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Best Things to Do
Top 20 Best Things to Do in Granada [2025]
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Alhambra
4.6
/5
1135 reviews
10
From €12.73
Based on 44,150 reviews
Centro | 933m from downtown
Phone +34958027971
Address: C. Real de la Alhambra, s/n, Centro, 18009 Granada, Spain
Recommended sightseeing time: 3–5 hours
Achieved a 3-year streak on the annual lists
Highlights:
Moorish heritage showcases exquisite, intricate designs
Climb tower for Granada panoramic view
Saved by 544 users707 positive reviews
Verified user reviews
The Alhambra is truly beautiful and photogenic, with many girls posing for photos over and over again. If you go, be sure to book your tickets in advance! We arrived at 10 a.m. and saw that same-day tickets were sold out.
The scenic area is quite large and can be visited in 3 hours. I did not go to the Nazaries Palace, but I preferred the Charles V Palace. The parking lot cost 5.5 euros for two hours and then left.
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Nasrid Palaces
4.6
/5
67 reviews
7.7
From €12.73
Based on 711 reviews
Centro | 787m from downtown
Phone +34958027971
Address: C. Real de la Alhambra, s/n, Centro, 18009 Granada, Spain
Recommended sightseeing time: 1–3 hours
Highlights:
Islamic art: skylights & honeycomb
Islamic architecture: skylights & honeycomb
Saved by 108 users46% positive reviews
Verified user reviews
Although the ticket is much more expensive than the official sale, it is worth it to buy the next day's ticket. When the weather is good, it is absolutely extraordinary to go to the Alhambra. It is recommended to reserve enough time to visit slowly.
The Nasrid Palace, which was first built in the 13th century, has been renovated and expanded by successive kings and sultans, becoming more and more perfect and reaching the pinnacle of Islamic architectural art.
Several courtyards of different shapes, represented by the Myrtle Courtyard and the Lion Courtyard, are hidden among the towering city walls, green trees and flowers. The carefully designed layout, exquisite architecture, and intricate carvings... are mysterious and dreamy, with a changing scene, and luxury and wealth are all there.
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Granada Cathedral
4.5
/5
109 reviews
7.1
From €24.32
Based on 456 reviews
Centro | 95m from downtown
Phone +34958222959
Address: Pl. de las Pasiegas, s/n, Centro, 18001 Granada, Spain
Recommended sightseeing time: 1–2 hours
Highlights:
Gothic & Renaissance landmark architecture
Walk to Alhambra & admire architecture
28% positive reviews
Verified user reviews
The exterior is magnificent and rugged, but the interior is exquisite and magnificent. There is no Islamic architectural style, but a thorough Catholic church style. The Catholic Tomb of the Two Kings is next to the chapel, which requires additional tickets to visit.
I saw too many famous cathedrals on this trip to Spain, so I didn't go into this church. I went to the outer area when I was strolling in the evening. The surrounding area was quite lively and some restaurants were also good.
No.
4
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San Juan Dios Basílica
4.7
/5
6 reviews
6.3
Based on 1,266 reviews
Centro | 539m from downtown
Phone +34958275700
Address: C/ San Juan de Dios, 17, Centro, 18001 Granada, Spain
Recommended sightseeing time: 1–2 hours
Highlights:
Pinnacle of Baroque architectural art
Admire the magnificent and ornate altar
Verified user reviews
The Basilica of San Juan de Dios is a religious building in Granada, Spain, renowned for its Baroque style. Designed by architect José de Vada and completed in the 18th century, it features a magnificent Baroque style. The following is a comprehensive review:
Architectural Features
Interior: The cathedral is renowned for its magnificent Baroque style, with a golden altar, intricate carvings, and religious murals (such as religious stories depicted on the ceilings and walls) forming the focal point. Some visitors have described it as "splendid to the point of being speechless," even arguing that its artistic value surpasses that of the Sagrada Familia.
Exterior: Located in Granada's old town, it is surrounded by residential buildings and is secluded from the outside. However, the interior courtyard offers a tranquil retreat, with orange trees, fountains, and flowers.
