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Looking for the best things to do in Granada? You’re in the right place!
After several visits, we’ve come to love this city for more than just its famous Alhambra. Wandering the Albaicín’s narrow streets, catching a Flamenco show, or riding an e-bike through the hills – every experience here feels like stepping into history. And don’t even get us started on the tapas!
To help you plan the perfect trip, we’ve put together a list of the best things to do in Granada. Whether you’re here for the sights, food, or adventure, these experiences will make your visit unforgettable!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did in Granada was this small-group tour of the Alhambra. It includes skip-the-line tickets which is a HUGE bonus. We saw the Alhambra, Generalife Gardens, and inside the Nasrid Palaces with an expert guide.
- Don't Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
- Things to do in Granada, Spain
- 1. Tour the Alhambra and get skip-the-line tickets to Generalife Gardens
- 2. Ride an e-bike through the historic neighborhoods of Albaicin and Sacramonte
- 3. Explore the Sierra Nevada Mountains in a 4×4 vehicle
- 4. Taste your way through Granada on a tapas and wine tour
- 5. Escape the city and hike the Los Cahorros trail
- 6. See a Flamenco show
- 7. Learn about Granada’s history on a private city tour
- Where to Stay in Granada, Spain
- Thanks for reading!
- Why We Book Tours with Viator
- Travel Like a Local, Not a Target.
- Travel Like a Local, Not a Target.
- Don't Forget Travel Insurance!
Things to do in Granada, Spain
1. Tour the Alhambra and get skip-the-line tickets to Generalife Gardens
- Duration: 3 hours
- Time: Multiple departure times from 9 am – 5 pm
- Highlights: Tour Granada’s signature sight, explore the Alcazaba, Nasrid Palaces, and Palace of Charles V, learn about medieval history
- Inclusions: Guided tour in Spanish, English, French, German, Italian, or Portuguese, prebooked tickets to the Alhambra and Generalife Gardens, headphones
- Rating: 4.7 stars (check 2,600+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: No
- Price: Check price here!
Skipping the long entry lines and stepping straight into the Alhambra was the best way to start this medieval history tour! The sprawling complex isn’t just Granada’s most famous landmark, it’s a journey through centuries of history.
Our tour began in the Generalife Gardens, a peaceful retreat once used by Granada’s rulers. With fountains, shaded courtyards, and lush greenery, it was easy to see why they chose this spot to escape the heat! From there, we wandered through the Alhambra Medina, the old residential quarter where nobles, artisans, and palace workers once lived.
Climbing to the top of the Alcazaba was an adventure and gave us some of the best panoramic views! The steep stairs and winding pathways led us through ancient stone walls, with whitewashed houses on one side and the Sierra Nevada mountains on the other.
But the best part was stepping inside the Nasrid Palaces! The stucco carvings, intricate archways, and famous Court of the Lions were even more impressive in person.
Every detail told a story, and with our guide, Christian, leading the way, those stories came to life. His deep knowledge of Granada’s Muslim, Jewish, and Christian influences made it even more fascinating.
And with just 20 people in our group, we could ask questions and never felt rushed. For a deeper, more engaging visit to the Alhambra, this small-group tour is the best way to go!
Book this guided Alhambra tour here and secure skip-the-line entry!
2. Ride an e-bike through the historic neighborhoods of Albaicin and Sacramonte
- Duration: 2 hours
- Time: Multiple departure times from 10 am – 6 pm
- Highlights: Explore Albayzin and Sacromonte using an electric bike, learn the history of Albayzin, discover cave houses and Flamenco traditions, see the city from a mountain peak
- Inclusions: Private or small group tour in English, French, or Spanish, local guide, use of bicycle and helmet
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 650+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
To be honest, biking up Granada’s steep hills sounded like a workout we weren’t prepared for. But with an electric bike? Game changer! This small-group bike tour made climbing through Albayzin and Sacromonte effortless.
