Travel Guide to Granada, Spain

Cultural Explorations

The Alhambra: The Alhambra beckons all visitors to Granada with its majestic beauty. Built in the 12th and 13th centuries for the Moorish monarchs, the buildings and grounds are remarkable still. Book your tickets in advance of your arrival. Tours of the Gardens and interiors are highly recommended.

The Royal Chapel: Built in the early 1500's the Royal Chapel is the final resting place of the Catholic monarchs, Isabel and Ferdinand. The interior sacristry and main altarpiece are immensely impressive. Combine this stop with a visit to the Cathedral located nearby.

Granada Cathedral: A blend of Gothic and Renaissance architecture. Ferdinand and Isabel built this Cathedral in the 16th century. The interior dome is especially amazing with colors and stained glass.

Flamenco: Flamenco dancing literally evolved from the underground caves of Granada, and this is where you will still find this passionate art form. The intimacy and acoustics are compelling. DM me for personal recommendations.

The Albaicin: Formerly the Muslim quarter of the city, this is the oldest neighborhood of Granada and is charming for its cobblestone streets, small plazas and quaint restaurants. Stop at the Plaza de San Nicolas for the glorious views of the Alhambra, the modern city below and the Sierra Nevada mountains.

Tapas Crawl: Eat and enjoy like a true Spaniard. Most cafes are the most vibrant in the late afternoon and evenings. For the price of a beer or Sangria, one will receive a complimentary tapas (appetizer) to whet your appetite. Start at one and continue onto the next and the next and the next.

Day trips

Malaga:

Malaga is approximately 2.5 hours from the city of Granada, and if you are flying into the south of Spain, this is likely your landing spot. Malaga is located on the Southern Coast of Spain. From here, you can take a ferry to the Strait of Gibraltar and step foot onto the continent of Africa. Other highlights in Malaga include the Cathedral, the Picasso Museum, Carmen Thyssen Museum or the Roman Theater.

Ronda:

Ronda is part of the Malaga province and a two-hour drive from Granada, and is the third most visited destination in the South of Spain. The city is perched on each side of the El Tajo Gorge, which dips 100 meters below. Highlights include: The New Bridge, Plaza de Toros (the oldest bullring in Spain) and many additional historic squares and plazas.

Cafe Futbol: After a day of walking and exploring, Cafe Futbol is the perfect destination for an afternoon pleasure of churros and chocolate. Served warm with a crispy exterior and accompanied by a steaming hot cup of chocolate.

Restaurant Farela: A perfect segue from flamenco dancing or your day in Granada is to experience Restaurant Farela, a Michelin-star dining experience. This is where emotion meets culture in a cozy and elegant atmosphere. Seven, nine or 14 course tasting menus can be paired with wines from the region. This will be a highlight of your culinary journey in Granada.