Visit Experience
Tickets and Guided Tours: Tickets cost 10 euros and include a detailed audio guide (including one in Chinese). Opening hours are 9:30 AM to 6:45 PM (last admission at 6:15 PM). Photography Recommendation: The interior details and lighting are perfect for photographing, especially the interplay of gold decorations and stained glass windows. 34
Tourist Reviews
Positive Feedback: Most visitors praised the church's "small yet beautiful" design, describing it as richly decorated and richly historical, making it a must-see attraction in Granada besides the Alhambra. 14
Notes: Some visitors noted the church's small size, which might seem a bit monotonous if you're not interested in Baroque art. 1
Amenities: The church is conveniently located in the city center, with nearby cafes and restaurants, perfect for a relaxing break after the visit. 1 For a more in-depth tour, consider combining it with nearby attractions such as Granada Cathedral. 3
The Basilica of San Juan de Dios (Basílica de San Juan de Dios) is a Baroque-style religious building in the heart of Granada, Spain, attracting visitors with its magnificent interior and tranquil ambiance. The following is a summary of its highlights based on user reviews and reliable information:
Key Highlights
Interior: The cathedral's interior is renowned for its golden altar and intricate carvings. The stunning golden décor has earned it the nickname "a cathedral made of gold." 12
Tranquility: Compared to popular Granada attractions like the Alhambra, this cathedral is less crowded, offering a unique experience of tranquility and beauty. 4
Guided Tours: Tickets include a Chinese audio guide (approximately 5 euros) detailing the cathedral's history, architectural features, and religious artwork. 25
Extra Activities: Ticket holders can attend the 6:30 pm performance each evening (specific content may vary due to religious observances). 2
User Reviews
Positive Feedback: Most visitors find the entrance fee excellent value, particularly appreciating the interior's combination of opulence and religious ambiance. The second-floor view offers panoramic views, enhancing the experience. 23
Notes: The church's plain exterior is easily obscured by surrounding buildings, so be mindful of the entrance location. Some areas display religious elements such as relics, so respect for religious customs is advised. 12
Practical Information
Location and Transportation: Located in Granada's old town, within walking distance of nearby cafes and restaurants. 1
Opening Hours: It is recommended to check in advance to avoid conflicts with religious activities. 12
No.
5
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Mirador San Nicolas
4.3
/5
50 reviews
6.3
Based on 13,060 reviews
Albaicin | 669m from downtown
Phone +34958539697
Address: Plaza Mirador de San Nicolás, 2, Albaicín, 18010 Granada, Spain
Recommended sightseeing time: 1–2 hours
Highlights:
23-meter tower on cliff edge
St. Nicholas Tower for photographers
29% positive reviews
Verified user reviews
San Nicolas Square (Plaza de San Nicolas) is a lively place any time of day, with craftsmen, flamenco dancers, and street musicians setting up along the paving stones to entertain visitors. At dusk, crowds of locals and tourists turn out to watch the sunset over the palace grounds before adjourning to restaurants and tea shops on nearby Elvira Street.
The San Nicolas Tower, located at the highest point of the Albaicin district, is the best place to view the Alhambra Palace. The grandeur of the palace is shocking from this angle. There is also a row of restaurants under the tower.
No.
6
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Patio de Los Leones
4.9
/5
64 reviews
6.1
Centro | 825m from downtown
Phone +34958027971
Address: C. Real de la Alhambra, s/n, Centro, 18009 Granada, Spain
Recommended sightseeing time: 1–3 hours
Highlights:
Alhambra core World Heritage site
Marble lions & columns marvel
Verified user reviews
The Nasrid Palace in the Alhambra Palace is mainly composed of 4 courtyards (courtyards) and surrounding buildings; the Lion Courtyard, with its simple lion-shaped fountain and exquisite arched corridors, has become the highlight of the Alhambra Palace.
The Lion Courtyard, built in the 14th century, covers an area of more than 710 square meters and is the main component of the King Sultan's residence. The fountain with 12 stone lions as the base stands in the center of the courtyard (hence the name of the Lion Courtyard); 124 palm-tree-like marble columns around it form a rectangular arched corridor; the fountain water flows to the corridor through 4 intersecting canals, ding-dong-dong...
Walking in the corridor, the cute lions are naive, the various stone carvings are exquisite and complex, and the regular buildings are elegant and majestic... The scenery changes with every step, and the scenery is charming.
Coming out of the Alham Palace Garden, the snowstorm was even stronger. I barely had a good look at the square, typical European-style exterior of the Carlos V Palace before rushing in. I was immediately shocked by the two-story Roman Colosseum-style circular building. I walked around it again and again, up and down, and took photos inside and out.
Carlos V was built in 1527 by the architect Pedro Machuca of Toledo. It is a magnificent Renaissance palace and a very important building in the Spanish Renaissance. Looking down from the air, the whole is square, but it contains an amazing circular double courtyard supported by 32 columns.
The palace can be viewed from different angles.
No.
7
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Royal Monastery of St. Jerome
3.7
/5
26 reviews
5.7
From €12.16
Centro | 547m from downtown
Phone +34958279337
Address: C. Rector López Argüeta, 9, Centro, 18001 Granada, Spain
Recommended sightseeing time: 1 hour
Highlights:
Gothic & Renaissance architectural blend
Stroll through two grand courtyards
Verified user reviews
It would take hours to look at each sculpture that adorns this monastery. The awareness of these beings that have filled your life with hope for centuries. Pictures cannot adequately explain this area, as every centimeter of this church is covered with a painting or sculpture, and a cursory look is not enough. For four euros, it is a must see! Walk around the outside of the church, the rest of the area outside the church is developed and contains various treasures.
The monastery is quite large and houses many statues of the Virgin Mary. The statues here are quite novel and many of them look beautiful. The colorful statues of the Virgin Mary are very tall and you can see a lot of things here.
No.
