Granada is one of the best Spanish cities to see the remnants of the Moorish era and a flourishing Islamic culture, making it a unique European city break.
Although the Romans and the Visigoths established settlements in what is now known as Granada, it was actually the Moors who put this city on the map after invading in 711. Today, the strong Moorish influence is evident in the city's medieval architecture, diverse neighbourhoods, and cultural experiences.
From tea houses to tiled streets, this article explores five things to do while visiting the last Moorish capital on the Iberian Peninsula.
5 Things To Do In Granada
1. Embark on a walking tour
GuruWalk's walking tours of Granada allow you to explore the Moorish capital alongside a passionate local guide. All of the walking tours are free and allow you to explore the must-sees of the city in under three hours.
You can opt for a nighttime tour of the well-lit Albaicin neighbourhood, a tour of the best viewpoints to witness the beauty of Alhambra from afar, a tour that helps you discover how flamenco was born in Andalucía, and much more.
2. Visit Alhambra and the Generalife Garden
Granada is most well-known for being home to the Alhambra and the Generalife Garden, an ancient palace and fortress complex that is said to be Europe's love letter to Moorish culture.
The history behind this famous UNESCO World Heritage site is incredible, so we recommend booking a guided tour to learn all about one of the most famous monuments of Islamic architecture from an expert. If you opt to explore Alhambra at your own pace, then it's essential to book your ticket as far in advance as possible.
In addition, you can enjoy stunning views of the Alhambra complex from scenic viewpoints (known as Miradores in Spain), such as Mirador San Nicolas. While the Alhambra is beautiful on the inside, the view of it from the opposite side of Granada is unbelievable.
3. Wander around Albaicin
Albaicin is actually one of the oldest neighbourhoods in Europe, filled with whitewashed buildings, tiled streets, floral displays, and fountains with drinkable water. It is an excellent place to aimlessly wander around, as long as you can manage the steep slopes and steps.
The large neighbourhood is home to the famous Alhambra complex, many of Granada's most popular and magnificent viewpoints, a 14th-century Nazarian palace, three Arab bathhouses, a convent, and more.
4. Watch a flamenco show in Sacramente
You can watch a flamenco show while visiting most Spanish cities, and they are always an excellent cultural experience. However, in Granada, you can attend a flamenco show in a cliffside cave in the Romani neighbourhood of Sacramonte.
Sacramonte is known as the gypsy quarter of Granada, as gypsies arrived in the 15th century to establish their homes and preserve their culture within the caves.
Before your evening flamenco show, you can visit Sacromonte Caves Museum and Sacromonte Abbey or hike the many steps to Mirador San Miguel Alto for the best views of Granada.
5. Stop off at a tea house
Whether you need a cup of tea after a long day of exploring or you just want to learn more about Arabian culture, we recommend stopping off at a tea house somewhere on Calle de las Teterias (Tea Houses Street) in the Albaicin neighbourhood.
Calle de las Teterias transports visitors and locals straight to the streets of Marrakech, where the scent of herbal tea, the quirky decor of the tea houses, and small shops selling Moroccan clothing await.
The traditional Moorish tea is made with green tea and mint, and it is said to offer numerous health benefits due to the anti-inflammatory effects of mint. In addition, many restaurants on the street also serve up couscous, the national dish of Morocco.
Excited To Explore Granada's Moorish Soul?
Granada is a very walkable city. However, it is full of steps and hills, which can be difficult during the summer months. Take advantage of the city's hop-on-hop-off bus service, which has 11 stops and departs approximately every 30 to 40 minutes.
Like many other European cities, Granada is witnessing heavy tourist pressure. Remember to be respectful towards the locals and their culture.
