Granada, Spain

What to do in Granada, Spain

Alhambra

This incredible fortress/palace, which once contained schools, houses, barracks, baths, and much more, was home to the Moorish kings that ruled in this area. Tour the Royal Palace, built in the 1300s and continuously renovated since 1862. The Torre de la Vela dominates the original fortress and offers a superb view of the city. Inside, you'll see the staterooms, the harem, the Hall of the Moors, the Kings' Hall, and the bathhouse of the sultans.

Albaicin

This Moorish section of the city sits on its own hill across from the Alhambra. The neighborhood is home to a mix of pristine carmenes (gardened villages enclosed by high walls) and weathered white houses. Inviting nooks and crannies are tucked away among the cobblestone streets. Stop at one of the teashops for the best mint tea in all of Spain, and visit the small square of Mirador de San Nicolás for an amazing view of the Alhambra.

Campo del Principe

This well-groomed square is adorned with festive tapas bars and shops. It holds a crucifix with Christ of the Lanterns, where women come to pray and leave flowers.

Capilla Real (Royal Chapel)

As the Alhambra represents the ancient Moorish rule, this chapel pays homage to the Catholic part of the Granada's history. Built in the 1500s, this chapel is the burial place of Isabella of Castile and Ferdinand of Aragon. Built in ornate Gothic style, it contains elaborate marble tombs and an intricate altarpiece, as well as Ferdinand's sword, Isabella's crown and scepter and a collection of Isabella's Flemish paintings.

Casa de Castril

This house once belonged to the secretary of Queen Isabella. Built in the 16th century, it features a magnificent portal and a façade carved with scallop shells and a phoenix. The Museo Arqueológico contains an authentic Moorish room with the original furnishings.

Corral del Carbón

One of the oldest Moorish houses in the city, this building has had many purposes. In the 14th century Moorish merchants lodged here and stored their goods on the upper floor, in the 19th century it was used to store coral, and more recently the Christians used it as a theater. Today it displays Spanish furniture and crafts.

La Cartuja

Begun in 1506 and moved in 1516 to the place where it stands today, this gorgeous monastery has spiraling, multi-colored marble columns and intricate stucco, and is infused with gold, silver, ivory, and tortoiseshell.