Where do you start when introducing the romantic city of Granada? It’s such a beautiful city, with so much history and style, it’s a must-see for a day trip, especially as it is only a 50-minute drive from Buenavista.
The Alhambra
Granada’s main attraction must be the world-famous Alhambra Palace. This most impressive medieval complex is situated on top of a steep hill overlooking the city, with the snow-capped peaks of the Sierra Nevada in the background, it is a truly magnificent sight. Started in the 1200s, the palace belonged to the kings of Granada, incorporating state of the art engineering and architecture of its day. Influenced by the finest oriental spirit, the palace, the gardens and surrounds are truly breathtaking. It is a lasting legacy to the brilliance and spirit of Moorish culture.
Alhambra tickets are bookable online, that’s the best way, the official site is:
Link to the Alhambra booking website
It’s essential to book those as soon as you can because the tickets that include the time you want specified for the famous and best part of the complex (ie Nasrid Palaces) get booked up well in advance.
The Albaicín neighbourhood is on the facing hillside from the Alhambra palace and offers a glimpse into what life must have been like in Moorish times. The narrow, cobbled streets are full of flowers and archways, every little alley seems to host a fountain and climbing jasmine. The panorama of the Alhambra Palace from San Nicolas church is something you will never forget.
Albaicín and Flamenco
Music is integral to Granada life and flamenco is here in abundance! Close by the Alabaicín is Sacromonte, famed for its cave houses and gypsy flamenco culture. Original gypsy families still live here and put on daily performances. Given the number of guitar schools here, you may hear the sweet sounds of Spanish guitar on any street corner around the city. Granada, being a university city, is well served for nightlife, clubs and concerts of all genres. The city centre itself is a bustling shopping metropolis. Every other establishment is a restaurant, café or bar. The most popular activity of the city is to sit out in the sunshine with a cold drink and (traditionally free) tapas, watching the world and soaking up the atmosphere. As cities go, it’ll become one of your firm favourites.