We started in Plaza Nueva, where our guide, Pedro, gave us a rundown of the city’s history before leading us onto Carrera del Darro. The cobbled street looks like it’s straight out of a medieval painting! As we rode, Pedro filled us in with stories behind every corner.
The Alhambra loomed above as we cruised past centuries-old buildings toward Sacromonte. This neighborhood is the soul of Granada’s flamenco scene, filled with cave houses where the Romani community has lived for generations. Pedaling was easy, but we kept slowing down just to take it in!
Then came the climb into Albayzin with whitewashed houses, secret alleyways, and glimpses of the Alhambra from nearly every turn. When we reached Mirador de San Nicolás, the view stopped us in our tracks!
The city stretched before us, with the Alhambra glowing against the Sierra Nevada mountains. It almost made us forget how we got there!
There’s also a private option, but with our group of 12, we had enough room to navigate Granada’s narrow streets without squeezing past crowds – something that would’ve been a nightmare with a big tour. Trust us, this is the most fun way to explore Granada! Read glowing reviews here and see why for yourself!
Reserve your spot on this bike tour here and cancel up to 24 hours in advance!
3. Explore the Sierra Nevada Mountains in a 4×4 vehicle
- Duration: 7 hours
- Time: 9 am and 4 pm (sunset tour starts at 1 pm in winter)
- Highlights: Travel beyond Granada in a 4×4 vehicle, follow ancient routes to 2,500 meters/8,200 feet, enjoy a refreshment in a mountain hut, admire Mulhacen, see sunset views (if option selected), learn about the region’s biodiversity and Moorish history
- Inclusions: Local guide, one drink in a panoramic mountain hut (coffee, beer, wine), air-conditioned 4×4, small group tour (8 people max)
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 600+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Exploring Spain’s largest national park is already incredible, but doing it in a 4×4 takes it to another level! This full-day safari tour into Sierra Nevada National Park is the best way to get off the beaten path.
Instead of paved roads and crowded lookout points, we bounced along ancient trails, cutting through some of Spain’s wildest landscapes. All in a seriously capable 4×4! Climbing steep rocky paths and weaving through thick pine forests was an adventure in itself!
Our guide entertained us with stories about the region’s history and biodiversity. We even saw a rare plant species found nowhere else in Europe! Then came the view of Mulhacén, Spain’s highest peak, rising above the landscape. Seeing it up close made the park feel even more vast and rugged.
We chose the sunset tour, and wow, what a great decision! As the sun dipped lower, the mountains lit up in deep reds and golds, and the valleys stretched out in a haze of light. By the time we reached a remote mountain hut for a drink, the sky was putting on a full-blown sunset show!
With only eight people on the tour, it felt adventurous but never overwhelming. The 4×4 tackled steep trails and narrow paths that bigger groups couldn’t access, leading us to some incredible viewpoints.
If you want to see Sierra Nevada’s wilder side without the hassle of planning or sticking to the main roads, this 4×4 tour is an absolute yes!
This tour is likely to sell out, so book your spot here for an ultimate adventure!
4. Taste your way through Granada on a tapas and wine tour
- Duration: 3.5 hours
- Time: 11:30 am, 6 pm, 6:30 pm, 7 pm
- Highlights: Explore Granada while feasting on local specialties, enjoy tapas, cured ham, wine, and more
- Inclusions: Small group guided food tour, lunch/dinner, vegetarian and allergy-friendly options (if requested)
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 550+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Granada isn’t just famous for the Alhambra, it’s also a paradise for food lovers like us! This small-group tapas and wine tour was our favorite way to dive into the city’s food scene while learning about its history.
With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, we hopped between family-run taverns, each serving up generous portions of local specialties. From flavorful tapas to rich wines, every stop added another layer to our understanding of Granada’s culinary traditions.
No set route means no two tours are exactly the same. Your guide tailors the experience to the group’s tastes, interests, and even the freshest offerings of the day!
