Granada, spain
Attractions Guide

The city of Granada is known for its incredible medieval Arabic architecture, which stems from the city's historic Moorish occupation.

The Moorish rulers of Granada decided to build a vast sprawling palace in the 13th century at the site of an ancient Roman fortress, atop a hill overlooking the city. Interestingly, this palace later served as the Royal Court of Ferdinand and Isabella, and is the site where Christopher Columbus made his case and received permission to explore the Americas. This massive palace complex is the UNESCO listed Alhambra, which is among the top attractions in Spain.

It's extremely important to pre-book you tour of the Alhambra complex at least one week in advance or more, otherwise it's nearly impobssible to gain access into the Alhambra's palaces, patios, and the Generalife Gardens.

The iconic Alhambra showcases breathtaking and highly intricate Islamic architecture, with brilliant mosaics and elaborate designs throughout the gigantic complex. This complex consists of many ornate palaces, most notably the Palace of Charles V and the Nasrid Palace. The Alhambra's Nasrid Palace hosts the elegant Patio de los Leones, Myrtle Patio, and Patio de Comares. Other lovely patio courtyards can be found at the El Partal Palace.

The entire complex is surrounded by imposing medieval walls and also contains many beautiful fine gardens to explore, as well as the ruins of an Alcazaba fortress. Adjacent to the Alcazaba on the western edge of the complex is the Torre de la Vela tower, from which you can enjoy amazing panoramic views over Granada, high above the city.

Adjacent to the Alhambra are the gorgeous Generalife Gardens, tickets for which are typically sold as a combination with the Alhambra. Among these landscaped gardens is a large villa hosting more elegant patios, including the Patio de la Acequia and the Patio de la Sultana.

Within the historic center of Granada is the magnificent 16th century Granada Cathedral. This landmark church blends Renaissance and baroque architecture very aesthetically, and contains lavish interiors. Adjacent to the cathedral is the intricate Royal Chapel of Granada, which houses the mausoleum of the Spanish monarchs Ferdinand and Isabella, as well as a small museum.

Be sure to wander the tight stone streets of the historic city center near the cathedral, as you'll find many shops selling remarkable Moroccan and Middle Eastern goods such as hookahs, intricate lamps and decorations, clothing, accessories and much more. Walking along some of these street is like walking along a souk marketplace in Morocco.

Below the northern side of the Alhambra is the Paseo de los Tristes, a long promenade lined with shops and restaurants which also offers views looking up at the palace complex. Along the street leading to the promenade are the impressive remains of an 11th century Arab bath complex, El Banuelo, which now operates as a museum.

Along and around the Paseo de los Tristes you'll find many historic buildings like El Banuelo and small gardens related to to Granada's Moorish rule. You can gain access to all of these attractions if you purchase the slightly more expensive Doble de Oro ticket for the Alhambra, which also includes access to the Generalife Gardens, Palacio de Dar-al-Horra, and more.

You can walk up the hill from the Paseo de los Tristes to access the Mirador San Nicolas viewpoint facing the Alhambra at a similar elevation to the complex. From this viewpoint you can appreciate the scale of the Alhambra's vast medieval walls which fortify the complex.

Palacio de Dar-al-Horra

Continue uphill to visit the Palacio de Dar-al-Horra, another stunning palace which hosts views overlooking the city as well as intricate Islamic-style architecture. Just above the palace are more medieval walls which once fortified the city.

Carthuasian Monastery

On the northern side of the city is an incredible often overlooked attraction, the Granada Charterhouse Carthusian Monastery. This 16th century has a charming rustic appearance on the outside, however the monastery's interior is breathtaking and highly adorned with fine baroque details.

Northwest of Granada is a stunning 14th century hilltop castle, the Fortaleza de la Mota. This massive fortified complex mainly consists of medieval ruins which you can explore, as well as a huge old church containing excavations and a nearby watchtower. From the watchtower you can take in amazing views overlooking the city of Alcala la Real below. 

Reaching the Fortaleza de la Mota

The castle is approximately 1 hour from Granada by car, or about 1.5 hours by bus, which includes a 20 minute walk to reach the castle from the nearby bus stop.