Top Things to See & Do in Granada (Besides the Alhambra)

Granada is the reflection of the splendor of the Nasrid period, present in many of its monuments and in its architectural jewel par excellence: The Alhambra. Considered by many to be the eighth wonder of the world, this palace complex welcomes millions of tourists from all over the world every year.

Granada is also a paradise for art lovers, who'll encounter flamenco shows, historical monuments, and specialized museums. Moreover, Granada's "hippie" atmosphere is unlike any other city in Spain.

Let’s focus on some of this incredible city's lesser-known marvels. Here is our selection of the top things to see and do in Granada – that aren’t the Alhambra…

1. The Albayzin

For centuries, Moorish and Christian traditions have peacefully coexisted in Granada, with the Albayzin neighbourhood serving as a stunning and atmospheric testament to this enlightened history.

The Alhambra and the Albayzin gaze at each other, each offering equally breathtaking views. Wander through the narrow, cobbled streets, take a break in the squares to enjoy the scenery, or stop for tapas and a refreshing drink.

Why visit:

Immerse yourself in the Moorish and Andalusian style found around every narrow corner or small square. Enjoy the view and sip champagne while overlooking the Alhambra Palace – El Huerto de Juan Ranas boasts a fantastic terrace. (Calle Atarazana Vieja, 6.)

Tapas stops:

Taberna El Beso offers Moroccan cuisine in a charming little palace. The owner also has a small collection of antiques and objects from Morocco available for purchase. (Cuesta de San Gregorio, s/n, 18010 Granada.)

Higher up in the Albayzin is Casa de los Mascarones. It's rustic but provides excellent tapas with a distinctly local Albayzin atmosphere. (Calle Pagés, 20, 18010 Granada.)

2. Palacio Dar al-Horra

Nestled in the heart of the Albayzin, this small palace is often overlooked. It was once the residence of Aixa, the mother of Boabdil, the last Moorish king of Granada, and it offers stunning views of the Albayzin. A visit only requires a short amount of time.

The ideal way to explore Palacio Dar al-Horra is by purchasing a ticket for the Andalucian Monuments. This ticket includes access to Palacio Dar al-Horra, Corral del Carbón, Bañuelo, and Casa Morisca (Calle Horno de Oro). Alternatively, tickets can be bought at the entrance of Palacio Dar al-Horra, which is closed from 14:30 to 17:00. (Callejón de las Monjas Albayzin, s/n, 18008 Granada.)

3. Cathedral & Capilla Real

If you have more than a casual interest in Spanish history, visiting the Capilla Real, where the Catholic Monarchs Isabel and Ferdinand are interred, is essential.

The first Renaissance church in Spain, the impressive Granada Cathedral, is also part of the same complex and can be toured along with the Royal Chapel. (Calle Mariana Pineda, 21, 18009 Granada.)

Tapas stop:

Behind the Cathedral is the fresh food market, San Agustín. La Picatería is an excellent choice for tapas here. (Plaza de San Agustín, S/N, 18001 Granada.)

4. Plaza Bib Rambla

Granada doesn't have a central plaza in the traditional sense, but Plaza Bib Rambla effectively serves that purpose.

As Granada's first square, Plaza Bib Rambla has witnessed a diverse and extensive history. From markets, jousting, bullfights, religious processions, to even executions, this square has experienced it all. Today, it hosts flower stalls, restaurants, and street performers. Much more civilised.

Tapas Stop:

La Telefonica, just off the square. (Calle Arco de las Orejas, 1, 18001 Granada.)

5. Go Shopping

Bringing back a souvenir or two from your travels is essential. But what should you purchase in Granada?

• Spices & tea: Be sure to visit the Moroccan-style tea shops and souvenir stores along Caldereria Nueva, near Calle Elvira. Located in the lower part of the Albayzin, it's an excellent spot to buy tea, spices, or North African pastries.

• Ceramics: Granada (and Andalucia) boasts a rich tradition of decorative ceramics, dating back to the 15th century. Decorative tiles are visible throughout the city. The blue and green pomegranate design (‘granada’ means ‘pomegranate’ in Spanish) on vases and plates is a classic decoration and makes a lovely gift. Ceramics are still crafted in the city today at Fajalauza. (Calle Fajalauza 2, Albayzin Alto.)

• Leather: 5V Valverde is a traditional shop specialising in handmade leather shoes, boots, and bags. Offering exquisite quality, it is one of the finest cordwainers in southern Spain. (Calle Reyes Católicos, 32, 18009 Granada.)

• Jewellery: Platonica is an excellent choice for gifts (Platonicajoyeria.com).

  Featuring locally designed and crafted jewellery, some pieces are inspired by Nasrid culture. (Carrera del Darro, 8, 18010 Granada.)

Tapas stop:

Taberna 22 is a charming little spot with a lively atmosphere at the end of Caldereria Nueva. The tapas are simple, but it's located on a main route from the centre of Granada to the Albayzin. (Plaza San Gregorio, 29, 18010 Granada.)

