you make at least a night trip to Plaza de San Nicolas for unforgettable vistas.

This city is popular because of its culture & fascinating history. It is packed with multiple tourist attractions & monuments. And you will be surprised to know that there are several tourist attractions and monuments that are dated back to almost 700 years ago. The mystical town was a Moorish capital between the thirteenth & fifteenth centuries. Let's dig into the article to learn the best things to do in Granada.

11 Best Things To Do In Granada:

Let's learn the best things to do in Granada. These are the following things you can enjoy on your trip to Granada:

1. Explore Alhambra— A Moorish treasure:

Those who want to witness the ethereal beauty of this exceptional Moorish palace fortress, come to Granada from around the world. You can find this point getting ranked in the top ten of almost all lists whenever people talk about the best things to do in Granada. Always remember that you just need a whole day to explore it. You should wear a pair of shoes in which you feel comfortable to walk around in.

You can first walk up the hill from the Plaza Nueva, and this small journey can be made within 20 minutes, which will be followed by strolling around a sprawling area which has towers, palaces, turrets, & gardens. Palacios Nazaríes is the best attraction in this place, and it must be Europe's most spectacular Islamic building. The awesome courtyards welcome you to walk along there and lead you to some of the best rooms.

2. Island Spice Tour:

This island is home to multiple spices of the Caribbean. For instance, Nutmeg is the most famous of all Grenadian Spices. You can use this in local recipes & products such as Nutmeg juice, Nutmeg ice cream, perfumes, soaps, & beauty products.

You should know that Granada probably has the most fertile soil in the Caribbean rife with nutmeg, cocoa, & soursop, banana palms, guava & ginger lilies. You can learn the harvesting process of these spices and how these are processed with these island tours. In the Gouyave Nutmeg Processing Station, you will get to know how nutmeg is processed & exported around the globe.

3. Witness Flamenco:

The origin of Flamenco was Andalusia, whereas the origin of Sacromonte was Granada. It belongs to some of the most popular places where people still practice the exquisite art form. Want to witness a few of the best singers, dancers, and guitarists? This can be made possible by navigating to the cave-quarter of Sacromonte. You can also get to see a lot of famous gipsies who made the town their home. They perform their haunting yet romantic art form in this city. Apart from the interesting flamenco performances, the area also houses several tourist traps.

4. Royal Chapel Of Granada:

You will make a mistake if you think that the feeling of tourist attractions at Granada ends with the Moorish spectacles. If you are planning to visit the town, you must go to the Royal Chapel of Granada or the Gothic Capilla Real de Granada. Catholic monarchs Isabella & Ferdinand commissioned this as their mausoleum. When it comes to talking about the best things to do in Granada, we should definitely recommend you to visit their tombs & their daughter whose name is Joanna "The Mad". The Cathedral of the town is next to this area, which is popular as a melting point of distinct architectural & religious styles. So, if you are planning to make a tour to Spain, you should definitely visit this place.

5. Tapas Trail Granada:

Are you looking for something that is highly recommended to do at night in this city? Heading toward the popular tapas for a drink is the best option. Visiting this place can change your misconception about getting free lunches if you think these do not exist in today's world. The reason is that many bars hand out free tapas when visitors buy a drink. 

That's why it has become one of the most attractive things to do in Granada. Are you looking for the best place to experience this culture? Then, you should know that in the streets between Plaza Nueva & the Gran Via, it will be possible to do so. Bar Poe is one of the famous bars where you can choose tapas from the menu. Hence, the Salt Cod is recommended you to try. Saint Germain is one of the spots which is popular for its ever-generous portion sizes. Bar La Buena Vida is a place where standing is more enjoyable than sitting in many bars.

6. Visiting Laura’s Herb And Spice Garden:

If you are willing to get a unique experience, you need to visit Laura's Herb and Spice Garden. It is one of the spots, where you get to see how all the plants grow on the island. In order to enjoy the exotic aromas of spices & fresh herbs, you can even get a chance to walk the lush trails. Moreover, wild sorrel plants can be seen here. People use these plants in juice drinks and rum. You will find several accommodations from which you can select, such as small private homes, all-inclusive resorts, etc.