What we liked most was that this tour blended history, hospitality, and amazing Spanish flavors! Our guide, Katia, made sure everyone felt included, especially those with dietary restrictions, which she accommodated effortlessly.
An olive oil tasting was one of our favorite parts! We tasted different varieties and explored what makes each one unique. Learning how to truly appreciate olive oil, from its aroma to its finish, felt like unlocking a secret level of Mediterranean cuisine.
By the end of the night, we weren’t just full. We left with a deeper appreciation for the city’s rich flavors and the people who bring them to the table. If you want to experience Granada like a local foodie, this tour is the way to do it!
Reserve this top-rated food tour here and taste the best of Granada for yourself!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
5. Escape the city and hike the Los Cahorros trail
- Duration: 3 – 4 hours
- Time: Multiple departure times from 9 am – 5:30 pm
- Highlights: 6.5-kilometer (4-mile) hiking tour to Los Cahorros, walk along the river, cross suspension bridges, take in canyon views, see waterfalls and caves, learn about the local ecosystem
- Inclusions: Professional guide, private transportation to and from meeting point, hiking poles (if requested), easy route for families, small group size
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 300+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Hiking through Los Cahorros felt like stepping into another world—one filled with narrow canyons, hanging bridges, and waterfalls tucked away in the Sierra Nevada mountains. This small-group hiking tour from Granada took us to the charming village of Monachil, where the adventure began.
The 6.5-kilometer (4-mile) route winds through stunning rock formations and along the Monachil River, with plenty of surprises along the way! Crossing the suspension bridges was thrilling, swaying slightly as we moved over the rushing water below.
Keep in mind that some sections of the trail get pretty tight! At times, we had to crouch to pass through tunnels carved into the rock. But that only made the experience more exciting!
We didn’t think we would need hiking poles at first, but we were glad they had some available because it made balancing the uneven terrain much easier. Plus, our guide, Julio, was incredibly insightful about the region’s ecosystem and pointed out hidden waterfalls and caves that only an insider would know about.
This hike is great for families or anyone looking for a bit of adventure without a strenuous climb. With a small group of just eight people, we had plenty of time to soak in the views. Just don’t forget to bring a backpack and some water—trust us, you’ll want your hands free for those bridges!
Explore Granada’s wild side and book this popular hike to Los Cahorros here!
6. See a Flamenco show
- Duration: 1 hour
- Time: 8 pm and 10 pm
- Highlights: Enjoy a Flamenco performance at the El Templo del Flamenco cave restaurant, savor a 2- or 5-course traditional Andalusian dinner
- Inclusions: Flamenco show, Tapas Menu: 4 courses, dessert + drinks (if option selected), Flamenco Menu: 2 courses, dessert + drinks (if option selected), one drink (if option selected), kids’ menu (if option selected)
- Rating: 4.4 stars (check 550+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Dinner and a show take on a whole new meaning at El Templo del Flamenco, a cave restaurant tucked into the hills of the Albaycín district. This Flamenco experience wasn’t just about the performance, it was about the setting, the energy, and, of course, the food!
The curved stone walls, dim lighting, and intimate layout made the whole place feel alive before the show even started. It was like we were in a secret underground club!
Once the performance started, we were hooked. The dancers weren’t just moving to the beat, they were the beat! Their sharp footwork and raw emotion pulled us in completely. From the deep, soulful seguiriyas to the fast-paced bulerías, every moment was incredible!
We chose the 5-course tapas menu, which was perfect for sharing, but other options are also available. Each dish was packed with Andalusian flavors like thinly sliced jamón ibérico and flavorful seafood. It seemed like they arrived just as the music picked up in intensity!
Finding this spot was a bit of an adventure. It’s tucked away in the hills and the narrow streets can be tricky to navigate, so plan to arrive early so you aren’t rushing in last minute. But once you’re there, it’s pure magic. You can’t leave Granada without seeing a Flamenco show, and this was one we surely won’t forget!