Take a break at Casa de Vinos La Brujidera. (Calle Monjas del Carmen, 2, 18009 Granada.)

Near Platonica, for tapas, try La Tabernilla del Darro. (Puente de Espinosa, 15, 18010 Granada.)

For a drink (after 20:00), head to Huerto del Loro. (Cuesta de la Churra, 4, 18009 Granada.)

6. Water & Granada

Water plays a significant role in Granada's architecture, featuring everything from shallow channels that cool homes to intricate, babbling fountains. Taking a tour is the ideal way to delve deeper and appreciate the innovative and intellectual intricacies of Moorish water traditions in southern Spain.

During this tour, you'll visit places like the Aljibe del Rey (a well) and the Bañuelo (an Arabic bathhouse).

7. Rodriguez Acosta Foundation

If you're on the Alhambra hill and have an interest in architecture, this carmen (a house with a garden in Granada) is worth visiting.

Owned by artist Rodriquez Acosta and constructed between 1916 and 1930, the building is an eclectic blend of styles, with gardens and tunnels that are truly captivating.

Keep in mind that some Alhambra tickets include access to this lesser-known museum.

8. Corral del Carbón

In the city centre, visit the Corral del Carbon. This building, originating from the 14th century, initially served as an inn for silk trade merchants, though its purpose has evolved over time.

While there were once hundreds of such structures across Spain, only a few remain today. This makes it historically significant and an outstanding example of well-preserved Moorish architecture.

Admission is free, and it is open from Monday to Sunday, 9:00 to 20:00. (Calle Mariana Pineda, 21, 18009 Granada.)

Tapas Stop:

Asador Corrala del Carbon – a charming bar and restaurant, ideal for a tapas stop rather than a full meal. (Calle Mariana Pineda, 8, 18009 Granada.)

9. Botanical Gardens

The Jardin Botánico de la Universidad de Granada is a small botanical garden located in the city centre, less than a five-minute walk from the Cathedral.

While it may not be the most impressive botanical garden, it is situated in a charming part of town where you can also explore the university buildings. The area has a lively student atmosphere, featuring a fantastic selection of vintage clothing shops and enjoyable tapas spots. (Calle Escuelas, n, 18001 Granada.)

Tapas (or cocktail) stop:

Consider visiting Humo El Origen (Calle Escuelas, 2, 18001 Granada) or Lemon Rock for a vibrant live music experience (Calle Montalbán, 6, 18002 Granada).

10. The Science Park

Granada's Parque de las Ciencias is an excellent destination for children. It captivates young minds for an entire day with its indoor and outdoor attractions, interactive activities suitable for all ages, and a biodome featuring animals. The park is closed on Mondays. (Avenida de la Ciencia, s/n, 18006 Granada.)

11. Flamenco

Granada is steeped in flamenco, with Sacromonte at its core. This neighbourhood, located just outside the Albayzin, is known for its cave houses.

Sacromonte is renowned for the 'Zambra' style of flamenco, a raw dance form often performed barefoot, believed to have roots in Morisco dance.

Where can you experience flamenco in Granada?

Despite Granada's rich flamenco tradition, finding authentic performances can be somewhat challenging.

Our top three recommendations for experiencing flamenco are: Jardinesdezoraya.com, Laplateria.org.es, and Casadelarteflamenco.com.

12. Head Towards a Mirador

Granada, with its skyline magnificently dominated by the Alhambra Palace, has always been a city focused on breathtaking views.

Mirador San Nicolas and Plaza Cristo Azucenas are two spacious squares in the Albayzin neighbourhood offering unobstructed views of the Alhambra. Stay as the moon rises behind the Alhambra and observe its transformation from ochre to terracotta.

13. San Juan de Dios Basilica

This church is a must-see for Baroque enthusiasts. Featuring elaborate frescoes, it stands as one of the most exquisite examples of this architectural style in Andalucia. (Calle San Juan de Dios, 19, 17, 18001 Granada.)

14. Sacromonte Abbey

This remarkable abbey is located at the end of the Sacromonte neighbourhood, offering an interesting (albeit somewhat exhausting) walk from the Paseo de los Tristes.

The abbey's cloisters frequently host live music events, and we highly recommend attending if you can secure tickets.

Conclusion: Beyond its undeniable heritage attractions, the city offers a wealth of top things to see & do in Granada: marvel at the UNESCO-listed Alhambra Palace and its exquisite Nasrid Palaces and Generalife gardens, enjoy panoramic sunset views from the Mirador de San Nicolás, explore the historic Granada Cathedral and Royal Chapel, and immerse yourself in authentic flamenco in Sacromonte’s caves Tapas culture thrives here, with many bars offering free tapas with your drink—a delicious tradition unique to Granada Whether you’re wandering ancient quarters, hiking mountain trails, or enjoying the coast, Granada’s blend of history, culture, and natural beauty makes it a truly unforgettable destination.