How to Spend 72 Hours in Granada, Spain

Now if you’re planning a trip to Andalusia, a visit to the Alhambra is at the top of your must see list. Shaped by waves of history, Granada offers a view into Arab street life, Islamic architecture and a deep south feel.

Where to Stay in Granada:

NH Collection Granada Victoria is located in the heart of the city center in Granada and is ideally located near restaurants. The hotel is within walking distance of the Alcaicería Market and Carrera del Darro. Alhambra is a bit of a hike from the hotel however there is a convenient bus stop that will take you to the entrance for 1.5 Euros. The front desk was warm and friendly; they helped provide a taxi to the train station and provided some amazing advice about the city.

What to See in Granada:

Alhambra is the last and greatest Moorish palace and the most dominant sight in Granada. For two centuries, it reigned as the capital of the Moorish empire eventually becoming the royal court of King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella. The giant fortress is located on a strategic point with a view of the whole city.

This is the biggest tourist attraction in Andalusia therefore it is important to book tickets in advance as there are daily limits. I booked my ticket almost 2.5 months before my trip to guarantee admission for my specific day. Please keep in mind that when booking your ticket you must enter your passport number so be sure to use the official website. You need a minimum of three hours to see the entire fortress. I went during the summer and in the Andulusian heat it took much longer than three hours. 

General admission: Alcazaba, Nasrid Palaces, Generalife

Alcazaba

Alcazaba is a military area and one of the oldest parts of Alhambra. You can visit the following in Alcazaba: the Terrace of the Tower of the Cube, the Adarve of the North Wall, the Military District, the Gate of the Arms, The Tower of the Candle and the Garden of the Adarves.

Nasrid Palaces

Nasrid Palaces are various royal houses built by different sultans during the Nasrid period. There are three main areas: Mexuar, Palace of Comares and Palace of the Lions. In addition, there is the Ajimeces Gallery which holds the Lindaraja Balcony – a watchtower overlooking the countryside with a false, multicolored crystal covering. Please be advised that access to the Nasrid Palaces must be done at the time indicated on your ticket.

Generalife

Generalife includes the Lower Gardens, the Palace of the Generalife and the High Gardens.

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Alcaicería Market

Alcaicería Market used to be Granada’s Grand Bazaar with the finest herbs and spices from north Africa and Arabic silk fabrics. The original bazaar burnt to the ground during the 19th century. Now these streets are filled with rich history and local culture. This area is extremely touristy consisting of small souvenir shops and live music. It is a wonderful place for a stroll and the shopkeepers don’t pressure you to buy anything. 

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Albaicín

Albaicín is the old Moorish quarter of the city located on a hill facing the Alhambra. Here you will find the Church of San Salvador and the Church of San Nicolas and Views. The Church of San Nicolas and Views has the most spectacular view of the Alhambra with a majestic background of the Sierra Nevada mountain range. This view alone is well worth the hike.

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Carrera del Darro

Carrera del Darro is a magical, picturesque cobbled street that runs along the Darro River. This area is full of live music, shops, bars and restaurants – all with a perfect view of the Alhambra above on the hill.

Catedral de Granada & Capilla Real

Catedral de Granada is over 500 years old and is the second largest religious site in Granada after the Alhambra. Capilla Real de Granada was built between 1505 and 1517 and this Isabelline-Gothic-style mausoleum is the official burial ground for Queen Isabella I and King Ferdinand. This has a separate entrance fee from the Catedral and I would highly recommend getting the audio guide to get the full history.

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Where to Eat in Granada:

Coffee House in Alhambra – Durán Barista is a fixed price breakfast buffet and the food was so good. I came here twice during my stay in Granada. I love that they took the time to write my name in my coffee, constantly had fresh fruit and juice and that the overall aesthetic was so cute.

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Wild Food is an amazing upscale vegan restaurant with great service and a friendly staff. Their truffle pizza was out of this world and the restaurant’s central location was unbeatable. 

For more on Spain:

How to navigate Spain’s train system – https://therhealest.com/how-to-purchase-train-tickets-in-spain-on-renfe/

Madrid –https://therhealest.com/what-to-do-in-madrid-for-3-days-itinerary/

Sevilla – https://therhealest.com/how-to-explore-sevilla-in-3-days/