See ticket options here and book your Granada Flamenco experience!
7. Learn about Granada’s history on a private city tour
- Duration: 2.5 hours
- Time: Multiple departure times from 10 am – 8 pm
- Highlights: Tour Granada, walk through squares like Plaza Nueva and Plaza Bib Rambla, learn about the Royal Chapel of Granada, Granada Cathedral, and La Madraza, views of the Alhambra at the Mirador Carvajales
- Inclusions: Private tour, experienced local guide
- Rating: 5 stars (check 150+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Granada’s history isn’t just found in its grand monuments—it’s woven into hidden alleys, lively plazas, and centuries-old buildings you might otherwise miss. That’s why this private walking tour was the perfect way to experience the city!
Instead of rushing through a checklist of landmarks, we took our time, soaking in the details and asking our guide every question that popped into our heads.
We started at Plaza Nueva, dodging café tables and watching street musicians set up. Our guide led us through the winding streets to La Madraza, a former Moorish university, where we learned how Al-Andalus shaped education in ways that still echo today.
At the Royal Chapel of Granada, we couldn’t believe we were standing just feet away from the tombs of Queen Isabella and King Ferdinand—the monarchs who changed Spain’s history forever! Next, we stepped into the Granada Cathedral, and the sheer size of the columns and domed ceilings was overwhelming. We felt tiny in comparison!
From there, we wandered through an old silk market, where the smell of incense and vibrant fabrics gave it a Moroccan vibe. And just when we thought our legs couldn’t take another step, we reached Mirador Carvajales, a quiet spot with a fantastic view of the Alhambra at sunset!
Having a private guide meant we got a totally personalized experience. No rushing, no crowds, just a deep dive into Granada’s history. Check out 5-star reviews here and see why this is one of the best ways to explore the city!
Secure your spot on this private Granada tour here!
Where to Stay in Granada, Spain
Now that your Granada itinerary is set, it’s time to find the perfect place to stay! Granada has tons of hotel options, and choosing the right place to stay can make or break your trip. So to help you out, I’ve rounded up my top recommendations in the best parts of the city for every budget!
Luxury – $$$
Perched on a hill overlooking Granada, the Hotel Alhambra Palace offers the perfect blend of history and luxury just steps from the Alhambra. This 5-star hotel features Moorish-inspired decor, elegant rooms with stunning city views, and a rooftop terrace perfect for soaking in the scenery. With an on-site restaurant and bar, plus an unbeatable location, it’s an excellent choice for a high-end stay in Granada!
Prices vary depending on the time of year but usually range between €300- €500 per night. You can check prices and book this stay on Booking.com.
Mid-range – $$
Bibo Real Chancillería is a stylish mid-range stay in the heart of Granada. These modern apartments feature sleek decor, fully equipped kitchens, and spacious layouts, perfect for those who want extra comfort. Located within walking distance of major sights, it’s a great base for exploring the city while enjoying a home-like stay!
Prices are usually around €150 per night and you can book this stay on Booking.com.
Budget – $
La Perla Granada Suites is a great budget-friendly option with a prime location in the city center. The rooms are modern and comfortable and come with air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and private bathrooms. It’s a simple yet stylish stay, perfect for travelers who want an affordable base while exploring Granada’s top sights!
Rooms usually start as low as €40 per night. You can reserve your room here on Booking.com!
For more options, see all of the hotels in Granada here!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!
I hope you enjoyed this list of the best things to do in Granada! It was a lot of fun reliving our trip and some of our favorite experiences here. Whether you’re touring its impressive sights, catching a flamenco show, or eating amazing food, Granada is sure to capture a piece of your heart.
If Spain is only the start of your travels, have a look at our full travel blog here with destinations across Europe and the world. Or if you’re staying in Spain for a bit, I picked out some blogs below that will come in handy!
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