8
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Generalife
4.2
/5
65 reviews
5.3
Based on 11,529 reviews
Centro | 1.2 km from downtown
Phone +34958027971
Address: Centro, 18009 Granada, Spain
Recommended sightseeing time: 1 hour
Highlights:
Tiered fountains create cool ambiance
360° canal & fountain views
Verified user reviews
The Alhambra Palace is divided into four major areas, one of which is the Henri Lorefi Garden, commonly known as the "Summer Palace". It was built in the 13th century and renovated by King Abu I Walid Ismail. It is designed to trim flowers and trees in various geometric shapes, stacked around two courtyards, and the courtyards are connected by canals. The canal adopts the commonly used Arabic rectangle, with a row of water nozzles on each side. When the gate is opened, the water column forms an arch, and the water droplets sparkle in the sun, creating a cool and refreshing atmosphere. This explains why kings of all dynasties like to spend the summer here.
The Generalife Palace is the summer palace for the king to escape the summer heat. It was built in the 14th century. It is a small and unique building consisting of two towers. From here you can overlook the white houses in the Albaicin district. The palace is surrounded by tall cypress trees and gardens composed of flowers of different heights. Long pools and fountains are dotted in between. The gurgling sound of the water brings coolness in the hot summer and comfort in the mild winter. This is the palace with the most beautiful environment in the entire scenic area.
No.
9
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Palace of Charles V
5.0
/5
3 reviews
5.3
Based on 1,059 reviews
Centro | 764m from downtown
Phone +34958027971
Address: C. Real de la Alhambra, s/n, Centro, 18009 Granada, Spain
Verified user reviews
Among all the buildings in the Alhambra Palace, the Carlos V Palace is a unique one with a unique origin, style and name.
In 1526, King Carlos I of Spain and his new wife went to the Alhambra Palace for their honeymoon. They were overwhelmed by the beauty of the palace and were filled with envy and jealousy. They ordered to build a palace of their own next to it. Michelangelo's student, architect Pedro Mashuca, presided over the design and construction. After 30 years (1527-1557), when the palace was initially built, Carlos I found that it was completely unable to surpass the exquisite Islamic sculptures and the ingenious interior layout of the Moors around it, so he abandoned it and eventually let it go. .
Although the king looked down on it, it was a classic building of the Spanish Renaissance. Looking down from a high altitude, the magnificent momentum is shocking.
The outer square is a huge cube with a height of 17 meters and a side length of 63 meters, which is the largest single building in the Alhambra area. On the stone exterior wall, the strong square stone, the flamboyant copper rings and the exquisite carvings complement each other, showing the royal style.
The inner circle is an open-air circular courtyard with a diameter of 30 meters, located in the middle, spacious and bright; the 32 surrounding stone pillars support the 2-story 12-meter-wide circular colonnade, which is elegant and magnificent...
Many Chinese tourists take the name of the Carlos V Palace literally and think that it is the palace built by King Carlos V of Spain for himself, but it is not the case.
King Carlos I of Spain is King Charles V of the Roman Empire; the name of the Carlos V Palace adopts the name of the King of Spain + the title of the King of the Roman Empire; the palace was built by King Carlos I for himself but he never lived in it.
Join a guided tour of Spain and Portugal. A small group of 25 people, all-inclusive, five nights at a Five Diamond hotel, direct flights from Air China, six special meals, and Wi-Fi included. Includes: Flamenco show, vintage carriage ride, high-speed AVE train, entrance to seven major attractions, Sagrada Familia, Alhambra, Park Güell, Royal Palace of Madrid, and Seville Cathedral.
On the morning of day three, take a train from Barcelona train station to Cordoba. After touring the old city and visiting the Mosque of Cordoba, take a bus to Granada. In the afternoon, visit the Alhambra, starting with a stop at the Palace of Carlos V, a building with a square exterior and a round interior.
Scenery: Moorish culture
Interest: Learn about Spanish history
Value: Excellent
No.
10
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Museum of the Alhambra
5.0
/5
4 reviews
5.2
Based on 1,343 reviews
Centro | 785m from downtown
Phone +34958027929
Address: Alhambra - Palacio de Carlos V, Centro, 18009 Granada, Spain
Recommended sightseeing time: 1–3 hours
Verified user reviews
【View】The Prado has a project to bring out works from their collection - "Lá Obra Incitada". I was lucky enough to see another Goya, the impressive "The Last Communion of San José de Caracán".
【Fun】Particularly shocking!
The Alhambra is the quintessential Moorish monument in Spain. Construction began in the 13th century during the reign of King Alhammar. After the Moors were expelled from Spain in 1492, the Alhambra fell into disrepair. It wasn't until 1828, under the patronage of King Ferdinand VII, that the Alhambra was restored to its original splendor through extensive restoration and reconstruction by architect José Contreras and three generations of his sons and grandsons. The Alhambra, a prime example of Arabic palace and courtyard architecture, was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1984.
Led by an official Alhambra guide, we will visit the Nasrid Palaces, explore the Court of the Myrtles, the Mesquite Hall, the Hall of the Ambassadors, the Hall of the King, and the historic complex of the Court of the Lions. We'll also admire the ceilings of the bathhouses and overlook the ancient architecture of Granada.
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