7. Visit Casa Museo Federico García Lorca:

The most well-known dramatist and poet of Andalusia is Lorca. He was born in Vega, which is a fertile plain lying west of Granada, in 1898.

His birthplace was in Fuente Vaqueros, and now it has been transformed into a museum, the Casa Museo Federico García Lorca.

Many displays, such as photos, posters, costumes from his plays, and so on, are housed inside the museum. The summer home of his family was Huerta de San Vicente. Lorca composed several popular works, including Bodas de Sangre and Yerma there. When you visit his house, you can see many rooms inside. Or, if you want, you are able to attend events which are organized here, like concerts, workshops, & poetry readings.

8. Visit St. George’s – The Capital City Of Granada:

Visiting St. George’s is one of the best things to do in Granada. When it comes to giving an example of a Caribbean port town, we can definitely mention the name of St. George’s which is adorned with historic forts, a picturesque harbour, and a market that are more than enough to display all the sights, smell and taste of this city. If you are thinking about what to do in this city, walking St. George’s colourful streets in the afternoon will be your answer. It allows you to explore the local culture. In order to grab spices, souvenirs & handmade crafts, you need to stop at Market Square in the heart of St. George's.

9. Visit Arab Spice Market:

The recreation of the old Moorish market still holds the existence of a traditional Arab souk. Before the fire ruined the market in 1843, it was previously in Granda. This one is located near the Cathedral. The Alcaicería runs from the Plaza Alonso Cano on the Calle de la Alcaicería. Do you want to buy a few souvenirs for your family & friends? Then, it is probably the best place where you should make a visit.

10. International Festival of Music and Dance:

Granada is popular for the International Festival of Music and Dance, which is held in June & July. It dates back to 1883 when concerts were to be held at the Palace of King Carlos V. This festival is usually organized at historical monuments across the city and showcases the talent of Granada as well as its rich cultural heritage.

11. Generalife Gardens:

If you see the gardens of Alhambra once, you will be mesmerized. Alhambra is famous for its beautifully manicured gardens. The area was the former summer residence of the Sultans. If you visit here, you might get lost among its shaded walkways and fountains.

From here, the breathtaking views of the town & nearby Sierra Nevada mountains are absolutely outstanding. In order to see this, you have to make your way by fighting through the crowds. Do you want to take a second day to enjoy these gardens? If so, then to avoid the larger crowds, you need to go early in the morning. Do you love gardens and wish to view some free gardens in Granada? Then, you must visit Carmen de los Martires, which is adorned with vast gardens like a British Garden, French Garden, & Palmeras Garden.

Best Time To Visit Granada:

December is the best time to visit Granada. You need to know that January to April is the high season. During these months, the weather remains sunny and warm. But the price remains expensive during this time. If you want to get good deals, you can come here during October and November.

Granada Currency:

• In this place, the Eastern Caribbean Dollar is used where 1 USD = 2.70 ECD.
• In order to know the up-to-date rates, you can check the XE Currency Converter.
• You should carry an ATM when you try to land at the airport in Granada in order to get money out for cash purposes.
• Hotels accept credit cards widely.

Getting Around Granada:

• If you plan to get around Granada, you should use a rental car.
• Public buses are also available in Granada.
• If you are planning to go with a cheap option to get around & shuttle between popular beaches, minibusses are ideal.

The Bottom Line:

In this article, we have mentioned some of the best things to do in Granada. In order to explore the city's rich & indulgent tastes, you can head towards the tapas bars. If you are making a trip to Granada, make sure that you don't miss to witness the ethereal beauty of the exceptional Moorish palace fortress —— Alhambra. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top attractions to visit in Granada?

Alhambra, Generalife, Albayzin, Mirador de San Nicolas, Nasrid Palaces, Basílica de San Juan de Dios, etc, are some of the best places to visit in Granada.

What are the most popular things to do in Granada with children?

These are a few of the best experiences which you are able to enjoy with your family in Granada:

1. You can attend the international festival of music & dance
2. You can explore Alhambra
3. Don't miss to watch flamenco dance
4. You can visit Parque de las Ciencias
5. You can admire ancient architecture at the Royal Chapel of Granada

What can you do in Granada for one day?

You are able to go sightseeing in Granada. And then you can have your launch & explore the Arabian markets.